Whetstone Horse Camp
4.4344 reviews112 ANDREW PICKENS CIRCLE, MOUNTAIN REST, SC 29664, USA
Whetstone Horse Camp
$15.00 - $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
Equestrian Nonelectric sites range from $15 to $30 per night. These rates exclude taxes, discounts, and incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Whetstone Horse Camp welcomes equestrian enthusiasts to a rider's paradise. This thoughtfully designed campground offers 18 spacious sites, each equipped with sturdy hitching racks for your four-legged companions, alongside classic camping amenities including picnic tables, atmospheric lantern posts, and warming fire rings. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort during your stay, while miles of scenic horseback riding trails beckon just beyond your campsite. Whether you're saddling up for a dawn ride through mountain meadows or enjoying an evening around the campfire, Whetstone creates the perfect basecamp for your equestrian adventure.
Whetstone Horse Camp specializes in equestrian camping but is also suitable for tent camping. The sites are designed for horse trailers and primitive camping setups.
Historical SignificanceYour adventures at Whetstone place you at the crossroads of natural wonder and human history. Just a short ride away, the mysterious Stumphouse Tunnel stands as a testament to 19th-century ambition—an unfinished railroad tunnel that now echoes with stories of the past. Nearby, the enchanting Isaqueena Falls cascades 200 feet over ancient rock faces, wrapped in Cherokee legend and pioneer lore. These historically significant landmarks have drawn visitors for generations, adding layers of cultural richness to your mountain camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of the seasons at Whetstone, where each time of year brings its own magic. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect riding temperatures, while autumn paints the mountainsides in brilliant golds and crimsons under crystal-clear skies. Summer days invite early morning rides before the afternoon humidity settles in, offering long, warm evenings perfect for campfire gatherings. Even winter has its charms here, with crisp, dry days ideal for invigorating trail rides when the crowds have gone home. Most riders find spring and fall irresistible, when moderate temperatures and stunning natural beauty combine for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
ElevationPerched in the embrace of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Whetstone Horse Camp offers the perfect elevation for comfortable camping and exhilarating rides. Here, mountain breezes keep summer temperatures pleasant while the elevated terrain provides sweeping views and diverse trail experiences. The camp's strategic position in these ancient mountains means cooler mornings that gradually warm to comfortable afternoons, creating ideal conditions for both horses and riders throughout your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to misty mountain mornings where the Blue Ridge foothills stretch endlessly before you, creating a landscape that seems painted just for outdoor enthusiasts. The camp sits surrounded by a tapestry of hardwood forests and mountain meadows, with trails that wind through this scenic wonderland. Riders rave about discovering the pristine waters of the nearby Chattooga River, where crystal-clear currents have carved dramatic gorges through ancient rock. The peaceful mountain setting creates a natural sanctuary where the only sounds are birdsong, rustling leaves, and the gentle nickering of horses greeting the dawn.
Geological RegionWhetstone Horse Camp rests within the ancient geological wonderland of the Blue Ridge Mountains' foothills, where millions of years of natural forces have sculpted a rider's dream landscape. Adjacent to the renowned Rocky Gap and Willis Knob Horse Trails, the camp provides access to terrain that showcases western South Carolina's diverse natural heritage. Here, weathered granite outcroppings punctuate rolling forests, while hidden valleys and ridgelines create an ever-changing backdrop for your equestrian adventures. This unique geological setting offers everything from gentle meadow trails to challenging mountain paths, all within the spectacular natural amphitheater of the Blue Ridge.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features include hitching racks for horses and lantern poles, though specifics about ADA-compliance or accessibility beyond these elements are not detailed.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious in multiple user reviews, including Bradley D's note about very spacious spots.
Sites PrivacyMany reviews highlight the quiet and private nature of the sites, such as Robert Millner's mention of large, quiet sites.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 006 and 007 are recommended for larger groups and double parking spurs. Users suggest choosing remote sites to avoid noise disturbances.
