Equestrian camping opportunities abound in the Blue Ridge Mountain region near Roaring Gap, North Carolina. Located at elevations between 2,500 and 3,500 feet, this area provides cooler summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees below nearby lowlands. The forested terrain features mixed hardwoods and pine with seasonal wildflowers creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year.
What to do
Trail riding access: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers direct connections to multiple riding paths through wooded terrain. As one camper notes, "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls" while another mentions "We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see."
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades within a short drive provide cooling summer options. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for," writes one Stone Mountain camper, highlighting how natural features enhance the camping experience.
Stargazing sessions: The region's elevation and distance from major cities creates exceptional night sky viewing. According to a camper at Basin Cove — Blue Ridge Parkway: "Stars are amazing! Campsite is right next to the creek—fun to hear the water at night."
Winery visits: Several camping areas provide convenient access to regional vineyards. A camper at Stone Mountain State Park Campground points out, "It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many horse campgrounds near Roaring Gap, North Carolina arrange sites to maximize space between neighbors. At Sandy Creek Family Campground, a visitor notes, "Our group had both an RV and a large tent. The room allowed for both was very generous."
Clean facilities: Maintained bathhouses rate consistently high across equestrian camping facilities. "The bathhouse was clean and well maintained," reports a Sandy Creek visitor, while another mentions "Stayed there for a weekend, great location close to Stone Mtn park. Very clean kept campground and nice owner."
Creek access: Stream-side sites provide natural water features and soothing sounds. "This site was taken while we were there - but we have it in mind for our next visit!" wrote one camper about Sandy Creek's premium creekside site with a firepit just feet from flowing water.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse animal populations visible from campsites. At Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park, a camper experienced "Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses" and "Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!"
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian facilities operate on limited schedules. "The official season runs May - October, it is open for primitive camping March, April, and November," notes a camper about Chestnut Hollow.
Campsite leveling challenges: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. A visitor to Tanglewood Park reported, "Negatives are unlevel lots (we had to lower ours by over 4" and still weren't level, but couldn't adjust anymore)."
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions change rapidly throughout the year. A camper at Grayson Highlands advises, "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves."
Trail access logistics: Some trails require planning for specific access points. At Fox Creek Horse Camp, "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds provide dedicated recreation areas. At Sandy Creek Family Campground, "The grounds and bath house were clean and well maintained. The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground."
Swimming options: Natural water features create cooling opportunities during warmer months. Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers "Great hikes and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes."
Hiking difficulty assessment: Trail systems range from beginner to advanced. For Basin Cove, a visitor recommends it as "Great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers! Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find High-maintenance campers or crowds."
Wildlife education: Animal encounters provide learning opportunities with proper preparation. At Julian Price Park Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway, "While we were in this area, we saw several small deer, including one that came through our campsite."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies significantly between equestrian campgrounds. At Fox Creek Horse Camp, "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided."
Site dimensions: Trailer sizes must match available spaces. At Tanglewood Park, campers appreciate that "sites are long and wide but some have quite a slope to them. There are large shady trees but no vegetation between sites."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management at specific facilities. For Fox Creek Horse Camp, "Campers are frequently referred to Grindstone campground for potable water and showers, but as of 2021, the dump station and bath houses/water are off; if you need services plan to travel about 15 minutes to Hurricane Campground instead."
Winter camping options: Some regional facilities remain open year-round with modified services. A camper at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground notes, "I've been here in each season, my favorites being fall and winter... In the winter, it is definitely COLD but absolutely stunning with snow falling."
