Big Creek Horse Camp
4.3812 reviews236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821
Big Creek Horse Camp
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for equestrian non-electric sites during peak season is $36. Rates may not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Creek Horse Camp offers an extraordinary escape where riders and their equine companions can explore some of the most breathtaking mountain trails in the eastern United States. As the park's only horse camp equipped with potable water and flush toilets, this specialized equestrian haven combines rustic mountain charm with essential modern conveniences. Here, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on trail meets the whisper of mountain streams, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your horseback adventure. Remember, this exclusive retreat requires you to bring your own horse – it's a place where the bond between rider and mount deepens with every mile of scenic trail.
Big Creek Horse Camp is a specialized campground designed exclusively for horse campers. Other types of camping accommodations, such as standard tent-only sites or cabins, are not available.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of mountain seasons at Big Creek, where moderate temperatures create ideal riding conditions year-round. Spring arrives in a spectacular burst of color as native wildflowers carpet the forest floor, while summer transforms the landscape into a verdant paradise of emerald canopies and cool mountain breezes. Even in the height of summer's humidity, the elevation provides welcome relief, and mild winters mean more days in the saddle exploring this equestrian wonderland.
ElevationPerched at 1,700 feet above sea level, Big Creek Horse Camp enjoys a sweet spot in the Smoky Mountains' elevation range. This perfect altitude delivers refreshingly cool mornings, comfortable afternoon temperatures, and a climate that both horses and riders appreciate after a long day on the trail.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to mist-shrouded peaks and the melodic tumble of Big Creek rushing past your campsite. This enchanting horse camp is embraced by ancient mountains where moss-draped boulders and crystal-clear streams create a landscape straight from a fairy tale. Spring brings an artist's palette of wildflowers – trilliums, bloodroot, and violets – while towering hardwoods provide a natural cathedral of shade. The rolling terrain offers diverse riding experiences, from gentle creek-side paths to challenging mountain ascents, all within reach of your temporary mountain home.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Appalachian Mountains of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Creek Horse Camp sits atop some of the oldest mountains on Earth. These time-worn peaks, carved by millennia of wind and water, create a dramatic backdrop of forested ridges and pristine mountain streams. Spectacular waterfalls cascade over weathered stone, while morning mists reveal layer upon layer of blue-hazed ridges stretching to the horizon. This is a landscape that tells the story of geological ages, where every moss-covered boulder and babbling brook adds another verse to the mountains' eternal song.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets and accessible campsites are mentioned in the listed amenities, indicating some level of accessibility for visitors.
Sites SizeThe campsites are noted as large and provide plenty of space for campers and their vehicles or trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not specifically mentioned, though the large size of the sites may contribute to a feeling of spaciousness.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo explicit advice is provided for selecting specific sites.
Best CampsitesSpecific site recommendations were not provided in the source materials.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people and 4 horses per campsite.
Groups
There is no indication of group camping sites within Big Creek Horse Camp.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has five sites designed for equestrian use. Horses are not allowed in the camping area but can be kept in provided stalls and hitching rails nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates on a seasonal basis, opening May 23 and closing September 3 during peak season. Reservations are required.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app. Phone reservations can be made by calling the facility-specific contact number.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground is reservation-only; no walk-up sites are available.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and for late cancellations (after midnight one day before check-in), the first night's fee is forfeited. Cancellations for one-night reservations result in complete forfeiture of the paid amount.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of activities centered around equestrian use, as well as hiking and fishing. The proximity to the Big Creek trailhead and the Appalachian Trail makes it an excellent location for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible from Big Creek, including the 2.1-mile Chestnut Branch Trail, which connects to the Appalachian Trail. The Big Creek Trail leads to Mouse Creek Falls, a scenic 35-foot waterfall surrounded by wildflowers during the spring.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the cool mountain streams near the campground. Spring months are particularly good for catching Rainbow and Brook trout.Wildlife viewing
The area’s natural settings offer opportunities for spotting local wildlife. However, campers should remain cautious of high bear activity.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the moderate winters of the region suggest that it may be less popular during colder months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings. Campers must use heat-treated firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is located in bear habitat, and visitors must follow strict food storage regulations. Bears and other wildlife are common in the area. There is also a caution against theft, such as catalytic converter thefts, mentioned in user reviews.
Active alertsHigh bear activity has been reported, with an average of 339 negative bear encounters per year. Visitors are strongly advised to follow bear safety guidelines.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency phone services are available on-site. The nearest full-service medical facilities are located 16 miles away in Newport, Tennessee.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 3, 2025 and May 26, 2026 - September 1, 2026
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to promptly dispose of garbage in the dumpsters provided. All food and scented items must be stored securely to prevent wildlife encounters.
Proximity to water featuresThe camp is located beside Big Creek and within walking distance of Mouse Creek Falls. It is ideal for fishing and offers scenic water views.
Common complaintsSome users complain about non-horse campers taking up space and not following parking rules, overgrown vegetation, and the reservation system being confusing.
Campground Map
236 Big Creek Park Road, Newport, Tennessee, 37821
Driving directionsThe campground is located off I-40 Exit 451 (Waterville), approximately 16 miles east of Newport, TN. Follow Waterville Road, cross the Pigeon River, pass the Walters Power Generating Station, and continue one mile to the 4-way intersection at Mt Sterling Gap. Follow the signs to Big Creek. Drive up Big Creek Park Road. Shortly after passing the Ranger Station, take the first left turn into the horse camp.
The road leading to the campground is paved and accessible via Big Creek Park Road. Directions caution against relying on GPS directions by name, instead recommending the use of coordinates or detailed instructions. Seasonal closures or navigation challenges were not specified.Nearby places
Newport, Tennessee (16 miles, approximately 20-25 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Full-service grocery stores and fuel stations are 16 miles away in Newport, Tennessee. Heat-treated firewood is available at various vendors surrounding the park.
Camper Reviews
4.4
12 reviews
Big Creek Horse Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as a favorable destination for horse camping, citing its cleanliness and horse accommodations as positives. However, some users express frustration with hikers overtaking the area and parking challenges.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include clean bathrooms, well-maintained horse stalls, and beautiful surroundings. Several reviewers specifically praised the 'beautiful trails' and 'clean campground.'
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include overgrown vegetation, lack of enforcement of parking rules, and inappropriate use of the horse camp area by hikers. One reviewer mentioned that the site numbering system could be...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to secure good parking and being prepared for potential conflicts with non-campers using nearby trails. It’s suggested to contact the forest service if issues arise.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring is particularly praised for its wildflower blooms and trout fishing. Complaints about overgrown areas and vegetation tend to occur during summer. Late fall and winter see fewer visitors,...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'We LOVE BIG CREEK! It is our favorite horse camp. HIGHLY recommend it.' – Allyson A.
2. 'The horse camp was extremely grown up and had not been mowed in what appeared to be a long time.' –...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific comments include praise for Campsite 3 (‘great facilities, beautiful park’) and frustration with the confusing numbering system for Campsite 2 (‘close to the day-use parking or bathroom...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not a major focus in user reviews, although some mention the accessible flush toilets as a positive feature.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but specific reviews focusing on pet-related experiences are not provided.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025