Bristol Fields Horse Camp sits approximately 15 miles from Murphy, North Carolina in the Nantahala National Forest region. The terrain provides vertical hiking opportunities at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,400 feet. Seasonal changes affect access, with winter conditions sometimes making the 4-mile dirt and gravel access road challenging for vehicles.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access nearby single-track mountain biking routes for all skill levels. At Tsali Recreation Area, "we went with our Boy Scout Troop in May and had a great time. There are plenty of trails, which are well managed to avoid conflicts with other users (read the signs!)."
Horseback riding excursions: Book guided rides at local stables near equestrian campgrounds. At Trackrock Campground, "I also got to enjoy a lovely horseback ride on Chubby Checker with Sonya....that was the highlight of the trip for me."
Wildlife viewing: Drive the scenic loops to spot native animals in their natural habitat. Near Cades Cove Campground, "I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience."
What campers like
Natural water features: Streams and lakes provide cooling options during summer months. At Standing Indian Campground, "we could hear the stream from our site at night. Exactly what we were looking for... Trails all around the site and longer ones further down the road."
Dark night skies: Remote locations offer exceptional stargazing opportunities. One camper noted that Tsali Campground has "one of the best views of the lake and GSMNP that I know of."
Primitive camping experience: Many sites provide basic amenities for those seeking simplicity. At Gee Creek Campground, "nice, spacious campsites. Pull through campsites with picnic tables, grills, fire rings and water spigots. Nice bathhouse that is cleaned multiple times a day."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. At Tsali Recreation Area, campers report "limited cell service for AT&T."
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations can create rapid temperature changes and storms. One camper mentioned that at Nantahala National Forest, "it can get very hot and humid but the best time of year to hike here is in the Spring or Fall."
Reservation requirements: Some sites are first-come, first-served while others need advance booking. For Cades Cove, "make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!"
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is mandatory. One camper advises, "make sure to lock your food up in your car or bear proof boxes because there are plenty of bears around."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreational areas. At Gee Creek, "the campground also has a playground to keep kids entertained."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. At Cades Cove, the area offers "easy-to-explore wilderness... If you have some people in your family who can't do or aren't interested in longer hikes into the backcountry, Cades Cove is the perfect place to take them thanks to the wildlife driving loop."
Stream access: Cool water play areas appeal to children. Standing Indian Campground features "a branch of Nantahala river offers trout fishing with NC fishing license."
Campfire programs: Ranger-led activities teach about local ecology. One visitor mentioned, "the legend of Tsali (the man) makes for a great campfire story!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many horse campgrounds near Murphy, North Carolina have uneven terrain. At Trackrock Campground, one fifth-wheel owner warns of "very steep and unlevel roads; especially when leaving. Our camper came in contact with the side of our bed and tailgate multiple times."
RV size limitations: Access roads often restrict larger vehicles. For Tsali Recreation Area, "site 18 was the only one I would attempt to get in. Its great for smaller campers and tenters."
Hookup availability: Most equestrian campsites offer limited or no hookups. One camper noted at Tsali, "good camping without hookups. There are water spigots, but not at camping sites."
Road conditions: Access routes can be challenging. A camper warns that the road to Standing Indian is "very narrow, the hill is very steep, and there is at least one very tight hairpin turn. Unless there is another way into this lovely park that I am unaware of, I would not attempt to tow a 5th wheel or other large trailer to this location."
