Cherokee National Forest surrounds much of the Bristol, Tennessee area, offering campers access to 650,000 acres of woodlands at elevations ranging from 750 to 5,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 80°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds in the area sit along rural roads requiring careful navigation with larger trailers.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Grayson Highlands State Park offers exceptional equestrian camping with miles of multi-use trails. "This state park has wild horses of its own, but has numerous multi-use and equestrian trails and connects with additional trails in the area for up to 66 miles of riding," notes Jean C. about Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Hiking to waterfalls: Natural Tunnel State Park provides hiking opportunities within driving distance of Bristol. "We chose this campground because it was close to Natural Tunnel and Devils Fork trail (30-45 min). Both of these are worth doing if you are in the area. We chose to only hike to Devils bathtub (about 2 miles one way). It was exceptional but difficult," shares Beth B. from her stay at Clinch River Family Campground.
Kayaking and fishing: Multiple lakes and rivers near Bristol offer water recreation options. "There is a spot within the park to rent kayaks which was great. There is a hiking trail that goes around the lake. There's also a trail that you can access from the park that leads to Hebron Rock Colony which is an incredible hiking trail," explains Danielle L. about Julian Price Park Campground.
What campers like
Rural seclusion: Several horse campgrounds near Bristol, Tennessee provide quiet settings away from busy areas. "Way up the road! It's a nice place once you get here on the narrow country road. Nice clean bathhouse. Cabins, RV spots mostly level, paddocks for horses. Lots of exploration in the woods potential," writes Mimi about Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables.
Budget-friendly equestrian facilities: The National Forest offers affordable horse camping options. "With a wide network of multi-use trails in this area, Fox Creek Horse Camp provides a nice base for exploring on horseback. Sites have a gravel/grass pads, picnic table, and fire ring... At $5/night, it's hard to beat the price," reports Jean C. about Fox Creek Horse Camp.
Wildlife encounters: The region offers opportunities to view native animals. "Bobcats, Black Bear, & Wild Horses... We camped at an equestrian campgrounds, chestnut ridge perhaps? Saw a Family of black bear about a mile from camp then a bobcat in camp later that day!" describes Kelly C. about their camping experience at Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many equestrian camping areas require navigating narrow roads. "Be prepared for 7 mile drive from main road... Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile, its wide enough but slow going. You will lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road," warns Beth B. about Clinch River Family Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close during winter months or offer limited services. "Although the official season runs May - October, it is open for primitive camping March, April, and November," notes Jean C. regarding Fox Creek Horse Camp.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevations can create challenging camping conditions. "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! It was blowing up all over the trails at some points! The windchill was a serious issue for some in our group so bring lots of layers and gloves," advises Scott B. about Grayson Highlands.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide recreational equipment for children. "They have cabins, 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," explains Laura H. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA.
Wildlife viewing guidelines: Teach children about safe wildlife viewing, especially around wild horses. "As other photos suggest, there are wild ponies here (notice the adjective wild) that are not intimidated by people. Do everyone a favor and keep your distance, please," cautions Sarah C. from Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with water recreation for children during summer months. "Campground is well maintained, lots of playground equipment for kids and a launch for tubes/kayaks. At main road there is a public launch if you want to put in there and then float to campground," notes Beth B. about Clinch River Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose equestrian-friendly RV sites with adequate space for your rig and horse trailer. "The campsites are back-in along a single spur with turn-around at the end. Sites are long, gravel, relatively level with water/electric," advises Jean C. about Chestnut Hollow Horse Campground.
Hookup availability: Verify utility connections at horse campgrounds near Bristol, Tennessee. "Mostly level gravel spots. Sites are close together. Block bathhouse that the spiders enjoy. Beautiful river. Lots of open space pets," reports Dennis about Clinch River Family Campground.
Off-grid preparation: Some equestrian areas have limited services. "Campers are frequently referred to Grindstone campground for potable water and showers, but as of 2021, the dump station and bath houses/water are off; if you need services plan to travel about 15 minutes to Hurricane Campground instead," notes Jean C. about Fox Creek Horse Camp.
