Anthony Creek Horse Camp
3.967 reviewsc/o Cades Cove Ranger Station, 10042 Campground Drive, Townsend, TN 37882, USA
Anthony Creek Horse Camp
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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 are $30.00 per night for equestrian nonelectric sites during peak seasons. Rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the gentle murmur of Anthony Creek, this secluded equestrian paradise offers riders and their horses an authentic backcountry experience. Anthony Creek Horse Camp serves as your gateway to miles of scenic trails winding through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This primitive campground provides a rare opportunity to explore untouched wilderness from horseback, far from the crowds that frequent more accessible areas. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning mountain vistas, the camp attracts those seeking a genuine connection with nature—and their equine companions.
Anthony Creek Horse Camp is specifically designed for equestrian campers, with three primitive campsites that include horse stalls. It is not suitable for non-equestrian groups.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Anthony Creek connects you to centuries of Appalachian heritage preserved within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Just a short ride away, the historic Cades Cove Loop Road reveals over 90 carefully maintained structures that tell the story of Southern Appalachian life. These weathered cabins, churches, and mills stand as silent witnesses to the determination of early settlers who carved out lives in these remote valleys, their legacy now protected for future generations to discover.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late March through early November, the campground welcomes riders to experience the full spectrum of mountain weather. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and occasional showers that transform trails into muddy adventures, while summer brings the characteristic Southern humidity that hangs heavy in the mountain hollows. As autumn approaches, crisp mornings give way to perfect riding weather, and winter's approach signals the end of the season with cooler temperatures that whisper of the mountains' changing moods.
ElevationPerched at 1,800 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the mountains where temperatures remain comfortable for both riders and horses. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate—high enough to escape the valley's most oppressive heat, yet low enough to avoid the harsh conditions found at higher elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape surrounding Anthony Creek Horse Camp reads like a love letter to the Southern Appalachians. Crystalline streams tumble over moss-covered rocks, creating a natural soundtrack for your adventures. In spring, the understory explodes with delicate wildflowers—trilliums, bloodroot, and lady's slippers—while autumn transforms the canopy into a brilliant tapestry of gold, crimson, and orange. The ever-present mountains frame every view, their ancient ridges home to black bears, wild turkeys, and countless other creatures that share these protected lands. At 1,800 feet, you'll experience the perfect balance of mountain majesty and accessible terrain.
Geological RegionAnthony Creek Horse Camp sits within one of America's most beloved natural treasures—the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This ancient mountain range, older than the Rockies or the Alps, cradles a remarkable diversity of life within its weathered peaks and verdant valleys. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and stream, where pristine waterways carve through forests that have sheltered both Cherokee peoples and Appalachian settlers. Here, the natural world and human history intertwine, creating a rich tapestry that makes every trail ride a journey through time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the source material.
Sites SizeSites are designed to accommodate horse trailers, with a limit of 24-foot trailers due to challenging access conditions. Larger trailers may find it difficult to maneuver.
Sites PrivacyThe campground has only three campsites, which are located close to one another. Privacy is limited, and the area experiences frequent foot traffic from hikers.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 003 is noted for being spacious and pleasant. Campers are advised to ensure water tanks are full and to secure food due to bear activity.
Best CampsitesSites 001-003 are the only campsites available, and campsite 003 is frequently mentioned positively in reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM for late arrivals.
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of 6 people and 4 horses may occupy a campsite.
Groups
Group camping is not available at Anthony Creek Horse Camp.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three campsites and is accessed through the Cades Cove picnic area via an unlocked gate. Stalls for horses are provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 28 to November 8 during peak season. Closed from November 8 to May 26.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAdvanced reservations are required for all horse camps; no mention of walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCustomers may cancel a reservation prior to the day of check-in for a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (within 1 day of check-in) incur an additional fee equal to the first night's use fee. One-night reservations forfeit the entire amount paid.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Anthony Creek Horse Camp is an excellent destination for equestrian activities, with direct access to trails that connect to the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can explore Anthony Creek Trail, Bote Mountain Trail, and Russell Field Trail. Other available activities include backcountry fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring historical structures within the park.
