Horse campgrounds near Oak Ridge, Tennessee offer access to extensive trail systems within the Cumberland Plateau region. The area features elevations ranging from 800 to 3,000 feet with a humid subtropical climate that averages 50 inches of rainfall annually. Most equestrian campgrounds connect directly to trail networks through the Cherokee National Forest or Big South Fork, allowing riders immediate trail access without trailering horses between sites.
What to Do
Trail riding in Big South Fork: Access over 180 miles of horse trails directly from Bear Creek Horse Camp, which connects to the extensive trail system within Big South Fork. "We stayed here in April, very quiet! Off to itself. Totally set up for the horse crowd with plenty of horse room. There is a day use parking and unloading area and direct access to the horse trails," notes Shelly S.
Bike the Cades Cove Loop: Many campgrounds provide access to this popular scenic drive which 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. We took the entire family on the loop bike ride. This was so much fun," shares Jeremy H. from Cades Cove Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent opportunities for animal spotting from safe distances. "This is a very unique spot in the smokies. 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," explains Ashley Y. about her visit to Cades Cove.
What Campers Like
Convenient river access: Campgrounds positioned along waterways provide recreation opportunities. "The Little River runs behind it. Go tubing!!! So much fun," recommends Cathy O. about Townsend-Great Smokies KOA, which offers waterfront access for cooling off during summer months.
Dedicated equestrian facilities: Horse camps have specific amenities for equestrians. "Each campground had a place for horses, the campground was clean, easy to drive, easy to set up, and the bath house was very clean," notes Hailey S. about Bear Creek Horse Camp.
Clean bathhouses: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "The bathrooms/bathhouses were spotless! Free sawdust to campers for their stalls. Water all throughout the barn and easy to get to," shares Heather S. about True West Campground & Stables, a dedicated horse camping facility.
What You Should Know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely across the region. "No cell service for Verizon and none for many miles on the drive to the site," warns Carol B. about Cades Cove Campground. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information before arriving.
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "We spent the long Thanksgiving weekend here. Other campgrounds in the area were closed, but this one is open year round. Bathrooms and showers remain open as well," reports Jason W. about Anderson County Park.
Site selection considerations: Lake-view sites fill quickly but offer special advantages. "Sites were very clean and spacious and all have spectacular views of the lake," adds Jason W. about Anderson County Park's waterfront locations.
Tips for Camping with Families
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds are better suited for families wanting community experiences. "This is a great campground, but can get a little busy. If you want nature and solitude, go somewhere else. If you want nature, love community, and want someone for your kids to play with, this is perfect," advises DrDavid P. about Cades Cove.
Look for recreational amenities: Facilities with pools and playgrounds enhance family stays. "There is a swimming pool, with lifeguards," notes Lori H. about Bandy Creek Campground, adding that the campground also features "a large swimming pool, with lifeguards."
Evaluate trail difficulty: Not all trails are suitable for younger children. "Most of the trails are much longer than 2 miles, so there wasn't much to do with our two toddlers," cautions Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many equestrian campgrounds have specific constraints. "Campground roads are navigable for horse trailers, though the sites are not suitable for big rigs," notes a camper about Bear Creek Horse Camp.
Parking considerations: Some sites have limitations on vehicle arrangements. "The sites were a bit short and we couldn't park our tow vehicle in front of our 17' camper. So large campers beware. There are limited parking spots near the shower house," warns Chelsea D. about Bandy Creek Campground.
Waterfront premium sites: Lakeside camping options provide special experiences. "This is a very clean, gated campground located right on the lake with available boat slips to rent during your stay. The sites are concrete and gravel," reports Allen S. about Toqua Beach Campground.
