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Best Equestrian Camping near Oak Ridge, TN

221 Reviews

Young Branch Horse Camp, positioned within the Citico Creek area in Vonore, caters specifically to equestrians seeking trail access in the Cherokee National Forest. The campground features about six sites that accommodate tent camping with horses, though no hookups are available for RVs. While the campground lacks dedicated horse corrals, the sites are well-maintained and medium-sized, providing adequate space for horse trailers. Basic amenities include vault toilets and trash collection, but no drinking water is available on site. Located between campsites 7 and 8, Young Branch represents the more developed section of the Citico Creek camping area. The sites remain clean despite regular equestrian use.

Bear Creek Horse Camp in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers equestrian-focused camping with essential amenities for horse owners. The campground provides water hookups and 30-amp electrical connections at sites designed to accommodate both tents and smaller RVs with horse trailers. Vault toilets and a sanitary dump station serve campers during the April through October operating season. The camp connects directly to the extensive trail system within Big South Fork, allowing riders immediate access to miles of bridle paths through varied terrain. Campground roads are navigable for horse trailers, though the sites are not suitable for big rigs. Pets are permitted throughout the campground, making it convenient for equestrians traveling with dogs in addition to horses. Picnic tables and designated areas for fires enhance the camping experience.

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Oak Ridge, Tennessee (15)

    1. Cades Cove Campground

    98 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-4103

    $30 / night

    "You can easily bike through the loop, or drive. Nice spot to see wildlife as well. Cades Cove is well known for spotting bears, deer and turkey."

    "This campground is off the beaten path but found by LOTS so have a reservation. There is an 11 mile loop with historic structures and lots of wildlife. Watch for BEARS!"

    2. Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    42 Reviews
    Rugby, TN
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 286-7275

    $20 - $140 / night

    "Big South Fork is located in a very remote area of TN and KY.  Miles of Great hiking, biking, horse and motorized trails.  There is plenty to see and all of it is beautiful.   "

    "D19 is in a dead end loop so little to no vehicles drive through . The bathhouse is a bit of a walk, the buildings are newer and well maintained."

    3. Townsend-Great Smokies KOA

    28 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-2241

    "The Lizard Lounge has a separate WiFi but you have to be inside or just outside to use it. Amazing river views and very close to the entrance of the National park."

    "Right next to the entrance to the Great Smokey mountains. Townsend is a lovely town for eating and lots of walking trails. It is a short drive into pigeon forge if you want more activities to do."

    4. Cades Cove Group Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    27 Reviews
    Townsend, TN
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 448-4103

    $50 - $94 / night

    "There is a camp store with firewood (you are required to buy it from an authorized location!). Nice roomy campsites, but not as much plant cover as at Elkmont in my experience."

    "I wanted to see if there was a difference in the camping experience at the two locations."

    5. Anderson County Park

    2 Reviews
    Norris, TN
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 494-9352

    $20 - $60 / night

    "This specific spot was huge and next to a wooded area and nature walk and, in my opinion, the best site in the whole campground! The bathhouse was small, but functional and clean."

    "Sites were very clean and spacious and all have spectacular views of the lake."

    6. Toqua Beach Campground

    3 Reviews
    Vonore, TN
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 884-3317

    $49 - $69 / night

    "This is a very clean, gated campground located right on the lake with available boat slips to rent during your stay. This is a very open campground with very few trees."

    "But with that being said the lake is beautiful. We didn't see the beach till the last day we were there unfortunately. But it look like an awesome area. There is a Beach area with volleyball."

    7. True West Campground & Stables

    6 Reviews
    Rugby, TN
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (931) 752-8272

    $26 - $165 / night

    "We didn't have any horses but everyone treated us with welcoming vibes and kindness. The owners and family are attentive, kind, and hard working. The grounds are well kept."

    "Lots of room for horses.  They had campsites, covered wagons and cabin space."

    8. Young Branch Horse Camp

    1 Review
    Tallassee, TN
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 253-8400

    $15 / night

    "Located in between campsites 7&8, Young Branch is the more “civilized” part of Citico Creek. There is a toilet, but no hookups. About 6 different sites within the campground."

    9. Bear Creek Horse Camp — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Revelo, KY
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (423) 286-7275

    $30 - $35 / night

    "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. Very open and well maintained."

    "We stayed here even though we didn’t have horses, but those with horses have priority."

