2 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Cottonwood Patch Campground in Georgia provides horse corrals for equestrian campers looking to explore the Cohutta Wilderness. The campground features level camping spots with picnic tables and can accommodate both tent campers and RVs. Located near the Conasauga River, campers have water access while their horses rest in the corral areas. The primitive camping area attracts many equestrians, though anyone can use the facilities. The outhouse toilets are regularly maintained, making this a suitable option for overnight stays while trail riding. Most visitors bring horses tied near their vehicles, creating an authentic horse camping atmosphere.
The location serves as an excellent launching point for horseback riding adventures on the numerous trails throughout the Cohutta Wilderness. Trails in the area include several designated horse-only routes, providing dedicated riding experiences without hiker traffic. The campground's proximity to trailheads allows riders to begin their journeys without long approaches. Horse owners appreciate the direct water access from the campground, allowing horses to drink and cool off after trail rides. While the facilities remain fairly primitive compared to developed equestrian campgrounds, the strategic location and horse-specific amenities make this a popular choice for riders exploring the wilderness areas surrounding Chattanooga. The campground's layout accommodates horse trailers with adequate parking space for vehicles and equipment.
"There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing."
"You walk 20’ on trail to first campsite. Nice wooded area with a trail to the water. There are 5 sites with fire pits."
"This lightly developed site has two picnic tables, and two lantern posts near the tables."
"Logging is going on right now, so we were woken up around 6:30 am by the beautiful sounds of machinery and whatnot. Did not catch anything in the pond unfortunately."
from $2 - $38 / night
"Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park Campground is a quiet campground situated right on the Ocoee."
"Bath house is relatively nice for a state park campground. 1 mile walking path surrounding the grounds is nice. Safe area for bicycle riding. Great proximity to many outdoor activities."
Available next weekend
"It is, however, a free, primitive camping site just a short 5 min drive (or walk) from the Rocktown trailhead. The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers."
"This is a nice primitive camp site just a 2 min walk from Petty John Cave and a 5 min drive to Rock Town Trailhead. Come here to try your hand at rock climbing and spelunking."
"This was a beautiful little spot next to a creek. There are 5 sites in all. It was a Monday in August, and there were two spots available."
"There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!"
"Lovely little spot next to a very swimmable and warm crystal clear river - very popular with locals, and I imagine would be packed on weekends."
from $25 - $30 / night
"Park at either the Alabama or the Tennessee trailhead (make sure not to park at the horse trailhead earlier on the road) and descend down into the canyon."
"It is also at an easy access point to the falls as well as the other trails in the area. The site has easy access to water most of the year and can provide space for over 10 tents."
"A lot of equestrians stay here but anyone can. It does have a pit toilet that was maintained."
Available next weekend
from $8 / night
ScoutI was worried that I would arrive and find all the campsites occupied. This was not the case. When I got there around 5:30 there was only one other site taken. I didn’t see them until the next morning. By morning, there were two other sites occupied.
TravelerHard to find, really busy but most of them were hikers let left at nightfall.
GuideHopefully they open it up soon but we drove about an hour to get here just for it to be closed. The whole road seems to be closed for the time being for road work. I hope this helps someone!.
The 5-8 miles up to this area do seem a little sketchy but we were hoping the actually site would be nice and hopefully it will be after the work they are doing right now.
GuideAbsolutely beautiful. Took a couple of rounds of trial and error to find the spot, which is just a pro for me personally. Once we got there, the place was beautiful. Logging is going on right now, so we were woken up around 6:30 am by the beautiful sounds of machinery and whatnot. Did not catch anything in the pond unfortunately. That’s to be expected when you’re only armed with a Barbie fishing pole and no patience. I have saved the spot and will always be returning whenever I visit Chattanooga!!
GuideThe road to get to the sites is long, bumpy, and very curvy (so you’ve got to go slow). The sites themselves were full of trash, graffiti, and a homeless camp. We elected to not stay.
RangerWe stayed here 5/15- 5/17 and had a wonderful time. The bathrooms were great & the playground was a huge hit with all the kids. They also loved catching little minnows in the streambed of the boat launch. There is a trail that surrounds camp that's great for little adventures or even a short mountain bike
GuideYou take a sometimes single lane road to get there. Very windy at points. There is a parking lot to hold 4+ cars. You walk 20’ on trail to first campsite. Nice wooded area with a trail to the water. There are 5 sites with fire pits. There is one private site past the marked site if you keep going you will find a large level gravel lot with a single fire pit that would be much better for van or truck camping. Past this point it turns back into residential.
GuideBeautiful spots down Jacks river directly and conveniently on the water. Remote but could see being busy during warmer seasons. We loved it.
TravelerI’m not a planner so I tend to find spots late in the day and just take what I get. I was so pleased when I pulled into the park at sunset to find only one other camper! The park is beautiful and very well kept. A ranger drove by while I was having coffee the next morning and was very laid back and completely unbothered that I had arrived after hours. This was a Monday morning and he told me they were packed over the weekend and I was floored because it was so clean! The restroom is huge with showers and was older but clean. Absolutely recommend.
Horseback riders exploring the Chattanooga region can access extensive trail networks within the Cherokee National Forest and Cohutta Wilderness. The area's mixed hardwood forests and flowing creeks make equestrian camping accessible year-round, though spring and fall provide more moderate temperatures for trail riding. Trail difficulty varies from beginner-friendly forest roads to technical mountain paths requiring experienced riders.
