The best camping near Raleigh with horseback riding

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Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Raleigh offers a haven for camping enthusiasts at nearby state parks and serene lakeside destinations. Explore the city and visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences before immersing in the sprawling wilderness of Umstead State Park. Venture out farther to seek tranquility at Falls Lake State Recreation Area, where shimmering waters invite fishing, paddling, and lakeside relaxation. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, with its expansive reservoir, offers swimming, boating, and bird-watching for any type of camper. Then choose from a variety of camping options, including waterfront tent campsites, RV parks with hookups, and open-room lodges for covered stays during cold and wet seasons.

99% (173) 8 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Raleigh

Ancient Spring Farm

1. Ancient Spring Farm

97%
(58)
48mi from Raleigh · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our farm is a beautiful, private 25 acres with an 1830s house, outbuildings, animals, orchards, gardens, pastures, old trees, wildlife habitat, a spring, and woods. Here you can relax; watch nature; meet our chickens, goats, horse, cats, and dog; take guided tours to learn about the farm, animals, plants, archaeology, and history or learn to make mead; and purchase eggs and homegrown seasonal food and products. Listen to birdsong and watch clouds during the day, wander a path through our 5 acres of woods, see fireflies in the evening, and star watch at night. Nearby are hiking, horseback riding, historical sites, fishing, antiques, breweries, shooting, and more. We are located in a rural area and have many different domesticated and wild animals so you may hear diverse animal noises and see or smell animal poop, although we try to keep things clean and tidy. Our neighbors have dogs, cattle, and chickens/roosters and occasionally shoot guns during daylight hours (one neighbor is a sporting club with skeet shooting and hunting dogs) but typically our farm is a quiet and peaceful place. We mow regularly and our rooster and chicken ladies wander far and wide eating bugs but, in the summer, they can't get every mosquito and tick so please plan accordingly for your own comfort.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$23
 / night
Horse Ranch-a short drive from 95

2. Horse Ranch-a short drive from 95

97%
(79)
49mi from Raleigh · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Pedro and Gracie Torres opened the 90+ acre ranch for lessons, clinics, horse shows, and more in December of 2017. Built by Mr. Goff many moons ago, Cavvietta Quarter Horse & Cattle Co. is carrying on his tradition of helping the community and providing entertainment for those of all ages who enjoy horses and/or the great outdoors! Learn more about this land: Cavvietta Quarter Horse & Cattle Co. is 90+ acres of livestock paradise and we’d love for you to enjoy it with us!! rolling green pastures are surrounded by woods, but all makes for beautiful scenery. Riding lessons can be arranged for an additional fee. Check our event schedule prior to booking if you’re looking for a quiet stay. We look forward to having you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Haw River RV Camp Spot

3. Haw River RV Camp Spot

95%
(21)
38mi from Raleigh · 1 site · RV
This is a secluded, standalone, pull-through camping spot for all types of RVs. It is a nice, level, gravel lot off of a private gravel road. We have all utilities available: well water, 50A power, and a septic dump-station (please be mindful to not dump chemicals/cleaners). In the daytime, the near-by gun range can be heard in the distance. At night, after 10PM or so, the neighborhood is typically quiet. If the sky is clear, you can see a sky full of stars when enjoying a private campfire.What's nearby?Swepsonville River ParkCane Creek ReservoirCedarock ParkGreensboro Science Center (Zoo / Aquarium)Museum of Life and ScienceSaxapahaw / Graham / Mebane / Greensboro / Chapel Hill / Durham / Raleigh
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
William B Umstead State Park

4. William B Umstead State Park

100%
(1)
30 sites · Morrisville, North Carolina
Discover the natural beauty of William B Umstead State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cool Creek Farm

5. Cool Creek Farm

100%
(41)
35mi from Raleigh · 5 sites · Lodging
Cool Creek Farm materialized in December 2017 after years of envisioning. It is now enthusiastically gardened and provides abundant, free-roaming living space to humans, 3 cats, 20+ chickens, goats, sheep, ducks and horses. We also run day camps for children from June-August, provide horse lessons, training and boarding as well as special event space. People have universally exclaimed how beautiful and peaceful the farm is when they arrive. We look forward to sharing the restorative vibe with you as well!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
The Cozy Heron Glamping

6. The Cozy Heron Glamping

100%
(12)
31mi from Raleigh · 5 sites · Lodging
Please note that a $49 CLEANING FEE is added to each booking. Hi there! The Cozy Heron is an 𝙞𝙣-𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣, riverside glamping resort. Noises of traffic from nearby highway is audible. Each wagon is equipped with calming sound machines that also double as bluetooth speakers to assist guests who may be bothered by sounds of nearby traffic. We currently have five covered wagons and one bath house. The property offers a community stone patio, firepit, grilling area, and large expansive lawn. The upper Cape Fear River flows below the property and Adirondack chairs and a few hammocks are conveniently located around the wagons and entire property for relaxation and pretty views! The Cozy Heron property shares borders a very popular seasonal river outfitter (Cape Fear River Adventures in Lillington, NC). Cape Fear River Adventures offers paddling classes, summer day camp, canoe/kayak/SUP rentals, and river tubing. Just a quick 2 minute walk from your covered wagon will also bring you to an on-site restaurant and bar: The Riverside Restaurant & Bar. The Riverside has a full bar, delicious, stone-fired pizza, smashed burgers, fresh salads and sandwiches, and more! They may also have live music performances throughout the spring and summer months. Raven Rock State Park is just a 15 minute drive away. Surrounding towns like Fuquay-Varina, Angier, and Holly Springs offer more shops and restaurants if Lillington doesn't have enough for you! Raleigh and all of its nightlife, museums, and markets is just 45 minutes away from The Cozy Heron Glamping.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$149
 / night
River and Twine

