Panther Creek State Park

Harmon Den is on the Appalachian Ranger District in the vicinity of exit 7 off of I-40. The area is a haven for hikers and horseback riders. It offers 54.5 miles of trails with 14.2 miles of trails designated for horseback riding and 40.3 miles for hiking. ACTIVITIES Camping Hiking: Trail Difficulty Easy: Route is easy to find and follow; trail has less than 8 percent grade; length is less than 3 miles; trail is mostly flat with few rocks. Moderate: Route may or may not be blazed; most of the trail has a less than 20 percent grade; length is usually between 2 and 8 miles; trail may be rocky and have stream crossings. Difficult: Route may require pathfinding skills; most of the trail has a 20 percent or steeper grade; length is usually more than 8 miles; trail is rocky and uneven and may have stream crossings. Horseback Riding: No trace horse hints: Take only fit, calm, experienced animals. Stay on the trail, and ride in a single file. Water horses at natural fords or from a bucket. Keep stock tethered at least 200 feet away from streams and away from trails and campsites. Avoid temporarily tying stock to trees. Use a highline with tree-saver straps to tether your animal. This prevents stock from trampling roots and chewing bark. Break up and scatter manure and fill in pawed holes when breaking camp. Pack some grain, since grazing is limited. Be certain that feed is weed-free to prevent noxious plants from spreading. Hunting: Part of Harmon Den in Haywood County, NC and the area north of US 25/70 to the Tennessee State line are bear sanctuaries where bear hunting is not allowed. Outside the sanctuaries, hunting is popular for bears as well as for deer. While the US Forest Service manages wildlife habitat, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission regulates hunting seasons and limits. A state license is required for hunting. Every hunter should get a copy of the Regulations Digest from the commission by calling (919) 662-4381 or from the website: www.wildlife.state.nc.us, select "regulations". Picnicking Wildlife Viewing Horse Camping: No trace horse hints: Take only fit, calm, experienced animals. Stay on the trail, and ride in a single file. Water horses at natural fords or from a bucket. Keep stock tethered at least 200 feet away from streams and away from trails and campsites. Avoid temporarily tying stock to trees. Use a highline with tree-saver straps to tether your animal. This prevents stock from trampling roots and chewing bark. Break up and scatter manure and fill in pawed holes when breaking camp. Pack some grain, since grazing is limited. Be certain that feed is weed-free to prevent noxious plants from spreading.

Harmon Den Area

Townsend-Great Smokies KOA

Our farm is beautifully located adjacent to the Cumberland Gap National Historic Park. The White Rocks trailhead is within walking distance and is a very popular for both horseback riding and hiking. The campsite has a great view of the White Rocks and is located just a few minutes from Hwy 58 making it a convenient stop if traveling through. The campsite is equine friendly, bring your horse trailer and stay the night after a long ride.

Rock Bottom Horse Camp

## Overview

**The only horse camp in the Great Smoky Mountains with potable water and flushing toilets!**

Pack up your horses for a getaway at Big Creek Horse Camp, located on far northeastern side of Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately 16 miles from Newport, Tennessee. This campsite sits along the gently rolling waters of Big Creek and offers miles of horse trails with breathtaking scenic backdrops. 

**You MUST have a HORSE to camp in Big Creek Horse Camp!**

## Recreation

The rolling terrain surrounding the campsite makes for some of the best horseback riding trails in the park. Numerous trails are accessible from Big Creek and for riders looking for a little hiking, the Appalachian Trail can be easily reached via the 2.1 mile Chestnut Branch Trail, located within walking distance from the camp. 

Day Use horse area- so invite your horse riding friends and family for a fun day even if they don't want to camp with you.   
  
Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams that snake through the mountains, with Rainbow and Brook trout available in abundance, particularly during spring months.

## Facilities

Big Creek Horse Camp is fairly primitive, providing only the basic amenities, but an unforgettable outdoors experience. The sites are large and the facility does offer flush toilets, drinking water and plenty of shade.   
  
