Wash Creek Horse Camp
4.796 reviews1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA
Wash Creek Horse Camp
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee is $40 per night for the group equestrian site. Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of a pristine hardwood forest, Wash Creek Horse Camp offers an authentic backcountry experience tailored specifically for equestrian adventurers. This intimate campground welcomes groups of up to 30 riders and their companions, with space for 10 vehicles at its single, thoughtfully designed group site. Here, the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on forest trails replaces the buzz of modern life, creating a sanctuary where horses and their riders can explore miles of wilderness together.
Wash Creek Horse Camp specifically serves equestrian groups with one group site accommodating up to 30 people.
Historical SignificanceWash Creek Horse Camp stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Pisgah National Forest, one of America's pioneering conservation success stories. This corner of the forest has long beckoned to those seeking authentic outdoor experiences, carrying forward a tradition of wilderness recreation that dates back generations. The camp continues to honor the deep connection between riders and the wild places that have shaped the cultural heritage of the Southern Appalachians.
Weather and SeasonsThe seasons paint dramatic changes across this mountain retreat. Winter arrives with a crystalline beauty, bringing crisp, cold air that transforms the forest into a wonderland of frost and occasional snow. While temperatures can plunge during the coldest months, savvy campers know that dry air and calm winds often create surprisingly comfortable conditions for those properly prepared. Spring and fall offer their own rewards, though visitors should pack rain gear and layers to adapt to the mountain's mercurial moods throughout the year.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of towering hardwoods creates a living canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor below. The gentle murmur of Wash Creek accompanies your stay, its clear, shallow waters providing a refreshing stop for horses after a day on the trail. In spring, wildflowers carpet the understory, while autumn transforms the forest into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber leaves that seem to glow in the slanted light.
Geological RegionNestled deep within the ancient folds of Pisgah National Forest, this secluded haven occupies a quiet valley where Wash Creek has carved its patient path through centuries of seasons. The surrounding hardwood ecosystem represents one of the most biologically diverse temperate forests on Earth, where massive oaks and hickories rise from slopes shaped by millions of years of geological forces. This remote setting offers riders an unfiltered connection to the raw beauty of the Southern Appalachian wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly provide accessibility features for disabled visitors beyond basic amenities.
Sites SizeThe group site is spacious enough to accommodate 30 people and 10 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest the campground offers a remote and forested environment, but privacy may be impacted by occasional visitors. "Great primitive site for small groups. Did have someone wander into our camp at 10 pm wanting to 'hang out.'"
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBest suited for equestrian use due to hitching posts and trail access. Large groups will find adequate space with picnic tables and firepit.
Best CampsitesThere is only one campsite available: Campsite 001 in Loop Wash Creek Horse Camp.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
30 people
Groups
The site accommodates up to 30 people and 10 vehicles, featuring a vault toilet, hitching posts, picnic tables, and a fire ring.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site with vault toilet and hitching posts for horses. Includes firepit and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens January 1, 2025 and closes December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot mentioned. Reservable in advance only.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date. A $10 cancellation fee applies and late cancellations incur additional fees. Cancellations within 14 days of the check-in date forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground supports equestrian activities and offers access to horse trails, hiking, fishing, and biking. "The space was so verdant and beautiful. We spent the day riding and hiking in the woods and swimming and splashing in the creek."
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant and shared by equestrians and mountain bikers. Trails are marked with signs and colored blazes. "Do keep your eyes open for snakes on the trail."Fishing
Fishing is recognized as a popular activity in the area, though specific details about fish types or conditions are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the surrounding area and shared with equestrian users.Winter Activities
No winter recreation opportunities are mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Water activities such as swimming and splashing in the creek are casually mentioned, but no organized water sports are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires may only be burned in established fire rings. Visitors must extinguish fires completely before departure.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews highlight the presence of snakes on trails. Late-night wanderers were also reported in reviews.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Contact the Group Campground Manager at (828) 577-4910 or visit North Mills River Campground for assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are not provided on-site; campers are required to pack out their trash. Nearby North Mills River Recreation Area has a community dumpster. "Forest Service have done a great job, keeping up the gravel pads, fire pits, trails, signage, etc. There was not a public bathroom or shower house, but they did provide a community dumpster, located at the exit."
Proximity to water featuresSmall, shallow stream located near the campsite.
Common complaintsLate-night disturbances, snakes along the trails.
HostManaged by Naventure. Contact Group Campground Manager at (828) 577-4910.
Campground Map
1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA
Driving directionsFrom exit 40 on Interstate 26 travel west on Hwy 280 (passing the Asheville Airport and going towards Brevard). Go six miles to a light and turn right on North Mills River Road. Go six miles and just before entering the North Mills River Campground, turn right on Forest Service (gravel) Road #5000. Proceed two miles to site on right.
Access to the site is via a narrow gravel road.Nearby places
North Mills River Recreation Area (20 minutes), Lake Powhatan Recreation Area (45 minutes), Brevard (1 hour), Asheville (1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Kiln dried firewood is available at North Mills River Campground for $10 per bundle. Additional supplies such as groceries and camping essentials might be available in nearby towns such as Brevard and Asheville.
Camper Reviews
4.8
6 reviews
Wash Creek Horse Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the campground's suitability for equestrian groups and small gatherings. Highlights include the spacious site, clean facilities, and beautiful surroundings.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the site's spaciousness, clean outhouse, fire ring, and picnic tables. "The space was so verdant and beautiful. We spent the day riding and hiking in the woods and swimming and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns were raised about occasional late-night visitors and wildlife such as snakes on trails. "Did have someone wander into our camp at 10 pm wanting to 'hang out.' Could have been a bad situation...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring trash bags for packing out waste. Consider visiting nearby North Mills River Campground for showers and additional amenities. Stay vigilant for wildlife during trail activities.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User reviews suggest the campground is suitable year-round but intermittent rain may occur during some visits. "Had a super sweet time in spite the intermittent rain."
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Forest Service have done a great job, keeping up the gravel pads, fire pits, trails, signage, etc." "Do keep your eyes open for snakes on the trail." "Great location! Clean outhouse!"
Based on 6 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews consistently reference the single campsite, emphasizing its spaciousness and suitability for group activities. "Great campsite for large groups. The firepit is big and there's plenty of...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews or features are mentioned in user feedback.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit feedback regarding pets or pet policies is mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025