Equestrian camping near Mount Holly, North Carolina provides trail riders access to several state parks with dedicated horse facilities. Sites for horse owners generally include spacious parking for trailers, proximity to bridle paths, and often feature water hookups for both campers and their animals. Regional equestrian campgrounds typically remain open year-round, though spring and fall offer optimal trail conditions with temperatures averaging 65-75°F.
What to do
Trail riding on marked paths: The Upper Falls Campsite connects to extensive trail systems that require moderate hiking skills. "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)," notes Julie L.
Championship disc golf: Chester State Park Campground offers a dedicated disc golf course within 50 miles of Mount Holly. "Small cabins available, walk-in campsites and restrooms are clean and updated. Very nice trail along the lake perimeter and Championship Disc golf course," writes Keith K.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds provide lake access for fishing, boating, and paddling. "The lake and the sitting area beside the lake are both beautiful. There is a paved walkway down to the lake to a sitting area and a dock. You can rent boats, peddle boats, canoes, and kayaks," explains Myron C. about Chester State Park.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: South Mountains State Park Family Campground maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. "The restroom/shower house is a monstrous, mountain lodge style modern facility...very clean, spacious and well-stocked," shares Dave V. Another camper, Stephen M., adds, "Bath facilities are new and kept clean."
Creek access: Camping sites along waterways rank highly among visitors. "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!" notes Jessica L. about South Mountains Family Campground.
Quiet evenings: Regulated quiet hours ensure peaceful overnight stays. "Very quiet with NO cell service which is a big draw for us," writes Stephen M. about South Mountains. Dave V. confirms, "Night noise restrictions, on our visit, were observed so it wasn't an issue."
What you should know
Gate closures: Many state parks lock entry gates at specific hours. At South Mountains, "gates to the park are locked up at 9pm so there's no getting in or out late at night," explains Jenni P.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have poor or nonexistent cellular connectivity. "Cell service is nonexistent. Your site will have a WiFi password for internet at the Visitors Center, but you need to be at or in the building for it to work," notes Dave V.
Reservation requirements: Cane Creek Park and other popular horse-friendly sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "We have stayed at Cane Creek 2x now and enjoy the park so much. Lake, hiking trails and nice wooded campsites with fire rings and close proximity to bath houses," shares Jeanette M.
Tips for camping with families
Free recreation options: Look for campgrounds with included activities. "The mini golf is free and a blast," Sarah B. says about Cane Creek Park. "Holidays usually have some activities for kids."
Nature trails for beginners: Several parks offer easier hiking options for younger visitors. "There is a cool 3D topo map display of the state park," mentions Dave V. about South Mountains State Park, noting the "Interpretive Hemlock Nature Trail" as a good starting point.
Early morning wildlife viewing: Kings Mountain State Park provides opportunities to observe native species. "Great place to camp. Very quiet,very friendly clean bathroom," notes Eddie B. Myron C. adds that his "favorite part of this camping experience was waking up early in the morning and sitting by the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort, RVers find level sites with full hookups. "RV spaces are a nice size with plenty of grass. Some airplane noise from planes using CLT, but wasn't bothersome," shares Bob F.
Alternative equestrian options: When South Mountains Equestrian sites are full, consider Love Valley Campground for horse camping with cabin options. "Probably the second cleanest campground I had ever been to," according to Lanna M.
Seasonal considerations: Off-season visits offer quieter experiences and often lower rates. "It seems to be a real nice campground. We stayed when the amusement park was closed so it was very quite and hardly anyone there," notes Mike F. about Camp Wilderness.
