Anthony Creek Horse Camp

About

Anthony Creek Horse Camp sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation near the western edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessed through the Cades Cove picnic area. The three campsites accommodate up to 6 people and 4 horses each, with designated gravel parking, tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and four-horse hitch racks at each site. Stalls are provided but may not be visible from your campsite. The campground serves as a basecamp for some of the Smokies' best equestrian trails. Anthony Creek Trail intersects the camp and climbs 3,000 feet up Bote Mountain, connecting to the Appalachian Trail via either Bote Mountain Trail or Russell Field Trail. Spring visitors can catch mountain laurel blooms on Spence Field. Backcountry fishing for trout is available in the surrounding streams. All campers must arrive with at least one horse and provide documentation of a negative Coggins test. No potable water is available for humans; horse water is accessible from a nearby stream. Vault toilets and bear-proof dumpsters serve the campground. The Cades Cove camp store, about a short walk away, offers basic supplies. Townsend is nine miles out for groceries and fuel.

Directions

From Maryville, TN: Take U.S. 321 North from Maryville to Townsend (about 22 miles). At the traffic light in Townsend, continue straight on TN 73 and follow signs to Cades Cove. From Pigeon Forge, TN: Take US 321 South to Townsend, turn left at Townsend onto TN 73, and follow signs to Cades Cove. The horse camp is accessed through the back of the Cades Cove picnic area through an unlocked gate.