Harmon Den Horse Campground, situated beneath a canopy of mixed hardwoods in the picturesque Pisgah National Forest, offers an unparalleled escape for outdoor enthusiasts and equestrians alike. Located in a secluded area off Cold Springs Road in Haywood County, this campground provides a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle, offering a serene environment for both horse and nature lovers.
A Unique Camping Experience
Harmon Den Horse Campground features two distinct loops to cater to various camping preferences. The upper loop is dedicated to horse campers, while the lower loop accommodates tent campers and small trailers. Each site ensures ample privacy, enhancing the secluded and peaceful atmosphere of the campground. Although there are no hookups, dump stations, or drinking water available, the campground is equipped with vault toilets and bear-proof garbage cans for convenience.
A Hub for Outdoor Recreation
This 10-site horse camp offers a diverse range of recreational activities. Visitors can indulge in horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, hunting, and fishing. While the camp is primarily designed for horseback riders, its sites are open to everyone, making it a versatile destination for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. The camp is tucked away in a cove below Hurricane Mountain, providing a stunning backdrop for all your adventures.
Equestrian-Friendly Facilities
Harmon Den Horse Campground is well-equipped to meet the needs of equestrian campers. Each site includes horse stalls and mangers that can accommodate up to four horses. Additional amenities include a picnic table, tent pad, lantern post, fire ring, and parking for a single vehicle with a horse trailer. Centrally located potable water (via hand pump) and a double vault toilet ensure campers have access to essential facilities. Additionally, a self-service livestock manure station and a non-potable watering tank for livestock are available within the campground.
Seasonal Access and Amenities
The campground is accessible by the interstate, making it easy to reach while still maintaining its remote charm. However, it's important to note that Harmon Den Horse Campground is seasonal, closing on October 31st and reopening in the spring. Planning your visit during the open season ensures you can fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the range of activities on offer.
Plan Your Visit to Harmon Den Horse Camp
Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast, a hiking aficionado, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Harmon Den Horse Campground in North Carolina provides the perfect setting. Embrace the beauty of Pisgah National Forest, explore the scenic trails, and enjoy the tranquility of this secluded mountain paradise. Pack your gear, saddle up, and experience the adventure that awaits at Harmon Den Horse Campground.
Directions:
From Hot Springs, North Carolina, take Highway 209 south for approximately 7 miles. Turn right onto Meadowfork Road NCSR# 1175. After 6 miles turn right onto Little Creek Road NCSR# 1181 for 3 miles. Take a left onto Max Patch Road NCSR# 1182, then travel approximately 0.75 miles and turn right onto Cold Springs Road NFSR# 148. Travel southwest for about 3 miles to the intersection of Fall Branch Road NFSR#3526, then continue a half-mile to the entrance of the campground on the left. Also, access from Interstate 40 Exit 7 Harmon Den, travel east 3.0 miles on Cold Springs Road NFSR#148 to Falls Branch Road NFSR#3526 and 0.5 mile to the entrance.
Harmon Den Horse Camp offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Equestrian trails
- Campfire Rings
- Drinking Water (hand pump)
- Hitching Racks
- Horse Stalls
- Horseback Riding Trails
- Stock Watering Tank
- Tables
- Tent Pads
- Trailheads
- Trash Collection
- Vault Toilets
Horse Camping
Harmon Den Horse Campground has 10 sites with a community hand pump well centrally located for all sites. Facilities provided include horse stalls and managers that accommodate a maximum of 4 horses and 8 people at each site with a picnic table, gravel tent pad, lantern post, fire ring, and parking for a single vehicle with a horse trailer. Additional vehicle parking is NOT available. Also located within the campground is a self service livestock manure station, a livestock community watering tank, and an SST toilet.
Cost Details:
- The fee is $15.00 per site per night.
Notes:
- Open Season: May 1st - October 31st
- Campsites are available by reservation only and must be made 4 days in advance of desired arrival date. A combination gate code is given upon reservation, through email.
- No accommodations for walk-ups at this location; reservations are required
- The water handpump is non-potable currently, please bring your own drinking water
- This campground has gated access; the lock combination will be given when a reservation is made
- Horses are not allowed in the interior portion of the campground; a perimeter trail provides access to riding trails
- The campground is located within a bear sanctuary; all food and waste must be in bear-proof containers
- Coggins test required.
- Don't Move Firewood.
- The upper loop is designed for horse camping, the lower loop is available for tent campers and small trailers.
- For campground inquiries, please call: 828-689-9694
- For reservations call (877) 444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
DEERLODGE NATIONAL FOREST - Louise Lake National Recreation Trail
Harmon Den Horse Camp does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Harmon Den Horse Camp for more information