Equestrian enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers seeking horse campgrounds near Hays, North Carolina can access several facilities within the surrounding mountains. The region sits at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal conditions with summer temperatures averaging 75°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Most equestrian sites in this area close during winter months due to challenging road conditions and freezing temperatures at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail riding at Stone Mountain State Park: This park offers 18 miles of bridle trails with connections to neighboring wilderness areas. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," notes Joe B., who visited Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Horseback access to waterfalls: From Sandy Creek Family Campground, riders can take advantage of a special entrance to Stone Mountain waterfall areas. "Our sites were creek side. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park," explains Ann H. from Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Explore multi-use forest trails: The extensive Virginia Highlands Horse Trail network connects to several camping areas. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback. Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring," states Jean C., who camped at Fox Creek Horse Camp.
What campers like
Proximity to Stone Mountain hiking: Campers appreciate sites that connect to the popular Stone Mountain Loop. "Great campground! It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop. Great amenities, and everything was very clean," writes Kristin F. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Clean facilities at local sites: Well-maintained bathhouses remain a consistent highlight for equestrian campers. "The camp host was nice. Great location close to Stone Mtn park. Hiked from there into the state park. Very clean kept campground," reports Brandon C. about Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Stream access at campsites: Many equestrian sites offer direct water access. "We stayed at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares Charli R. about Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Most equestrian campgrounds close during winter months. "Located approximately 7 miles from Hays, the camp operates seasonally from April 1 through December 31, making it unavailable during winter months," applies to Fox Creek Horse Camp and similar facilities in the region.
Water availability varies by site: Not all equestrian camps provide drinking water. "This is a group equestrian camp that can be reserved via Recreation.gov for $50/night for up to 25 people. There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink," warns Jean C. about Old Virginia Group Horse Camp.
Campsite terrain challenges: Some sites have significant slope issues that require preparation. "The campsites were perfect for a few days and there were enough hiking trails around to keep us busy. Most of the trails were very easy, but the view on top of Stone Mountain was nice," notes Maggie J.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access for children: Some equestrian campgrounds include facilities for children. "Our group had both an RV and a large tent. The room allowed for both was very generous. The grounds and bath house were clean and well maintained. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," recommends Ann H.
Creek-side sites for water play: Select sites with stream access for additional recreation options. "Sandy Creek Family Campground has both tent and RV sites. The tent sites on the tree line were our pick. Lots of shade on a big grassy field, with both a play set for the kids and a volleyball court," suggests Kirsten J. from Sandy Creek Family Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife at equestrian campgrounds. "Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses - Lots of wildlife! 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 stayed at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Tips for RVers
Leveling challenges at some sites: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain. "Very clean and neat park. Camp host was very helpful. Plenty to do for adults and children. Beautiful place. At $35 a night, there is a lot to enjoy. The only thing you need to be aware of is that some of the sights are very slanted. Very tall levelers are needed," advises Marjorie W. about Tanglewood Park.
Dump station limitations: Some equestrian facilities have challenging dump station setups. "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.
Full hookup availability: Not all horse campgrounds offer complete hookups for RVs. "Stone Mountain State Park = Awesome. I stayed here for three nights in early November, 2022. The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings. I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups," shares David B.
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