Equestrian camping near Jonesborough, Tennessee provides access to the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from March through November, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Trail riding with views: Bristol-Kingsport KOA offers proximity to Warriors Path State Park's trail system. "I'd never used a KOA before but was tremendously impressed with the serene beauty of this place situated well away from traffic in a bucolic setting," notes Susan E., who enjoyed exploring the trails near the Bristol-Kingsport KOA.
River swimming opportunities: During summer months, the South Toe River at Black Mountain Campground provides a refreshing break from trail riding. "There is a swimming hole on the South Toe River in the campground just beyond the end of the riverside sites. It has a small sandy 'beach' area and a neck deep refreshing hole," explains Scott K. from Black Mountain Campground.
Buncombe Horse Range exploration: Access to higher elevation rides from Maple Camp Bald. "It's a 6 mile hike up Maple Camp Ridge on trail 191 (Buncombe Horse Range) starting from a small parking lot close to Carolina Hemlocks Campground," shares Francis C., who found that "there are 3-4 areas to set up camp, two of them could accommodate multiple tents."
What campers like
Free firewood: Unlike many campgrounds that charge for wood, some horse-friendly sites include it with your stay. "Free firewood. No pool or playground, but still a nice peaceful campground," notes Holli C. about Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables.
Central fire rings: Communal gathering spaces create opportunities for rider meetups. "Campground consist of a fire ring in the middle with benches and tables surrounded by back-in camp sites," Holli C. continues about Cherokee Trails Campground and Stables, highlighting the community-focused layout.
Natural springs for water: Some backcountry equestrian sites offer natural water sources. "A little below where we set up camp, we found a natural spring for water and theres a decent amount of firewood around," explains John L. from Maple Camp Bald, though he cautions about the final trail section: "The final ascent to back to the parking lot at the peak of Mt. Mitchell was brutal on the lungs and legs!"
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some horse-friendly campgrounds have challenging access roads. "We chose this campground because it was close to Natural Tunnel and Devils Fork trail (30-45 min). 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.
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations near Jonesborough experience significant temperature drops after sunset, even in summer. "Having followed the weather for a bit after going, I think I'd be planning for April if we did it again," advises John L. about spring camping at Maple Camp Bald.
Cellular connectivity gaps: Most rural equestrian camping areas have limited service. "I drive a Kia Soul (low profile vehicle) and the roads to the campground were challenging due to the deep ruts and wash out," reports Terri S., adding that facilities at some campgrounds may be basic: "They advertise restrooms and showers but they were in very poor condition."
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly facilities: Not all equestrian campgrounds offer children's amenities. "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. The park is also near Warriors Path State Park, which is fun to go hike and see," recommends Laura H. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA.
Consider tent site locations: At some campgrounds, tent sites can be inconveniently located. "I tent camped with a group here and the sites are very rugged and pretty far from water/bathrooms but there is a pool and the staff is very friendly and helpful," notes Erin R. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain weather near Jonesborough can shift quickly. "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," warns Erin R., highlighting the importance of proper gear for changing conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "They have several large pull through sites, as well as back in smaller sites. They have 50amp service and full hookup sites," advises Laura H. about Bristol-Kingsport KOA, adding "Cellular reception is decent for TMobile and AT&T."
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain creates uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Mostly level gravel spots. Sites are close together," notes Dennis about Clinch River Family Campground, suggesting modest expectations for site spacing.
Seasonal considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds near Jonesborough have limited seasonal operation. "The campground operates seasonally from March through November," with visitors noting the peaceful atmosphere and small, intimate camping environment despite basic horse amenities.