Hiking
The Anthony Creek Trail passes directly through the campground and connects to Bote Mountain and Russell Field Trails. These trails intersect with the Appalachian Trail and feature an altitude gain of 3,000 feet. They are described as strenuous but rewarding, offering extraordinary views and the chance to see Mountain Laurel blooms in spring.Fishing
The area offers high-quality backcountry fishing opportunities in cool streams filled with an abundance of trout. A Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required.Biking
Biking is popular in the nearby Cades Cove Loop Road area, an 11-mile loop that campers frequently use for cycling.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are frequent within the campground and surrounding areas. Bears are known to visit, and precautions must be taken to store food securely.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park preserves over 90 historic structures, including log buildings, barns, and churches. Several of these are accessible from the Cades Cove Loop Road near the campground.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned for Anthony Creek Horse Camp.Water Sports
No water sports activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are noted for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings only. Heat-treated firewood is required for campfires.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is common; campers must follow strict guidelines for food storage. Trail conditions can be challenging for horses, resembling dry creek beds. Trailers may face maneuverability issues due to rocks and narrow roads.
Active alertsBeginning March 1, parking tags are required for any vehicle parking for more than 15 minutes in the park. Bear activity advisories are in place.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.9 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
Closest emergency services are available in Townsend, TN, approximately 9 miles away, which offers full-service grocery stores and fuel. For emergencies, the campground office can be contacted at 865-448-4103.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 28 - November 8, May 26 - September 1.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be promptly disposed of in dumpsters provided to prevent bear encounters. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAnthony Creek runs near the campground, providing water for horses. Streams and rivers in the area offer opportunities for fishing.
Common complaints“The campsite wasn't terrible, but it's a high traffic area and terrible trail for horses. The trail is basically like walking through a dry creek bed.” - Jennifer Owens. “The picnic area leading to the camp can be crowded, making it hard to maneuver rigs.”
HostCampground office staff must be checked in with upon arrival. Hosts may not be visible in the campground area.
Campground Map
c/o Cades Cove Ranger Station, 10042 Campground Drive, Townsend, TN 37882, USA
Driving directionsFrom Maryville, TN: Take U.S. 321 North (you'll actually be driving south!) from Maryville to Townsend, TN (about 22 miles). At the traffic light in Townsend, continue straight on TN 73 and follow signs to Cades Cove. From Pigeon Forge, TN take US 321 South (you'll be driving westerly) to Townsend, TN. Turn left (south) at Townsend onto TN 73. Follow signs to Cades Cove. The horse camp is accessed through the back of the Cades Cove picnic area, through an unlocked gate.
The road to the campground is in good shape but is one lane for about 1/4 mile to camp. Trailers longer than a 3-horse slant may have difficulty maneuvering within the camp. Parking and drive access may be challenging due to big rocks or cars lining the area.Nearby places
Maryville, TN - 22 miles, Townsend, TN - 9 miles, Pigeon Forge, TN - null miles
Nearby supplies
Townsend, located about nine miles away, offers full-service grocery stores and fuel. Cades Cove camp store nearby provides basic supplies and bike rentals.
Camper Reviews
4.0
7 reviews
Anthony Creek Horse Camp has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Anthony Creek Horse Camp are mixed. Positive comments highlight the serene environment, wildlife sightings, and access to trails. Negative feedback includes concerns about the difficulty of accessing the campground with large trailers and the rocky condition of the trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, frequent wildlife sightings, and the variety of trails accessible directly from the campground. One reviewer described it as a 'wonderful spot to relax and...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include the challenging approach for trailers larger than 24 feet, the lack of nearby water for horses during dry seasons, and frequent foot traffic from hikers passing through the...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend filling water tanks before arrival, as water for horses must be carried from nearby streams. Due to frequent bear activity, all food and scented items must be secured. Smaller...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring reviews often mention the beauty of Mountain Laurel blooms. Fall brings vivid foliage, but the creek may dry up, requiring water to be carried for horses. Summer is described as hot and humid,...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'You must check in at the visitor center upon arrival.' 2. 'The camp has vault toilets, and 4 metal stalls at each camp.' 3. 'The stream that goes right by the camp was dried up this fall, but...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 003 is highlighted in multiple reviews, with mentions of its proximity to trails and the presence of bear activity. The campground only includes three total sites, all of which are...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly reviewed, but the difficult approach for large trailers and lack of paved paths may present challenges for some visitors.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on trails.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025