Equestrian camping options abound in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Lansing, North Carolina. The region sits at elevations between 2,800 and 5,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer brings moderate daytime highs in the 70s and 80s with significant cooling after sunset.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers access to multiple waterfall hikes. "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," notes Kristin F.
Horseback riding on multi-use trails: Fox Creek Horse Camp connects directly to extensive trail systems. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback," explains Jean C. The camp offers basic amenities at an affordable $5 per night.
Wildlife viewing: Grayson Highlands features diverse wildlife including wild ponies. "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!" shares Kelly C., who also notes the "wild ponies are close by."
What campers like
Seasonal diversity: Stone Mountain State Park Campground receives praise for year-round camping options. "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," reports Charli R., who recommends site 40 for its "roaring large creek" and grassy field "full of deer."
Quiet, remote locations: Basin Cove offers peaceful primitive camping. "This camp ground is very small and on the side of a very quiet road next to beautiful fields with breath taking views," writes Christian, noting "there is no cell service and it is very clean of trash perfect quiet getaway."
Family-friendly amenities: Sandy Creek Family Campground provides recreational options for children. "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park," shares Ann H., whose group camped with both an RV and large tent.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Expect significant wind at higher elevations. "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points!" warns Scott B. about Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. Cherokee Trails Campground sits "Way up the road! It's a nice place once you get here on the narrow country road," according to Mimi, who notes it offers "paddocks for horses" and "lots of exploration in the woods potential."
Water availability: Many horse campgrounds have limited facilities. At Old Virginia Group Horse Camp, "There is no potable water available, so plan to bring your own. There is a stream at the site where the horses may drink," advises Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backcountry option: Basin Cove offers accessible primitive camping. "Great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers! Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds," recommends Hollz, who adds "the trail is amazing" though "some spots may be very difficult to cross in the spring."
Stream access for play: Look for sites near water features. Sandy Creek Family Campground has "a nice creek for them to play in," according to Robbie N., who adds the campground also had "kids activities" and a "good history lesson" from the host.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies provide excellent night viewing. Julian Price Park offers "amazing stargazing," according to Jolie L., who recommends this as an "easy camping for families" with "cushy campsites."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Julian Price Park Campground requires careful site research. "It is a good idea to look at the photos on the website for each site before reserving. Many of the sites are walk-in sites and you can set up before the 3:00 time for reservable sites," advises Myron C., who notes that some sites are "seldom used" with "picnic tables covered in moss."
Bathhouse facilities vary: Cherokee Trails Campground offers "a nice clean bathhouse with showers," according to Holli C., who describes it as "a small quite camp ground with horse stables" featuring a central "fire ring in the middle with benches and tables surrounded by back-in camp sites."
Access challenges: Not all horse campgrounds accommodate large rigs. Old Virginia Group Horse Camp has "enough space for a number of trailers, including large ones, and up to 25 horses," explains Jean C., making it suitable for equestrian group camping near Lansing, North Carolina.
