Equestrian camping near Vilas, North Carolina sits within the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F, while fall brings colorful foliage and cooler nights in the 30-50°F range. The region's trail systems often interconnect, allowing riders to access multiple camping areas and terrain types during extended stays.
What to do
Trail hiking to waterfalls: South Mountains State Park features an 80-foot waterfall accessible via the High Shoals Falls Trail. "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. from South Mountains State Park Family Campground.
Sliding rock adventures: Located near Stone Mountain State Park, Sandy Creek Family Campground offers easy access to natural water features. "Access to a sliding rock and waterfall in Stone Mountain State Park with an approximate 1 mile easy hike," notes Jimmy M., who also mentions the "bath house is kept spotless."
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. Emily D. from Stone Mountain State Park Campground shares: "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for. The bathrooms were clean, fellow campers were respectful and nice."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many equestrian campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms and shower facilities. At Black Mountain Campground, Michelle B. notes: "The staff were really friendly and helpful and the camp, restrooms, and showers were really clean. We hiked all around and sincerely enjoyed the sounds of the creek running by our campsite."
River access: Camping near flowing water adds to the experience at many sites. Charli R. from Stone Mountain State Park Campground describes: "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."
Unplugged environment: The remote nature of many campgrounds limits connectivity. Scott K. from Black Mountain Campground mentions: "Hoping to catch up with the kids or listen in on that conference call while you are at BMC? Forget about it! There is no cell service on T-Mobile or Verizon inside the camp (small victory for nature)."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain areas experience significant temperature fluctuations. Scott B. from Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground cautions: "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."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Myron C. from Julian Price Park Campground notes: "Many of the sites in the A loop are reservable, and they have been reserved for several weeks (maybe months) in advance. They are the best sites as far as seeing the lake and sometimes because they are larger."
Road conditions: Access to some equestrian campgrounds involves driving on unpaved roads. According to Terri S. from Springmaid Mountain Campground: "I drive a Kia Soul (low profile vehicle) and the roads to the campground were challenging due to the deep ruts and wash out."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide play areas for children. Ann H. from Sandy Creek Family Campground shares: "The kids enjoyed playing in the creek and on the playground. The grounds are adjacent to the Stone Mountain State Park. Very fun long weekend at a family friendly campground."
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature historical sites or nature centers. Kelly C. from Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground mentions: "Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses. Lots of wildlife! We camped at an equestrian campgrounds... Saw a family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!"
Tent spacing considerations: When camping with children, site layout matters. Charles H. from Black Mountain Campground states: "Awesome sites with great views, great trails, and spotless facilities! The hosts were amazing and even though we were a bit rambunctious, they still were super nice."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites vary in their utility offerings. David B. from Stone Mountain State Park notes: "I chose a site that had water and electric hook-ups. The bathrooms were heated, clean and the men's bathroom had two showers."
Dump station access: Waste disposal facilities can be challenging at some locations. According to Becca C. from Sandy Creek Family Campground: "The biggest negative I would say was the dump station. It was on the hill so you had to back up to it and it wasn't easy location to do so."
Site leveling: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. Holli C. from Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables reports: "Campground consist of a fire ring in the middle with benches and tables surrounded by back-in camp sites. There was a nice clean bathhouse with showers."
