Owl Creek Horse Camp offers equestrian camping accommodations near Smithfield, North Carolina for trail riders seeking basic amenities. The primitive camping area sits at approximately 310 feet elevation in gently rolling terrain. Water access points are strategically positioned throughout the trail system, though campers must bring containers for transporting water to their horses at the campsite.
What to do
Trail riding for all levels: The bridle path system connects to varied terrain suitable for riders of different experience levels. At B.W. Wells Campground, nearby trails offer additional riding opportunities with lake views. One visitor noted, "This is one of my favorite campgrounds. Located on a semi rural area, the sites are very wooded and quiet. There was a lake nearby with an open sky where you could see hundreds of stars at night."
Swimming access: During summer months, cool off at designated swimming areas after riding. Crosswinds Campground provides "a nice sand beach on the lake" according to one camper, who added, "We loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours."
Wildlife observation: The natural setting around horse camps provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. Campers at Falls Lake report seeing eagles and butterflies, with one visitor sharing, "B.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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Horse campgrounds typically offer more space between sites than standard campgrounds. At William B. Umstead State Park, "Campgrounds are close but separated by trees and forest to create privacy," according to one camper.
Convenient trail access: Direct access to riding trails ranks highly with equestrian campers. One visitor at Umstead noted, "Primitive camping has drive in, picnic table, fire ring, tent spot, and trails starting at your back door."
Group camping options: Many equestrian campers travel with riding companions. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area provides options for this, as one camper explains: "Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds near Smithfield require advance reservations, particularly during peak riding seasons. NC State Fairgrounds Campground operates differently with "First-come rentals" according to one camper, who noted, "We stayed for 12 days in the section with full hookups and found the campground pretty quiet."
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions vary significantly with weather. Crosswinds Campground visitors report that after rain, "the site we had was under water after a light rain and didn't dry."
Trailer parking limitations: Space for horse trailer parking varies between facilities. Bring wheel chocks and leveling blocks, as some sites require adjustment. One camper at NC State Fairgrounds mentioned, "Most sites appear to be fairly level; we did have to use blocks on one side."
Tips for camping with families
Safety protocols: Establish clear rules for children around horses and water. At Falls Lake, facilities support family activities: "Roped off area for swimming with a great little sandy beach area next to a playground and toilets."
Non-riding activities: Pack alternative recreation options for family members who don't ride. One visitor at Falls Lake mentioned, "Our campground lined the lake so just through the trees, we were able to go for a quick dip or sit and watch the water. Also close by-- decent bathrooms and a large open field great for recreational games (we played frisbee!)."
Meal planning: Prepare simple meals that can be cooked over a campfire or portable stove. Pack plenty of snacks and water for trail rides. A camper at William B. Umstead State Park noted facilities have "electricity in the cabins" which can help with food preparation in some locations.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Large RVs with horse trailers require careful navigation. At North Carolina State Fairgrounds, "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," according to one camper.
Hookup availability: Horse campgrounds typically offer limited hookups. One RVer at Jordan Lake noted, "This was our very first full-time RV park. We loved being in the park and it easily accommodated our 39ft. Class A. Back-in site but with plenty of room to do so. Each site has water and electric hook-up. Sewer however is a dump station."
Security considerations: Check campground security protocols, particularly for valuable tack and equipment. A camper at the State Fairgrounds observed, "The issue here is lack of oversight. There are security folks, but only if you call and request them."
