South Mountains State Park offers equestrian camping facilities situated about 25 miles from Blacksburg, South Carolina in the Connelly Springs area. The park encompasses over 100,000 acres of varied terrain at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet. Temperatures typically range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with higher humidity during the warmer months making trail rides more strenuous.
What to do
Explore historic sites: The area surrounding Kings Mountain State Park provides opportunities to learn about Revolutionary War history. "Tons to do, including hikes and history. Make sure to go across the street to the Kings Mountain Military site. Better yet, plan your stay when they are doing an event," notes Don H.
Hike mountain trails: South Mountains features numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. At Crowders Mountain State Park, "The trails are strenuous but views are amazing! Its definitely worth it and right outside town, not far out," according to Tricia B.
Fish in park lakes: Multiple state parks in the region offer fishing opportunities in well-maintained lakes. Chester State Park features "a beautiful lake. There are tournaments through out the year, as well as boating, kayaking, & fishing," reports Chris W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many equestrian campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower houses. At South Mountains State Park Family Campground, campers appreciate that "cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen!! 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!" says Jessica L.
Trail access: Direct connections to trail systems make horseback riding convenient. "There is a separate section for group camping. However, I think it caters to groups of horse campers, as there are corrals at the campsites," notes Myron C. about Woods Ferry Campground.
Campsite privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. At Brick House Campground, "Easy access from I26. Spent a week here and really enjoying it. Has 21 spots. All have legal gravel pads, fire rings with grill bars. Vault toilets clean and trash containers serviced," states Michael W.
What you should know
Leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the region require careful setup for RVs and trailers. At Kings Mountain State Park, "Many camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways," warns Richard E.
Weather considerations: Trail conditions can deteriorate quickly after rain. "During wet weather, riders should check trail conditions as some areas become muddy and slippery," advises park staff.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking. "The campground serves as a convenient base for accessing bridle trails that wind through the 100,000-acre South Mountains State Park. Sites near the equestrian facilities can be reserved online through the North Carolina State Parks reservation system."
Tips for camping with families
Choose creek-side sites: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. At South Mountains State Park Family Campground, "I searched 'best waterfalls in NC' and this park did not disappoint. We stayed for 3 nights- family campsite (sites 6-9 are beat IMO) was used as basecamp," recommends Sarah W.
Select parks with varied activities: Look for campgrounds offering multiple recreation options. Chester State Park has "Beautiful state park campsite on the water. Clean. Newly renovated community areas. Great rentals and goods to purchase from the Ranger Station," according to Christopher B.
Plan for no connectivity: Cell service is limited or nonexistent in many areas. South Mountains State Park Family Campground has "NO cell service which is a big draw for us. Far from a town, so don't forget anything," notes Stephen M.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have space limitations. At Carowinds Camp Wilderness, "the roads between the sites we a bit tight- it did not effect us as the park was not full but it could be a problem in peak season," cautions Gus S.
Consider seasonal pricing: Some campgrounds offer significant off-season discounts. "Prices are rather expensive during the season, but reasonable off-season. I've stayed here twice while visiting nearby Charlotte, and was pleased with the facility. RV spaces are a nice size with plenty of grass," advises Bob F.
Verify hookup locations: Utility placements can be inconsistent across sites. "The park is very pretty with all the trees, but the campsites themselves are very unlevel and laid out very awkwardly. The electric and water are in odd spots on each site," reports Karen S.
Legend