7. River and Twine

48mi from Raleigh · 25 sites
Discover the unparalleled charm of River and Twine, the world's largest tiny house hotel, featuring a collection of 21 boutique tiny homes nestled along the picturesque banks of the Tar River in Eastern North Carolina. This unique destination offers an extraordinary blend of modern comfort and rustic appeal, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a distinctive experience. Situated within the innovative Rocky Mount Mills campus, River and Twine provides guests with easy access to a variety of chef-inspired restaurants, local breweries, and vibrant event venues—all just a short stroll away. Each of the 21 tiny houses and 3 guest suites, housed in a beautifully renovated 1900s mill, offers a cozy retreat that combines history with contemporary amenities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape off the beaten path or a convenient stop while exploring Eastern North Carolina, River and Twine invites you to unwind and enjoy the heart of this exciting new development. Explore our location further and find the ideal tiny house for your next stay.

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Raleigh offers a haven for camping enthusiasts at nearby state parks and serene lakeside destinations. Explore the city and visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences before immersing in the sprawling wilderness of Umstead State Park. Venture out farther to seek tranquility at Falls Lake State Recreation Area, where shimmering waters invite fishing, paddling, and lakeside relaxation. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, with its expansive reservoir, offers swimming, boating, and bird-watching for any type of camper. Then choose from a variety of camping options, including waterfront tent campsites, RV parks with hookups, and open-room lodges for covered stays during cold and wet seasons.

99% (173) 8 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Raleigh

Ancient Spring Farm

1. Ancient Spring Farm

97%
(58)
48mi from Raleigh · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our farm is a beautiful, private 25 acres with an 1830s house, outbuildings, animals, orchards, gardens, pastures, old trees, wildlife habitat, a spring, and woods. Here you can relax; watch nature; meet our chickens, goats, horse, cats, and dog; take guided tours to learn about the farm, animals, plants, archaeology, and history or learn to make mead; and purchase eggs and homegrown seasonal food and products. Listen to birdsong and watch clouds during the day, wander a path through our 5 acres of woods, see fireflies in the evening, and star watch at night. Nearby are hiking, horseback riding, historical sites, fishing, antiques, breweries, shooting, and more. We are located in a rural area and have many different domesticated and wild animals so you may hear diverse animal noises and see or smell animal poop, although we try to keep things clean and tidy. Our neighbors have dogs, cattle, and chickens/roosters and occasionally shoot guns during daylight hours (one neighbor is a sporting club with skeet shooting and hunting dogs) but typically our farm is a quiet and peaceful place. We mow regularly and our rooster and chicken ladies wander far and wide eating bugs but, in the summer, they can't get every mosquito and tick so please plan accordingly for your own comfort.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$23
 / night
Horse Ranch-a short drive from 95

2. Horse Ranch-a short drive from 95

97%
(79)
49mi from Raleigh · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Pedro and Gracie Torres opened the 90+ acre ranch for lessons, clinics, horse shows, and more in December of 2017. Built by Mr. Goff many moons ago, Cavvietta Quarter Horse & Cattle Co. is carrying on his tradition of helping the community and providing entertainment for those of all ages who enjoy horses and/or the great outdoors! Learn more about this land: Cavvietta Quarter Horse & Cattle Co. is 90+ acres of livestock paradise and we’d love for you to enjoy it with us!! rolling green pastures are surrounded by woods, but all makes for beautiful scenery. Riding lessons can be arranged for an additional fee. Check our event schedule prior to booking if you’re looking for a quiet stay. We look forward to having you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Haw River RV Camp Spot

3. Haw River RV Camp Spot

95%
(21)
38mi from Raleigh · 1 site · RV
This is a secluded, standalone, pull-through camping spot for all types of RVs. It is a nice, level, gravel lot off of a private gravel road. We have all utilities available: well water, 50A power, and a septic dump-station (please be mindful to not dump chemicals/cleaners). In the daytime, the near-by gun range can be heard in the distance. At night, after 10PM or so, the neighborhood is typically quiet. If the sky is clear, you can see a sky full of stars when enjoying a private campfire.What's nearby?Swepsonville River ParkCane Creek ReservoirCedarock ParkGreensboro Science Center (Zoo / Aquarium)Museum of Life and ScienceSaxapahaw / Graham / Mebane / Greensboro / Chapel Hill / Durham / Raleigh
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
William B Umstead State Park

