4 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Medoc Mountain Equestrian Campground in Hollister permits camping with horses, though it requires campers to bring horses as a condition of reservation. The equestrian campground offers electric hookups, including both fifty-amp and thirty-amp connections, water hookups, sewer hookups, and a sanitary dump station for RVs. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring for evening relaxation after trail rides. The campground maintains a reservable status year-round with shower facilities available for campers. While the facility does not provide dedicated horse corrals, riders typically set up portable corrals or use high-line systems during their stay. Sites accommodate both RVs and horse trailers with sufficient room for parking and setup.
Located approximately 50 miles northeast of Wendell, Medoc Mountain State Park features an extensive network of bridle trails that connect directly to the equestrian camping area. The park maintains separate trail systems for horses, minimizing conflicts with hikers and other park users. Trail riders can access varied terrain including wooded paths and open meadows suitable for horses of different experience levels. The park requires current Coggins test documentation for all horses entering the property, and campers must clean up after their animals throughout their stay. Horse owners should bring their own water buckets, feed, and portable containment systems. Sites can become dusty during dry periods, particularly in areas where horses are frequently tied or contained. Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during prime riding seasons in spring and fall.
"This campground is adjacent to the NC State Fairgrounds. Sites are spacious and full hook ups. Gravel roadways and grass/gravel sites."
"Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."
from $45 / night
"We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."
"Umstead is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC. It seems to be an outdoor oasis as you can get lost in the woods with the hustle and bustle of the city all around you."
Available this weekend
from $27 - $75 / night
"There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways."
"None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $72 / night
"This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "
"Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "
Available this weekend
from $27 - $77 / night
"Good location off of 85. Great trails and equestrian trails!"
"Not far from the Roanoke River and right around the corner from Halifax, this spot is perfect for getting away from it all."
from $27 - $75 / night
from $17 / night
from $5 / night
GuideThe sites are very large, long and wider at the back, plenty of room for a big group or family. The bathrooms look new and they are clean. Here during the week so it's very empty and quiet.
TravelerWe visited Crosswinds campground at Jordan Lake State Park on the worst heatwave of the year. The great thing about this area is that the sites a well shaded. We were about 50 yards from the lake, with the wind blowing we still were comfortable all day. We stayed on Loop A, which is my favorite loop at the park. There’s no electricity or water at the sites. There are water spickets throughout the loop with potable water. The site is awesome! There’s a small pond beside it. The neighboring sites are close, but regular conversations can not be heard.this loop is always quiet even when there are a lot of people, but it’s never been full when I’m there. I didn’t do good with photos except for the food.
ScoutDecent campground in a beautiful location along Lake Jordan. Crosswinds Campground is one of several sites on the lake. We chose this location since the gates stay open all the time, while other sites have a curfew that can lock you out for the night.
The staff are super friendly and helpful. There’s apparently a camp host whom we never met and they’re on the site next to ours (not sure if they’re supposed to greet us or help us get acquainted with the site, but the staff member at check in was great and did all that when we arrived).
Loop C is quiet, very few children, and less road noise compared to the other loops, but doesn’t have the same access to the lake.
Site C50 is conveniently located close to the bath house, has a large fire pit with adjustable grill, picnic table, and hookups for water and electricity. We’re in a tent, so really just use the electricity. The picnic table here should be replaced, as the wood seems to be rotting, but still does the job. There are a few sites in loop C that do have direct access to the lake, but those tend to be booked all of the time. We explored one last night and couldn’t believe it was vacant and how much nicer it seemed.
Bathrooms are not as clean as I would like, but I bring disinfectant wipes to wipe the toilet before use. Showers are fine, but use an annoying motion sensor to turn the water on/off. Showering at night is annoying with the bugs because the bathhouse is lit like a beacon (probably for safety). Waiting for the daytime is a better experience. Also, there isn’t a washing station for dishes, and we do that at our site.
Firewood can be purchased by the staff at the campground entrance; however, the exact same firewood is almost $4 fewer at a Refuel station down the street. Definitely stop into that gas station store for things you might need.
Overall, really good experience staying here, some annoying things, but won’t ruin your stay.
ScoutReally fantastic spot to camp! Great sites and hook ups (no sewer, but EASY dump station)! Go for Loop B - it has the beach.