  
  
Since horses are not permitted in the camping area, horse stalls and hitching rails are provided to guests.  
  
  
There are no hookups or showers at the campground, but water is available from the campground spigot. 

**You MUST have a HORSE to camp in Big Creek Horse Camp!**

## Natural Features

At a 1,700 foot elevation, Big Creek provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. The camp is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and pristine mountain streams.   
  
Nearby Mouse Creek Falls, a 35 foot waterfall forming at the confluence of Mouse Creek and Big Creek, is reachable by horseback or on foot via the Big Creek trailhead located on-site.  
  
The beautiful falls splits over moss covered rocks and falls about 20 ft. before pooling and falling another 15 ft. into Big Creek. The falls can be reached via the Big Creek Trail, which is covered in wildflowers during spring months. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Big Creek Group Campground is located nearby, with plenty of space for larger groups.   
  
Full service grocery stores and medical facilities are located 16 miles away in Newport, Tennessee.

Big Creek Horse Camp

Riverside RV Park & Resort

Big Creek Campground is located in a remote portion of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The beautiful flowing waters of Big Creek parallel the campground offering the visitor a pleasant soundscape and peaceful beauty. Recreation Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks. The Big Creek area offers some of the most challenging hikes within the Park. Baxter Creek trail begins near the campground and with an elevation gain of 4200' from trail head to the summit of Mt Sterling provides a strenuous work out for the strongest of hikers. The nearby Big Creek trail offers a pleasant hike along the waters of Big Creek with a beautiful waterfall along the way. Local anglers agree that Big Creek offers some of the best trout fishing in the area. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers. Wildlife viewing is a popular pastime, and with around 1,500 black bear living in the park, it is not uncommon for visitors to spot one. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. Facilities Big Creek Campground offers 12 TENT ONLY campsites for a traditional outdoor camping experience with the added convenience of flush toilets and drinking water. There are no hookups or showers at the campground. There is an emergency phone available at the Big Creek Ranger Station located 1 mile from the campground. No generator use or recreational vehicles are allowed in Big Creek Campground. There is a food storage locker available for public use. Natural Features Located at an elevation of 1,700' Big Creek Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and a pristine mountain stream. Black Bear sightings are not uncommon and some lucky visitors may spot River Otter playing in Big Creek. Nearby Attractions Nearby attractions include the Cataloochee Valley, Newport, TN, Cosby Campground, Hartford Whitewater Rafting, the Appalachian Trail and the Max Patch/Pisgah National Forest. 

Big Creek Campground

Horse camping is the perfect way to enjoy Tennessee. If you're an equestrian lover who prefers nature-based adventure, yet still wants comfort, this is the perfect opportunity for you. It's easy to find a Tennessee campground for horse camping with the Dyrt. With our help, you'll find the best Tennessee equestrian campsites from scenic to easily accessible.

Tennessee

The Best Equestrian Camping in Tennessee

Horse camping is the perfect way to enjoy Union Heights. If you're an equestrian lover who prefers nature-based adventure, yet still wants comfort, this is the perfect opportunity for you. It's easy to find Union Heights campgrounds for horse camping with The Dyrt. Search horse campsites and discover top-rated spots, as reviewed by other campers.

Union Heights

The Best Equestrian Camping Near Union Heights, Tennessee

Are you looking for a primitive tent camping experience? Come stay at this small campground located along the banks of Jennings Creek. Large walk-in tent sites are screened by native vegetation. In the early 1900’s, this area was the site of an iron forge. Iron ore was smelted and made into materials for the railroad operation that harvested timber in the area.

Old Forge Recreation Area

Tricorner Knob Shelter

## Overview

Cataloochee campground is located in the historic Cataloochee Valley--a relatively remote part of Smoky Mountain National Park. The secluded setting offers visitors the ability to enjoy a multitude of recreational activities like hiking and fishing, without the crowds, which are sometimes common in other parts of the park.

