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South Mountains State Park Equestrian Campground in Connelly Springs provides dedicated facilities for riders approximately 70 miles northwest of Cramerton. The campground features multiple tent and RV sites with electric hookups, including both 30-amp and 50-amp service. While no horse corrals are specifically listed in the amenities, the equestrian campground offers direct access to bridle trails and riding areas within the state park system. Facilities include showers, toilets, water hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. Sites are level and well-maintained, accommodating both horse trailers and camping equipment comfortably. The campground maintains a perfect 5-star rating from visitors who appreciate the clean facilities and convenient trail access.
Direct access to South Mountains State Park's extensive trail network makes this location particularly valuable for equestrian campers. The park encompasses over 20,000 acres with numerous bridle trails traversing varied terrain from wooded valleys to mountain ridges. Riders can enjoy day-long excursions on designated horse trails that connect to other areas of the park. The campground serves as an ideal base camp for exploring these trails, with ample parking for horse trailers. Reservations are required and can be made through the North Carolina State Parks reservation system. The park remains open year-round, allowing for seasonal riding opportunities across all four seasons. Many visitors combine camping with visits to nearby attractions in the foothills region when not riding the trails.
"There is a nice playground, hiking trails, a lake, canoe rental, and a trading post with some food, ice, camping supplies, firewood and souvenirs. There is also a separate Equestrian campground!"
"When not in the side, a short walk takes you to the Trading Post, a small store selling firewood ($7), ice, souvenirs, and sundries. Next to that is a large playground connected to a pavilion."
"The adjacent amusement park is closed due to Covid but i bet it is a blast to stay here when it is open. Wooded perimeter so you feel you are away from the city."
"The hookups were standard location and heights no issues. Our steps come out to a large level dirt pad, not grass. Lots of trees providing shade which is nice."
"The part of the park that is best to go to is the Sparrow Springs access, some folks may not be aware that there are actually several entrances to the park, and the main entrance with trails to the Crowder"
"The trails are strenuous but views are amazing! Its definitely worth it and right outside town, not far out."
from $17 - $47 / night
Check Availability"Located just outside historic Waxhaw NC, Cane Creek is part of the NC Soil Conservative Sites. They offer day passes,$4.00 per car where you can launch you kayak canoe or fishing boat."
"Equestrian trails are everywhere and are good for hiking, a few trails are a bit rough for bicycles though"
"The family campground is a short distance further inside the park on the left side(approx 2 miles) marked by a small brown sign...and is situated at 1400 ft elevation. "
"Beautiful but crowded trails. There are equestrian trails and camping facilities. Dogs welcome. Ice cold creeps and lovely waterfalls."
from $27 - $32 / night
Check Availability"There aren’t really any extras here but if you’re just looking for reliable water/electrical/sewer and wifi near Charlotte this is a fantastic option."
"I took my horses and grandson to camp in the equestrian campsite. The bathrooms are very clean with AC. There a beautiful creek you can ride your horses in or just play if you want."
from $12 - $27 / night
Check Availability"Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter). Plenty of trees to choose from for a hammock setup."
from $15 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $7 - $14 / night
Check Availability
RangerWhen I’m traveling through the area, I do my best to stay here. It is a peaceful and well kept campground. It is an adult and a kid friendly environment. It’s one of the few places you can feel safe. I highly recommend this place.
RangerThis campground is one of my regular stops. It is well kept.
GuideWe have been here 3 times all for a week at a time and love it. Holidays usually have some activities for kids. The mini golf is free and a blast. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there.
ScoutAlways very clean, with meticulously maintained and picturesque grounds, the Camp Wilderness at Carowinds is well-appointed with amenities and attended to by helpful and friendly Carowinds staff. Providing shuttle service to the front gate for park entry, this is an excellent choice for overnight stays and Carowinds outings.
GuideThis is a beautiful campground. It is well maintained and the staff are excellent to work with. Very clean.
GuideNice campground. Got very busy on Friday through the weekend. Nice lake and hiking trails. Free putt-putt. Clean bathrooms and hot showers.
ScoutMany camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways. Some sites are listed as RV sites but are half as large as they need to be to accommodate a medium size RV. If that wasn't enough, sites are very close to each other and there are almost no plants other than tall trees to offer any privacy. SC Park system needs to take a serious look at making improvements.
RangerI stayed here for nine days. The campground is clean and well-maintained. The bathhouse is in good shape and clean. I will come back when I’m in this area.
ScoutAwesome spot for families and multiple night stays. Family environment comes with more noise but as long as you are expecting it you won’t be disappointed.
South Mountains State Park Equestrian Campground sits approximately 70 miles northwest of Cramerton in the foothills region of North Carolina. This campground features direct trail access to more than 20,000 acres of protected land with varying terrain from 1,200 to 3,000 feet in elevation. Temperatures typically range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with moderately humid conditions during the warmer months.
Ride bridle trails: The equestrian-friendly paths at South Mountains State Park connect to multiple creeks suitable for horses. "I took my horses and grandson to camp in the equestrian campsite. There a beautiful creek you can ride your horses in or just play if you want," notes Jackie S.
Explore hiking networks: At Kings Mountain State Park, multiple interconnected trails provide hiking options for all skill levels. "Tons to do, including hikes and history. Make sure to go across the street to the Kings Mountain Military site. Better yet, plan your stay when they are doing an event," recommends Don H.
Fish the lake: Chester State Park offers shoreline fishing and boat rentals. "The lake is breathtaking. There are tournaments through out the year, as well as boating, kayaking, & fishing," writes Chris W.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at horse campgrounds near Cramerton receive consistent praise from visitors. "The bathrooms are very clean with AC," says Jackie S. about South Mountains Equestrian Campground.
Disc golf course: Chester State Park Campground features a championship-level course. "Small clean campground... Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course," shares Keith K.
Privacy between sites: Upper Falls Campsite at South Mountains offers secluded camping spots. "The sites are really well laid out. Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter). Plenty of trees to choose from for a hammock setup," notes Julie L.
Water access: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds provide stream or lake frontage. "We camped at the family camping area, it was great, we had site 6 and it was on the river and the kids loved it!" reports Jessica L. about South Mountains Family Campground.
Campsite terrain varies: At Kings Mountain State Park, site leveling can be an issue. "Many camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways," cautions Richard E.
Gate closure times: South Mountains State Park enforces strict access hours. "Gates to the park are locked up at 9pm so there's no getting in or out late at night," explains Jenni P.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is restricted at most equestrian campgrounds within 100 miles of Cramerton. "Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything," advises Stephen M.
Alcohol policies: Several parks enforce no-alcohol rules. "The no-alcohol policy at the park is STRICTLY enforced, so be careful!" warns Jenni P. about South Mountains State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Cramerton, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Cramerton, NC is Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park with a 3.9-star rating from 46 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Cramerton, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near Cramerton, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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