Camping at Big Creek Horse Camp

Location and Access

Big Creek Horse Camp is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near the northeastern park boundary in Tennessee. The horse camp is accessible via vehicle by taking exit 451 off of Interstate 40 near the Tennessee-North Carolina border. After exiting, follow Waterville Road to Mount Sterling Road, which leads to the camp.

Campground Features

Big Creek Horse Camp is designed to accommodate visitors with horses. The campground features a limited number of campsites with access to horseback riding trails. Campsites typically include horse stalls or a hitching post, a picnic table, and a fire ring with a cooking grill.

Horse Trails

The camp serves as a hub for several horseback riding trails, such as the Big Creek Trail and Chestnut Branch Trail. These trails provide scenic horseback riding experiences through the park's lush forests and alongside streams. Riding trails may have varying difficulty levels and lengths, catering to both novice and experienced riders.

Reservation and Fees

Reservations for Big Creek Horse Camp typically need to be made in advance since the number of sites and horse accommodations is limited. There is a nightly fee associated with camping here. The fee structure and reservation process can be found on the official National Park Service website or through their reservation system, Recreation.gov.

Facilities and Services

Basic amenities at the camp might include potable water and restrooms. However, as it's a more rustic campground, there are usually no showers or electrical hookups. Visitors will need to pack in their supplies, including feed for their horses, and pack out all waste.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors to Big Creek Horse Camp are expected to abide by the rules and regulations set out by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to protect the environment and ensure the safety of all guests. This includes:

• Only using certified weed-free forage for horses to prevent the spread of non-native plants.
• Ensuring that all food and scented items are stored properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Following all fire safety regulations.
• Adhering to quiet hours during the night.
• Keeping horses within designated areas.

Safety Considerations

Guests should be prepared to handle the changing weather conditions and potentially rugged terrain. They must ensure that their horses are fit for the trails and that they carry the necessary safety equipment, including a first-aid kit for both humans and equines.

Wildlife and Environment

As the campground is within a national park, visitors will likely encounter various wildlife. It is crucial for the safety of both people and animals that visitors observe wildlife from a distance and do not feed or disturb them. Moreover, adherence to Leave No Trace principles is encouraged to help preserve the park's ecosystem.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park can provide the most current and detailed information for those interested in camping at Big Creek Horse Camp, including trail conditions, weather updates, and any alerts or closures. Therefore, campers should check the park's official channels before their visit.