Waterfall hiking: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground offers multiple waterfall destinations within hiking distance. "There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more," notes Brandie D., who recommends visiting both during spring and summer seasons to experience different water levels.
Fishing at secluded ponds: Davis Pond Campsite provides fishing opportunities in a quiet setting. William S. describes it as "a real gem with shady trees and a fishing pond" with "multiple trails (for hiking, ATVs, and horses)" nearby. The site includes "two picnic tables, and two lantern posts near the tables."
Cave exploration: Walls of Jericho - Clark Cemetery Backcountry Campsite serves as a base for exploring natural cave systems. Aaron S. mentions "there is a spring that runs out of a cave on a cliff to the left of the amphitheater, so water is not an issue" when visiting during drier months. The site requires a moderate hike to access.
Trail riding: Hickey Gap in Cohutta WMA offers direct trail access for horse enthusiasts. John B. describes the experience: "There is a beautiful waterfall about a mile down trail from camp and tons of great swimming areas!" The campground features established sites with basic amenities for equestrians.
Natural swimming holes: Tennessee Wall Camp provides access to riverside swimming areas. Suzie K. reports, "We really enjoyed our night tent camping here. There is a parking lot right off the road after a fun ~30 minute drive through residential roads right on the water, then sites with fire pits are scattered throughout a small clearing."
Dark sky viewing: Fall Creek Falls State Park offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. Joseph M. describes: "Very dark at night time, especially with little moon, the stars were jaw dropping." The park's remote location minimizes light pollution for optimal astronomical viewing.
Secluded tent sites: Sawmill Lake Campsite provides quiet camping options. According to Brandon M., "Great FREE site near plenty of hiking trails, world class rock climbing, etc. I discovered more secluded camp sites more suitable for the seclusion I seek when camping."
Road conditions: Access to Hickey Gap requires navigating rough terrain. Mike H. cautions: "The road up there is all rock/dirt with a several hundred foot drop-off on the right side and no guardrail. There were a few hairpin turns. And then the driveway to and from the camp area is quite steep. Our 2WD (front wheel drive) Honda Passport struggled to get back up it on our way out."
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity is common in Hickey Gap Campground. Mike H. notes, "There was a pit toilet with plenty of toilet paper and it was quite clean. There's also a bear box and signs clearly indicating there are bears around and that you should keep all food in your vehicle or use the box."
Connectivity challenges: Mountain Cove Resort offers limited connectivity. Nathan T. warns: "There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid. There is a country store on site with minimal need items. They staff was amazing and super friendly!"
Beginner-friendly environment: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground accommodates new campers well. Sandra V. recommends: "We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice. Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier for those who need more comfort while camping."
Activity variety: Gee Creek Campground provides diverse activities for children. Mickey L. appreciates that it has a "Very friendly staff. Clean facilities and nice playground. Whippoorwill called through the evening which was cool."
Site selection: When horse camping with families, avoid overcrowded areas. Andrea S. cautions about Fall Creek Falls: "The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's. Every time a camper came in, people panicked fearing their cars were going to get hit because the road is so unbelievably narrow."
Leveling requirements: Fall Creek Falls State Park requires preparation for uneven sites. Richard F. advises: "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out. We are definitely going back in summer to get wet in the falls and creeks. Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others."
Limited shade: Mountain Cove Resort offers minimal tree coverage. Sarah H. notes: "This campground is side by side hook ups. Not a tree one in the site area. Beautiful view of the mountain." Consider awnings or portable shade structures during summer months.
Site spacing: When bringing horses and RVs, adequate site separation matters. Sierra Y. shares about Sawmill Lake Campsite: "Stayed 13 days. I came from the west and had no problems getting my 23ft camper up the mountain. Trees fall easily so if it's windy be careful where you park."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Chattanooga horse camps?
Horse camps near Chattanooga offer varying levels of amenities to accommodate equestrian campers. Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground provides spacious campsites, clean shower houses, and dedicated areas for horses. Many sites include picnic tables and lantern posts, while some have swings nearby for children. At Davis Pond Campsite, you'll find picnic tables, lantern posts, and a fishing pond in a shady setting. Most horse camps feature level spots for parking trailers, pit toilets or restroom facilities, and access to water sources for both campers and horses.
Where are horse camps located near Chattanooga, TN?
Several dedicated horse camps are located within driving distance of Chattanooga. Lost Corral Horse Camp is specifically designed for equestrian campers with water access nearby. In the Cohutta Wilderness area, Cottonwood Patch Campground serves as a popular launching point for horseback riding adventures with level spots and picnic tables. Other options include Hickey Gap in the Cohutta WMA and Jacks River Fields Campground in the Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest, both offering facilities for horses and riders.
What are the best trails for horseback riding near Chattanooga horse camps?
The Cohutta Wilderness area offers extensive trail networks accessible from Cottonwood Patch Campground, making it ideal for multi-day riding adventures through diverse mountain terrain. Fall Creek Falls State Park features dedicated horse trails that wind through scenic woodlands with views of waterfalls and natural features. When riding near Walls of Jericho, make sure to use the designated horse trailhead rather than the hiking trailheads. The Hiwassee/Ocoee area also offers equestrian-friendly trails with river views and varying difficulty levels to accommodate different riding experiences.
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