Best Equestrian Camping near Fair Play, SC

Looking for the best horse camping near Fair Play? Finding a place to stay in South Carolina while traveling with your horse is easy. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Fair Play, SC (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground

    1. Oconee State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    134 Photos
    167 Saves
    Tamassee, South Carolina

    After hours of scrolling through nature photos and majestic mountains, the urge to get out and explore is hard to ignore. We applaud the explorers and adventurers of the world who brave the treacherous elements, as well as the sweet photos that come as a result. However, for many the ideal of a fun weekend away consists less of roughing it, and more relaxing on a beach or in a warm cabin. If you’re in the latter of these groups, you’re going to love Oconee State Park.

    Oconee is the idealistic place for families and friends looking for a nostalgic getaway complete with rustic charm and character. Dotted throughout the park are rustic, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Cabins available for nightly and weekly rental. Meanwhile, a small, glassy lake lazily invites campers to disrupt its reflection with the canoes and kayaks located on shore.

    The Greenville region is known for 25+ waterfalls found throughout. Closer in, the 1,100+ acre state park hosts a number of wooded nature trails snake throughout. It also serves as the trailhead for South Carolina’s 77 miles Foothills Trail. Friends and families visiting can enjoy the local wildlife, as well as the regional flora and fauna which proudly thrive in abundance.

    In the summer Lake Oconee comes alive, creating the backdrop for unforgettable family vacations. Festivities begin in June, including Square Dancing, mini golf, pedal boating competitions, and so much more. However the Winter Months are just as enjoyable if you don’t mind getting cozy in a warm cabin, sipping some coco, and reading a good book. The rangers here are known for their hospitality, and are knowledgeable on the area. Stop in their lodge for a small convenience store, firewood, and great conversations.

    Oconee offers all the benefits of a mountain resort without the upscale pricing. There are 140+ sites available for rent, starting at just $21/night. Cabins and lodging is available but pricing is dependent on group sizes and room choice, so be sure plan out your trip in advance before coming.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park

    2. South Cove County Park

    12 Reviews
    47 Photos
    110 Saves
    Seneca, South Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground

    3. Don Carter State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    158 Photos
    187 Saves
    Lula, Georgia

    This recreation area is part of Lake Sidney Lanier

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Willis Knob Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willis Knob Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willis Knob Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willis Knob Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willis Knob Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Willis Knob Horse Camp

    5. Willis Knob Horse Camp

    3 Reviews
    6 Photos
    28 Saves
    Sky Valley, Georgia

    Overview

    Located in the northern Georgia mountains, far from civilization, Willis Knob Horse Campground is one of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests most beloved horse-lover hideaways. The campground features equestrian camping, riding and hiking trails and fishing in the nearby Chattooga River.

    Recreation

    The 15-mile Willis Knob Trail in Georgia and 12.5 mile Rocky Gap Trail in South Carolina provide some of the most scenic horseback riding and hiking in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Winding across deeply dissected ridges, the trails descend into the vast Chattooga River. The 10.7-mile Chattooga River Trail and the 37-mile Bartram Trail are also accessible nearby and are for hiking only. Fishing is available in the Chattooga River.

    Natural Features

    The horse camp is located in a heavily wooded area of the forest, amid deep canyons and near to the Georgia-South Carolina border.

    Nearby Attractions

    Chattooga River Wild and Scenic area is nearby

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (706) 754-6221.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground

    6. Lazy J Campground

    12 Reviews
    31 Photos
    137 Saves
    Rosman, North Carolina
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp

    7. Whetstone Horse Camp

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    7 Saves
    Long Creek, South Carolina

    Overview

    Whetstone Horse Camp is located in the Andrew Pickens Ranger District in Oconee County in the western corner of South Carolina, about 13 miles northwest of Walhalla. The Chattooga River flows nearby. With over 30 miles of horseback riding trails, Whetstone serves as a base for those who like to ride and camp.

    Recreation

    The Rocky Gap Trail on the South Carolina side of the river and the Willis Knob Horse Trail on the Georgia side provide excellent horseback riding and hiking opportunities. Visitors also enjoy exploring the nearby Chattooga River.

    Natural Features

    The camp is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the Rocky Gap and Willis Knob Horse Trails. The Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests encompass more than 629,000 acres in four districts throughout South Carolina, from the lowcountry Atlantic Coast to the western foothills along the Georgia border.

