Davis Pond Campsite sits approximately 45 minutes from Chattanooga, accessible via a 7-mile winding gravel road with the final half-mile requiring higher clearance vehicles. The area features equestrian camping options within the Wildlife Management Area where multiple trails accommodate riders at various skill levels. Several horse-friendly campgrounds near Tracy City offer primitive facilities with direct access to designated riding paths.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: Fall Creek Falls State Park features multiple impressive waterfalls across its extensive trail system. "So many trails, so little time. One of the best hiking parks I've ever been to. 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," reports Myke C. from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Rock climbing: Tennessee Wall Camp provides access to popular climbing areas. "Great for hammocks and tents," notes Brian W. at Tennessee Wall Camp. The sites include fire pits scattered throughout small clearings with ample parking available directly off the access road.
Fishing: Fairview Campground at Tims Ford State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities with lakeside camping. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak. Nice bathhouse, clean facilities," writes Clinton N. Boat rentals are available at the park office for visitors without personal watercraft.
What campers like
Direct trail access: Many campers appreciate sites with immediate trail connections. "There is a great trail that connects the campgrounds with the Woodland Trail. Once you've parked at the campground, there's no need to get in your car until you leave!" explains Rebecca P. at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Lake proximity: At Fairview Campground, the waterfront sites receive consistently high ratings. "We had the best time! Loved being right on the lake," shares Misty C. from Fairview Campground — Tims Ford State Park. The campground offers both water-view and wooded sites.
Secluded backcountry: For those seeking primitive equestrian camping near Tracy City, Tennessee, the Clark Cemetery site at Walls of Jericho provides spacious accommodations. "The Clark Cemetery campsite is a moderate sized campsite along the Walls of Jericho trail and is located just yards from the Clark Cemetery and the Turkey Creek Bridge. The site is level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also many trees that would be suitable for hammock camping," notes Steve V.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to horse-friendly camping areas can be challenging. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," warns Abigail P. about approaching Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Campsite spacing: Some campgrounds have closely situated sites. "We don't need much space, we have a tiny tent and don't have any other gear, and it was still tight. The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's," cautions Andrea S. about certain areas at Fall Creek Falls.
Bathroom facilities: Primitive equestrian sites typically have minimal facilities. "I took off a star because the bathroom looks like an actual third world country, covered in trash and bugs and who knows what else," notes Tessa B. about Davis Pond. Many experienced riders bring portable toilets for overnight trips.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several parks offer swimming options beyond natural water features. "We camped here in July but also stayed at the Inn during the spring. The Inn has a buffet style restaurant, all rooms overlook the lake, and there's a game room for the kids as well as a heated pool. The campgrounds are spacious and have great clean bathrooms," shares Brandie D. about Sharon Johnston Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated facilities for younger visitors. "It's a great site to bring the kids. In the summer the pool is open which is great for the hot days. There's also a track, a baseball field, and soccer fields so I've seen many athletic events held there," reports M&P M.
Trail difficulty: Consider trail ratings when planning hikes with children. "A great place 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," suggests Sandra V.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research site dimensions and levelness before booking. "We are in a 35' 5th Wheel. Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs. Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites.)" advises Becky S.
Overnight stops: For travelers passing through, some campgrounds offer convenient access. "We followed our RV GPS right to the campground that is located right off I-24. Check in was quick and easy. We were then escorted to one of their 'long' pull through sites with FHUs, site 27. What we first noticed was the large cement patio with table, chairs, bench, stand up barbecue, and fire pit," explains MickandKarla W. at Manchester KOA.
Utilities access: Check service details when planning extended stays. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out. Upgraded dump station all asphalt with 6 dumps," notes Richard F. Most equestrian campgrounds near Tracy City offer minimal hookups, so arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries.
