Best Equestrian Camping near Lake Junaluska, NC

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Lake Junaluska, NC is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Lake Junaluska, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Lake Junaluska, North Carolina (43)

    1. Cataloochee Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    31 Reviews
    Maggie Valley, NC
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 497-9270

    $30 / night

    "The North Carolina part has a slightly different feel. Less of a circus and less crowded and more laid back. Loving it! Beautiful. Just wish there were showers here....lol."

    "This:

    Access to Cataloochee is via a narrow, winding, mountain road. A 3-mile stretch of gravel road contains many narrow, blind curves."

    2. Cherokee-Great Smokies KOA

    25 Reviews
    Cherokee, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 497-9711

    "If I’m not mistaken, the one we were at this time was either the same cabin or one close to it.  It is perfectly situated beside the river.  "

    "But if you’re a tent camper, be aware that the tent sites are located near the road (I will never understand why campsites do this, since we are the ones with no soundproofing)."

    3. North Mills River

    26 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $31 - $62 / night

    "Small campground, but there are free off road sites not too far down the road. Cell service disappears but I love that kind of disconnect."

    "This is a great campground next to the beautiful North Mills River. Hosts were very accommodating and delivered ice and firewood for a cheap price upon request."

    4. Big Creek Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    14 Reviews
    Hartford, TN
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 436-1261

    $30 / night

    "Nearby is group camping and horse camping.

    You cannot park your car right on the campsite. There is a parking lot and you need to carry your gear in. It's about 100 feet to the sites."

    "The camp is beautiful and you are surrounded by the magical sounds of rushing water. There are two creeks nearby, one big and one small. We spent one day simply enjoying the campground."

    5. Harmon Den Area

    6 Reviews
    Hartford, NC
    15 miles

    "To get to the campsite, you have to get off on Exit 7 along Interstate 40 in North Carolina and travel a gravel road for several miles."

    "There are specific campgrounds only a ten minute walk from the summit. This is where I camp when I go."

    6. #39 Pretty Hollow — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    1 Review
    Maggie Valley, NC
    12 miles
    Website

    "These sites are next to a river. Has fire pits and places to hang your gear. It's a great site down in the valley and the trail is beautiful getting there."

    7. Cades Cove Campground

    97 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-4103

    $30 / night

    "There’s a river that runs a long the outside of the campground. Good swimming holes. A store that sells food (the best ice cream), firewood & camping supplies."

    "This campground is off the beaten path but found by LOTS so have a reservation. There is an 11 mile loop with historic structures and lots of wildlife. Watch for BEARS!"

    8. Tricorner Knob Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    6 Reviews
    Cosby, NC
    20 miles
    Website

    "Water source was very close to the shelter. We had zero issues with bugs or critters bothering us at night. I was also able to get cell/satellite service outside the shelter and up on the AT."

    "The area around the shelter is high, rocky, and remote. Expect 10-15 degrees less than the Park headquarters."

    9. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "just a quick 15 minute walk across the river and up the trail (follow Daniel ridge trail loop from parking lot)."

    "With that said:

    • remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times.

    *clearly marked spots. I am actually located at ucc-2. ** The Dead End spot."

    10. Pisgah National Forest Wash Creek Horse Camp

    3 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $40 / night

    "bit of a drive through the forest to get here, but great spots if you're looking to get away from civilization."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lake Junaluska, NC

438 Reviews of 43 Lake Junaluska Campgrounds



Guide to Lake Junaluska

Horse camping in North Carolina offers a unique blend of scenic trails and well-equipped facilities, making it a perfect getaway for equestrian enthusiasts.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • The Harmon Den Horse Campground features spacious sites with ample room for tying up horses and easy access to nearby trails.
  • At Big Creek Horse Camp, campers can enjoy a peaceful environment with designated areas for horses and a beautiful backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains.
  • The Wolf Ford Horse Camp provides a rustic experience with essential amenities, making it a great spot for horse camping.

Tips for equestrian camping near Lake Junaluska, North Carolina

  • When visiting Round Bottom Horse Camp, be sure to reserve your spot in advance to secure a place for your horse and gear.
  • The Wash Creek Horse Camp offers well-maintained trails that are perfect for both riding and hiking, ensuring a full day of outdoor adventure.
  • At Cataloochee Campground, horse campers can enjoy the tranquility of the area while having access to nearby equestrian trails.

Equestrian campgrounds include scenic trails and wildlife

  • The North Mills River campground is known for its beautiful surroundings and proximity to trails that are ideal for horseback riding.
  • Campers at Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area can explore numerous trails while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the area, perfect for equestrian adventures.
  • The Big Creek Campground offers access to scenic trails and the chance to spot local wildlife, making it a great choice for horse camping enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lake Junaluska, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lake Junaluska, NC is Cataloochee Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 31 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lake Junaluska, NC?

TheDyrt.com has all 43 equestrian camping locations near Lake Junaluska, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.