Equestrian camping near Crumpler, North Carolina offers access to extensive trail networks through the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 feet. The region features mixed hardwood forests interspersed with open meadows and mountain streams. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this mountainous terrain, with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Fox Creek Horse Camp, riders can explore a network of multi-use trails directly from camp. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," notes Jean C. The camp provides hitching posts at sites and manure collection facilities.
Hiking to waterfalls: Sandy Creek Family Campground offers direct trail access to Stone Mountain State Park's waterfalls. "Access to a sliding rock and waterfall in Stone Mountain State Park with an approximate 1 mile easy hike," shares Jimmy M. Many trails are suitable for both hikers and equestrians.
Stargazing opportunities: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. At Stone Mountain State Park Campground, Charli R. found "a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it" with "beautiful stargazing" opportunities according to Emily D.
What campers like
Natural water features: Streams and creeks run throughout many campgrounds. "The site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as 'base camp' for day hikes," reports Julie L. about Basin Cove Campground, adding "The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse was clean and well maintained. Extended family was staying in an RV site while we were there," notes Kirsten J. about Sandy Creek Family Campground. At Stone Mountain State Park, David B. found that "The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" reports Kelly C. about their stay at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions can change quickly with significant temperature swings. Scott B. warns about Chestnut Hollow: "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. Julie L. notes about Basin Cove Campground: "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you. There are no picnic tables but each site does have wood logs as seats."
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities have limited operations outside summer months. At Julian Price Park Campground, campers should note the season runs "Apr 01 to Oct 29," though some campgrounds like Fox Creek Horse Camp extend into December.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Kids particularly enjoy accessible water features. Ann H. explains that at Sandy Creek Family Campground, "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground." The grounds include a large play area and volleyball court.
Beginner-friendly backcountry: For families new to primitive camping, Basin Cove provides an accessible introduction. Hollz shares: "Great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers! Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds. Campground has tent pads, picnic tables, fire pits, pit toilets, water pump."
Lake activities: Some campgrounds offer water recreation options. Danielle L. says Julian Price Park Campground "is right on a gorgeous lake. There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking, carefully review site details. Myron C. advises about Julian Price Park: "Many of the sites in the A loop are reservable, and they have been reserved for several weeks (maybe months) in advance. They are the best sites as far as seeing the lake and sometimes because they are larger."
Utility considerations: Not all campgrounds provide full hookups. At Stone Mountain State Park, David B. reports: "I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups. The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers."
Dump station access: Plan ahead for sanitation needs. Becca C. notes about Sandy Creek Family Campground: "The biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so."