    Nearby Attractions

    The town of Walhalla is 13 miles away. The town holds an annual Oktoberfest celebration the third weekend of October. Stumphouse Tunnel, a 19-century uncompleted railroad tunnel, and Isaqueena Falls make for interesting visits. Both are located just 20 minutes from the camp.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Randy’s Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Randy’s Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Randy’s Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Randy’s Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Randy’s Horse Camp

    8. Randy’s Horse Camp

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    16 Saves
    Mountain City, Georgia

    Located approximately 8 miles from Clayton surrounded with 16,000 acres of Wildlife Management Area. 21 campsites overlooking the beautiful Walnut Fork Creek. 2 Bath Houses on site; as well as a covered pavilion for gatherings.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area

    9. Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    174 Saves
    Sapphire, North Carolina

    Panthertown Valley is a rugged and wild 6,311-acre backcountry area located on Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina, on the eastern continental divide, between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

    Panthertown features a diversity of native flora and fauna, pristine headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, a rare high-elevation southern Appalachian mountain bog, dozens of waterfalls, granite cliffs and domes, and is part of Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, and Bonas Defeat-Panthertown American Black Bear Sanctuary.

    Friends of Panthertown works in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to conserve this outstanding natural resource while improving the quality and experience of recreational opportunities in Panthertown.

    Panthertown is a wonderful place to explore, however there are a few things you should be aware of before visiting for your first time. We hope this list of suggestions (and cautions) will make your experience in Panthertown Valley more enjoyable:

    • Your safety is your responsibility. Plan ahead and come prepared.

    • This is a wild, rugged place with more than 30 miles of public trails spread out over 6,311 acres deep in the Nantahala National Forest. It’s easy to get lost. We recommend you bring a good map and compass, and know how to use them.

    • Panthertown is NOT a National Park or State Park. It’s common to not see any other people when visiting. Cell phone service here can be spotty or unreachable. Use the trails with caution and at your own risk.

    • Bring plenty of water to drink, or a filtration system to keep you hydrated. There are no water fountains, trash cans, or restrooms here.

    • Please carry out your trash and practice Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics when visiting.

    • Hiking in the forest can be dangerous, especially for inexperienced hikers. Know before you go, plan ahead, and come prepared for a fun backcountry experience.

    • You may get hot, cold, wet, muddy, scratched up, and dirty just from hiking and exploring in Panthertown, so dress appropriately and in layers.

    • Expect to hike several miles on uneven surfaces to reach the most popular points of interest, including waterfalls and overlooks.

    • The hike out of the valley is uphill and can be difficult. Some hiking experience is recommended. Make sure you save some energy and water for your walk back to the parking area. That’s all part of the Panthertown experience!

    • American black bears live here and are protected as part of the Bonas Defeat-Panthertown Bear Sanctuary. Panthertown hosts a diversity of wildlife, please do not feed the animals!

    • Common natural hazards to watch out for include venomous snakes and yellow jacket nests.

    • Friends of Panthertown volunteers only maintain the official trail system in Panthertown. There are hundreds of miles of user created footpaths that crisscross the valley. For your safety, and to protect the ecology, we recommend you stay on the marked trails and avoid short cuts through the woods. Remember, it’s easy to get lost here, and we want you to enjoy your backcountry experience.

    CAMPING

    • Dispersed camping is primitive and no amenities are provided. Forest Service rules limit camp sites to no more than 12 people, and not within 50 feet of water sources. No permits are required for non-commercial groups.

    • Please use existing fire rings and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure to properly extinguish and drown your fire and coals before leaving your camp site!

    • Follow these recommendations to avoid any close encounters with bears: https://panthertown.org/bears/

    PARKING

    • There is limited parking at three entrances (Salt Rock Gap, Cold Mountain Gap, and Flat Creek), low-clearance gravel Forest Service roads, and heavy use on weekends. https://panthertown.org/directions

    • Drive slowly and use caution to not damage your vehicle or the road.

    • Equestrians please note: there are no horse trails at the Cold Mountain Gap trailheads. Horse trailer parking is prohibited there. The Salt Rock Gap entrance offers limited parking and can be difficult to turn a horse trailer around. If you use this entrance, we suggest that you park and unload your trailer on the pavement at the end of state maintained Breedlove Road.

    • The Flat Creek parking area off Rock Bridge Road north of Lake Toxaway on NC 281 is the largest and offers a wide horse trailer turn around with easy access to the Panthertown Valley Trail System.

    LEAVE NO TRACE

    Always practice Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics when visiting.

