Equestrian camping near Louisville, Tennessee centers on two specialized horse camps in the Great Smoky Mountains region. The Anthony Creek Horse Camp and Young Branch Horse Camp operate seasonally, with Anthony Creek open April through mid-November. These camps feature tent sites with appropriate spacing for horse trailers and access to trail systems ranging from challenging mountain routes to leisurely woodland paths.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: At Cades Cove Campground, riders can explore the mountainous terrain without trailering. "We saw a bear from a distance across a field pretty amazing experience. Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" notes Ashley Y.
Bicycling on closed roads: The Cades Cove loop closes to vehicles on certain days. "On certain days they close off the loop of Cades Cove for bicycles to be able to ride. At the store near the campground they rent bikes for a reasonable rate," shares Jeremy H.
Visiting historic structures: The area features preserved pioneer buildings. "Go on the car tour loop and make sure to stop and look at the cabins and church. History at its finest," recommends Buck R. from Cades Cove.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Frozen Head State Park Campground maintains excellent bathhouse facilities. "Bathhouse is beautiful with cedar stalls. Lots to do with the hiking. Waterfalls were beautiful and everyone we talked to was super helpful and nice," explains Brittni F.
Creekside camping: Backcountry sites offer water access and solitude. "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," says Christina Z. about Bote Mountain Campsite 18.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse animal populations. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. I have never seen more black bear," states Ashley Y. about the Cades Cove area.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations far in advance this is a destination!" advises Ashley Y.
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal cell service. "No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site," reports Carol B. about her stay at Cades Cove.
Campground gate restrictions: Townsend-Great Smokies KOA and other area campgrounds have specific entry protocols. "The gates get locked so make sure you arrive early. We got locked out and couldn't contact anyone," warns Melanie G.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations occur throughout the seasons. "November is when the leaves are changing. Temps cool at night, moderately nice during the day...got snow at Clingman's Dome however during the day!" shares Buck R.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Cades Cove Group Campground works well for family gatherings. "If you want nature, love community, and want someone for your kids to play with, this is perfect," recommends DrDavid P.
Swimming options: River access provides natural water recreation. "The campground is right on the river with available boat slips to rent during your stay," notes Allen S. about Toqua Beach Campground.
Wildlife viewing guidance: Maintain safe distances from animals. "We have never seen more black bear. It was a very safe distance we watched them about a football field away across a field," shares Ashley Y.
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were not very clean. Some of them had heavy urine smells to them and floors always had toilet paper all over them," cautions Michelle A.
Tips for RVers
Site levelness: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites on the North side of loop A are fairly uneven and would require a significant amount of leveling blocks if using a camper," advises Gregg G. about Gee Creek Campground.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have restricted access routes. "Long and windy road to get to the area," notes Aliy L. regarding Cades Cove access.
Hookup availability: Riverstone Campground offers full hookups. "Full hookups," confirms Joel R., adding that despite needing some upkeep, "it is nice and quiet."
Spacing between sites: Proximity to neighbors varies by campground. "Like most KOAs, it's packed," warns Steve D., though he concludes, "Long story short, stay here. It's great."
