The equestrian area at South Mountains State Park sits approximately 90 miles from Pinehurst at 1,400 feet elevation. Located in Connelly Springs, the campground connects to over 23,000 acres of protected wilderness with varied terrain. The park enforces a strict no-alcohol policy and gate closure times that limit late-night access.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Three sites at Upper Falls Campsite provide direct access to water features. Upper Falls Campsite offers tent camping with sites about a quarter mile apart. "Get ready. You are about to hike up a LOT of sleep stairs. The sites are really well laid out. Site 3&4 are my favorites because they are close to water access (bring a good filter)," advises Julie L.
Creek exploration: Family sites along stream beds offer natural play areas. South Mountains State Park Family Campground provides sites adjacent to running water. "We camped at the family camping area, it was great, we had site 6 and it was on the river and the kids loved it! Cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen!!" reports Jessica L. Several sites sit directly on small creeks ideal for splashing.
Mountain climbing: Reach elevation gains up to 1,000 feet. Black Mountain Campground serves as a base for challenging terrain. "From here you can climb 4000ft to the summit of Mt Mitchell. It's a great, challenging hike with many rewards along the way," notes David M. The mountain trails offer substantial elevation changes through diverse ecosystems.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Spacious accommodations with natural boundaries. Sites at most horse campgrounds near Pinehurst, North Carolina maintain good separation. "Even though we only stayed one night, we had a blast! Restrooms were very clean and well maintained. The tent pad was large enough to setup our 8 man tent and 2 man tent, and leave us plenty of room for our kitchen setup and room around the fire pit," explains Erica F. from South Mountains.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and amenities. Campground hosts maintain excellent standards. "Bath facilities are new and kept clean. Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything. Rangers are helpful and will bring firewood (charge for the wood)," shares Stephen M. about South Mountains.
Water access: Streams and small waterfalls near campsites. Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers water features throughout the property. "You just can't beat it. We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see. We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," describes Charli R.
What you should know
No cell service: Most parks have zero connectivity. This creates true wilderness isolation. "South Mountains is a great campground. Bath facilities are new and kept clean. Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything," explains Stephen M. Plan accordingly for emergency communications.
Limited access hours: Gates close at specific times. Many parks restrict nighttime entry and exit. "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 Family Campground.
Distance considerations: Remote locations require preparation. Sandy Creek Family Campground offers an alternative to state parks. "Sandy Creek Family Campground is located in Traphill, NC near Stone Mountain. This is a great overflow campground from Stone Mountain. In fact, you can even walk to the falls from this campground!" explains Kirsten J. Most equestrian facilities sit 60-90 miles from Pinehurst.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra clothing: Weather can change quickly. Mountain elevations experience temperature fluctuations. "We stayed for 3 nights - family campsite (sites 6-9 are best IMO) was used as basecamp. We also had a primitive site that we backpacked to for a night. This was a great approach to the park," suggests Sarah W. from South Mountains.
Research kid-friendly trails: Not all paths accommodate younger hikers. Julian Price Park Campground offers multiple difficulty levels. "Easy Camping for Families. Cushy campsites with electric and water. Rent a canoe here and take it out on the lake! Or hike the Boone Fork Trail, a 5 mile loop right across the parkway. Beautiful anytime of the year," recommends Jolie L.
Plan for limited services: Bring essentials. Stock up before arrival. "Far from a town, so don't forget anything. Rangers are helpful and will bring firewood (charge for the wood)," notes Stephen M. Most campgrounds have minimal on-site supplies.
Tips from RVers
Call ahead for accessibility: Road conditions vary significantly. Some mountain roads challenge larger vehicles. "The area is beautiful and the staff friendly. I drive a Kia Soul (low profile vehicle) and the roads to the campground were challenging due to the deep ruts and wash out," warns Terri S. about Springmaid Mountain.
Book well in advance: Limited RV sites fill quickly. Peak season demands early planning. "Most campsites have good privacy. All have easy access, but bathrooms are small for number of campers," notes Ethan H. about Julian Price Park.
Water fill stations: Locate services before arrival. Crowders Mountain State Park Campground offers varied amenities. "This was a pretty good place to camp. There is a hike to the campsite from the parking lot so we definitely got our workout in bringing our gear in," explains Lisa L. Research which horse campgrounds near Pinehurst provide full hookups versus basic services.
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