Big Creek Horse Campground – Horse Camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Tucked into the northeastern corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Creek Horse Campground is a favorite among equestrian campers. It’s the only horse camp in the park with drinking water and a modern restroom facility, making it a convenient base for multi-day riding adventures.
What to Expect
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Each site includes a tent pad, picnic table, and fire pit/grill
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No electricity or water hookups
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No showers onsite, but private fee-based shower facilities are available just outside the park—ask the campground host for directions
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A general store is located nearby at the intersection of Mt. Sterling and Big Creek Entrance Roads
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Emergency phone located 1 mile away at the Big Creek Ranger Station
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No cell service at the campground
Horse Accommodations
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Horses must be kept in the designated stalls, not at campsites
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Two stall groups, each with 12 stalls and a manure wagon
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Campsites 3, 4, and 5 are closest to the stalls; sites 1 and 2 are farther away
Most trails in the area are horse-friendly (with the exception of the Appalachian Trail), making this a prime location for exploring the Smokies on horseback.
Reservations
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Reservations are required and must be made in advance
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Book online at Recreation.gov or call (877) 444-6777
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No payment or registration is available onsite, and there is no cell signal—if you arrive without a reservation, you'll need to leave the area to make one
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Always remember your site number before you arrive—there is a daily bulletin board with reservations posted, but it’s not always reliable
Pro tip: Save your reservation confirmation and site number offline before you arrive—cell service is non-existent, and it could save you a long detour.
Explore more at the National Park Service – Horse Riding & Camping in the Smokies.