Harmon Den Horse Campground
4.6715 reviews632 Manor RD, Mars Hill, NC 28754, USA
Harmon Den Horse Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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 campground charges $15 per night for all sites, whether equestrian or standard nonelectric. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Hidden beneath a canopy of ancient hardwoods in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, Harmon Den Horse Campground beckons to those seeking adventure on horseback or the simple pleasure of sleeping under starlit skies. This remote sanctuary caters to equestrian enthusiasts with thoughtfully designed amenities, including spacious stalls, convenient mangers, and direct access to miles of scenic riding trails that wind through the Appalachian wilderness. Whether you arrive with your four-legged companion or simply with a tent and a spirit of adventure, you'll find yourself immersed in the tranquil rhythms of forest life.
Harmon Den Horse Campground provides facilities tailored for equestrian camping, tent camping, and small trailer camping. It does not support RV camping due to the absence of hookups.
Historical SignificanceAs part of the storied Appalachian Ranger District, Harmon Den carries the echoes of generations who have traversed these ancient mountains. The campground serves as a gateway between two of America's most treasured landscapes - the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. This strategic location has long made it a favorite stopping point for travelers, from early settlers following mountain passes to modern adventurers seeking connection with the region's rich heritage. The trails that radiate from the campground follow paths worn by Cherokee hunters, pioneer families, and countless wild creatures that have called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain climate here tells its own story throughout the year, with misty mornings giving way to dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy. Summer brings warm days perfect for trail riding and cool nights ideal for campfire conversations, while autumn transforms the surrounding hardwoods into a brilliant tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter wraps the campground in a quiet blanket of snow, creating a serene wonderland for the hardy few who venture out. Spring arrives with wildflowers and the sound of rushing streams, though frequent rain showers remind visitors to pack accordingly. The moderate temperatures and frequent cloud cover create an ever-changing atmosphere that adds to the campground's mystique.
ElevationPerched at 1,900 feet above sea level, Harmon Den occupies a sweet spot in the mountain landscape - high enough to escape the summer heat of the valleys below, yet gentle enough for comfortable camping and riding. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate where lowland and highland species mingle, offering visitors the best of both mountain worlds without the challenges of extreme altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryNature puts on a spectacular show at Harmon Den, where cascading waterfalls tumble through moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear mountain streams sing their ancient songs. The surrounding hardwood forest creates a living cathedral of oak, maple, and hickory that shelters an abundance of wildlife. Early risers might spot black bears foraging for breakfast, while white-tailed deer often graze in the evening light. The distinctive drumming of ruffed grouse echoes through the trees, and the occasional glimpse of a wild turkey adds excitement to any trail ride. Towering forested peaks frame the horizon in every direction, their ridgelines creating a dramatic backdrop that changes with each passing cloud and season.
Geological RegionHarmon Den sits within the magnificent Appalachian Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest, a landscape sculpted by millions of years of geological forces. This ancient terrain showcases elevations that soar from the campground's comfortable 1,900-foot perch to breathtaking peaks reaching 6,684 feet. The dramatic topography creates a diverse ecosystem where rushing waterfalls carve through time-worn stone, cold mountain streams nurture rare plant communities, and verdant forests blanket the rolling peaks and valleys. This geological diversity not only creates stunning vistas but also supports the rich biodiversity that makes every visit a new discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features bear-proof garbage cans and gated access (with a lock combination provided after reservation), but no specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are highlighted.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates a maximum of 4 horses and 8 people.
Sites PrivacyThe campground, located amid a mixed hardwood forest, provides secluded sites with ample privacy.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor equestrian campers, portable corrals or high-line setups are recommended as an alternative to pipe-rack stalls for extended stays. HD13 is highlighted for its privacy and convenient layout.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include HD13, HD11, HD14, and HD10 due to their scenic locations and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Guests may stay for a maximum of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests and 4 horses per campsite.
Groups
No details regarding group camping sites are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two loops: the upper loop for horse campers and the lower loop for tent campers and small trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 1 to October 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 828-689-9694.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are not available. Advance reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled prior to the check-in date to avoid penalties. Late cancellations, defined as less than one calendar day before check-in, incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Additional policies may apply for changes and refunds.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Harmon Den Horse Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, with a primary focus on horse camping and trail exploration. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding on over 14 miles of designated trails and hiking on nearby trails totaling about 40 miles. Hunting and fishing opportunities are also available. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife viewing opportunities, featuring species such as elk, bears, foxes, and deer.
