Horse camping opportunities near Jasper, Tennessee center around a few locations with varying equestrian accommodations. The area sits at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,800 feet above sea level in the Cumberland Plateau region, creating diverse terrain for riders. Fall and spring typically offer the most comfortable temperatures for equestrian camping, with summer humidity presenting challenges for both horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding at Prentice Cooper State Forest: The forest features several trails accessible to horses, though riders should verify current conditions before heading out. "Many adventures offered from skeet shooting to hiking to waterfalls," notes one visitor to Fall Creek Falls State Park.
Fishing at nearby ponds: Davis Pond at the Wildlife Management Area provides fishing opportunities alongside camping. "Down a long and winding (and dusty) gravel road into the WMA is the Davis Pond camp site, a real gem with shady trees and a fishing pond," reports a camper who stayed at Davis Pond Campsite.
Waterfall exploration: The region contains several accessible waterfalls for day trips during your horse camping stay. A camper at Walls of Jericho - Clark Cemetery Backcountry Campsite states, "A little bit of a hike in but totally worth it. Close by the creek and close to the Walls. Super peaceful and super beautiful."
What campers like
Space for multiple groups: Many equestrian-friendly sites offer room for several camping parties. "We camped at the bottom of the canyon below the amphitheater. In September the water level was low and the waterfalls were not flowing. But 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," explains a visitor to Walls of Jericho.
Natural swimming areas: Several locations provide water features for cooling off after rides. At Fall Creek Falls State Park, a camper recommends, "Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost."
Tree coverage: Sites with adequate shade make summer camping more comfortable. "The campsite is level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also many trees that would be suitable for hammock camping. You can choose from a shaded space to a sunny space depending on which side of the site you set up on," notes a visitor to Sharon Johnston Park.
What you should know
Limited dedicated equestrian facilities: Most campgrounds allow horses on trails but lack purpose-built corrals or stalls. Visitors should bring portable containment systems. "The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers. Meant we could spend most of the climbing, rather than making a long approach," states a camper at Sawmill Lake Campsite, highlighting the site's primitive nature.
Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian-friendly sites can be challenging. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," warns another Sawmill Lake visitor.
