Near Kingsport, Tennessee, campers find facilities catering to equestrians within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at elevations averaging 1,200 to 1,700 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-90°F, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures between 50-70°F. The natural topography features rolling hills with numerous creek beds creating natural trails for horse riding.
What to do
Creek exploration: Clinch River Family Campground offers direct river access for wading and fishing. According to one camper, "What a great experience for the whole family and kids and enjoyed the privacy water was a little cold this time of year but I had a great fire next to the river Under the Stars roasting s'mores."
Horseback riding: For equestrian camping near Kingsport, Tennessee, Bristol-Kingsport KOA provides access to horses for interaction, even if you don't bring your own. A visitor noted, "You can even pet the horses nearby," making it suitable for those wanting an equestrian experience without traveling with horses.
Natural attractions: The area surrounding these campgrounds connects to several notable natural features. "We chose this campground because it was close to Natural Tunnel and Devils Fork trail (30-45 min). Both of these are worth doing if you are in the area. We chose to only hike to Devils bathtub (about 2 miles one way). It was exceptional but difficult," reports a visitor at Clinch River Family Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and natural settings: Campers frequently mention the secluded environments. "Had a great camping weekend with a buddy at Cliffhanger Ranch. The cabin we stayed in is very cozy and good size for two people. We were able to have a few nice fires at the top of the hill with great views," notes a visitor to Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost.
Budget-friendly options: Unexpected value sometimes appears at established campgrounds. One camper at Bristol-Kingsport KOA shared, "Mindful of my budget I learned to ask for a tent site with no electricity, no water, just toilets and showers. The young man who helped me observed I was alone and put me in a small cabin for no additional charge."
Cleanliness of facilities: Rocky Top Campground & RV Park receives praise for maintenance. One visitor simply stated, "Nice clean campground with affordable pricing, I highly recommend this camp."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Multiple campgrounds have narrow access roads that can present challenges for larger vehicles or horse trailers. "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if your not a seasoned driver," warns a visitor to Rocky Top Campground.
Seasonal considerations: The region experiences distinct seasonal changes affecting camping comfort. Most horse-friendly facilities operate primarily between March and November, with full facilities available only during this period. At Old Forge Recreation Area, the season runs "April to October" with limited amenities.
Primitive options: Some sites offer minimal amenities for those seeking backcountry experiences. "Very simple rustic site with very little facilities. Pros: very wooded and private large campsites, babbling creek, outhouses. Cons: none unless you prefer a more built up campground. FYI: no water so bring treatment methods," explains a visitor at Old Forge Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Campgrounds with play facilities provide entertainment for children. Clinch River Family Campground offers "lots of playground equipment for kids and a launch for tubes/kayaks."
Swimming opportunities: Cedar Ridge Hammock Campground includes pool access, though its proximity to campsites can create noise issues. A visitor noted, "The hammock campground is super nice with its setup. However, the shrubbery/trees aren't trimmed well so you're going to fight through branches in some cases to hang your stuff. That's fine. It's the fact it is setup directly next to the overflow parking and pool along with the main thoroughfare into the park that's a bummer."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Kingsport have ambient noise sources to consider. "It is so LOUD. There's also a freight rain that goes by every couple hours. It's a cool experience but much like most state parks, it's not necessarily peace and quiet," reports a camper at Cedar Ridge.
Tips from RVers
Cellular connectivity: Mobile service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Bristol-Kingsport KOA, "Cellular reception is decent for TMobile and AT&T," while Clinch River notes you will "lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road."
Campsite spacing: Out on The Creek Campground receives praise for generous spacing between sites. One visitor mentioned, "Great place to camp along side the creek or rv lots with mountain views. Kayak, Hiking, Biking, spacious lots."
Service amperage: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds near Kingsport offer 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp options. Bristol-Kingsport KOA has "several large pull through sites, as well as back in smaller sites. They have 50amp service and full hookup sites."