    10. Riverside RV Park & Resort

    2 Reviews
    Sevierville, TN
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (865) 453-7299

    "Convenient to highway 66 that runs from Interstate 40 to Sevierville. Not particularly charming, but seems to be clean and well run. Worked well for a one night stay."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Oak Ridge, TN

25 Photos of 15 Oak Ridge Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Oak Ridge, TN

221 Reviews of 15 Oak Ridge Campgrounds

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2019

    East Fork Stables

    Horses galore

    East Fork Stables is a HUGE equestrian campground that , guess what....you don’t have to have a horse to stay at! They have a whole loop complete with a pavilion cookhouse and annoying triangle bell that’s perfect for campers, tents and hammocks.

    The showerhouse is nice and clean. The sites plenty big and mostly shaded. 

    Of course you can use any of the loops but the rest will have some really big animals hanging out. 

    There are miles and miles of trails. Waterfalls , overlooks and scenery. A nice gift shop/camp office and cabins.

    I stayed here for the Cumberland Plateau Stage Race. The race director actually reserved the whole campground for his event.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2016

    Bear Creek Horse Camp — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Very horse oriented :)

    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. Very open and well maintained. Make sure you have the horse power for the hills going out. I had to back down the gravel hill and get a second run to make it up!

  • Dan N.
    Aug. 31, 2016

    Bear Creek Horse Camp — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Great area for horse trips

    We stayed here even though we didn’t have horses, but those with horses have priority. According to the others at the campground, there are a lot of horse camps and facilities in this area, if you do have horses this is an excellent area to explore. Good hiking trails too. Campground was clean and barely smelled like a farm despite being filled with horses.

  • B
    May. 30, 2019

    Cades Cove Campground

    Family friendly and beautiful

    This campground is so convenient to Cades Cove. You can easily bike through the loop, or drive. Nice spot to see wildlife as well. Cades Cove is well known for spotting bears, deer and turkey. Make sure to take the necessary steps to store your food. Great spot to go explore the beauty and history of East Tennessee!

  • Gail C.
    Jul. 3, 2018

    Cades Cove Campground

    Our Favorite

    This campground is off the beaten path but found by LOTS so have a reservation. There is an 11 mile loop with historic structures and lots of wildlife. Watch for BEARS! Bears and deer may be just across the road from your campsite. There are bikes and firewood available as well as a small campstore (with ice cream). Lots of trails, a waterfall, rivers and creeks to fish and wade. Horses and wagons to ride. Activities for campers young and old. Night walks and ranger talks. The most beatiful views this side of heaven. Take special note of the view walking back from the John Oliver cabin (the first one).

  • magickelf969@aol.com
    Oct. 19, 2025

    True West Campground & Stables

    Not safe for animals

    Stalls/barn is filthy. The owners had their own horses removed from their custody by animal control for neglect. The horses were skin and bones even though they sell feed in their store.

  • Ashley A.
    Aug. 15, 2018

    Cades Cove Campground

    Beautiful place to visit!

    Loved visiting Cades Cove! We drove around the entire loop. Saw many horses, deer, and even a coyote! Would love to go back soon!

  • Thomas W.
    Apr. 8, 2021

    Bandy Creek Campground — Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

    Remote camp

    This is a large campground with excellent facilities.   Big South Fork is located in a very remote area of TN and KY.  Miles of Great hiking, biking, horse and motorized trails.  There is plenty to see and all of it is beautiful.   One of my favorite sites is the Twin Arches, worth the hike.

Guide to Oak Ridge

Horse camping in Tennessee offers a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With several campgrounds catering specifically to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the trails.

Equestrian campgrounds include essential amenities for horse lovers

  • At Young Branch Horse Camp, you'll find well-maintained sites with picnic tables and toilets, making it a comfortable choice for horse camping.
  • Anthony Creek Horse Camp provides easy access to trails right from the camp, perfect for those looking to ride without the hassle of transportation.
  • Cades Cove Group Campground offers a serene environment deep in the forest, ideal for a peaceful getaway with your horse.

Activities for horse campers in Tennessee

  • Enjoy scenic rides at Young Branch Horse Camp, where the surrounding trails provide a variety of terrains for all skill levels.
  • Explore the beautiful landscapes around Anthony Creek Horse Camp, which is known for its stunning views and direct access to hiking trails.
  • Experience the tranquility of Cades Cove Group Campground, where you can ride through picturesque settings and enjoy the local wildlife.

Tips for equestrian camping near Oak Ridge, Tennessee

  • When visiting Young Branch Horse Camp, be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • At Anthony Creek Horse Camp, pack plenty of water for both you and your horse, as amenities are limited.
  • For a unique experience, consider staying at Cades Cove Group Campground, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the chance to see wildlife while riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Oak Ridge, TN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Oak Ridge, TN is Cades Cove Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 98 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Oak Ridge, TN?

TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Oak Ridge, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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