South Mountain Equestrian Campground

For North Carolinians who share a passion for equestrian adventures and the tranquility of the great outdoors, South Mountain Equestrian Campground in Connelly Springs, NC, stands out as an exceptional destination. Situated within the expansive South Mountains State Park, this campground is specifically designed to cater to horse enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of rugged trails, convenient facilities, and a deeply immersive natural experience. It's not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a dedicated haven where you and your equine companions can truly connect with the stunning North Carolina landscape.

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of the experience here. Visitors consistently praise the "great trails" and the thoughtful amenities that make horse camping comfortable and enjoyable. One notable highlight is the sense of privacy at the campsites, ensuring that you "won't feel like you are sharing your morning coffee with strangers." This, combined with the beauty of the surrounding nature – including direct access to a refreshing creek and nearby waterfalls – creates an unforgettable escape. South Mountain Equestrian Campground offers a specialized experience that caters to a niche but passionate segment of North Carolina's outdoor community, providing everything needed for memorable rides and peaceful nights under the stars.

South Mountain Equestrian Campground is located at 4149 S Mountain Park #2901, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, USA. This address places it squarely within the vast and rugged South Mountains State Park, a significant natural preserve in western North Carolina. The park is nestled in Burke County, offering a serene, mountainous backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

The campground's accessibility is well-managed for those traveling from across North Carolina. While it provides a deep woodland setting for an authentic outdoor experience, it remains within a reasonable driving distance from major population centers. From Interstate 40, visitors typically take Exit 105 and follow NC 18 south, then turn onto local roads (SR 1913, Old NC 18, SR 1901, and SR 1904) that lead directly to the park. This ensures that horse campers and outdoor enthusiasts can reach the campground without excessive difficulty, balancing the desire for remote natural beauty with practical travel considerations. The park is approximately 18 miles south of Morganton, making it a convenient escape for residents of the western Piedmont and even closer to cities like Asheville and Charlotte for those willing to drive a bit further for a premier equestrian camping experience.

• Equestrian Campsites: The campground features 15 dedicated equestrian campsites, each designed to accommodate horse campers with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.

• Horse Stalls: A crucial service for horse owners, the campground boasts a 33-stall barn (with stalls of varying sizes, 5'x10′ and 10'x10'), which must be reserved separately for each horse. Proof of a negative Equine Infectious Anemia (Coggins) test is required.

• Washhouse with Hot Showers and Flush Toilets: A highly praised amenity, providing clean and comfortable restroom facilities with the luxury of hot showers, especially appreciated after a day on the trails.

• Direct Trail Access: Campers have immediate access to over 33 miles of equestrian trails that wind through the beautiful woodlands of South Mountains State Park.

• River/Creek Access: The campground offers access to a beautiful creek running alongside the camp, where campers and horses can cool off, and a nearby river (Jacob Fork River) is good for trout fishing.

• Plenty of Parking: Ample parking is available for horse trailers and vehicles, making arrival and setup convenient.

• Potable Water and Pit Toilets: Drinking water spigots are available, and while there are modern restrooms, pit toilets are also present in some areas.

• Fire Rings with Grills: Each campsite includes a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying a campfire experience.

• Educational Programs: As part of South Mountains State Park, rangers hold regularly scheduled educational and interpretive programs about the park's environment, plants, and animals.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campsites (on a leash no longer than six feet and not left unattended).

• Exceptional Equestrian-Specific Design: The campground is meticulously designed for horse campers, offering dedicated sites, a large barn with individual stalls, and immediate access to extensive equestrian trails, truly setting it apart.

• Private and Spacious Campsites: Reviewers highlight the "gorgeous and private" nature of the campsites, allowing campers to enjoy their morning coffee without feeling crowded by neighbors.

• Beautiful Natural Surroundings: Located within South Mountains State Park, the campground is immersed in a rugged and beautiful landscape, featuring forests, a cooling creek, and hiking access to a stunning 80-foot waterfall (High Shoals Falls).

• Clean and Modern Facilities: The "very clean bathrooms with AC" and hot showers are a significant comfort, especially after a long day of riding.

• Diverse Trail System: Beyond just horse trails, the park offers nearly 50 miles of trails for various activities, including hiking and mountain biking, providing options for all members of a group.

• River Access for Horses and People: The ability to ride horses into the creek or take a dip to cool off is a unique and highly appreciated feature.

• Year-Round Operation: The park and campground are open year-round (except Christmas Day), allowing for equestrian adventures in all seasons.

• Sense of Community: While private, the shared passion for horses fosters a friendly atmosphere among campers.

• Fishing Opportunities: The Jacob Fork River, accessible from the park, is designated for trout fishing, adding another recreational activity.

As a state park campground, South Mountain Equestrian Campground typically operates under fixed rates set by the North Carolina State Parks system. Therefore, specific "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense are not generally advertised. The pricing structure is usually transparent and available through the NC State Parks reservation system.

However, the inherent "offer" of South Mountain Equestrian Campground lies in its exceptional value for equestrian camping. For a nightly rate (currently $30 for an equestrian site and $12-$17 for a horse stall, subject to change), campers gain access to dedicated facilities, a vast trail network, and the natural beauty of a state park, which is a significant value proposition for horse owners.

While there might not be seasonal discounts, the benefit of having well-maintained trails, clean bathhouses with hot water, and dedicated horse facilities readily available makes it a highly attractive option. It is always best for prospective visitors to check the official North Carolina State Parks website or contact the park directly for the most current information on camping fees, horse stall rental costs, and any reservation policies, as these can be subject to change.

For inquiries about reservations, trail conditions, or any specific questions regarding your visit to South Mountain Equestrian Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: 4149 S Mountain Park #2901, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, USA

Phone: (828) 433-4772

Mobile Phone: +1 828-433-4772

Office Hours: The park office is generally open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, though park gate hours vary by season (e.g., 7 AM to 10 PM in summer). It is highly recommended to call during office hours for the most direct assistance.

Reservations for campsites and horse stalls can typically be made online through the North Carolina State Parks reservation system (ReserveAmerica) or by calling their central reservation number (1-877-722-6762). Direct contact with the park staff via the provided phone number is excellent for specific questions about the campground itself, local conditions, or last-minute inquiries.

South Mountain Equestrian Campground is an ideal and highly suitable destination for North Carolinians, especially those who cherish outdoor recreation with their horses. Its location within South Mountains State Park provides a spectacular natural backdrop, offering miles of dedicated equestrian trails that cater to a range of riding experiences. For locals, this means having a world-class horse camping facility conveniently accessible within their home state, eliminating the need for long-distance travel to pursue their passion.

The emphasis on privacy at individual campsites, coupled with the luxury of clean bathhouses with hot showers and air conditioning, ensures a comfortable stay for both riders and their equine partners. The presence of a dedicated barn with stalls and easy access to a refreshing creek further underscores its suitability for the equestrian community. Beyond riding, the park offers hiking to a stunning waterfall and opportunities for fishing, making it a versatile getaway for the entire family. For North Carolina residents seeking a memorable, well-equipped, and peaceful horse camping experience amidst the beauty of the state's mountains, South Mountain Equestrian Campground is an unparalleled choice that promises a truly immersive and enjoyable outdoor adventure.