Lee State Park and H. Cooper Black offer specialized equestrian camping facilities within 30 minutes of Florence, South Carolina. The region's mixed pine and hardwood forests provide trails suitable for beginner to intermediate riders. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for equestrian campers.
What to do
Trail riding with water features: Several ponds throughout H. Cooper Black create opportunities for wildlife observation while riding. "Neat surprise. Pleasant primitive site now, overlooking ponds, meadows, forest," notes Phil R., who enjoyed watching both horses and retrievers training in the area.
Bird watching from horseback: The forest trails at Cheraw State Park contain a variety of woodland bird species. "Bird sanctuary so birders will LOVE this campground!" writes Bran P., who accessed trails directly from the camping areas.
Evening entertainment: Seasonal events often include traditional music performances. "There was an old timey band that played the night we arrived," mentions Swain K., highlighting the cultural activities sometimes available at Lee State Park.
Golf access: Some equestrian campers appreciate combining riding with other outdoor recreation. "The golf course is excellent and price friendly," shares Oldhap about Cheraw's facilities, making it possible to split your time between horseback activities and golf.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the privacy and spacing between sites. "It felt very private even though there were people all around," explains MaryAnn P. about Cheraw State Park, which offers both rustic sites and water/electric hookups.
Watching horses: The presence of horses creates a unique camping atmosphere appreciated even by non-riders. "Was wonderful to wake up and see the horses. Also dog friendly which is a plus," shares Lauren V. about her experience at Lee State Park.
Direct corral access: The convenience of having horse facilities immediately adjacent to camping spots is frequently mentioned. "If you have horses they have campsites with corrals at your back door that you can also rent," explains Brenda L. about H. Cooper Black Jr. Field Trial Area.
Quiet atmosphere: The peaceful environment makes for relaxing evenings. "Small, but really nice. A lot of sites right on the water. Lots of trees, really quiet," notes John about Cheraw, emphasizing the tranquil setting.
What you should know
Insect management: Flies can be problematic around equestrian facilities, particularly during warm months. "If you have never stayed with horses you can not be prepared for the flies. they were swarms of them," warns Swain K., suggesting bringing extra insect repellent when camping at Lee State Park.
Campsite conditions: Some sites may have natural obstacles. "There was one or two that has big roots all over the site," reports Kevin R. about Lee State Park, though he notes management intends to address these issues.
Limited amenities: Facilities outside the campground can be minimal. "Not much around the campground though. If you want peace and quiet, and don't need shopping or touristy stuff- this is for you," explains John about Cheraw State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts can significantly affect your experience. "Horrific mosquitos (and we're from SC for a baseline)," reports Christina about Lee State Park, suggesting early spring or late fall visits may provide better conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Park staff often enhance the experience for younger visitors. "The ranger is very friendly, and made the kids' visit even better!" shares Trina W. about her family's visit to Lee State Park.
Swimming options: Some parks provide water recreation beyond equestrian activities. "Awesome park with many trails and a pond for the kids to swim!" writes Chris S. about Lee State Park, providing an alternative activity for children.
Educational opportunities: Watching horses and training activities fascinates many children. "Fun to distantly observe horses and well trained retrievers playing and being trained," notes Phil R. about his experience at H. Cooper Black.
Group camping: For larger family gatherings, specialized areas may be available. "We stayed in the camp juniper group area this time," reports Trina W. about Cheraw State Park, though she notes these areas may have limited facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most equestrian campgrounds maintain relatively level pads for RVs. "Sites were gravel and level," confirms Mitch M. about his stay at Lee State Park, which simplifies setup for larger rigs.
Off-season value: Winter camping offers substantial cost savings with fewer crowds. "We stayed four nights for under $100. 30/50 hookups and water," reports Sara M., who appreciated the excellent off-season rates at Cheraw State Park.
Water and electric reliability: Utility connections generally function well, though occasional issues occur. "Power did not work at our site so we had to move from our great lake view site to one next to the bath house," shares Bill S. about his Cheraw experience.
Dump station convenience: Most equestrian campgrounds provide easily accessible dump facilities. "No sewer but very close dump station in campground," notes Sara M., indicating minimal inconvenience for RVers at Cheraw despite the lack of full hookups at some sites.
