6 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Cane Creek Park features extensive equestrian trails that wind throughout the 1,050-acre property, making it a popular destination for horse owners near Monroe. The well-maintained bridle paths accommodate riders of all experience levels with clearly marked routes that connect to the main camping areas. Campsites near the equestrian section provide ample room for horse trailers with pull-through access and level parking. Water access points for horses are strategically placed along the trail system, and the campground maintains several hitching posts near common areas. Equestrians particularly appreciate the park's trail network that follows the lake shoreline, providing scenic riding opportunities while horses can cool off at designated water access points.
Located approximately 15 miles from Monroe, the park connects to a broader network of riding trails in Union County. Horse owners must bring their own portable corrals or high-line equipment as permanent stalls are not available at the campsites. The equestrian trails experience seasonal closures after heavy rainfall to prevent erosion and maintain trail integrity. Trail maps available at the ranger station mark water crossings, difficulty levels, and connecting paths to neighboring trail systems. The equestrian-friendly atmosphere extends to the campground's policies, with specific guidelines for manure disposal and designated areas for grooming. Many riders use Cane Creek as a base camp for exploring the surrounding countryside, which offers additional riding opportunities on connecting public lands.
"Located just outside historic Waxhaw NC, Cane Creek is part of the NC Soil Conservative Sites. They offer day passes,$4.00 per car where you can launch you kayak canoe or fishing boat."
"Equestrian trails are everywhere and are good for hiking, a few trails are a bit rough for bicycles though"
"The adjacent amusement park is closed due to Covid but i bet it is a blast to stay here when it is open. Wooded perimeter so you feel you are away from the city."
"The hookups were standard location and heights no issues. Our steps come out to a large level dirt pad, not grass. Lots of trees providing shade which is nice."
"Morrow Mountain State Park, near Albemarle, NC, has something for everyone. Many hiking and equestrian trails are within the park. "
"Water spigot close by, the pressure is high so slowly lift the handle haha. The sites are not too close together. Lots of hiking nearby. Beautiful area! Highly recommend."
Available this weekend
from $17 - $107 / night
"There is a nice playground, hiking trails, a lake, canoe rental, and a trading post with some food, ice, camping supplies, firewood and souvenirs. There is also a separate Equestrian campground!"
"When not in the side, a short walk takes you to the Trading Post, a small store selling firewood ($7), ice, souvenirs, and sundries. Next to that is a large playground connected to a pavilion."
Available this weekend
"There aren’t really any extras here but if you’re just looking for reliable water/electrical/sewer and wifi near Charlotte this is a fantastic option."
"Equestrian campgrounds, hunting camps and then Arrowhead and Badin Lake campgrounds, along with the boat launch area."
"The campsites do not offer a view of the water of Badin Lake, but it is nearby with a drive or hike. "
Available this weekend
from $20 - $54 / night
"The part of the park that is best to go to is the Sparrow Springs access, some folks may not be aware that there are actually several entrances to the park, and the main entrance with trails to the Crowder"
"The trails are strenuous but views are amazing! Its definitely worth it and right outside town, not far out."
Available this weekend
from $17 - $47 / night
"Far away from city lights so great for stargazing."
"There was some trash from previous campers littered around the site when we arrived. Please don’t be a litterbug!"
from $10 - $15 / night
"We hit this campground right at the perfect time of year, BEFORE the opening day of off-road vehicle season in April. "
"There is a good trail around the lake that offers some beautiful views across the lake. Pretty good fishing too."
"There is plenty to do like hiking, fishing, swimming, and even horse back riding. And it you are an off road enthusiast, they have made some fantastic off road trails south of the Forrest."
"While at Uwaharrie NF stayed at Biden Lake campground. Beautiful place with great views. Clean facilities close to sites."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $75 / night
RangerWhen I’m traveling through the area, I do my best to stay here. It is a peaceful and well kept campground. It is an adult and a kid friendly environment. It’s one of the few places you can feel safe. I highly recommend this place.
TravelerThis is/was marked as dispersed camping but this is primarily an OHV area, with a shooting range nearby that can be heard from some campsites. Most, if not all, of the campsites are intended to be large group sites. The empty site we found was filled with trash, discarded tents, air mattresses, and trashed electronics from OHVs. There's so much trash we would not even be able to take it all out with us if we wanted to. This may be a national forest, but it is not peace and quiet as one would expect from "dispersed and primitive" camping.
