Unforgettable Horse Adventures in the South: Top Equestrian Destinations & Horse-Friendly Stays
From the rolling bluegrass fields of Kentucky to the sun-drenched coasts of Florida, the South offers some of the most unforgettable horse adventures in the U.S. Whether you're looking for scenic trails, historic plantations, or sandy beach rides, these destinations promise incredible experiences for equestrian travelers. Plus, we’ve included horse-friendly lodging to help you plan your trip!
1. Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area – Tennessee & Kentucky
📍 Location: Oneida, TN & Stearns, KY
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- Over 180 miles of designated equestrian trails through canyons, rivers, and dense forests.
- Features natural rock arches, waterfalls, and historic homesteads.
- One of the top horseback riding destinations in the South.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: True West Campground – Offers horse stalls, trail access, and cozy cabins for riders.
Must-Try Experience: Ride to Charit Creek Lodge, a historic, off-grid cabin only accessible by horseback or hiking!
2. Carolina Horse Park – North Carolina
📍 Location: Raeford, NC
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- A premier equestrian competition venue with cross-country courses, stadium arenas, and scenic hacking trails.
- Hosts major equine events like hunter/jumper, dressage, and combined driving competitions.
- Near the famous Walthour-Moss Foundation Preserve, with over 4,000 acres of horse-friendly trails.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Southern Pines Equestrian Retreat – A cozy stay with horse boarding available nearby.
Must-Try Experience: Ride the scenic longleaf pine forests of Southern Pines, a historic equestrian hub.
3. Chickamauga Battlefield – Georgia
📍 Location: Fort Oglethorpe, GA
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- Ride through America’s largest Civil War battlefield, covering over 9,000 acres.
- Well-marked horse trails take you past historic landmarks, open fields, and wooded trails.
- Ideal for history lovers who want to explore on horseback.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Pigeon Mountain Horse Camp – Offers stalls, trailer hookups, and direct access to local trails.
Must-Try Experience: Take a sunset ride along the historic battlefields for a truly unique experience.
4. Florida’s Canaveral National Seashore – Florida
📍 Location: Titusville, FL
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- One of the only places in Florida where you can ride horses on the beach!
- Miles of untouched coastline and pristine Atlantic ocean views.
- Experience the thrill of riding along the surf with the salty breeze in your hair.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Equestrian Beach Stables – Offers guided beach rides and boarding near Canaveral.
Must-Try Experience: Book a morning or sunset ride for the most stunning views and cooler temperatures.
5. Land Between the Lakes – Kentucky & Tennessee
📍 Location: Golden Pond, KY & Dover, TN
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- Over 100 miles of backcountry equestrian trails through lakeside scenery, rolling hills, and woodlands.
- One of the most horse-friendly destinations in the South, featuring designated horse camping areas.
- Ride through wildlife refuges and spot deer, turkeys, and even bald eagles.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Wrangler’s Campground – A top-tier equestrian campsite with stalls, tie lines, and direct trail access.
Must-Try Experience: Explore the Fort Henry National Recreation Trail, a scenic lakeside path with Civil War history.
6. Oak Mountain State Park – Alabama
📍 Location: Pelham, AL
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- Features over 25 miles of equestrian trails with mountain views, lakes, and shaded forests.
- Offers gentle, well-maintained paths for all riding levels.
- One of the best year-round riding destinations in the South.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Rustic Trail Horse Stables – Provides boarding and lodging near the park.
Must-Try Experience: Take the Peavine Falls Trail and enjoy a scenic ride leading to a hidden waterfall.
7. Francis Marion National Forest – South Carolina
📍 Location: Near Charleston, SC
🌟 Why It's Unforgettable:
- Features miles of scenic riding trails through lush pine forests and coastal wetlands.
- Includes the Swamp Fox Passage Trail, part of the famous Palmetto Trail.
- A great mix of natural beauty and historic trails used by Revolutionary War soldiers.
🏡 Horse-Friendly Stay: Mullet Hall Equestrian Center – A premier equestrian campground near Charleston.
Must-Try Experience: Explore the Awendaw Passage, a scenic coastal ride with marshland views.
Saddle Up for an Unforgettable Southern Horse Adventure
From beach rides in Florida to Civil War battlefields in Georgia, the South is full of incredible horseback riding experiences. Whether you're planning a multi-day trek or a weekend getaway, these destinations offer top-tier trails and horse-friendly stays.
🐴 Which of these trails are you most excited to explore? Let us know!