Horse riding enthusiasts find several dedicated facilities for equestrian camping near Monterey, Tennessee, where the Cumberland Plateau's rugged terrain creates ideal trail riding conditions. The area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation with rocky outcroppings and densely forested landscapes that change dramatically with seasons. Most equestrian campgrounds remain open from April through November, with limited winter availability due to trail conditions.
What to do
Trail riding at Big South Fork: The trail system connects to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area with varying difficulty levels suitable for beginners and experienced riders. "Some activities include hiking, horseback riding, rick climbing, tubing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, mountain biking, and just about anything else! The area is never overcrowded, even in the middle of summer," notes Lori H.
Swimming holes: Many campsites provide access to natural water features perfect for cooling off after rides. "There are miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all. 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," recommends Myke C. at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Evening stargazing: The rural location provides exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities year-round. "Very dark at night time, especially with little moon, the stars were jaw dropping," writes Joseph M. about his experience at Fall Creek Falls State Park.
What campers like
Dedicated horse facilities: True West Campground & Stables provides specialized equestrian accommodations with attentive staff. "Beautiful campground, nice level spots that are easy to get in and out of... Free sawdust to campers for their stalls. Water all throughout the barn and easy to get to," shares Heather S.
Clean bathhouses: Many reviewers specifically mention bathroom cleanliness as a standout feature. "The bathrooms were well attended to also. Cleaned regularly and well stocked. The showers were nice," notes Jovee S. about True West Campground.
Trail variety: The Cumberland Plateau offers diverse terrain from flat meadows to challenging ridges. "The trail system is wonderful with all the views anyone could ask for," reports Jason M. about his stay at East Fork Stables. Trails range from 30-minute loops to full-day excursions, with most intermediate trails averaging 2-4 hours round trip.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most horse camps operate from April through November with limited winter availability. "We are open year round," states the management at True West Campground, making it an exception for off-season riders seeking trail access.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), advance booking is essential, especially for holiday weekends. Sites at popular campgrounds can fill 2-3 months ahead for summer weekends.
Water access points: Great Meadows Campground offers natural water sources for horses. "The sites are spread out well and not overcrowded. There are two separate areas, the first loop on the right side of the road is called deer loop. Down the road, is Racoon loop which is on the left side of the road," explains GoWhereYouAreDraw N.
Cell service limitations: "The drive there is a little long and no cell service for the most part but isn't that what camping is about anyway," mentions Aaron R. about Great Meadows Campground. Most equestrian campgrounds have spotty coverage, with the best signals typically found at higher elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground offers activities beyond horseback riding. "There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more. The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails in which some cross rope bridges, awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos," writes Brandie D.
Beginner-friendly options: "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 for those who need more comfort while camping," recommends Sandra V.
Site selection for kids: "The sites are laid out like 8 spokes in a wheel, with plenty of space between sites," says Greg F. about Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park. "Campsites are on loops off the main loop/road. It puts 7-8 sites in a circle so it's possible for families to rent multiple site in same loop. Plenty of room for kids to play and also has a swimming pool!" adds Kenny P.
Tips from RVers
Hookup access: Equestrian campgrounds often feature specialized RV sites designed for horse trailers. "True West Campground & Stables provides year-round access to its 40 sites with various accommodation options including RV spots with full hookups," with sites that can accommodate larger rigs.
Level site selection: "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls. This is especially important for those towing horse trailers with living quarters.
Water hookup planning: "I 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," cautions Beth H. at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park.
