Our country’s national forests are a horse lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of trails, scenic views, and outdoor adventures for riders of all skill levels. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable camping experience, consider horse camping in one (or all!) of them.
Here are 5 of our favorite national parks that are ideal for hitting the trails and camping under the stars with your equine companions!
The Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky
The Red River Gorge is a popular destination for rock climbers and hikers, but it’s also a great place for horse camping. Horse camping enthusiasts often flock to this forest, which is known for its diverse range of trails, picturesque vistas, and outdoor escapades.
One of the highlights of the Red River Gorge is its stunning scenery, with towering cliffs, rolling hills, and dense forests that are sure to take your breath away. And with a wide range of trails to choose from, you’re sure to find a route that’s perfect for your skill level and interests.
The Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia
The Monongahela National Forest is one of the largest and most diverse national forests in the United States, and it’s a great place to explore with your horse. A plethora of trails, breathtaking scenery, and exciting outdoor activities make this forest a favorite spot for horse camping.
One of the highlights of the Monongahela National Forest is its extensive trail system, which offers riders the chance to explore the rolling hills, dense forests, and breathtaking mountains of the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, you’re sure to find a trail that’s perfect for your skill level, and the staff at the forest is always on hand to offer guidance and support.
The Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee
The Cherokee National Forest is a large, federally managed forest located in eastern Tennessee. The forest covers over 650,000 acres and is managed by the United States Forest Service.
The forest is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including forests, rivers, lakes, and mountains. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys.
The Cherokee National Forest offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors, including hiking, fishing, camping, horseback riding, and hunting. The forest is also popular for its scenic drives, with numerous overlooks providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The forest is divided into two sections, the Southern and Northern Cherokee National Forests, and encompasses portions of ten counties in eastern Tennessee. It is one of the most visited national forests in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Horse Camping Destination in the Cherokee National Forest
Meadow Creek Mountain Ranch is a privately owned horse camping facility located near the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. The ranch offers a unique horse camping experience for individuals, families, and groups who want to explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding area on horseback.
We offer a variety of campsites and accomodations, including primitive tent sites, RV sites, and cozy Lodge rooms. A large, airy barn is also available for our overnight equine guests, as well as paddocks for up to 4 horses and plenty of other horse-friendly amenities. Trails are just steps away from the campgrounds and barn!
One of the highlights of Meadow Creek Mountain Ranch is the guided horseback rides offered by the ranch over the summer and fall season. Experienced guides lead riders aged 12 and over through the Cherokee National Forest and the surrounding area, offering stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and the forest’s diverse flora and fauna. One of our favorite destinations is the Meadow Creek Fire Tower Trail. You can check out a video of that ride here.
The ranch is a great option for those looking for a unique horse camping experience with access to guided horseback rides and a range of outdoor activities in the beautiful surroundings of the Cherokee National Forest!
The George Washington National Forest in Virginia
The George Washington National Forest is a beautiful and diverse area that’s located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. This forest’s popularity as a horse camping destination stems from the fact that it offers a vast selection of trails, stunning views, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
One of the highlights of the George Washington National Forest is its scenic drives, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and rivers. And with a wide range of trails to choose from, you’re sure to find a route that’s perfect for your skill level and interests.
The Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina
The Pisgah National Forest is a beautiful and diverse area that’s located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina. With its numerous trails, stunning vistas, and exciting outdoor pursuits, this forest has become a sought-after location for horse camping.
One of the highlights of the Pisgah National Forest is its stunning scenery, with towering peaks, rolling hills, and dense forests that are sure to take your breath away. The forest is also home to a number of waterfalls, including Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock, which are popular destinations for visitors. And with a wide range of trails to choose from, you’re sure to find a route that’s perfect for your skill level and interests.
Final Thoughts
Our country’s national forests offer a plethora of opportunities for horse camping enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the United States. From the Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest to the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, there’s something for every rider to enjoy.
Among the list of amazing horse camping destinations is Meadow Creek Mountain Ranch, which offers a unique camping experience in the Cherokee National Forest. With a range of campsites, guided horseback rides, and a variety of outdoor activities, Meadow Creek Mountain Ranch is a great option for those looking for an unforgettable horse camping experience. Don’t wait any longer to plan your horse camping adventure, book your stay at Meadow Creek Mountain Ranch today!
