Equestrian camping near Graham, North Carolina offers riders access to dedicated trail systems spanning various terrain types across Alamance County's 500+ acre parks. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows reaching 30°F, affecting trail conditions throughout the year. Water levels in local creeks and ponds fluctuate seasonally, impacting crossings on equestrian routes.
What to do
Trail riding at Cane Creek: Explore nearly 6 miles of dedicated trails at Cane Creek Campground and RV Park where riders appreciate the mix of wooded paths and lakeside routes. "Beautiful little park nestled into the woods! Our site (17) was on the opposite side of the real lake access and right across from the annual spots," notes Mandy L.
Visit historical farms: The restored 19th-century farm at William B. Umstead State Park Campground provides educational opportunities about agricultural history. "There are historic cabins with cots to sleep on. There is electricity in the cabins," reports Erica F., making this an interesting day trip from Graham.
Disc golf between rides: Take a break from horseback riding and try one of the two disc golf courses with 36 total holes available near equestrian camping areas. "There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course)," mentions one visitor to the Graham area parks.
What campers like
Private campsites: B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers wooded sites that provide shade and privacy for equestrians. "Located on a semi rural area, the sites are very wooded and quiet. There was a lake nearby with an open sky where you could see hundreds of stars at night," writes Kristen W.
Lake access for horses: Water access points make Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area popular among horse owners. "Great Campsites, nice wooded sites and close to lake access. Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site. Boat ramp in campground," notes Wendy M., highlighting the natural setting.
Level camping terrain: The flat terrain at most sites makes setup easier after a day of riding. "The sites are all super flat, which makes finding some place comfortable to set up a tent that much easier," one camper observed about camping facilities near Graham.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many horse camping areas around Graham follow restricted schedules with varying closure dates. William B. Umstead is open "March 15 to December 1" while B.W. Wells operates "March 15 to November 30," requiring winter trip planning.
Site reservation requirements: All equestrian camping near Graham requires advance booking. "Reservations are required (though they do accept walk-ins at the park office). You can reserve a site either by calling the park office or by going online," explains a regular visitor.
Gate locking policies: Several campgrounds lock entrance gates at night. "The campsites are alright minus the hike but the downside is they lock the gate at night and no one else is there so if you have an emergency or just need to leave you can't, you're literally stuck," cautions Summer C. at Cedarock Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreational facilities for children. "Plenty of places to tent camp or RV camp! Places to fish things for kids to play on and of course places to shower after! One of my family's favorite places to camp!" recommends Krista H. about Cane Creek.
Creek exploration: Shallow water areas provide safe play spaces between rides. "We hiked down with our stuff and set up at campsite 4. We were the only ones there for the weekend and there was ample space for setting up. We used the fire pit and the kids played in the creek," shares Tara T.
Noise considerations: Road noise affects some camping areas, especially those closest to main roads. "The only downside is the road noise at night - it was very loud. Next time we will bring something to help quiet the noise," advises one family camping near Graham with children.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup limitations: Most equestrian-specific campsites lack full RV hookups, so plan accordingly. "This campground is pretty great except for two things. there is no septic on your site, and they lock the gate after a certain hour. if you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck," notes Debbie F. about Crosswinds Campground.
Hickory tree caution: Park RVs away from hickory trees which drop nuts that can damage roofs and AC units. "Roughly 7 weeks into my 13 week stay a large storm rolled through and a hickory nut busted the top of my ac unit on my roof and the nut broke the blades of my fan off," reports a camper at Cane Creek.
Alternative non-equestrian options: For RVers without horses but wanting proximity to equestrian areas, North Carolina State Fairgrounds offers basic full-hookup sites. "We stayed for 12 days in the section with full hookups and found the campground pretty quiet. The lots were close, but you didn't feel crowded. Some shade from oak trees. All spaces are back-in. Our site was level," reports S G.