ScoutThe spots are alright but first night got ate up by ants so hadda move and the other spots are good but have no shade and no signal and not mutch to take pictures of so if you wanna have some survival type camping this is a great location.
TravelerI don’t have any complaints about this campground! Sites are nice and feel like you aren’t close to anyone else. Very pretty area, quiet. Newest bathhouse I have ever seen at a state park! Awesome showers.
LegendWe stayed one night at Arrowhead Campground while checking out some of the nearby trails, including the Badin Lake Trail, which is just a short drive away and offers great views of the lake and surrounding forest. The campground itself is well laid out, with sites nicely spaced apart so it doesn’t feel crowded. The paved campground loops are in great shape and make driving through easy, even for larger rigs. Several areas offer pleasant views of Badin Lake, adding to the relaxing atmosphere. Overall, Arrowhead Campground felt quiet, clean, and well maintained—an excellent base camp for exploring Uwharrie National Forest, even if just for a quick overnight stay.
Check out our 360° video to see all the sites.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dG4AjjkcB4o
RangerThis is a great campground. It is laid out nicely with equal privacy between sites. You do not feel smothered by the camper next to you. It is well maintained. The nature in the campground has been maintained by the park service. It is a beautiful place to rest.
RangerThis campground is one of my regular stops. It is well kept.
TravelerNicely 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. Overall an awesome camp ground!
GuideWe 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.
Cane Creek Park offers equestrian camping options surrounded by extensive forest terrain within Union County. Located at approximately 700 feet elevation, the park experiences mild winters and warm summers typical of the North Carolina Piedmont region. The campground features predominantly oak-pine woodland with periodic understory growth that provides natural separation between campsites.
Lake activities year-round: The 350-acre lake at Cane Creek Park supports multiple water activities beyond horseback riding. "We have been here 3 times all for a week at a time and love it. The swim area is only open on Saturdays or you can drive to the day use side and be over there," notes Sarah B.
Mini golf access: Many campers appreciate the recreational options beyond equestrian trails. "Nice campground. Got very busy on Friday through the weekend. Nice lake and hiking trails. Free putt-putt. Clean bathrooms and hot showers," explains David E.
Kayaking opportunities: The lake provides calm waters suitable for paddling. "I load up my kayak once a month or so and paddle around the lake for hours. Trails, shelter areas, and bathrooms are always well taken care of," shares Emily B.
Hiking with dogs: Multi-use trails accommodate pets throughout the wooded sections. "I take my two labs there almost every weekend for a good hike through the woods and they LOVE IT! A few of the trails are right on the lake and the dogs love to hop in and cool off," according to Emily B.
Family-friendly activities: Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort provides transportation to nearby attractions. "We had a blast; even with younger kids. RV sites and cabins, friendly staff, free shuttle to the amusement park, great community center, and more," says Joe G.
Peaceful surroundings: Many campgrounds offer natural quiet despite proximity to urban areas. "It is very quiet and enjoyable. Hung my hammocks from nearby trees and slept very well," notes Wesley R. about camping near Uwharrie Hunt Camp.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse is in good shape and clean. I will come back when I'm in this area," reports Robert D. about his nine-day stay at Cane Creek Park.
Accessible water recreation: Seasonal swimming areas complement fishing opportunities. "A cute little beach area with kayak and canoe rentals. Day area open from 8am to sunset," explains John P. about Cheraw State Park Campground.
Seasonal closures: Water recreation areas have limited availability in some locations. "Beach swimming area closed due to Covid but looks nice. Park on other side of lake has picnic shelters, more trails, frisbee golf and kayak rentals that will open after Covid," advises Jeanette M.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "This campground is owned by Union County, NC with a good rate for residents. As such, it can be difficult to get in at times and usually requires a reservation well in advance," mentions Rick B.
No alcohol policy: Kings Mountain State Park enforces specific beverage restrictions. "Campground has trails and fishing in walking distance. It is always packed. No alcohol permitted," notes Julie P.
Holiday programming: Structured activities occur during specific time periods. "Holidays usually have some activities for kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Monroe, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Monroe, NC is Cane Creek Park with a 4.4-star rating from 30 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Monroe, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 16 equestrian camping locations near Monroe, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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