Hiking
The campground provides access to trails such as the 5.4-mile Buckeye Ridge, 2.6-mile Cherry Ridge, 2.5-mile Robert Gap, and 3.6-mile Cold Springs Trails. These trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views of waterfalls and forested peaks.Fishing
User reviews highlight fishing at various sites near the campground, though exact details about fish species or designated fishing locations are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of elk, bears, foxes, grouse, and wild turkeys. Visitors frequently mention encountering wildlife during hikes and horseback riding.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hazards include bear activity due to the campground's location in a bear sanctuary. Gravel roads may pose challenges for navigation, and the water pump is currently non-potable.
Active alertsThe water pump is non-potable; visitors must bring their own drinking water. Gated access may require physical effort to manage.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.7 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
Nearest emergency services include Mars Hill Emergency Medical Services (~20 miles) and Haywood County Sheriff's Office (~40 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - October 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingBear-proof garbage cans are available throughout the campground to maintain cleanliness and safety. Trash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described beyond this feature.
Proximity to water featuresCold mountain streams flow throughout the area, and waterfalls are accessible nearby.
Common complaintsVisitors have reported stalls being left in unsatisfactory condition, requiring clean-up upon arrival. Water pumps occasionally malfunction and may produce brown water. Directions to the campground can be confusing for first-time visitors.
HostNo detailed information about campground hosts is available.
Campground Map
632 Manor RD, Mars Hill, NC 28754, USA
Driving directionsFrom Hot Springs, North Carolina, take Highway 209 south for approximately 7 miles. Turn right onto Meadowfork Road NCSR# 1175. After 6 miles turn right onto Little Creek Road NCSR# 1181 for 3 miles. Take a left onto Max Patch Road NCSR# 1182, then travel approximately 0.75 miles and turn right onto Cold Springs Road NFSR# 148. Travel southwest for about 3 miles to the intersection of Fall Branch Road NFSR#3526, then continue a half-mile to the entrance of the campground on the left. Additionally, access is available from Interstate 40 Exit 7 Harmon Den: travel east 3.0 miles on Cold Springs road NFSR#148 to Falls Branch road NFSR#3526 and 0.5 miles to the entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved and gravel roads. Gravel roads can be steep, narrow, and challenging for larger vehicles, such as those towing horse trailers. Seasonal challenges include heavy traffic during busy recreational periods, and road conditions may deteriorate due to weather events.Nearby places
Hot Springs, NC (~16 miles), Mars Hill, NC (~20 miles), Asheville, NC (~40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping essentials, and fuel can be found in Mars Hill (~20 miles) and Hot Springs (~16 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.7
15 reviews
Harmon Den Horse Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users rate Harmon Den Horse Campground highly, emphasizing its quiet atmosphere, beautiful trails, and suitability for horse camping. However, issues such as poorly cleaned horse stalls and water quality occasionally detract from the experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the beautiful scenery, privacy of campsites, and excellent horseback riding trails. Positive mentions include wildlife sightings (elk, bears, foxes) and the proximity to Max Patch...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints from reviewers include poorly maintained horse stalls, unclear driving directions, difficulty using the water pump, and occasional issues with the gated access system.
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing drinking water due to non-potable water availability, carrying portable corrals for horses, and ensuring proper adherence to bear-proof storage rules. They also suggest...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors note that the campground is particularly enjoyable in spring and fall, with favorable weather and scenic views. Summers may bring higher wildlife activity (including bears). Winter visits...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Love the sound of the creek as I sleep." - Steven Scheid
"Saw a bear, fox, and elk during our amazing hiking!" - Wendy Chadwick
"This is an amazing place for horse camping!!!" - Katy Fanning
"Love...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites HD13 and HD14 are frequently mentioned in reviews. While site HD13 received mixed reviews due to stall maintenance issues, site HD14 was praised for its quiet atmosphere.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly reviewed or mentioned by users.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or pet-related experiences at this campground.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025