Equestrian Camping near Connelly Springs, NC

South Mountains State Park offers several tent and RV campsites across 23,000 acres with trails for hiking and horseback riding. The park's terrain features significant elevation changes, providing challenges for riders and hikers at various skill levels. Visitors can expect limited cellular connectivity throughout the park, especially in valley areas and near water features. Gates close at night, restricting entry and exit after hours.

What to do

Hike to waterfalls: Access the High Shoals Falls via dedicated trails from the family campground at South Mountains State Park. "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," according to Sarah W. at South Mountains State Park Family Campground.

Ride horses through forest trails: Trail networks designed specifically for equestrians connect directly from the equestrian camping area to miles of forest paths. "I took my horses and grandson to camp in the equestrian campsite. The bathrooms are very clean with AC. There a beautiful creek you can ride your horses in or just play if you want," notes Jackie S. at Equestrian Campground — South Mountains State Park.

Explore backcountry campsites: Hike to primitive sites for a more secluded experience away from the main campgrounds. "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)," recommends Julie L. at Upper Falls Campsite.

What campers like

Peace and quiet: The absence of cellular service creates a true disconnect from digital distractions. "South Mountains is a great campground. Bath facilities are new and kept clean. Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us," mentions Stephen M. at South Mountains State Park Family Campground.

Riverside sites: Campsites positioned along creeks provide natural white noise and recreational opportunities. "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!!" shares Jessica L.

Security and ranger presence: Park staff actively monitor the grounds to maintain safety standards. "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," warns Jenni P.

What you should know

Gate closure times: All park gates lock at specific hours. "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," notes Jenni P. This affects late arrivals and early departures, requiring advance planning.

Tent pad conditions: Some tent pads may require maintenance or adjustment before setup. "Our site was an 'leveling,' octagonal, elevated, crushed gravel pad, surrounded by landscape timbers...an elevated fire ring with a swing-over, non-adjustable grate, a picnic table and metal lantern pole," describes Dave V. at Julian Price Park Campground.

Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require appropriate vehicles. "I drive a Kia Soul (low profile vehicle) and the roads to the campground were challenging due to the deep ruts and wash out," cautions Terri S. about nearby campgrounds.

Tips for camping with families

Choose creek-adjacent sites: Sites near water features provide natural entertainment for children. "Even though we only stayed one night, we had a blast! The tent pad was large enough to setup our 8 man tent and 2 man tent, and leave us plenty of room for our kitchen setup and room around the fire pit," recommends Erica F.

Bring sufficient water containers: Limited water access points may require carrying water to your site. At nearby Crowders Mountain State Park Campground, "your only option is a walk-in campground, about a mile-long hike. Drinking water and outhouses are available though," advises Les R.

Plan activities around gate closures: Schedule day trips with park gate closures in mind. "This state park is relatively close for us in Charlotte and we have camped here on a few occasions. What I like most about this park is they do close the gates at night (I can't remember exactly what time) but it definitely cuts down on random traffic," notes Rushell R.

Tips for RVers

Site selection for leveling: Many sites require significant leveling adjustments. At Kings Mountain — Kings Mountain State Park, a reviewer 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."

Hookup placement variations: Electric and water connections may be positioned in unexpected locations. "The electric and water are in odd spots on each site. Luckily we were on one of the rare fairly level sites," cautions Karen S.

Road access considerations: Narrow park roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The road into the campground is narrow, hilly and windy. We were able to do it in our 32 foot class A, but luckily no one was coming the other direction," advises Karen S.