Equestrian camping facilities near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir cater to riders needing specialized accommodations for both horses and humans. Most equestrian sites in this region of North Carolina range between 2,000-3,500 feet elevation, creating varied trail conditions throughout the seasons. Trail connections between designated horse camping areas allow for extended riding excursions across multiple trail systems.
What to Do
Explore Stone Mountain Park trails: Located about 90 minutes from W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir, Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks. "Great sites. Clean bathrooms, close to many hiking trails and waterfalls," notes Joe B. The park features multiple trail difficulty levels suitable for day rides.
Visit local wineries: Several riding-friendly wineries operate near horse camping facilities. "Great campground! It is about a 15 minute drive to 3 great wineries and walkable to the trail head for the Stone Mountain loop," shares Kristin F. Many wineries offer hitching posts for horses during tasting visits.
Enjoy water recreation: During summer months, riders can access swimming areas suitable for cooling horses after long trail rides. "Beautiful campground and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes," reports Stacey S. about recreation options near camping facilities.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Julian Price Park Campground receives high marks for site separation. "Most campsites have good privacy and is quiet most hours. All have easy access, but bathrooms are small for number of campers," explains Ethan H. Most equestrian sites provide buffer zones between camping areas.
Well-maintained facilities: Equestrians appreciate clean amenities after trail riding. "The campsites are separated into several loops. One loop is closer to the lake, the other loop has more availability and quite a range of campsites. Bathrooms are available here as well as drinking water," notes Kirsten J. about Julian Price facilities.
Access to multiple trail systems: Sandy Creek Family Campground provides convenient trail connections. "Found this place in September 2018 and went back 3 more times before winter. The owner (Barry) takes great care of the place and customer service is top notch. Access to a sliding rock and waterfall in Stone Mountain State Park with an approximate 1 mile easy hike," reports Jimmy M.
What You Should Know
Limited cell service: Most horse campgrounds near W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir have poor or no connectivity. "No cell 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 State Park Family Campground.
Bring portable corrals: Unlike some dedicated horse facilities, most campgrounds require your own containment systems. "The equestrian campground in a beautiful state forest allows for other campers to make reservations no more than 30 days in advance; priority is for campers with horses," explains Jean C. about regional horse camping protocols.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations create rapid weather changes. "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," advises Scott B. regarding seasonal conditions.
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose creekside sites: For families with both horses and children, water access provides dual benefits. "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. at South Mountains State Park.
Look for wildlife viewing: Tanglewood Park offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "Deer roam throughout the park and campground. Clean bath/shower. Easy check in with multiple host on site. All sites paved," notes Brandon.
Consider activity alternatives: For multi-day stays, non-riding activities maintain children's interest. "There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake. There's also a trail that you can access from the park that leads to Hebron Rock Colony which is an incredible hiking trail," suggests Danielle L.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling requirements: Fox Creek Horse Camp and other equestrian facilities often have challenging terrain. "Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring. Portable toilets available. Bring your own water. No hookups provided. Hitching posts at sites. Manure collection available," explains Jean C. about the setup.
Plan for limited hookups: Many horse campgrounds prioritize equestrian facilities over RV amenities. "At $5/night, it's hard to beat the price," notes Jean C. about Fox Creek Horse Camp, though full hookups are rare at dedicated equestrian sites.
Consider overflow options: During peak seasons, dedicated equestrian campgrounds fill quickly. "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," advises Jean C.
