Canebrake Horse Camp connects directly to the Uwharrie National Forest trail system through Troy, North Carolina. This equestrian-focused campground sits at approximately 500 feet elevation and experiences mild spring and fall seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging 75-90°F. The dense forest surrounding the campground provides natural shade for horses and riders throughout the camping areas.
What to Do
Horseback riding on extensive trails: The Uwharrie National Forest features multiple equestrian trails accessible from several campgrounds near Harrisburg, North Carolina. At Uwharrie National Forest Badin Lake Group Camp, "There is plenty to do like hiking, fishing, swimming, and even horse back riding. And if you are an off road enthusiast, they have made some fantastic off road trails south of the Forrest," notes Isaac V.
Lake access for boats and fishing: Badin Lake provides water recreation options near the horse trails. "While at Uwaharrie NF stayed at Biden Lake campground. Beautiful place with great views. Clean facilities close to sites," reports John L. Many riders combine trail riding with fishing or boating activities during multi-day stays.
Mountain hiking with elevation changes: Beyond horseback trails, the area offers hiking trails with varied terrain. At Crowders Mountain State Park Campground, "The hikes here are really awesome and the facilities are nice and clean! We really enjoyed all of the different hikes and the lake as well as the hike to the top of the mountain. The hike to the top was a little strenuous for smaller kids," shares Lisa L.
What Campers Like
Quiet weekday camping: Horse campgrounds near Harrisburg maintain a calmer atmosphere during weekdays. At Arrowhead Campground, "Nicely spaced, shaded, and quiet camp ground. A lot of people camp here with their jeeps, sidexsides, and 4wheelers. The bathrooms and showers aren't fancy but are clean. There's a boat ramp right by the entrance," says Matt R.
New bathroom facilities: Recent upgrades have improved amenities at several campgrounds. At Morrow Mountain State Park Campground, "Stayed four days at state park. The campground was well kept and clean. The bathhouse is brand new. The camp host was very helpful and checked on everybody, every day. The only drawback was that there was no Wi-Fi," reports Robert D.
Affordability compared to private ranches: Equestrian camping in national forests offers cost savings. At Uwharrie Hunt Camp, Kyle notes it's "FREE. large size nobody else here in March but I'm sure as summer rolls around it fills up more." Other reviewers mention fees of only $5 per night at certain campgrounds, substantially less than private horse facilities in the region.
What You Should Know
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment for trailers and RVs. At Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park, Richard E. warns: "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. Some sites are listed as RV sites but are half as large as they need to be to accommodate a medium size RV."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the forest. At Arrowhead Campground, one camper notes "Cell signal is pretty spotty but passable. Would need a booster or satellite internet in order to work or attend school, though."
Strict quiet hours enforcement: Camp hosts actively monitor noise levels. At Arrowhead Campground, Kris H. mentions: "The camp host yelled at us twice for TALKING at a low volume after quiet hours. Unfortunately we somehow ended up at the sites right next to his, so maybe it would be better a little farther from the camp host."
Tips for Camping with Families
Bring portable corrals for horses: Without permanent corrals, temporary containment is essential. "I was there alone and had the whole campsite to myself. The camp host was so kind. He always made sure me, my horses and my grandson were comfortable and safe!" shares Jackie S. about Canebrake Horse Camp.
Pack supplies from nearby towns: Local stores offer limited supplies. For Arrowhead Campground, Mambo M. advises: "Nearby El Dorado Outpost has everything you might need (gas, ice, hot food, small groceries, outdoor supplies, GREAT biscuits!!, etc) and locals sell firewood bundles for $4-5/each. 10-15 min drive into Troy where there are restaurants, gas stations, small regular grocery stores."
Consider seasonal crowds: Plan for busier weekends and holidays. At Cane Creek Park, Sarah B. notes: "We 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."
Tips from RVers
Book well in advance for larger rigs: Limited sites accommodate larger trailers with horses. For Uwharrie National Forest, Dave V. advises: "Reserve well in advance if you desire a site...these campgrounds fill quickly" and "It appeared during my visit that most users were off-roaders with either 4x4's or quads. Enclosed and flatbed trailers filled most of the sites."
Check water availability seasonally: Water systems may be shut off during winter months. One Arrowhead Campground visitor reported: "Dump station was open, but did not have water to flush tanks or fill water tanks as water was shut off for the winter. There were water spigots throughout the campground that we could use."
Look for sites away from camp hosts: Select sites based on supervision preferences. About Arrowhead Campground, one visitor suggests positioning away from host sites if planning later evening conversations, as they actively enforce quiet hours which begin at 9pm.
