Equestrian camping near Fleetwood, North Carolina offers access to extensive trail networks through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area connects with multiple wilderness regions via maintained trails ranging from 1,500 to 5,700 feet in elevation. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-friendly flat paths to challenging mountain routes with significant elevation changes, particularly during spring when water crossings become deeper due to snowmelt.
What to do
Trail riding at Old Virginia Group Horse Camp: Connect to Virginia Highlands Horse Trail directly from camp without needing to trailer horses to trailheads. "There are a number of horse trails that connect, starting with the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail nearby, so you don't need to trailer your horses to get to the trailhead," notes Jean C., highlighting the convenient trail access.
Horseback exploration from Fox Creek Horse Camp: Access multi-use trails throughout the region. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," reports Jean C., who appreciates the facilities. Camp features include hitching posts at sites and a manure collection area.
Visit historic mountain homesteads: Explore preserved mountain structures on trails near Stone Mountain State Park. "Homestead was so neat to walk around at the base of the mountain," shares Kristi D., describing the cultural sites accessible from trail routes suitable for day trips while based at equestrian campgrounds.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Observe local fauna while camping at equestrian facilities. "We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" reports Kelly C. who experienced diverse wildlife encounters during their stay at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Creek access at campsites: Many equestrian campgrounds offer waterside sites for both humans and horses. "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," states Ann H. about her experience at Sandy Creek Family Campground, which provides overflow camping options near Stone Mountain.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses make longer stays more comfortable. "The bathhouse is kept spotless," mentions Jimmy M. about Sandy Creek Family Campground, an important consideration for riders planning extended trail excursions.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Be prepared for variable trail conditions that change with seasons. "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! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points!" warns Scott B. about conditions in Grayson Highlands, where wild ponies are an attraction but weather can be challenging.
Water availability varies: Not all equestrian campgrounds provide potable water. "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink," advises Jean C. about Old Virginia Group Horse Camp, highlighting the need to plan for both human and equine hydration.
Reservation requirements: Popular equestrian sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "The campsites are separated into several loops. One loop is closer to the lake, the other loop has more availability and quite a range of campsites. Reservations can be made on-line or walk up to the small building in the front of the loop," explains Kirsten J. about campsite options and reservation procedures at Julian Price Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpack options: Introduce children to wilderness camping with accessible hike-in sites. "Great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers! Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds," recommends Hollz about Basin Cove campground, noting its beginner-friendly trail access.
Creekside sites for children: Select water-adjacent campsites for natural play areas. "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!" shares Jessica L. from her experience at South Mountains State Park Family Campground.
Educational opportunities: Combine riding with learning about local ecology and history. "Barry is a good host and his family has lived on Stone Mountain for a long time. Good history lesson," writes Robbie N. about Sandy Creek Family Campground, where local knowledge enhances the camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose level sites when traveling with horse trailers that include living quarters. "Some sites you can reserve, but others are first come first served," notes Danielle L. about Julian Price Park, important information for travelers with larger equestrian rigs.
Dump station accessibility: Check for convenient waste disposal when planning longer stays. "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," warns Becca C. about Sandy Creek Family Campground, highlighting a practical concern for RVers with horse trailers.
