2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Owl Creek Horse Camp near New Hill provides primitive tent camping for equestrians with toilet facilities and drinking water. The campground offers access to trails through Bankhead National Forest with suitable terrain for horseback riding. Sites are designed for equestrian use with space for trailers and horses, though no dedicated corrals are available on the property.
Located approximately 30 miles from New Hill, the horse camp serves as a basecamp for riders exploring the forest's trail network. Riders must bring their own containment systems such as highlines or portable corrals. The natural setting accommodates tent campers who travel with horses, offering a rustic experience without electric hookups or shower facilities. Visitors should prepare for self-sufficient camping as amenities are limited to basic necessities. Trail access directly from the campground connects riders to the forest's equestrian routes, making it convenient for daily rides without needing to trailer horses between locations.
"This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "
"Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "
Available next weekend
from $27 - $77 / night
"Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."
"This campground is adjacent to the NC State Fairgrounds. Sites are spacious and full hook ups. Gravel roadways and grass/gravel sites."
from $45 / night
"We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."
"Umstead is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC. It seems to be an outdoor oasis as you can get lost in the woods with the hustle and bustle of the city all around you."
Available next weekend
from $27 - $75 / night
"There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways."
"None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $72 / night
"Our site (17) was on the opposite side of the real lake access and right across from the annual spots so we never really had too much privacy but most of the neighbors were very curteous and friendly."
"Located close to nothing else, this campground was so peaceful at night. During the day, it’s beautiful. It’s got showers with hot water and accessible facilities. Great camping!"
"Cedarock Park, located in Burlington, North Carolina, is a hidden gem for all sorts of outdoor activities. The park offers hike-in camping with a handful of sites scattered along Rock Creek."
"The park is almost 500 acres in size and offers:
- 6 miles of hiking trails
- 6 miles of equestrian trails
- 2 disc golf courses with a total of 36 holes for play
- A historical farm restored"
from $10 / night
from $5 / night
GuideThe sites are very large, long and wider at the back, plenty of room for a big group or family. The bathrooms look new and they are clean. Here during the week so it's very empty and quiet.
TravelerWe visited Crosswinds campground at Jordan Lake State Park on the worst heatwave of the year. The great thing about this area is that the sites a well shaded. We were about 50 yards from the lake, with the wind blowing we still were comfortable all day. We stayed on Loop A, which is my favorite loop at the park. There’s no electricity or water at the sites. There are water spickets throughout the loop with potable water. The site is awesome! There’s a small pond beside it. The neighboring sites are close, but regular conversations can not be heard.this loop is always quiet even when there are a lot of people, but it’s never been full when I’m there. I didn’t do good with photos except for the food.
ScoutDecent campground in a beautiful location along Lake Jordan. Crosswinds Campground is one of several sites on the lake. We chose this location since the gates stay open all the time, while other sites have a curfew that can lock you out for the night.
The staff are super friendly and helpful. There’s apparently a camp host whom we never met and they’re on the site next to ours (not sure if they’re supposed to greet us or help us get acquainted with the site, but the staff member at check in was great and did all that when we arrived).
Loop C is quiet, very few children, and less road noise compared to the other loops, but doesn’t have the same access to the lake.
Site C50 is conveniently located close to the bath house, has a large fire pit with adjustable grill, picnic table, and hookups for water and electricity. We’re in a tent, so really just use the electricity. The picnic table here should be replaced, as the wood seems to be rotting, but still does the job. There are a few sites in loop C that do have direct access to the lake, but those tend to be booked all of the time. We explored one last night and couldn’t believe it was vacant and how much nicer it seemed.
Bathrooms are not as clean as I would like, but I bring disinfectant wipes to wipe the toilet before use. Showers are fine, but use an annoying motion sensor to turn the water on/off. Showering at night is annoying with the bugs because the bathhouse is lit like a beacon (probably for safety). Waiting for the daytime is a better experience. Also, there isn’t a washing station for dishes, and we do that at our site.
Firewood can be purchased by the staff at the campground entrance; however, the exact same firewood is almost $4 fewer at a Refuel station down the street. Definitely stop into that gas station store for things you might need.
Overall, really good experience staying here, some annoying things, but won’t ruin your stay.
ScoutReally fantastic spot to camp! Great sites and hook ups (no sewer, but EASY dump station)! Go for Loop B - it has the beach.
LegendB.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.
ScoutThe staff are all very friendly and helpful
GuideThis is an excellent place to stay. It’s very clean, lots to do, beautiful view of lake. Great hiking trails.
GuideThis is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything. Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds.