    The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace:

    • Plan Ahead and Prepare

    • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

    • Dispose of Waste Properly

    • Leave What You Find

    • Minimize Campfire Impacts

    • Respect Wildlife

    • Be Considerate of Other Visitors

    Reprinted with permission ©Leave No Trace

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Firewood Available
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp

    10. Hurricane Creek Camp

    4 Reviews
    17 Photos
    101 Saves
    Otto, North Carolina

    This primitive camping area is located in the midst of a multitude of trails for hikers and horseback riders. A horse camp Is available with stalls. A vault toilet and fire rings are available. Access to horse trails is available directly from the horse camp. Big and small game hunting occurs in the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $6 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

Recent Equestrian Reviews in Fair Play

133 Reviews of 15 Fair Play Campgrounds


  • Christine The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Aug. 26, 2024

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Only a few campsites near the water

    Site 7 is separate from the others and has the whole point except there is a trail behind the site. No easy, sandy water access unless you go to the nice beach they have.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Jun. 3, 2024

    Lazy J Campground

    Great Last Minute Campground

    My son and I decided to go camping and needed a place the same day. We were looking for a place that was wooded and near a river or stream and lucked up at Lazy J. The staff answered our call right away and were both friendly and informative. Our site was across the path from the French Broad, had water and power access and felt secluded and mountainous. The bath house was clean and well maintained. We really enjoyed staying here and plan to go back soon.

  • Peaches E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Jan. 18, 2024

    South Cove County Park

    Beautiful Lake Campground with a few inconveniences!

    Me and a friend came camping here this second weekend in January. The campground itself was well maintained and the hook ups, dump station and bathhouses were easy to find and use. We had only 2 complaints, the gate to get in closes at 10pm, unfortunately I85 was shut down on our way up so our 3 hr drive became 6hrs. We did not make it before the gate closed and had to stay at Walmart. No code no exceptions. Secondly, there are no trashcans anywhere, on the grounds or in the bathhouses. The trash dump is in a completely different part of the park. It was inconvenient with picking up after my dog. Besides those two things, beautiful lake camping with affordable campsite prices!

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Aug. 8, 2023

    Hurricane Creek Camp

    4x4 and some clearance a must.

    I love this place. It really is remote. However I stopped at the spot right before the wider creek. Walked a long ways and never saw another spot.

    Lots of rocks, creeks and tight spots to make for a fun time.

  • Swain K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Jun. 10, 2023

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Nice state park

    We have been for 8 days with tomorrow being our day to head home. First for the pros. There is a fhu area with several buddies sites. These sites look to be upgraded from in the not to far past. My site was easy to back into with my 37’ 5th wheel with plenty of room for my truck. There are plenty of tent and water/electric only sites. Those are suited mostly for smaller rigs. There 2 lakes with easy trails around both. A swimming area , putt putt course and a park store. Many adventure in the area to be had, waterfalls , hiking, history, and other state parks. There was a square dance Friday night and by the screams of the kids it was a hit. A snow cone food truck is on site with weekend hours. Trash pickup is done by the park staff daily, which was nice. Now for a few cons. Many people put their trash out at night and garments opened the bags and staff were left with picking it up. Bathrooms were a little neglected during the week until the park becalm loaded again. Putt putt course is in pretty bad shape but still playable. As with most parks roads are directional and many people just ignored the signs or did not see them so the signs could be clearer. Our site need the grass trimmed due to the sand spurs growing. And last, a pet peeve of mine, pet on a leash or lead is for everyone, no Matter how well trained you think they are and we saw lots of dog poop in and around some camp sites where the campers were just leaving it for the next person to deal with. Overall our stay has been nice. Saw some waterfalls, and there are many in the area. Hiked , and hit devils fork for a swim in the clear lake. I would visit this park again since overall it has so much to offer in the area.

  • Robbie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whetstone Horse Camp
    Apr. 16, 2023

    Whetstone Horse Camp

    Horse Camp

    Well laid out campground with some good spots, especially further back in the campground. But definitely set up and geared for horseback riders. Passed through on a bike packing trip and we were the only non-horse people there. Campsite was clean, with bathrooms and water available.

  • Suzanne E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    Nov. 21, 2022

    Oconee State Park Campground

    Oconee state park

    Great family vacation. Paddle boats and a beach. Dog friendly. Clean bathhouses. Garbage pick up. Close to Walhalla, if you need supplies. It's crowded. Reserve way in advance.

  • Cameron G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oconee State Park Campground
    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!

