Round Bottom Horse Camp
04 reviewsc/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Round Bottom Horse Camp
$30.00 - $30.00 / 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
Facility rates for peak season (May 23, 2025 - September 03, 2025) are $30 per night for equestrian non-electric sites.
About this campground
Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Round Bottom Horse Camp, where the ancient peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains become your personal riding playground. Perched at an elevation of 3,060 feet, this specialized equestrian retreat connects riders with miles of scenic mountain trails that wind through pristine wilderness. Here, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on mountain paths mingles with the babbling of crystal-clear streams, creating a symphony that speaks to every horse lover's soul.
Round Bottom Horse Camp is a specialized facility catering to equestrian campers. Its setup is tailored for horseback riding enthusiasts and does not accommodate regular tent or RV camping.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience unfolds within a living museum of Southern Appalachian heritage. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park carefully preserves more than 90 historic structures that tell the story of mountain life across generations. From weathered log cabins to working grist mills, these authentic artifacts offer glimpses into the resilient spirit of early settlers who called these mountains home. As you ride past these historic treasures, you're following paths once traveled by Cherokee hunters and pioneering families.
Weather and SeasonsAt 3,060 feet above sea level, Round Bottom enjoys nature's perfect climate balance. Winter brings crisp, refreshing air without harsh extremes, making off-season rides surprisingly pleasant. As spring unfolds, the mountainsides burst alive with spectacular wildflower displays that transform trails into nature's gallery. Summer delivers warm days tempered by cool mountain breezes, while autumn stages its grand finale with a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber foliage that makes every ride feel like a journey through a living painting.
ElevationThe campground's strategic position at 3,060 feet creates an ideal microclimate that riders and horses alike appreciate. This sweet spot elevation means you'll escape the sweltering heat of lower valleys during summer while avoiding the harsh cold that grips higher peaks in winter. The result is an extended riding season where mountain air stays fresh and invigorating throughout your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryRound Bottom Horse Camp sits cradled within one of Earth's oldest mountain ranges, where time seems to slow beneath endless blue skies and ancient forest canopies. Towering hardwoods and evergreens create a verdant sanctuary that changes personality with each season. Morning mists drift through valleys like nature's curtains, revealing breathtaking vistas as the sun climbs higher. Remember, this exclusive equestrian paradise requires you to bring your four-legged companion – horses are mandatory for all campers, ensuring a true rider's retreat.
Geological RegionWelcome to the geological wonderland of the Great Smoky Mountains, where 500 million years of Earth's history surrounds your campsite. These ancient peaks harbor one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America, supporting an astounding variety of plant and animal species found nowhere else. Pure mountain streams cascade over time-worn rocks, their waters as clear today as they were centuries ago. This protected wilderness offers riders the rare opportunity to explore pristine landscapes where nature's original blueprint remains beautifully intact.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not specifically mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campsite is designed for equestrian use with adequate space to accommodate horses and trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of the sites is not explicitly detailed, but user reviews suggest a quiet and peaceful environment.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the creek for easy access to water, but be prepared to walk 30 yards to fetch water for horses.
Best CampsitesSites 001 and 002 are highly rated. Site 001 is praised for being "right beside the creek" while site 002 is noted for its "peace and quiet."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Groups
No group camping facilities are noted.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRound Bottom Horse Camp consists of 5 sites for equestrian camping, all located near basic facilities like pit toilets and horse stalls.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs from May 23, 2025, to September 03, 2025. The campground is closed for reservations from September 03, 2025, to May 26, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not mentioned; reservations are required and must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations will forfeit the first night's use fee plus a $10 cancellation fee. Refund requests for early departure or non-use must be made before the reservation ends.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer a wide range of recreational activities including horseback riding, hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploring cultural and historic sites. Activities are deeply interwoven with the park's natural landscape and cultural heritage.
Hiking
Over 800 miles of maintained hiking trails are available in the park. Trails vary from short, easy walks to strenuous backcountry hikes.Fishing
Backcountry fishing opportunities include trout-rich streams and rivers. A valid North Carolina or Tennessee fishing license is required, along with adherence to park-specific fishing regulations.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen includes bears among the park's approximately 1,500 population. The park is a sanctuary for diverse animal species.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park is home to over 90 historic structures, offering insights into Southern Appalachian culture and history.Winter Activities
Not specified in the source materials.Water Sports
Not specified in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only permitted in designated fire rings, and campers must use certified heat-treated firewood or collect dead and downed wood.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Generator use is restricted to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is high, making strict adherence to food storage rules critical. Wildlife encounters and rural terrain may pose challenges.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 services are available in Cherokee, NC, approximately 9 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 03, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Campers must adhere to strict food and waste storage regulations due to the presence of bears.
Proximity to water featuresCreeks are nearby, including one just across the road for horse watering. Camp is "right beside the creek," as noted by reviewers.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention the lack of water facilities for horses within the camp, requiring access to a nearby creek.
Campground Map
c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cherokee, NC: Take US 441 north. Just before entering the park, turn right at last traffic light onto Acquoni Road. Go one block, across the river, and turn left onto Big Cove Road (marked by detour sign). Go 9 miles to a tee. Turn right and go 0.9 mile to the end of the pavement. Take the gravel Straight Fork-Round Bottom road, adjacent to a trout rearing facility, 3.5 miles to the horse camp. From Gatlinburg, TN: Take Newfound Gap Road (US 441 South) towards Cherokee, NC. Exit the park into Cherokee and turn left at the first traffic light. Go one block, across the river, and turn left onto Big Cove Road (marked by detour sign). Continue with directions above.
Access requires navigating gravel roads. Road conditions may be challenging for some vehicles. Seasonal weather could further impact road usability.Nearby places
Cherokee, NC, is about 9 miles away (approximately 20 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
Fuel and grocery stores can be found in Cherokee, NC, located about 9 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Round Bottom Horse Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Round Bottom Horse Camp are generally positive, highlighting the scenic location, horseback riding opportunities, and the tranquil environment. However, a lack of water in the campsite is a recurring issue.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the peaceful setting, proximity to a creek, and excellent horseback riding trails. One reviewer noted, 'My daughter and I went on a 5-night trip and had a wonderful time...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The primary complaint was the lack of water on-site for horses, requiring campers to fetch water from a creek across the road. Another issue was poor cell service, as highlighted in the review:...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring sufficient water for their stay or be prepared to fetch water from the creek nearby. Additionally, bringing certified heat-treated firewood is essential due to strict...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that spring and fall are ideal seasons to visit due to the vibrant wildflowers and fall foliage. Summer can be humid and hot due to the campground's elevation of 3,060 feet.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground and it’s super easy to get to! Right beside the creek. Great horseback riding.' 2. 'I loved the peace and quiet. Had to walk across the road to water our horses. Wish there...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews indicate that sites like 001 and 002 near Horse Camp 001-005 loop offer good experiences but require walking across the road to access water.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews explicitly addressed accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground, but they must be kept on a leash and are not permitted on trails. No specific user experiences related to pets were provided.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025