Anthony Creek Horse Camp

Overview

Anthony Creek Horse Camp is a tiny, primitive equestrian camp tucked beside Anthony Creek near Cades Cove. It’s purpose-built for riders: just three sites, each with horse stalls, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Expect seasonal scenery—spring wildflowers and vibrant fall color—and a quiet base that feels off the grid.

Who It’s For

You must have a horse to camp here, and reservations are required. Each site allows up to 6 people and 4 horses, and a negative Coggins is mandatory. Horses use the provided stalls (no tying to trees). Pets are allowed in camp on leash but not on park trails.

Facilities & Rules

This is true primitive camping: vault toilets, no showers, and no electric/water/sewer hookups. There’s no potable water in camp—bring all drinking water. A spigot is about 0.5 miles away, and stock water can be drawn from Anthony Creek. Fires are allowed only in rings, and firewood must be certified heat-treated or dead-and-downed from within the park. Quiet hours run 10 p.m.–6 a.m.; generators 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Follow strict bear food-storage rules. A parking tag is required elsewhere in the park for stays over 15 minutes, but not while you’re parked at your reserved campsite. The operating season is generally late March to early November.

Access and Camp Layout

Access is through the back of the Cades Cove Picnic Area via an unlocked gate. The approach is narrow and turning space is limited—larger rigs may find it challenging and may need to back in. Some visitors note maneuvering anything around 24 feet can be tough. Expect little to no cell service for most carriers.

Trails & Riding

Trails leave right from camp. The Anthony Creek Trail connects to Bote Mountain and Russell Field, with access to the Appalachian Trail. Spence Field is known for spring mountain laurel blooms. Do note some riders describe segments that feel like dry creek beds—rocky and challenging. Foot traffic is common near camp, with hikers passing through during the day.

Wildlife & Safety

This is bear country. Store all food and scented items securely when not in use, and dispose of trash promptly. Black bear and wild turkey sightings are possible. Report unusual bear interactions to park staff.

Nearby & Supplies

Cades Cove’s 11-mile loop, historic churches, cabins, and the gristmill are close. The Cades Cove camp store has basic supplies and bicycle rentals. Townsend is about 9 miles away for groceries and fuel. Fishing is available in nearby streams (trout are common); a Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license is required and park rules apply.

Best Time to Visit

Spring brings wildflowers and mountain laurel blooms up high; fall delivers peak foliage around the cove and ridges. Wednesdays from May–September, the Cades Cove Loop is vehicle-free—great for cyclists but it can affect vehicle and trailer access—plan arrivals and departures accordingly. Weekdays are generally quieter, and mornings see fewer hikers moving past camp.

Reservations & Check-in

Reserve in advance. Check in with campground staff upon arrival; if you arrive after hours, check in 8:30–9:00 a.m. the next morning to avoid reservation issues.