  • Kevin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Oct. 18, 2022

    Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground

    Great little state park

    Real friendly staff. Nicely laid out, but I guess could be challenging for really big rigs. W & E with dump station and pretty good facilities

    Cell coverage a little challenging but managed to get enough download for Visible to stream Netflix. Too many trees to break out Starlink

    Trails are a fun walk.

  • Bailey A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Aug. 29, 2022

    Lazy J Campground

    Great Friendly Place!!

    great place to stay we had a campsite right by the river and enjoyed the sounds of nature. the people there were friendly and welcoming. just absolutely loved the environment!!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cove County Park
    Aug. 21, 2022

    South Cove County Park

    Beautiful Family friendly park

    Beautiful playgrounds for kids. They have a beach area at the day use area. The park ranger was super friendly and helpful. Our fifth wheel was a lil bigger than site but they were very accommodating.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy J Campground
    Aug. 10, 2022

    Lazy J Campground

    Memorable

    I love lazy js campground it’s reasonably. Priced considering the customer service is second to none the people are so friendly there they have a way of making you feel like family and that’s why we decided to have our wedding on one of their river front campsites it was amazing and beautiful the staff was so helpful when things went kinda wrong just know they did everything in their power to help and that’s big in my book . They have very clean bath houses and again I can’t stress how valuable the staff is alone is best place to stay hands down we will continue to visit for years to come

  • Kevan  R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Spacious Campground on Lake Lanier

    A great place to camp with lots of hiking trails; there’s even a canoe trail! Campground is well maintained and bath houses are clean.

  • Noskiz
    Camper-submitted photo from Hurricane Creek Camp
    Jun. 25, 2022

    Hurricane Creek Camp

    Hurricane Creek Camp

    This spot is so perfect, it has a nice little river that runs near by the camp that you can wash dishes and bathe in with the perfect noise not to loud not to silent to hear the highway near this camp, recommend a offroad/camping rig, big enough spot for at least 5 people.

  • Cameron G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    May. 31, 2022

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Annual Memorial Day Trip

    We go camping every memorial day weekend and this year it was at Don Carter. We love this camp ground! Its fairly new, probably under 12 years, and everything is so clean and well taken care of. The campsites are always clean when you arrive, and the volunteers are so sweet. We love that it's on the lake because family members have boats and its just easy to jump on at the campsite dock. There is also a beach for the kids to play at as well, very well kept. Our campsite was a tad bit small for our camper, large campers like motorhomes or fifth-wheels will not fit. Our campsite backed up to one of the hiking trails and our little guy loved it! Wonderful campground!

  • Lily H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    May. 26, 2022

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Ok, but nothing special

    I might be a little spoiled after staying at places like Black Rock and Cloudland, but this park was a bit boring. Definitely not a destination park by any means, but it was clean and easy to navigate, and the little beach was nice. The walk in campsites were nice, with plenty of room for our large group. However, there were no showers for the walk in sites, so we ended up showering down at the beach bathrooms at the outdoor showers. I wish the park had even put an open-air shower on the back of the bathrooms for the walk in. Would've made the stay a lot better.

  • Ingrid A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground
    Mar. 19, 2022

    Watson Mill Bridge State Park Campground

    Small, clean campground

    Beautiful state park with lots to see, nice hiking. Campground is small and sites are close. Some of the pull through sites are tight and challenging. Enjoyed our stay, will be back.

  • Logan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Mar. 11, 2022

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Great Convenient Hiking Campgrounds!!

    We’re still here. But we are enjoying our site. Great level site took no time to setup. Grey water on each site, power, and cable hookups. Our cable hookup was stripped but didn’t matter much. Campgrounds seem very new. Clean playground, quiet environment, and quiet camp grounds.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Don Carter State Park Campground
    Mar. 9, 2022

    Don Carter State Park Campground

    Nice state park close to Atlanta

    This park is one of the newest in the GA state system and it shows based on how new the facilities look. The we camped at site 10 of the walk-in camp sites. There was one bathroom facility with flush toilets, but no showers. It looked like one could use the beach showers, but they were still close for winter. Site 10 was a nice spot with a decent distance from other sites. We were there at the beginning of spring. Once the tree coverage grows back in the site would be more secluded. There are many miles of hiking trails that are interconnected so one can make the a long challenging hike if so inclined. Overall this park was a nice basic state park, but seemed to be more of a day use park for locals than a destination park like many of the other GA state parks.



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Fair Play, SC?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Fair Play, SC is Oconee State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 42 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Fair Play, SC?

    TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Fair Play, SC, with real photos and reviews from campers.