Best Equestrian Camping near Glendale, SC

Bent River Equestrian offers primitive tent camping on a working horse farm near Glendale, with sites situated along the property's perimeter providing privacy even when multiple groups are present. Four designated camping areas accommodate tent and RV setups while maintaining a rustic atmosphere. Campers report feeling secluded despite sharing the grounds with other visitors during holiday weekends. The property features on-site horses and friendly barn cats that add to the authentic farm experience. Facilities include fire pits, an outdoor cold shower, and a clean portable toilet. The campground does not offer dedicated horse corrals but provides ample space for campers to set up temporary containment for their own horses.

Located within driving distance of mountain biking and hiking trails, Bent River serves as an excellent base camp for equestrians exploring the region. The French Broad River flows nearby, creating opportunities for fishing and water activities after trail riding. Campers appreciate the beautiful sunsets visible from the property and the peaceful rural setting. Overnight visitors can choose from several camping locations throughout the farm, though RV hookup platforms may not always be available. The knowledgeable hosts provide helpful information about local bridle paths and trail conditions. While primitive in nature, the campground's combination of basic amenities, natural setting, and horse-friendly environment makes it suitable for both short overnight stays and multi-day equestrian camping trips exploring the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountain trail systems.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Glendale, South Carolina (18)

    1. Oconee State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Tamassee, SC
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 638-5353

    "This state park is located in a beautiful part of South Carolina. There are a range of fun hiking trails. The cabins are rustic, but with all the amenities you need for a trip to the mountains."

    "We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. And let me say, 2 nights was not enough! The cabin itself was very well kept."

    2. South Cove County Park

    12 Reviews
    Seneca, SC
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 882-5250

    $25 - $60 / night

    "There are several large play areas in walking distance. There appeared to be beautiful lake views from almost every site. We very much enjoyed our stay and plan to return for a longer visit."

    "Perfect for kids, right on the lake. Loved the playground 😊 warning! Don’t feed the geese! The campers next to us fed them and the next day we woke up with goose poop on everything!"

    3. Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping — Caesars Head State Park

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Mountain, NC
    25 miles
    Website

    $4 - $20 / night

    "My friend and I hiked the Raven Cliff Falls loop trail a while back and have added it to our list of top 10 favorite trails."

    "Wonderful trails with breath taking views and technical climbs plus discrete camping."

    4. Lazy J Campground

    12 Reviews
    Rosman, NC
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 966-3834

    $20 / night

    "Chickens and horses on site. Playground and lots of fun. Sites are wooded and quaint. Roads are a little narrow, but passable. One of our favorite sites."

    "We fished right next to our camp site and then relaxed with a camp fire listening to the sound of the River."

    5. North Mills River

    26 Reviews
    Mills River, NC
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 552-8040

    $31 - $62 / night

    "Small campground, but there are free off road sites not too far down the road. Cell service disappears but I love that kind of disconnect."

    "This is a great campground next to the beautiful North Mills River. Hosts were very accommodating and delivered ice and firewood for a cheap price upon request."

    6. Lake Greenwood State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Ninety Six, SC
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (864) 543-3535

    "It’s a primitive, tucked in the woods spot on the lake. The camp sites are wonderfully spaced out. We stayed in sites you had to park and walk to, but the walk was very short."

    "This review is neither negative or positive. Just how it is, so you know before you go. The park is clean and nearly every camp spot is shaded. All roads and camp spots are paved and have fire pits."

    7. Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    17 Reviews
    Kinards, SC
    47 miles

    $5 / night

    "Only 23 sites, spaced a good distance apart. Each site has a fire pit and picnicking area. Trails nearby. Horses and other pets allowed."

    "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"

    8. Bent River Equestrian

    3 Reviews
    Penrose, NC
    34 miles
    +1 (828) 435-3932

    $30 - $900 / night

    "I got there just in time to see a beautiful sunset and say hello to the horses. The host is fantastic. I would definitely stay again."

    "Cute horses and barn cats to pet and watch"

    9. Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area

    7 Reviews
    Sapphire, NC
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 269-4453

    "The first campsite we stayed at was on the Green Valley Trail, the second one was on the Panthertown Valley Trail right near the Schoolhouse Falls Trail, and the third was on Mac's Gap right past the Granny"

    "The sites near the middle of Macs Gap trail are huge and there is easy access to a couple streams. Bring a good map and stick to the trails that your map covers."

    10. Upper Cove Creek - UCC1 Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Balsam Grove, NC
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (828) 877-3265

    "just a quick 15 minute walk across the river and up the trail (follow Daniel ridge trail loop from parking lot)."

    "With that said:

    • remote- you have to want to get up here but it's really easy to do once you drive it a few times.

    *clearly marked spots. I am actually located at ucc-2. ** The Dead End spot."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Glendale, SC

3 Photos of 18 Glendale Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Glendale, SC

159 Reviews of 18 Glendale Campgrounds


  • Phyllis B.
    May. 19, 2019

    Willis Knob Horse Camp

    Willis Knob Horse Camp

    There are nine campsites.  Sturdy highline posts are provided but you need to bring your own ropes and other highland gear. Vault toilets are provided but no shower facilities. Campsites each offer electric and water hookups, nice tent pads, lantern hooks, and big picnic tables. This is a very nice horse camp facility. Well maintained and clean. Trails are wonderful and well-constructed to avoid deep mud. My only complaint is the lack of really good, accurate trail maps to print out and carry with you of the horse trails on both the Georgia and South Carolina sides of the river. This is my new favorite mountain horse camp.

