South Mountains State Park encompasses over 23,000 acres with varied terrain between 1,200 and 3,000 feet elevation. The region experiences moderate seasonal temperatures with cold winters and warm summers. Equestrian campers can access a network of designated horse trails directly from campsite areas without trailering between riding locations.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Access the impressive 80-foot High Shoals Falls by taking the 2.35-mile Raven Rock Trail. "I searched 'best waterfalls in NC' and this park did not disappoint. We stayed for 3 nights - family campsite (sites 6-9 are beat IMO) was used as basecamp. We also had a primitive site that we backpacked to for a night," reports Sarah W. from South Mountains State Park Family Campground.
Overnight backpacking: Hike to secluded camping areas for more solitude. "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! Cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen!!" notes Jessica L. Upper Falls Campsites offer basic facilities after your hike. "Get ready. You are about to hike up a LOT of sleep stairs. The sites are really well laid out. Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter)," advises Julie L.
Mountain biking: Ride the 16.5 miles of mountain bike trails that intermix with hiking and equestrian trails throughout South Mountains State Park. "This is a 23,000 acre State Park...and ever acquiring more land," explains Dave V. The trails offer varied difficulty levels suitable for different experience levels.
What campers like
Trail access variety: Multiple access points let campers choose routes based on their ability level. "Great trails. Great views. The nature trail area was a great way to start and end the day as we hiked back to 'basecamp'," reports Sarah W. from South Mountains. For a more challenging experience, "It's a 6 mile hike up Maple Camp Ridge on trail 191 (Buncombe Horse Range) starting from a small parking lot close to Carolina Hemlocks Campground," notes Francis C. from Maple Camp Bald.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms. "The tent pad was large enough to setup our 8 man tent and 2 man tent, and lewve us plenty of room for our kitchen setup and room around the fire pit," writes Erica F. At Black Mountain Campground, "The showers and restrooms are impeccably clean and supplied...and there are several throughout this small campground," notes Dave V.
Natural water features: Creek and river access provide recreation opportunities beyond horseback riding. "A beautiful creek runs by our campsite. The sounds of the creek melodious," writes Dave V. Many campsites position visitors near water for both recreation and ambient sound.
What you should know
Strict rules enforcement: Park regulations are actively monitored by staff. "Park rangers are very present - they will deliver firewood bundles for a fee, and drive through the campsites frequently. The no-alcohol policy at the park is STRICTLY enforced, so be careful!" warns Jenni P. about South Mountains State Park.
Gate closures: "No cell phone service, and gates to the park are locked up at 9pm so there's no getting in or out late at night," explains Jenni P. Plan arrivals accordingly and prepare for limited communication options while inside the park boundaries.
Seasonal availability: Many horse campgrounds near Glen Alpine, North Carolina operate on seasonal schedules. "Season: April 13 to October 31," indicates the availability for Black Mountain Campground. Always verify current operating dates before planning equestrian camping trips.
Tips for camping with families
Select creek-adjacent sites: River-adjacent sites provide natural entertainment for children. "We stayed at a site right on the river and could hear the water flowing the whole time we were there," recommends Charles H. Water access lets horses cool off while providing recreation for younger campers.
Explore nature trails: Dedicated educational trails accommodate various ability levels. At Julian Price Park Campground, "There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake. There's also a trail that you can access from the park that leads to Hebron Rock Colony which is an incredible hiking trail," advises Danielle L.
Pack appropriate gear: Mountain weather can change quickly even during summer months. "We also had a primitive site that we backpacked to for a night. This was a great approach to the park. We feel like we got to experience so much more of the fun and experiential opportunities that park had to offer!" shares Sarah W.
Tips for RVers
Site selection considerations: Many equestrian campgrounds require advance planning for larger rigs. "Our site parking area was 45' from the raised timber to campground roadway," notes Dave V. Electric hookups at Equestrian Campground — South Mountains State Park include both thirty and fifty-amp service options.
Elevation changes and access roads: Access roads to horse campgrounds often involve elevation changes and narrow passages. "From I-40 Exit 104, you twist and turn, up and down but keep a sharp eye for the small, brown State Park signs or you'll pass your right hand turns," advises Dave V. RVers should verify route conditions before attempting access with larger vehicles.
Seasonal road maintenance: Forest roads accessing campgrounds may have variable conditions based on recent weather and maintenance. "Some sites have a deep enough gravel drive for a small camper or popup. And a few have electric," reports Dave V. about South Mountains State Park.