## Recreation

The Cataloochee Valley features an extensive trail system that is less heavily used compared to other areas of the park. The two main trails, Caldwell Fork and nearby Rough Fork Trail, run mostly parallel to one another in the central portion of the valley. Either of these trails extend alongside scenic creeks and streams and support both hikers and horeseback riders.   
  
For hikers only, the 3.9-mile Boogerman Trail forms a nice loop off the Caldwell Fork Trail and is less than a mile walk from the campground.   
  
Anglers will agree that some of the best Rainbow and Brook trout fishing in the area can be found in the Cataloochee Basin, one of the most remote sections of the park. Fly fishing is particularly good during spring months when aquatic insects hatch in large numbers.   
  
The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park. A handful of which can be found in the Cataloochee Valley, including the nearby Palmer House, built in 1869, which contains a self-guided museum.

## Facilities

Cataloochee offers a traditional outdoor camping experience with the added convenience of flush toilets and drinking water. There are no hookups or showers at the campground.  
  
Hiking trails and fishing streams are easily accessible from the site and the nearby Cataloochee Group Camp can accommodate larger parties of guests.   
  
Additionally, the Cataloochee Horse Camp provides convenient camping for horseback riding enthusiasts.

## Natural Features

Cataloochee Campground is surrounded by picturesque mountain ranges and pristine mountain streams, like nearby Cataloochee Creek. Elk are common in this part of the park, during the spring and fall.   
  
At a 2,600 foot elevation, Cataloochee provides a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Whether blanketed in bright spring wildflowers or exploding with vivid fall colors, the scenery at Cataloochee never disappoints. 

## Nearby Attractions

A number of the park's famous historical buildings, including the Steve Woody and Caldwell Houses, both built in the late 19th-century, are nearby the campground.  
  
The Steve Woody House, built in 1880, is located along the Rough Fork trail, an easy 2-mile roundtrip hike from the parking lot at the end of Ranger Station Road.

Cataloochee Campground

## Overview

The Harmon Den Horse Campground is nestled on a mountainside beneath a forest of mixed hardwoods in the Pisgah National Forest. The camp is in a secluded area and the individual sites provide ample privacy. The campground is an ideal base for exploring the miles of nearby trails and enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery.

## Recreation

Local attractions include more than 14 miles of trails designated for horseback riding and about 40 miles for hiking. Equestrians may ride other open roads unless signed closed to horses with caution due to traffic during busy recreational seasons. Trails include the 5.4-mile Buckeye Ridge, 2.6-mile Cherry Ridge, 2.5 mile Robert Gap and 3.6-mile Cold Springs Trails. Hunting and fishing are other popular activities in the area.

## Facilities

Harmon Den Horse Campground has 10 camp sites with potable water (hand pump) centrally located for all sites and a vault toilet (double). Facilities provided include horse stalls and mangers that accommodate a maximum of 4 horses and 8 people at each site with a picnic table, tent pad, lantern post, fire ring and parking for a single vehicle with horse trailer. Also located within the campground is a self-service livestock manure station and watering tank (non-potable) for livestock.

## Natural Features

The Harmon Den Area is located on the Appalachian Ranger District, an area that stretches westward from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park's eastern boundary to Craggy Gardens on the Blue Ridge Parkway to Roan Mountain near Tennessee. Elevations range from 1,900 feet at Max Patch to 6,684 feet at Mount Mitchell. Visitors to the area will find waterfalls, lush forest undergrowth, forested peaks and miles of cold mountain streams. Wildlife in the area include bear, deer, grouse and wild turkey. 

## Nearby Attractions

Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes an ideal day trip from Harmon Den. Max Patch is an open bald area with panaramic views and other trials for hiking include the Appalachian Trail, Cherry Creek and Groundhog Creek.

