Equestrian camping near Heiskell, Tennessee offers riders access to over 200 miles of designated horse trails through forested landscapes in the region. Situated at roughly 1,100 feet elevation, Heiskell serves as a gateway to both the Cumberland Plateau and Smoky Mountains terrain, with most horse trails open year-round except during severe weather conditions. The area receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation and numerous stream crossings for trail riders.
What to do
Trail riding with wildlife viewing: Cades Cove offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities while horseback riding. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. I have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field pretty amazing experience," shares Ashley Y. about Cades Cove Campground.
Biking on vehicle-free routes: Several areas provide special days for cyclists without vehicle traffic. At Cades Cove, "On certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride. At the store near the campground they rent bikes for a reasonable rate. We took the entire family on the loop bike ride," notes Jeremy H.
Horse trail access: Riders visiting Bandy Creek Campground can access numerous trails. "There are riding stables at the camp store too," mentions Lori H. The campground serves as a strategic base for accessing Big South Fork's extensive horse trails with parking for trailers.
Swimming and water activities: Many campgrounds offer water recreation options. "The campground also has a large swimming pool, with lifeguards," reports a visitor to Bandy Creek Campground. For natural water settings, streams and lakes provide alternatives to pool swimming.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horses and equipment: Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground offers specialized horse camping areas. "They have horse sites to bring your horses and you can camp right with your horses," explains Janet H. The campground provides direct access to "miles of trails to be discovered just at the dead end of the road."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at several locations. Steven D. notes about Bandy Creek: "Large, spacious sites and very clean restrooms/showers. Located right across the road from the NPS visitor center, with easy access to several trails directly from the campground."
Water features: Riverside locations rank highly among equestrian campers. "The quiet relaxing atmosphere of the river speaks to your soul. Peace and quiet with plenty of nature to explore," says April P. about Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground, which provides water access after trail rides.
Historical elements: Several campgrounds feature historical structures that add educational value. "Cades Cove itself is a gorgeous loop but the campground isn't as private and secluded as one would expect for camping," explains Monica P. about Cades Cove Group Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most equestrian facilities have limited seasonal operations. "This is a very open campground with very few trees. The sites are concrete and gravel," notes Allen S. about Toqua Beach Campground, which remains open year-round unlike some facilities that close during winter months.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential for equestrian camping. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises Ashley Y. Most horse-friendly campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons (April-October).
Weather considerations: The region receives significant rainfall, affecting trail conditions. "Only 2 of the 6 sites are usable if it has rained within a week of your stay. Would not recommend for large groups unless you enjoy sleeping in mud," warns Kayla L. about Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground.
Cell service limitations: Communication can be limited in many horse camping areas. "No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site," reports Carol B. about Cades Cove Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with mixed activities: Panther Creek State Park offers varied recreation beyond horseback riding. "Panther creek has great hiking trails, pool, playground fire pits and so much more! The campground tends to be quiet and relaxed," writes Bill P.
Consider proximity to educational features: Campgrounds with historical elements provide additional value. "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest," recommends Buck R. about Cades Cove.
Check for wildlife viewing opportunities: Supervised wildlife watching ranks highly for families. "The main attraction for most is a driving tour loop that starts & ends right at the campground. You drive around a valley with rivers running through and you're surrounded by mountains. Tons of wildlife, even saw a bear from a distance," shares Dan N.
Evaluate kid-friendly trail options: Not all horse trails suit young riders. "Most of the trails are much longer than 2 miles, so there wasn't much to do with our two toddlers," notes Chelsea D., though she adds, "the hiking that we did do was amazing."
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: RV campers should verify site dimensions. "The sites were a bit short and we couldn't park our tow vehicle in front of our 17' camper. So large campers beware," advises Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek Campground.
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. "Campground facilities include toilets, trash disposal, and picnic tables at each site, with ample space for horse trailer parking," according to Townsend-Great Smokies KOA.
Accessibility for trailers: Horse trailer access requires specific considerations. Joel R. notes, "like all KOA places, they squeeze in as many sites as possible, with everyone stacked on top of each other," highlighting the need to verify trailer space.
Year-round options: Jason W. recommends Anderson County Park: "I spent the long Thanksgiving weekend here. Other campgrounds in the area were closed, but this one is open year round. Bathrooms and showers remain open as well."
