North Carolina / Haywood County / Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cataloochee Horse Camp

Closed — Closed. The campground is not scheduled to open in 2025 due to operational capacity. When operational, the campground typically opens mid-April through the end of October and accepts reservations through Recreation.gov.

About

Located in the remote and scenic Cataloochee Valley of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Horse Camp offers primitive camping specifically for visitors traveling with horses. The campground features seven sites, each equipped with four horse stalls and hitching racks, nestled under a cool and shady canopy along Cataloochee Creek. This horse camp is a favorite among equestrian enthusiasts, providing direct access to some of the park's most popular horseback riding trails, including Rough Fork Trail and Caldwell Fork Trail, which leads to the scenic 3.9-mile Boogerman Trail. The Cataloochee Valley is renowned for its picturesque mountain scenery, changing dramatically with the seasons from spring wildflowers to vivid fall colors. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with the valley known for its elk herd that frequents the area, as well as black bears and wild trout in the streams. The area also features historic structures including the Palmer House with its self-guided museum, along with cabins and churches dating to the early settlement period. This is a primitive campground with no potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supply. There are no hookups, showers, or modern amenities. Access to the campground requires navigating a narrow, winding mountain road including a three-mile gravel section with blind curves, making it unsuitable for motorhomes over 32 feet or trailers over 25 feet. All horses must have a current Coggins test, and campers are responsible for cleaning stalls and disposing of manure. The nearby towns of Maggie Valley and Waynesville offer groceries and supplies.

Directions

From I-40, take North Carolina Exit 20 (25 miles west of Asheville or 87 miles east of Knoxville). Turn right onto Cove Creek Road 0.1 miles from I-40. Follow Cove Creek Road approximately 11 miles to Cataloochee Horse Camp. The road includes a 3-mile unpaved section with narrow, blind curves.

Nearby Campgrounds