Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables offers equestrian camping opportunities within a rural Tennessee setting. Located on a narrow country road near Bluff City, this facility caters to horse owners with paddocks and full-hookup sites. The region sits in the upper northeastern corner of Tennessee, with elevations averaging 1,400 feet and a temperate climate suitable for camping from March through November. The surrounding countryside provides access to wooded trails and riding paths.
What to do
Trail riding access: Cherokee Trails connects to woodland riding trails directly from the campground. According to camper Mimi, there's "lots of exploration in the woods potential" with trails suitable for both beginner and experienced riders.
Swimming at Bristol-Kingsport KOA: The Bristol-Kingsport KOA offers water recreation options not available at some equestrian facilities. Laura H. notes, "They have a nice pool, a blob, lots of outdoor activities, playground area, horse shoes, even with it being a smaller KOA Campground there is a lot to do."
Hiking at Grayson Highlands: Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground at Grayson Highlands provides additional equestrian trails about 90 minutes from Bluff City. Kelly C. reports, "The AT is very close and waterfall hikes can be accessed from camp. Also lots of great bouldering in the area."
What campers like
Peaceful environment: The quieter atmosphere at horse campgrounds near Bluff City appeals to many visitors. Holli C. describes Cherokee Trails as "a small quiet camp ground with horse stables. Husband and wife working there were very nice...No pool or playground, but still a nice peaceful campground."
Wildlife viewing: Black Mountain Campground offers opportunities to observe local wildlife within 90 minutes of Bluff City. Charles H. notes, "We stayed at a site right on the river and could hear the water flowing the whole time we were there."
Water features: Several campgrounds in the region provide water access. At Clinch River Family Campground, Papa G. enjoyed "the privacy water was a little cold this time of year but I had a great fire next to the river Under the Stars roasting s'mores."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most equestrian facilities in the region, including Cherokee Trails, operate from March through November, closing during winter months when trail conditions deteriorate.
Rural access roads: Reaching horse campgrounds often requires navigating narrow country roads. Mimi mentions Cherokee Trails is "way up the road! It's a nice place once you get here on the narrow country road."
Limited cell service: Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost and similar rural sites offer minimal connectivity. Noah O. notes the "very secluded and peaceful camping adventure" with limited cell reception.
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant seasonal variation. Scott B. warns about Grayson Highlands: "This place is by far the windiest place I've ever camped in. We couldn't get a proper fire started due to the wind!"
Tips for camping with families
Consider KOA options: For families wanting more amenities than most equestrian campgrounds provide, the Bristol-Kingsport KOA offers family-friendly facilities. Laura H. describes, "They have cabins, a nice pool, a blob, lots of outdoor activities, playground area, horseshoes."
River access locations: Julian Price Park Campground provides water recreation approximately 75 minutes from Bluff City. Danielle L. reports, "This park is right on a gorgeous lake. There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great."
Weather considerations: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Erin R. shares her experience at Bristol-Kingsport KOA: "It had been raining alot while we were here and it can be pretty slick if you don't stay on the thin gravel road with your vehicle."
Bathroom facilities: When camping with children, bathroom quality matters. At Cherokee Trails, Holli C. noted, "There was a nice clean bathhouse with showers."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many horse campgrounds feature gravel pads that may require adjustment. At Cherokee Trails, RV sites are "mostly level" according to Mimi, but bringing leveling blocks remains advisable.
Hookup options: Horse-oriented campgrounds typically offer essential RV services. Dennis observed at Clinch River Family Campground: "Mostly level gravel spots. Sites are close together."
Access considerations: Some horse camping facilities have limitations on RV size. Beth B. warns about Clinch River: "Be prepared for 7 mile drive from main road...Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile, it's wide enough but slow going."
Seasonal reservation needs: The limited number of equestrian campgrounds with RV hookups means planning ahead. Laura H. notes that Bristol-Kingsport KOA "is frequented by travelers and NASCAR fans" which can impact availability during race events.
