Panther Creek State Park offers equestrian trail access within a 1,435-acre park perched along Cherokee Lake. Located 12 miles from Rutledge, Tennessee, the park sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with trails ranging through rolling hills and shoreline areas. Summer temperatures typically reach mid-80s°F with overnight lows in the 60s°F, creating favorable conditions for both day riding and overnight stays.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: While dedicated horse camping facilities are limited, riders can access approximately 60 miles of trails at Panther Creek State Park Campground. "Great trails, and other activities," notes Larry M., who found the park "top notch" with "great trails" for various outdoor pursuits. The trails wind through wooded areas with elevation changes of 100-300 feet.
Mountain biking: The trail system at Panther Creek accommodates multiple activities beyond horseback riding. "The mountain biking was so much fun we didn't care! Hiking and biking was an A+," reports Penny M. The park maintains several miles of dedicated mountain biking trails rated from beginner to intermediate difficulty.
Water recreation: Cherokee Lake offers cooling options after trail activities. "Lots to do with a great lake for kayaking," mentions Larry M. The lake covers 28,780 acres with multiple access points, allowing visitors to combine land-based activities with water recreation during warmer months.
Historical sites exploration: For riders seeking cultural experiences, Cades Cove Campground provides access to preserved historical structures. "You drive around a valley with rivers running through and you're surrounded by mountains. Tons of wildlife, even saw a bear from a distance," notes Dan N. The 11-mile loop road passes pioneer homesteads dating to the early 1800s.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Despite limited equestrian-specific infrastructure, campers consistently mention the cleanliness of general facilities. "Large RR/shower rooms well maintained," reports Larry M. about Panther Creek. The bathhouses typically include hot showers, flush toilets, and are cleaned daily during peak season.
Family-friendly environment: Out on The Creek Campground provides an alternative setting with "Creekside camping mountain views. Great place to camp along side the creek or rv lots with mountain views. Walking distance to Clinch River," according to Andy J. The creek access provides natural water features for children and horses alike.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting around Rutledge supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. At Cades Cove Group Campground, Michelle A. notes: "The scenery was beautiful with the mountains and wildlife. But make sure to lock your food up in your car or bear proof boxes because there are plenty of bears around." Many campers report sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and smaller woodland creatures.
Variety of recreational options: Panther Creek State Park offers numerous activities beyond equestrian use. "Panther creek has great hiking trails, pool, playground fire pits and so much more!" writes Bill P., who considers it "one of our favorite quick getaways." The diversity of options allows for alternate activities when not trail riding.
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Summer visitors should take precautions against ticks in the area. "Though if you come in the summer look out for ticks. Panther Creek is notorious for ticks. I pulled 6 off of me in one day," warns Dusty W. Horse riders should inspect themselves and their animals thoroughly after trail use.
Trail difficulty ratings: Some trails labeled "easy" may present more challenges than expected. At Panther Creek State Park Campground, Diane H. cautions: "Lots of hiking trails...but 'easy' trail wasn't really easy." Trail maps generally mark horse-accessible paths, but riders should verify current conditions before proceeding.
Limited cell service: Mobile connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Clinch River Family Campground, Beth B. notes: "You will lose cellular pretty quickly when you turn on that road." Riders should plan accordingly with printed maps or downloaded directions.
Seasonal considerations: Pool and other water-based amenities have limited seasonal availability. "Pool closes before Labor day," mentions Nicole H. about Panther Creek facilities. Fall and spring offer milder temperatures for riding but with variable facility access.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families combining horse activities with general camping, playground facilities provide additional entertainment for children. At Panther Creek, Dusty W. lists amenities including "Playgrounds, hiking, horseback trails, mountain bike trails, tennis courts, disc golf, baseball field, volleyball, lake access, swimming pool."
Site selection strategies: When booking at Big Creek Campground, Katrin M. advises: "Note that some sites are closer to the parking area than others, and if you have trouble walking long distances I'd recommend site 1!" Site location factors become especially important when managing children and horses simultaneously.
Wildlife safety education: Teach children proper wildlife observation protocols. "We spent one day simply enjoying the campground. There are some trails nearby but most of the popular hikes you'll need to drive to," shares Alison W., highlighting the value of unstructured time in natural settings while remaining alert to wildlife.
Water feature benefits: Creekside locations offer natural entertainment for families. Jennifer M. describes her Panther Creek experience: "I had a very cute camp spot up in the woods away from the road it was number 50...It also had two fire pits one up by the tent area and one down by the picnic table." The sound of flowing water often provides both recreation and soothing background noise.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for variable terrain. At Anderson County Park, Mary D. notes: "All driveways shaded, paved, and level. Very pleasant place." However, at other area campgrounds, leveling blocks may be necessary due to sloping sites.
Hookup verification: Confirm the specific hookups available at your chosen campground. "The campground has 50 full-hookup sites," mentions Jim L. about Panther Creek, but hookup types and availability vary widely between facilities in the region.
Access road conditions: Some horse campgrounds near Rutledge, Tennessee have challenging access roads. Beth B. warns about one facility: "Most of the final road to campground is paved with exception of last mile, its wide enough but slow going." RVs with horses require extra consideration for turning radius and clearance.
Campsite spacing considerations: When transporting horses, additional space between campsites becomes important. At Clinch River Family Campground, Dennis observes: "Sites are close together," while noting it offers "Lots of open space pets." Evaluate whether site dimensions accommodate both RV and horse-related equipment.
