Tow String Horse Camp
01 reviewc/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA
Tow String 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
The nightly rate for equestrian nonelectric sites during peak season is $30. Guests must reserve with Recreation.gov and fees do not include taxes or discounts.
About this campground
Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Tow String Horse Camp, where the ancient trails of the Great Smoky Mountains await you and your equine companion. This exclusive equestrian haven offers riders the rare opportunity to explore the park's legendary backcountry from horseback, just as early settlers once did. Remember, this unique campground requires you to bring your horse – it's not just encouraged, it's essential! Here, traditional woods camping meets the romance of the open trail, creating an authentic wilderness experience that connects you to centuries of mountain heritage.
Tow String Horse Camp is a specialized campground catering exclusively to equestrians. It offers basic camping facilities without modern utilities.
Historical SignificanceEvery hoofbeat at Tow String echoes with the stories of those who came before. The surrounding park protects one of America's most remarkable collections of pioneer architecture, with over 90 authentic log structures standing as testaments to Appalachian ingenuity. These weathered cabins, sturdy barns, and simple churches tell the tale of hardy settlers who carved out lives in these mountains, following trails first blazed by Paleo Indians thousands of years earlier. As you ride past these historic treasures, you're not just observing history – you're traveling the same paths that shaped the American frontier.
Weather and SeasonsThe Smokies' gentle climate makes Tow String an inviting destination throughout much of the year. Spring arrives with wildflower-dotted meadows and comfortable riding temperatures, while summer brings warm days perfect for early morning trail rides before the afternoon humidity sets in. Fall transforms the mountains into a tapestry of crimson and gold, offering some of the most spectacular riding conditions imaginable. Even winter treats visitors to mild temperatures and peaceful, uncrowded trails. The most coveted camping weeks feature crystal-clear skies and minimal precipitation, creating ideal conditions for multi-day riding adventures through this mountain paradise.
ElevationNestled within the rolling contours of the Smokies, Tow String Horse Camp offers riders access to diverse mountain terrain that challenges and rewards in equal measure. The varying elevations throughout the trail system provide everything from gentle valley rides to exhilarating mountain ascents, ensuring every skill level finds their perfect adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that has captivated hearts for generations. Tow String sits cradled by the majestic peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, where morning mist dances through ancient forests and evening light paints the ridgelines in shades of purple and blue. The surrounding wilderness bursts with biodiversity – from towering old-growth trees to delicate wildflowers, from black bears ambling through berry patches to salamanders hiding in crystal-clear streams. This is nature at its most magnificent, a living gallery where every trail ride reveals new wonders and every sunset from camp becomes a cherished memory.
Geological RegionTow String Horse Camp rests within one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, where billion-year-old rocks tell the story of our planet's dramatic past. The Great Smoky Mountains stand as monuments to time itself, their weathered peaks and deep valleys carved by eons of wind, water, and ice. This remarkable geological heritage has created an ecosystem of extraordinary diversity, earning the park recognition as an International Biosphere Reserve. Here, the very ground beneath your horse's hooves connects you to the ancient forces that shaped not just these mountains, but the entire Appalachian chain – a natural wonder that ranks among Earth's most biodiverse temperate regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features specific to Tow String Horse Camp are not mentioned. Campers should inquire directly with the park office for detailed accessibility information.
Sites SizeThe campground features basic sites designed for equestrian use. Each site accommodates a maximum of six people and four horses.
Sites PrivacySites are described as traditional woods camping and may offer moderate privacy, but specific details about site spacing or seclusion are not provided.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites should be chosen based on ease of tying horses to trailers since no hitching posts or stalls are provided. Privacy is moderate and facilities include fire pits and picnic tables.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites were identified as being highest-rated or most popular.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights is permitted.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum six people per campsite and up to four horses.
Groups
Group camping information is not specified for Tow String Horse Camp.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features traditional woods camping with amenities like fire pits and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 18, 2025 - October 26, 2025; closed out of season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation about walk-up availability is not provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee if canceled the day before or the day of arrival. Refund requests for early departure or non-use of the site after the reservation has ended will be denied.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Tow String Horse Camp provides access to equestrian trails, hiking paths, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is situated in the scenic Great Smoky Mountains, offering diverse recreational opportunities ranging from exploring historical log buildings to enjoying nature.
Hiking
Over 800 miles of maintained trails are available in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with some trails accessible directly from Tow String Horse Camp. Trails range from short walks to strenuous treks.Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy backcountry fishing in the park's streams and rivers, which are teeming with trout. A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to abundant wildlife, including 1,500 bears, deer, and elk. Campers often spot wildlife in its natural habitat, contributing to the camping experience.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park preserves over 90 historic structures, offering insights into Southern Appalachian culture, including houses, barns, and mills.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed for this location.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned in the provided content.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated rings. Firewood must be certified heat-treated or collected dead and down wood.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM. Generator use is restricted to 8 AM to 8 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wildlife, including bears, poses risks. Improper food storage can lead to fines. Horses cannot be tied to trees and must be secured only to trailers.
Active alertsA valid parking tag is required for vehicles parked for over 15 minutes. Firewood collection is restricted to dead and down wood or heat-treated certified bundles.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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 nearest to the campground are located in Cherokee, NC.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18, 2025 - October 26, 2025 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to use bear-proof dumpsters for trash disposal, and improper storage or disposal is strictly penalized to protect wildlife. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe park includes streams and rivers ideal for backcountry fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight poor site conditions and proximity to a sewer: "No power, cannot get your vehicle near the site. Very poor condition and by a sewer."
HostHost information is not provided.
Campground Map
c/o Oconaluftee Ranger Station, 60 Enloe-Floyd Bottoms Road, Cherokee, NC, 28719, USA
Driving directionsTow String horse camp is located 4 miles north of Cherokee, NC off Newfound Gap Road (aka U.S. 441). Turn right at the sign for Tow String. Turn left after crossing the bridge.
The campground is accessible off Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441), with no reported seasonal closures or challenging terrain noted in the sources.Nearby places
Cherokee, NC (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries and fuel are available 4 miles away in Cherokee, NC.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Tow String Horse Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Tow String Horse Camp has received mixed reviews, with some users appreciating its equestrian focus and scenic setting, while others criticized the lack of modern amenities and site conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's proximity to equestrian trails and its location within the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park are notable positives.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the absence of potable water, no electricity or sewer hook-ups, and the poor condition of some sites. One user review specifically mentioned: "No power, can not get your...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies, including potable water, and adhere to food storage regulations to avoid wildlife encounters. Horse owners must bring a current Coggins test...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open from April to October, with users likely to experience hot, humid conditions in summer and milder weather in spring and fall. Seasonal reviews highlight the challenges of...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Saddle up your horses for a camping trip in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park." "No power, can not get your vehicle near the site. Very poor condition and by a sewer."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite reviews are available for Tow String Horse Camp.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features have been provided.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on trails.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025