ScoutNo amenities, but the price reflects that. Conveniently located to everything this area offers. Fun to check out whatever is happening at the fairgrounds and the horse complex is across the street. Big rig friendly but you might need to park your your truck/road a ver short walk away if you have a very large rig. The issue here is lack of oversight. There are security folks, but only if you call and request them. There is trash pickup, but no other staff anywhere. So people break the various rules often. Mainly they stay longer than 14 days. There were squatters when we were here one time - about 5 rigs and they wouldn’t leave and had no reservations. They were gone two weeks later when we came back (state troopers and Raleigh PD had to get involved).
Equestrian camping opportunities near New Hill, North Carolina range across several woodland areas offering varied terrain for trail riding. The region receives approximately 46 inches of rainfall annually, with temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 89°F during summer months. Horse campers typically find the spring and fall seasons provide optimal trail conditions with moderate temperatures and less humidity.
Trail riding through forests: At William B. Umstead State Park Campground, riders find well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels. "This is a very easy park to find. Decent amount of parking, but it is a highly trafficked area. There are multiple trails, for varying skill level," shares Samantha P., highlighting the accessibility for equestrian visitors.
Lakeside relaxation: After a day on horseback, Crosswinds Campground at Jordan Lake offers water-based recreation. "Great Campsites, nice wooded sites and close to lake access. Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site. Boat ramp in campground. Swim area and playground," notes Wendy M., describing the amenities available after trail rides.
Historical farm visits: Cedarock Park combines riding with cultural exploration. "The park is also home to 6 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of equestrian trails. There are two fantastic disc golf courses and even a historical farm that sheds light on what life was like as a farmer in 19th century North Carolina," explains Kelsey L., detailing the educational opportunities near equestrian trails.
Spacious sites for trailer parking: Falls Lake State Recreation Area provides ample room for horse trailers. "We absolutely love this area! There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways," states Bran P., noting the location advantages for those transporting horses.
Proximity to riding networks: Cane Creek Campground sits within easy access to multiple trail systems. "Beautiful little park nestled into the woods! Our site (17) was on the opposite side of the real lake access and right across from the annual spots," Mandy L. mentions, highlighting the wooded setting that appeals to many equestrians.
Quiet evenings: Many horse campgrounds near New Hill provide peaceful overnight experiences. "Located close to nothing else, this campground was so peaceful at night. During the day, it's beautiful. It's got showers with hot water and accessible facilities," reports Dimitry A. about Cane Creek Campground, emphasizing the restful environment after active days on horseback.
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian camping facilities operate on specific schedules. At William B. Umstead State Park, camping is available "March 15 to December 1," according to park information, meaning winter riders need alternative arrangements.
Containment requirements: Similar to Owl Creek Horse Camp, other equestrian sites in the region require riders to bring their own containment systems. Some sites recommend high-lines at 7-8 feet height to prevent ground damage.
Reservation policies: North Carolina State Fairgrounds has specific booking requirements. "First-come rentals. Some construction adjacent to the site which had morning noise M-F," notes S G., indicating the importance of advance planning for horse camping trips.
Playground access: Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers child-friendly amenities alongside horse facilities. "Loved that there was a playground near the site. The site itself was gravelly and not super private but it was great- the hikes around were stunning," shares amanda L., noting recreation options for younger family members.
Water recreation opportunities: Younger non-riders can enjoy alternative activities at Crosswinds Campground. "We love camping at Lake Jordan. There's a nice sand beach on the lake and a boat launch as well. Some of the sites offer a tie-off of your boat adjacent to your campsite," Paula U. explains, describing diversions for family members not participating in riding activities.
Educational experiences: Cedarock Park combines horse trails with learning opportunities. "While staying at the park we went on hikes, fished, and played disc golf. It was a great time!" reports Tara T., listing the family-friendly activities available alongside equestrian trails.
Electric hookup availability: Most designated horse campgrounds have limited services for RVs, requiring careful planning. "Primitive camping has drive in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door," Cara G. notes about William B. Umstead State Park, indicating the basic amenities available.
Water access considerations: RVers with horses should verify water availability for both human and equine needs. "Water, electric, sewer hook-ups. It's a pretty relaxing spot. Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance," J D. reports about the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, highlighting infrastructure that supports larger rigs.
Site spacing for horse trailers: When bringing horses and RVs, adequate distance between sites matters. "The sites are spacious and can accommodate large groups," Kelsey L. mentions about Cedarock Park, noting the room available for combined RV and horse trailer setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near New Hill, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near New Hill, NC is Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 34 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near New Hill, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near New Hill, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