4. William B Umstead State Park

100%
(1)
30 sites · Morrisville, North Carolina
Discover the natural beauty of William B Umstead State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cool Creek Farm

5. Cool Creek Farm

100%
(41)
35mi from Raleigh · 5 sites · Lodging
Cool Creek Farm materialized in December 2017 after years of envisioning. It is now enthusiastically gardened and provides abundant, free-roaming living space to humans, 3 cats, 20+ chickens, goats, sheep, ducks and horses. We also run day camps for children from June-August, provide horse lessons, training and boarding as well as special event space. People have universally exclaimed how beautiful and peaceful the farm is when they arrive. We look forward to sharing the restorative vibe with you as well!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
The Cozy Heron Glamping

6. The Cozy Heron Glamping

100%
(12)
31mi from Raleigh · 5 sites · Lodging
Please note that a $49 CLEANING FEE is added to each booking. Hi there! The Cozy Heron is an 𝙞𝙣-𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣, riverside glamping resort. Noises of traffic from nearby highway is audible. Each wagon is equipped with calming sound machines that also double as bluetooth speakers to assist guests who may be bothered by sounds of nearby traffic. We currently have five covered wagons and one bath house. The property offers a community stone patio, firepit, grilling area, and large expansive lawn. The upper Cape Fear River flows below the property and Adirondack chairs and a few hammocks are conveniently located around the wagons and entire property for relaxation and pretty views! The Cozy Heron property shares borders a very popular seasonal river outfitter (Cape Fear River Adventures in Lillington, NC). Cape Fear River Adventures offers paddling classes, summer day camp, canoe/kayak/SUP rentals, and river tubing. Just a quick 2 minute walk from your covered wagon will also bring you to an on-site restaurant and bar: The Riverside Restaurant & Bar. The Riverside has a full bar, delicious, stone-fired pizza, smashed burgers, fresh salads and sandwiches, and more! They may also have live music performances throughout the spring and summer months. Raven Rock State Park is just a 15 minute drive away. Surrounding towns like Fuquay-Varina, Angier, and Holly Springs offer more shops and restaurants if Lillington doesn't have enough for you! Raleigh and all of its nightlife, museums, and markets is just 45 minutes away from The Cozy Heron Glamping.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$149
 / night
River and Twine

7. River and Twine

48mi from Raleigh · 25 sites
Discover the unparalleled charm of River and Twine, the world's largest tiny house hotel, featuring a collection of 21 boutique tiny homes nestled along the picturesque banks of the Tar River in Eastern North Carolina. This unique destination offers an extraordinary blend of modern comfort and rustic appeal, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a distinctive experience. Situated within the innovative Rocky Mount Mills campus, River and Twine provides guests with easy access to a variety of chef-inspired restaurants, local breweries, and vibrant event venues—all just a short stroll away. Each of the 21 tiny houses and 3 guest suites, housed in a beautifully renovated 1900s mill, offers a cozy retreat that combines history with contemporary amenities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape off the beaten path or a convenient stop while exploring Eastern North Carolina, River and Twine invites you to unwind and enjoy the heart of this exciting new development. Explore our location further and find the ideal tiny house for your next stay.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Raleigh with horseback riding guide

Where to go

William B. Umstead State Park

Only 20 minutes from Raleigh is Umstead State Park, where miles of well-maintained trails wind through lush forests and along bubbling creeks. Campers can set up tents in the park's designated pet-friendly campsites near Crabtree Creek, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. For more coverage, book a spot at Maple Hill Lodge where all campers need are sleeping bags. Then hike Sal's Branch Trail or Reedy Creek Multi-Use Trail to see the park’s unique chainsaw art along forests and man-made lakes.

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

For a lakeside camping adventure, head to Falls Lake State Recreation Area. Campers can spend the night at on-site campgrounds with over 300 pet-friendly campsites next to Falls Lake and modern amenities like clean restroom facilities and designated swimming areas. Wake up and go fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish, or paddle along the lake's tranquil coves in a canoe or kayak. Hikers who visit in spring and fall can explore the extensive network of trails and see migrating monarch butterflies, while mountain bikers may want to ride along the renowned Mountains-to-Sea State Trail.

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Embrace the beauty of Jordan Lake's expansive reservoir from one of the scenic campgrounds on-site in the recreation area. Each of the 1,000 pet-friendly campsites has convenient access to swimming beaches, boating ramps, and fishing spots for tent campers and RVers alike. Campsites are also equipped with firepits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities—some also have electric and water hookups. Then, explore Jordan Lake Educational State Forest, take a leisurely hike along New Hope Trail, or embark on a bird-watching expedition for bald eagles.

When to go

Raleigh enjoys a mild climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F as well as vibrant foliage and glimpses of migrating monarch butterflies. Summers invite campers to cool off in the lakes, with temperatures averaging around 80°F to 90°F. Winters near Raleigh see temperatures averaging around 30°F to 50°F, which allow for year-round camping trips to the area.