Equestrian camping opportunities near Lancaster, Tennessee include several established facilities within driving distance. The Cumberland Plateau region features diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet and karst topography that creates unique limestone formations. Summer temperatures typically average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-75°F range.
What to do
Trail riding at Cedars of Lebanon: The park offers several miles of designated equestrian trails through unique cedar glades ecosystem. "The wooded area and cedar pines reminded me of camping back in Minnesota. The grey brickwork picnic shelters and campground atmosphere gave it a rustic feel," notes a visitor at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfall destinations accessible by horseback or hiking trails. A camper at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground advises, "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."
Seasonal events: Holiday-themed camping weekends occur throughout season. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" reports one Cedars of Lebanon visitor, highlighting organized activities beyond regular trail riding.
What campers like
Spacious wagon train layouts: The circular site arrangements at horse camping areas create natural gathering spaces. "The campground is set up in what I call wagon train circles. If your going with a large group it's perfect. People parked their toys and cars in the middle and set up in the sites around the hub," explains a camper at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer and other wildlife frequently visit campsites. One visitor reported, "We stayed here for the long Presidents Day weekend in a wooded drive through spot with few neighbors. We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs."
Authentic equestrian atmosphere: Campgrounds specifically designed for horse owners create immersive experiences. A visitor to East Fork Stables noted, "Campground has Cabins, Bunk house, full hook-ups and primitive spots. There are stalls and tie lines with round pens and paddocks scattered around. Trail system is wonderful with all the views anyone could ask for."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full," advises a Cedars of Lebanon camper.
Site selection considerations: Different camping loops offer varying levels of privacy and amenities. "Keep in mind, while making reservations, section 1 has very small, cramped together sites. We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private. I would recommend them over section 1."
Water accessibility: Some primitive horse camping locations have limited water access. A camper at Turnhole Backcountry Campsite reported, "Despite this campsite being surrounded by the Green River on 3 sides, water is hard to come by here, and hiking it in may be your best bet. The river is at least 1/2 mile away, through extremely dense brush."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activity options: Parks offer alternatives to horseback riding for diverse family interests. A Fall Creek Falls visitor shared, "There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more. The campgrounds are spacious and have great clean bathrooms."
Beginner-friendly trails: Several areas provide easier riding options for less experienced riders. "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."
Site selection for dog owners: Some camping areas offer better accommodation for pets. "We had a nice clean site, number 62. It had a fire pit, grill and picnic table. The site location was great for us because we had our 5 dogs with us and there was room at this site to let them out with ease and we were right next to a hiking trail for their walks."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Be aware of utility placement when selecting sites. A visitor at Manchester KOA noted, "The utilities are located smartly in the middle of the pad to include an extra sewer connection near the pad's front. Water pressure was okay at around 45 psi."
Road conditions: Some horse camping areas have challenging access roads. "We followed our RV GPS right to the campground that is located right off I-24. Check in was quick and easy. We were then escorted to one of their 'long' pull through sites with FHUs, site 27."
Extended water hose requirements: Some sites have distant water hookups. A Dale Hollow camper advised, "I also wish they would have mentioned the length to water hookup. We ended up having to go buy a longer water hose bc the hookup was more than 30 foot away. We now keep a 50 foot hose, but didn't realize at the time there was actually hookups that far away."