GuideMedoc Mountain State Park campground has been recently renovated. All of the full hook up sites and primitive sites are spacious and well kept. We camped in site #26 which was level and spacious. The sites on the outside of the loop are pretty level. The bathrooms/showers are new, spacious, and clean. There is a great playground in walking distance. There are many hiking trails that start near the campground. None of them have amazing views, but they are nice and well marked. I enjoyed the Bluff View trail the most. We were able to hike 6 miles both days we were there. Added bonus: campground is close to I-95. The only drawback is the lack of a close grocery store. Dollar General is less than 5 miles away.
GuideBeautiful, small, newly renovated campground. Gorgeous bath house. A few sites are level but most aren’t. Quiet. Easy to get to from I-95.
LegendB.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 while we enjoyed campfires under the trees. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.
ScoutThe staff are all very friendly and helpful
GuideThis is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything. Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds.
Medoc Mountain State Park offers horseback riders dedicated camping facilities approximately 50 miles northeast of Wendell, North Carolina. The park spans over 3,900 acres of mixed hardwood forest with terrain varying from flat creek bottoms to gentle slopes. Winter temperatures average between 30-50°F, making year-round equestrian camping possible with proper preparation.
Trail riding access: At William B. Umstead State Park Campground, riders can explore multiple trail systems within 15 miles of Wendell. "This campground is right on a lake allowing for drive in campground with a body of water to swim, kayak, and enjoy only 100 yards away," notes Sydney S., highlighting the diverse recreation options.
Water activities: Horse owners camping at Crosswinds Campground can enjoy lake activities on non-riding days. "Some sites are on the lake and close enough to pull your boat up to the shore," says Cindy S., making it convenient for campers with both horses and boats to maximize their outdoor experience.
Mountain biking alternatives: When giving horses a rest day, many equestrian campers bring mountain bikes. "Nice sites and great for mountain bikers," explains Stacey S. about Medoc Mountain State Park Campground, providing alternative recreation on the same trails used for horseback riding.
Spacious setup areas: Equestrian campers appreciate large sites that accommodate both living quarters and horse containment. "The sites are spacious and most are level," notes Paula U., describing the practical layout at Jordan Lake where many equestrian campers also visit.
Trail variety: Horse owners value terrain diversity for different skill levels. "We enjoyed 2 or 3 wonderful trails with beautiful views, some rock climbing, just a wonderfully happy place," shares Becqui M., highlighting the varied terrain available for riders of different experience levels.
Privacy between sites: B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers secluded camping that many horse owners prefer. "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 while we enjoyed campfires under the trees," explains Maria Mercedes M.
Documentation requirements: All horse camping facilities near Wendell require current health documentation. "Plain Jane Camping... Equestrian facility is next door," mentions Joy B. at North Carolina State Fairgrounds, which maintains similar documentation standards.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall offer optimal conditions for horse camping. "The camp hosts were visible and attentive. Unlike other NC State Parks, the bath house seemed quite new and was spacious," reports Rick S., noting the improved facilities that make shoulder season camping more comfortable.
Water access planning: Most horse camping areas provide water hookups, but portable buckets are necessary. "There are communal water spigots throughout the campground, but they don't easily allow hose connections, so be sure to fill your water tank before arriving," advises Rick S. about Medoc Mountain facilities.
Safety protocols: Families camping with horses should establish clear safety rules. "My girl rode her bike around the campground and it was perfectly safe," shares Becqui M., demonstrating how proper planning allows for multiple activities even with horses present.
Multiple recreation options: William B. Umstead State Park provides diverse activities for family members not riding. "Umstead is an awesome place to come for the weekend whether you are into camping, hiking, running, or biking," explains Sarah M., highlighting options that accommodate varied interests.
Educational opportunities: Horse camping offers learning experiences about animal care. "I came here with a large group and really liked it! The staff was helpful. And the trails were nice," reports Melinda J., emphasizing the supportive environment for groups learning about horse management.
Site preparation: RVers with horse trailers need level, stable parking. "Our site required minimal leveling. Interior roads were all paved and easy to navigate -- no low-hanging branches," notes Rick S., describing the practical layout beneficial for larger rigs with attached horse trailers.
Hookup management: Many equestrian sites offer full hookups to support extended stays. "This was our very first full-time RV park. We loved being in the park and it easily accommodated our 39ft. Class A," shares Paul H., confirming the capacity for larger combination setups common among horse campers.
Dust management: Horse areas can become dusty, requiring special RV preparations. "The biggest issue is that the grass doesn't seem to be maintained and dusty," warns S G., highlighting the need for air filter maintenance and regular exterior cleaning when camping with horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Wendell, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Wendell, NC is North Carolina State Fairgrounds with a 4.1-star rating from 19 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Wendell, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 equestrian camping locations near Wendell, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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