Uwharrie National Forest serves as the primary equestrian destination near Cooleemee, North Carolina, with over 20 miles of dedicated horse trails across varied terrain. Located about 45 miles from Cooleemee, the forest offers both designated horse camping and shared-use trails. Camping options range from basic $5 per night sites to full-service campgrounds with electric hookups at higher rates.
What to do
Trail riding options: Horse trails at Uwharrie National Forest connect to multiple routes for various skill levels. "I didn't stay in Hunt Camp proper, but just up the road. It is very quiet and enjoyable. Hung my hammocks from nearby trees and slept very well," notes Wesley R., who visited while scouting.
Lakeside recreation: The forest includes access to Badin Lake for swimming and fishing. "This is a beautiful campground with good facilities. There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake. Pretty good fishing too," says Scott P. about the lake area.
Off-road adventures: Many equestrian campers combine their stay with off-road vehicle exploration. At Arrowhead Campground, "Great camp sites, easy to get to, lots of trails, shooting range and off road trails," notes Jimmy L., highlighting the diversity of recreation options.
What campers like
Private campsite spacing: At Stone Mountain State Park Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "Campgrounds were nice and spaced out, well maintained...we were right by a small stream that you could hear," writes Kristi D., describing the natural setting.
Clean facilities: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds maintain good sanitation standards. "Clean bath house with hot showers. We enjoyed the hiking trails," reports Jody B. about her stay at Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Horse campers often encounter wildlife during their stay. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares Charli R. about her experience at Stone Mountain State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most dedicated horse campgrounds require advance booking. At Canebrake Horse Camp, a visitor notes, "I was there alone and had the whole campsite to myself. The camp host was so kind. He always made sure me, my horses and my grandson were comfortable and safe!"
Trail conditions: Trail difficulty varies seasonally with weather affecting accessibility. "If you're an outdoors person, this is a great place to be located," mentions Robert D., highlighting the varied terrain available to riders.
Campground culture: Horse camping communities have established expectations. "The extensive trail system directly connects to the Uwharrie National Forest's bridle paths," with proper waste management expected of all horse owners.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some horse campgrounds near Cooleemee offer facilities designed for younger visitors. At Morrow Mountain State Park Campground, "There is a lot for a family to do at Morrow Mountain including fishing and a swimming pool. My main thing is usually hiking," shares Courtney P.
Beginner-friendly trails: Look for loops suitable for inexperienced riders. "We exhausted ourselves hiking and canoeing and much more stuff to do! Nice sites with electric hookups. Firewood available," reports Sara C. about recreational options.
Safety considerations: Proper trail etiquette is essential with horses and hikers sharing paths. "During hunting season, the National Forest is open to hunters...wear brightly colored or hunter orange clothing especially dawn and dusk," advises one experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many horse campgrounds have uneven parking areas. "Nicely spaced, shaded, and quiet camp ground. A lot of people camp here with their jeeps, sidexsides, and 4wheelers," notes Matt R. about Arrowhead Campground, which accommodates various vehicle types.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies between horse campgrounds. "We only stayed for 1 night as we were passing through, but we plan to return one day. Positives are it's a newer campground, nice and shaded, full hookups (w,e,s), lots were wide, Easy to get in and out of," shares Tiffany D.
Space for trailers: Confirm your site can accommodate both camping setup and horse trailer. "Wide spaces with lots of room under big shade trees. This campground is a muni but is is very well maintained," explains Dave B. about the practical layout.
