Bent River Equestrian Campground sits at an elevation of approximately 2,300 feet in the Carolina mountain transition zone, about 35 miles northwest of Conestee. The camping field features flat terrain suitable for various tent arrangements with horses kept separately in the barn area. Most equestrian campers bring portable containment systems for their horses rather than relying solely on the barn facilities.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Visitors at North Mills River can access nearby waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest. "This is a great campsite if you like fishing! We stayed here and were close to some amazing spots to fish! The campsite was great, not very crowded," notes Natalie M.
Backcountry hiking: Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area offers remote hiking trails with wilderness camping. "Beautiful camp site at Tranquility Point in Panthertown Valley. Approximately 0.4 miles up from Schoolhouse Falls, it can accommodate around 4 tents. Huge rock face to walk on and observe stars or overlook the valley below," explains Kevin G.
Equestrian access: Horse owners appreciate the regional trail networks connecting several equestrian campgrounds. A guest at Bent River notes the horses are "kept in the barn area separate from the camping field," providing separation between camping and equine activities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: At South Cove County Park, campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds. "My family stayed at South Cove on a Friday night. We were impressed with the large number of pull through sites and the cleanliness of the campground. We arrived late in the day and the camp hosts were friendly and quick to assist with checking in," reports Kelli P.
Trout fishing access: The stream running through Lazy J Campground creates ideal fishing conditions. "We did a spontaneous trip to the mountains and we found this nice camp site along the North Fork French Broad River and we camped right along the river. It felt like we were camping deep in the woods and the Fall leaves were still clinging to the trees and made it absolutely beautiful. We fished right next to our camp site," shares Ricky J.
Budget-friendly options: Campers seeking economical stays appreciate national forest campgrounds. "Spent new years at site 16 and it was a little damp due to a heavy rain but a great site. Mostly away from everyone and was right next to a 9 mile loop hiking trail. Had a great stay in our roof top tent and will be back," writes Jacob L. about Brick House Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity: Take proper precautions when camping in the Carolina mountains. "Just spent the weekend at Panthertown Valley and loved it! However - be aware that the bears here are extremely bad. I actually had an encounter with a very large bear who charged my group and destroyed at tent, and heard similar stories from other campers," warns Phoebe A.
Limited cell reception: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal or no cell service. A South Cove camper mentions, "The area very serene, quiet and pretty. Nice hiking area and swimming area. If you need to get ahold of someone though you'll have to drive 10 to 15 minutes into town."
Water access varies: While some sites have ready water hookups, others require preparation. At Upper Cove Creek dispersed camping, a visitor notes "Creek is located very close nearby. But not on the clear spots for tents," indicating campers need to plan for water collection.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: South Cove County Park offers play areas for children. "There are several large play areas in walking distance. There appeared to be beautiful lake views from almost every site," notes Kelli P.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy seeing the resident animals at equestrian campgrounds. A Lazy J visitor mentions, "Hosts were very friendly and hospitable. Firewood sold on premises for a great value, and the campsites were nice and private as well as right on the river!"
Water safety: Supervise children closely around streams and lakes. At Lazy J Campground, "You can tube down and get out right at your site. Three Falls waterfall is just up the road. You can get tubes at the office," according to Tracy S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at mountain campgrounds. At Oconee State Park, a camper observed, "Campsites are often uneven with alot of tree roots running throughout. It does require consideration before parking your trailer or RV."
Gate closure times: Note restricted entry hours at some campgrounds. "The campground has a gate that gets locked at 10 pm. You can leave but you can't come back into the campground after the gate gets locked," advises Amanda W. about South Cove County Park.
Road conditions: Access to some horse campgrounds near Conestee requires navigating unpaved forest roads. At Pisgah National Forest Wash Creek Horse Camp, a visitor notes, "bit of a drive through the forest to get here, but great spots if you're looking to get away from civilization."