Harmon Den Horse Campground

Nashville, TN is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Nashville is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Nashville. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Nashville

The Best Camping Near Nashville, Tennessee

Camping near Memphis, TN, offers your pick of settings, whether you want to stay in a neighborhood, by a lake, or close to the forests. The area offers some of the best camping in Tennessee with great biking and hiking on wooded trails. RV campers won't have a problem finding campsites to accommodate their vehicles, with campgrounds near the former home of Elvis Presley and out in nature. There are single and group tent campsites in historic T.O. Fuller State Park just outside the city. The park hosts events, has a pool and is a great spot for hiking and birding.

Memphis

The Best Camping Near Memphis, Tennessee

Knoxville, Tennessee is the closest major city to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Knoxville is only about an hour away if you’re looking for comfortable accommodations when traveling to the park.

Knoxville has capitalized on comfortable camping with plenty of glamping and RV resorts to choose from in the area. The best camping near Knoxville is in the Norris Dam State Park and surrounding area. Another good option for campgrounds is Big Ridge State Park near Ridenour, TN. It’s worth noting that for an extra 30 minutes of driving, you can get to Great Smoky, where admission is free and the campsites are more abundant.

Knoxville

Looking for the best campgrounds near Knoxville, TN? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

The Best Camping Near Knoxville, Tennessee

Chattanooga, Tennessee is often seen as a place you pass through on your way to Great Smoky National Park. If you just drive through this Tennessee town, you’ll be missing out on all it has to offer!

The best camping near Chattanooga is located on the banks of the Tennessee River, with plenty of campgrounds to choose from. With a handful of tent and RV campgrounds to choose from in the area, you’ll be able to enjoy the riverfront views in peace. The Cherokee National Forest by Benton, TN is another excellent camping opportunity if you're willing to make the drive. Not only are there great campsites to choose from, but you can miss a lot of the crowds of the national parks by exploring this forest that’s 100,000 acres larger than Great Smoky!

Chattanooga

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Chattanooga, TN has a lot to offer. Chattanooga is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near Chattanooga, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Chattanooga Camping | Tennessee Campgrounds

Join the fun near Clarksville. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Clarksville is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Tennessee camping adventure.

Clarksville

The Best Camping Near Clarksville, Tennessee

Looking for the best campgrounds near Murfreesboro, TN? Murfreesboro is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Murfreesboro

The Best Camping Near Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Join the fun near Franklin. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Franklin. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Franklin. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Franklin

The Best Camping Near Franklin, Tennessee

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Jackson. Jackson is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Jackson

The Best Camping Near Jackson, Tennessee

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Johnson City. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Johnson City, TN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Johnson City

The Best Camping Near Johnson City, Tennessee

Join the fun near Bartlett. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Bartlett, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Bartlett, TN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Bartlett

The Best Camping Near Bartlett, Tennessee

Cherokee National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Cherokee National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Cherokee National Forest, TN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Cherokee National Forest

The Best Camping Near Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Natchez Trace Parkway, TN has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Natchez Trace Parkway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Tennessee camping adventure.

Natchez Trace Parkway

The Best Camping Near Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Old Hickory Lake, TN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Old Hickory Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Old Hickory Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Old Hickory Lake

The Best Camping Near Old Hickory Lake, Tennessee

Join the fun near Stillhouse Hollow Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Stillhouse Hollow Lake, TN. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Stillhouse Hollow Lake

The Best Camping Near Stillhouse Hollow Lake, Tennessee

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near J Percy Priest Lake. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near J Percy Priest Lake, TN. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

J Percy Priest Lake

The Best Camping Near J Percy Priest Lake, Tennessee

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Center Hill Lake, TN is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Center Hill Lake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Center Hill Lake

The Best Camping Near Center Hill Lake, Tennessee

Obed Wild and Scenic River is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Obed Wild and Scenic River. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Obed Wild and Scenic River camping trip.

Obed Wild and Scenic River

The Best Camping Near Obed Wild and Scenic River, Tennessee

Looking for the best campgrounds near Wagontrain Lake, TN? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Wagontrain Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Tennessee camping adventure.

The Best Equestrian Camping in Union Heights

Top Campgrounds in Union Heights (23)

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