Best CampsitesCampsites with high tie lines appear to be preferred due to safety considerations for horses.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Details not provided.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground consists of 18 equestrian-focused sites equipped with horse hitching posts and basic amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 18 sites are by reservation only; no walk-up availability is implied.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to the reservation date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations may also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Reservation changes ahead of arrival include a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Whetstone Horse Camp focuses on equestrian activities, offering horse trails, hiking opportunities, and a peaceful environment for camping. Several user reviews highlight the beautiful surroundings and the variety of trails available.
Hiking
The Rocky Gap Trail and Willis Knob Horse Trail offer excellent hiking and horseback riding opportunities. User Rebecca M specifically mentions well-maintained trails on the South Carolina side of the Chattooga River.Swimming
Swimming is available at Earl's Ford crossing where horses can also swim, as highlighted by user Rebecca M.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is inferred from the natural surroundings and reviews mentioning scenic beauty, such as those by Katy A and Lynette C.Beach activities
Beach-like activities are available at Earl's Ford crossing, offering a place to enjoy the river during hot days, as noted by Rebecca M.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though some user reviews praise the site's beauty during fall and winter.Water Sports
Rebecca M highlights swimming for both horses and people at Earl's Ford crossing, but other water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within provided fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include muddy trails, low tie posts hazardous for horses, and falling trees on trails as per user reviews.
Active alertsNo current alerts reported.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.1 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 services available in Walhalla, located 13 miles away. Specific details about hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingManure bins are available for horse waste disposal, but reviews such as Coley J and Susan C indicate some issues with trash cleanliness and maintenance.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Chattooga River, which features scenic river crossings and waterfall areas.
Common complaintsUsers have noted issues with noisy generators, muddy campsites lacking gravel, and hazardous horse tie posts.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.
Campground Map
112 ANDREW PICKENS CIRCLE, MOUNTAIN REST, SC 29664, USA
Driving directionsFrom Walhalla, go north 6 miles on State Highway 28. Turn left onto Whetstone Road. Go straight for about 5 miles. Continue straight at the four-way stop for another 1.5 miles. The pavement ends and gravel begins. A sign for Whetstone Horse Camp is about 3/4-mile down the gravel road. The camp is on the left.
Access involves paved roads for the initial journey, transitioning into gravel roads near the campground. Seasonal conditions may impact gravel accessibility.Nearby places
Walhalla - 13 miles (approximately 20-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Walhalla, 13 miles away. Details about specific grocery stores, camping supplies, or fuel stations are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.4
44 reviews
Whetstone Horse Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Whetstone Horse Camp are generally positive, with frequent praise for the spacious sites, clean facilities, and excellent horse trails. Some reviewers note the lack of showers and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious sites, clean restrooms, helpful camp hosts, and well-maintained trails. The scenic beauty and peaceful environment are consistently praised.
Based on 44 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include problems with hitching posts, lack of trail maps, muddy sites during rain, and loud generators disrupting quiet hours.
Based on 44 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from users include bringing wheelbarrows and manure forks for horse waste, gravel to improve muddy sites during rain, and trail maps for navigation.
Based on 44 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is highlighted for its beautiful colors, while winter reviews emphasize peacefulness and fewer crowds. Summer reviews suggest swimming at Earl's Ford crossing as a highlight.
Based on 44 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Neat horse camp out of the way, no cell service." - Laura Gravelle; "Great place to ride camp and enjoy great friend and a great camp host." - Mike Reeves; "The sites were very well maintained, as...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 017 was rated 1 due to dangerous trails. Site 002 had issues with fallen trees. Site 014 became a mud bog during rain. Site 012 had a dangerous low tie post, while Site 005 received complaints...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility is partially addressed through hitching posts and spacious sites. However, no detailed ADA-accessible features are noted.
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. User reviews do not elaborate further on pet-related experiences.
Based on 44 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025