South Mountains State Park and Stone Mountain State Park offer dedicated facilities for trail riders with equestrian-focused amenities. These horse campgrounds near Statesville, North Carolina provide direct access to extensive bridle trails through varying terrain. Elevation ranges from 1,200 to 3,000 feet across the region, creating diverse riding conditions throughout the year with seasonal temperature variations affecting trail conditions.
What to do
Trail riding with water access: South Mountains State Park features creek access points where riders can cool horses during hot weather periods. "I took my horses and grandson to camp in the equestrian campsite. The bathrooms are very clean with AC. There a beautiful creek you can ride your horses in or just play if you want," notes Jackie S. at Equestrian Campground — South Mountains State Park.
Explore historic homesteads: Stone Mountain State Park preserves historic structures accessible via horseback trails. "The homestead was so neat to walk around at the base of the mountain," reports Kristi D., who enjoyed the historical elements while staying at Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
Day rides with stargazing: Plan evening rides during summer months when sunset occurs after 8:30 PM. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for," mentions Emily D. about the Stone Mountain area, noting clear night skies make for excellent evening viewing opportunities after a day of riding.
What campers like
Creek sounds for overnight stays: Sites positioned near moving water provide natural ambient sound. "There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," writes Charli R. about Site 40 at Stone Mountain State Park Campground, highlighting how proximity to moving water enhances the overnight experience.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive consistent maintenance across equestrian campgrounds. "The bathrooms were clean, fellow campers were respectful and nice," reports Emily D., while David B. adds "The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers" at Tanglewood Park.
Level parking areas: Many sites accommodate both living quarters and horse trailers with minimal adjustment needs. "I stayed here for three nights in early November, 2022. The camp sites are mostly level, well maintained and have tent pads, tables and fire rings," notes David B. about Stone Mountain State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal trail limitations: Spring rainfall affects riding conditions with temporary closures possible. "We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," says Charli R., indicating off-season visits may provide more solitude but require preparation for colder conditions.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian sites require advance booking with specific check-in procedures. "You have to make a reservation with the park office for your site and drop by the ranger station to pick up your permit," explains Julie L. about the process at Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway.
Gate closure times: Some parks implement strict entrance policies. "No cell phone service, and gates to the park are locked up at 9pm so there's no getting in or out late at night," warns Jenni P. about South Mountains State Park Family Campground, which applies to both regular and equestrian areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some facilities provide additional recreation options for children. "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground," explains Ann H. about Sandy Creek Family Campground, which offers both water play areas and constructed play equipment.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple locations offer deer observation possibilities. "There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," notes Charli R. about Stone Mountain, while Brandon N. at Tanglewood Park mentions "Deer roam throughout the park and campground."
Shower facilities: Family-friendly shower arrangements vary between parks. "Awesome place! Campgrounds were nice and spaced out, well maintained...we were right by a small stream that you could hear," reports Kristi D., though cautioning about Stone Mountain's shower system: "Very frustrating...you have to push the shower head to get water...great way to conserve but it gave you no time to enjoy the water."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional equipment for proper setup. "The sites were level, clean, and reasonably spaced," reports Kevin A. about Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort, while Tiffany D. cautions about Tanglewood Park: "Negatives are unlevel lots (we had to lower ours by over 4" and still weren't level, but couldn't adjust anymore)."
Hookup reliability: Electric service quality affects extended stays. "The campground has tiny and narrow roads that can be difficult to navigate with a large 5th wheel. Many of the sites are not completely level," notes one visitor to Tanglewood, while Wesley L. appreciates "No permanent sites so it's clean with no clutter."
Water pressure variations: Fluctuations occur depending on campground location and usage periods. "I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site," notes Charli R., while others mention bringing supplemental water systems during peak summer months when pressure may decrease.
