Equestrian-focused campgrounds near Sullivan's Island, South Carolina allow riders to combine beach access with overnight stays. The area offers specialized facilities for travelers with horses alongside traditional camping accommodations. Located along the South Carolina coastline, these facilities primarily serve visitors seeking guided horseback beach excursions, riding lessons, or travelers bringing their own horses for coastal riding experiences.
What to do
Beach riding excursions: Guided horseback rides to local beaches remain the primary attraction for equestrian campers. At Camelot Farms Equestrian Center, "the highlight for us was the ability to ride horses. They provided us with two names of instructors, one of whom graciously squeezed us into her schedule and gave our girls a two-hour riding lesson in their covered arena" (The School for Y.).
Visit local produce stands: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are available from roadside vendors near the equestrian campgrounds. Some campers appreciate these local food options during their stay, as one visitor noted: "There are roadside fruit and veggie stands you pass on the way in that are worth a stop" (The School for Y.).
Riding lessons: Beginning riders can arrange instruction in covered arenas at local equestrian facilities. This option works well for families with children or adults wanting to build skills before beach riding. Lessons generally require advance booking, especially during peak seasons.
What campers like
Shaded camping areas: Hope Haven Farm offers tree cover that provides natural temperature regulation during hot South Carolina summers. The canopy protection makes for more comfortable tent and RV camping conditions throughout the day.
Convenient RV hookups: At several equestrian properties, RV sites include basic utilities while maintaining proximity to riding facilities. As one camper described: "You can reserve an RV space and for $35/night, you get a shaded, grassy spot to park with water and power (the dump station is just down the driveway)" (The School for Y.).
Dual-purpose facilities: Horse enthusiasts appreciate locations that accommodate both their animals and camping needs. Properties offering stabling or paddock space alongside camping sites eliminate the need to trailer horses between accommodations and riding areas.
What you should know
Advance reservations essential: Contact campgrounds directly several weeks before planned arrival dates. According to one frustrated visitor at Hope Haven Farms, planning difficulties can arise when campgrounds fail to communicate clearly: "I have called the number several times this week with no response. I then reached out again through text message and the message was read but no reply" (Melissa C.).
Limited availability: Most equestrian facilities near Sullivan's Island offer relatively few camping spaces, particularly for RVs. This scarcity means sites book quickly during peak seasons and holidays.
Payment policies vary: Understand cancellation and refund policies before booking. Several reviewers report challenges with obtaining refunds for scheduling conflicts or miscommunications. Always confirm policies in writing when making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Schedule riding activities early: Book horse-related activities well in advance, particularly for children's lessons. One family noted: "They provided us with two names of instructors, one of whom graciously squeezed us into her schedule and gave our girls a two-hour riding lesson in their covered arena" (The School for Y.).
Bring entertainment alternatives: Plan for non-riding activities in case weather conditions prevent scheduled equestrian activities. Beach access may sometimes be restricted due to tides, weather, or local regulations.
Confirm facilities: Some Camelot Farms Equestrian Center visitors note limited amenities compared to traditional campgrounds. Prepare accordingly with portable toilets or shower alternatives if needed.
Tips from RVers
Check access routes: Verify road conditions and turn radius requirements when bringing larger rigs to horse campgrounds. Some facilities have narrow entrance drives or limited maneuvering space not suited for longer RVs.
Dump station locations: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer on-site sanitary dumps. At Camelot Farms, "the dump station is just down the driveway" (The School for Y.), but other facilities may require traveling to discharge tanks.
Water and electrical capacity: Most equestrian campgrounds provide basic hookups but may have limited amperage or water pressure. Bring pressure regulators and prepare for potential power restrictions during peak demand periods.
