Young Branch Horse Camp provides primitive equestrian camping near Farragut, Tennessee, located 45 minutes from the town in the Cherokee National Forest. The camp consists of approximately six medium-sized sites situated within the Citico Creek area. This campground connects to forest trails that accommodate various riding abilities and experience levels.
What to do
Cades Cove scenic drive: Visit Cades Cove Campground where "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" according to Dan N.
Mountain biking: The Tsali Campground trail system starts directly from the campground. "You can ride to & from your campsite and never have to load up," notes Tony C. The trails offer varying difficulty levels suitable for beginners to experienced riders.
Tubing on Little River: The river behind Townsend-Great Smokies KOA provides water recreation opportunities. "The Little River runs behind it. Go tubing!!! So much fun," recommends Cathy O. Tube rentals are available during summer months.
What campers like
Creek access: At Bote Mountain Campsite 18, campers appreciate the natural water feature. "West Prong of the Little River runs right through both separated sites, so plenty of water is an understatement. Ground is flat and plenty of room to spread out," reports Christina Z.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers visit the area specifically to observe native animals. "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 her stay at Cades Cove.
Trail connectivity: Horse camps connect to extensive trail networks. Campgrounds like Tsali allow direct access to trails without needing to transport horses or equipment. "Great site & fairly easy hike in from Laurel Creek rd," notes Kristin M. about Bote Mountain.
What you should know
Campground closures: Some sites operate seasonally. "Only downside is it closes mid October until April," warns Robbie B. about Tsali Campground.
Limited facilities: Most horse camps lack drinking water. At Young Branch Horse Camp, "There is a toilet, but no hookups," according to Zane P.
Busy periods: Popular areas fill quickly. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises Ashley Y. For Panther Creek State Park Campground, "Check your lengths and bring your leveling boards," suggests Shelly S.
Ticks: Be prepared for insects, especially during summer months. "Though if you come in the summer look out for ticks. Panther Creek is notorious for ticks. I pulled 6 off of me in one day," warns Dusty W.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. "The campground also has a playground to keep kids entertained," notes Anna M. about Gee Creek Campground.
Consider social atmosphere: If you want your children to have playmates, choose busier campgrounds. "If you want nature, love community, and want someone for your kids to play with, this is perfect," suggests DrDavid P. about Cades Cove.
Check for recreational options: Some campgrounds offer multiple activities. "Panther Creek State Park has a great campground for families to spend time at. For a lesser known state park, they have a lot of amenities. Playgrounds, hiking, horseback trails, mountain bike trails, tennis courts, disc golf, baseball field, volleyball, lake access, swimming pool," lists Dusty W.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check campground specifications before arrival. At Toqua Beach Campground, "We had a 30ft camper and site 18 was the only one i would attempt to get in. Its great for smaller campers and tenters," advises Jana B.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds near Farragut offer full-service sites. "The sites arnt very large so check the internet under TN State Parks for available sites," recommends Diane H. about Panther Creek State Park.
Level ground: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place," notes Kim L. about Cades Cove, while others recommend bringing leveling blocks for less developed sites.