  • J
    Jul. 19, 2016

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Rustic cabins in a WPA Era State Park

    This state park is located in a beautiful part of South Carolina. There are a range of fun hiking trails. The cabins are rustic, but with all the amenities you need for a trip to the mountains.

  • Jessica S.
    Jul. 10, 2018

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Cute cabins in beautiful state park

    We spent 2 nights in one of the cabins in this beautiful state park during a road trip through South Carolina. And let me say, 2 nights was not enough! The cabin itself was very well kept. There was air conditioning, 2 bedrooms, 1 full kitchen, 1 full bathroom, and a fire place. We stopped at a Walmart in one of the towns before the park to stock up on food.

    There are multiple cabins scattered around the lake but they are a good distance apart from each other so you won't be disturbed by your neighbors. There was a fire ring and picnic in front of the cabin where we made smores after dinner and a cute screened porch with rocking chairs where we had coffee and breakfast on every morning. The cabin was right next to the small lake, which had a short trail going around it. We saw people fishing and I believe you can rent canoes as well in the park.

    You definitely need more than 2 days to explore this cute little park. There are multiple hiking trails near by and definitely a lot of wild life. But it was definitely a peaceful and quiet park perfect for a relaxing weekend away.

  • Cameron G.
    Nov. 15, 2022

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Halloween

    We love this park! We've been for Halloween twice now and out little guys loves it! The staff is so kind, and the garbage pick up twice a day is great! I will say, compared to other state parks, these campsites are TIGHT! Be prepared. We've come across this with other state parks in South Carolina. The facilities are clean, and the nature is beautiful! Can't go wrong with this campground!

  • Matt G.
    Jul. 18, 2016

    Lake Greenwood State Park Campground

    Ranger Review: Cotopaxi 35L Travel Duffel at Lake Greenwood State Park

    Lake Greenwood State Park is a smaller state park in South Carolina. The lake is sizable, you can easily take your boat or jet skis, but at the same time the lake is suitable for canoes and kayaks as well. This weekend, we opted for the tubes as our means to relax on the lake, and we achieved that. The only issue we found was the size of the campground itself. The campsites are nearly on top of one another, but there are some beautiful spots right on the lake. Since they are so close, you can hear the neighbors at all hours, and there is hardly any privacy. One other issue was the sites themselves. Now, if you have an RV, it's no problem. But if you are into tent camping, like I am, you will have to pitch the tent on gravel or pavement. Not the easiest pitch. With that, though, it was still enjoyable and relaxing.

    Gear Review – As a Dyrt Ranger, I also get to review and test products in the field. This weekend was the perfect weekend to test the Cotopaxi 35L Travel Duffel. Right out of the mail, I knew that it would be one bag that lasts for a super long time. It is extremely well made, and very versatile. The only thing I was concerned about when I opened it for the first time was the size. I didn't quite believe I could fit everything for the weekend inside. This was not the case this weekend, though. I even had enough room for the frisbee with all of my clothes, toiletries, and extra pair of shoes. Overall, it is an excellent weeken bag, in it for the long haul. Check it out here: https://www.cotopaxi.com/collections/chumpi/products/chumpi-35l-travel-duffel

  • Kristen B.
    Jun. 13, 2018

    North Mills River

    Great small spot

    Small campground, but there are free off road sites not too far down the road. Cell service disappears but I love that kind of disconnect. No power, can use a generator but only for a few hours during non quiet time. Quiet hours strictly enforced. Horse trails nearby. Roads lead to blue ridge Parkway. There is a shower and working toilet, but also outhouse for off season use. Hosts make you feel like family.

  • Maddi P.
    Sep. 30, 2018

    Whetstone Horse Camp

    Riding on the chattooga river

    I unfortunately haven’t been able to return to this location for quite some time now but I remember it fondly. Spent many nights and days here during middle school with my local horse club. Trails were clean although a little to narrow in some spots, especially when needing to pass another horse and rider but there is plenty of wide open areas that allow for the perfect opportunity to stop and rest. If you ever have time I also recommend stopping by stump house tunnel which is near by its 2 adventures for the price of 1! Writing this review makes me want to go back!

  • K
    Apr. 14, 2019

    Brick House Campground (Sc) — Francis Marion And Sumter National Forests

    Practically boondocking!

    The only amenity is pit toilets. No water, no electric. Only 23 sites, spaced a good distance apart. Each site has a fire pit and picnicking area. Trails nearby. Horses and other pets allowed.

    Stayed two nights with three other campers and never heard a sound except for nature. Would return again.

  • Mark C.
    Sep. 6, 2018

    Willis Knob Horse Camp

    Equestrian

    Some of the best Horse Camping in the Mountains, Great Horse trails that follow the Chatooga River.


Guide to Glendale

Horse camping in South Carolina offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian enjoyment, with several campgrounds catering specifically to horse enthusiasts.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • At Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area Trailside Camping, equestrians can enjoy a picturesque setting with access to hiking trails that are perfect for both riders and their horses.
  • Lazy J Campground provides a serene environment with river access, allowing for a refreshing experience after a day of riding.
  • Bent River Equestrian features a welcoming atmosphere with ample space for horses, making it an ideal spot for equestrian camping.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and water access

Tips for equestrian camping near Glendale, South Carolina

  • When visiting South Cove County Park, be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can get busy during peak seasons.
  • At Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area, it's essential to pack a bear canister for food storage, ensuring a safe environment for both you and your horse.
  • For a more secluded experience, consider Copperstone Cabins & Camping, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature while having access to horse-friendly amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Glendale, SC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Glendale, SC is Oconee State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 43 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Glendale, SC?

TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Glendale, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.