Equestrian camping near New Bern, North Carolina centers on properties that accommodate both riders and horses with specialized facilities. The coastal plain terrain provides level ground for horse trailers and easy riding conditions across wooded landscapes. Temperatures remain moderate with extended camping seasons, typically from March through November, allowing for year-round horseback riding opportunities in many locations.
What to do
Arena events and competitions: Whipoorwill Campground hosts weekly equestrian events in their central arena. According to visitor Mathew G., "They have a horse arena here that holds events weekly. Love the horse atmosphere and watching them do their thing from day to day."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple catch-and-release ponds offer alternative recreation when not riding. Whipoorwill Campground features several fishing spots accessible by walking paths that wind through the property.
Trail exploration: The approximately 400-acre property provides extensive walking trails where visitors can observe horses in pastures. Mathew notes there are "Plenty of paths and areas to walk around and stretch your legs, along side multiple ponds with catch and release only fishing."
What campers like
Clean facilities: White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort maintains exceptional standards throughout their property. Huggins G. reports, "The whole place is so very clean: the bathrooms, camping areas, swimming pool area, even the dumpsters area. The grass is very well kept, the roads and signage, well maintained."
Quiet atmosphere: Horse-friendly campgrounds typically sit away from main roads, creating peaceful environments. Mathew G. notes Whipoorwill is "Well off the main road as well so you hardly hear any traffic."
Resident management: On-site owners provide immediate assistance with both camping and equestrian needs. A camper at Whipoorwill explains, "The owners live on the property in the house, which I thought was awesome in case we needed anything."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Both major equestrian campgrounds require advance booking, especially during event weekends when demand increases.
Southern hospitality: The welcoming atmosphere extends beyond basic services. At Whipoorwill, Mathew G. experienced "just the southern hospitality you always hear about. Super nice and welcoming and always has a smile on their face."
Community atmosphere: Fellow campers contribute to the experience. "Everyone else that either drives by or lives by us always waving and stopping for conversations, just as polite as can be," notes a Whipoorwill visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Horse observation opportunities: Children can watch horses in their natural environment without needing to ride. Multiple pastures at Whipoorwill allow for safe viewing from designated areas.
Swimming options: For summer visits, White Oak Shores offers a swimming pool that maintains the same cleanliness standards as the rest of the property. This provides cooling recreation after horse activities.
Educational elements: Horse care routines, feeding schedules, and weekly events provide learning experiences for children interested in equestrian activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most horse-friendly campgrounds provide water, electric, and sewer connections for extended stays. White Oak Shores includes full hookup sites specifically configured for RVs with horse trailers.
Maintenance standards: Expect well-kept roads suitable for larger rigs. According to White Oak Shores visitors, "The roads and signage, well maintained" make navigation easier for those towing horse trailers.
Site accessibility: RV sites at equestrian campgrounds typically offer more space than standard campgrounds to accommodate both camping vehicles and horse trailers in the same location.
