Tennessee, with its rolling mountains, mild weather and diverse landscape, makes a fabulous location for a horseback riding vacation. The Appalachian Mountains dominate the eastern part of the state. Blue Ridge Mountains--a part of the larger Appalachian range--known for their bluish color when seen from a distance. The Smoky Mountains are part of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range. Horseback riders will have no lack of scenery when vacationing here.
Dude Ranch
For those who want to totally immerse themselves in the equestrian experience, A Tennessee Guest Ranch, in Sequatchie Valley, assigns each guest their own ranch horse for the entirety of their stay. Guests will learn about horse care as well as other dude-ranch related skills, such as roping and other ranch chores. Guests are responsible for feeding, grooming and caring for their ranch horses during their stay.
Full-Service Resort
Meadow Creek Mountain Rustic Resort features a state-of-the-art 22-stall barn with wash area and turnouts. Guided rides are available daily, and some of the longer trail rides take guests through the Cherokee National Forest. Guests who bring their own horses are welcome to ride through the resort trails any time. Training and instruction is also available with trainer Steve Campbell. Guests stay in fully furnished cabins that include a TV, gas grill, air conditioning, gas heat, linens, hot tub and other amenities from home.
Bring Your Own Horse
Multiple equestrian camps are available for those wanting to vacation with their own horse. Station Camp Horse Camp provides four tie-outs for horses at each campsite. It is located on Station Camp Road off Hwy 297, west of Oneida, Tennessee. Charit Creek Lodge is available for those who would like more modern amenities such as dormitory rentals, meals, restrooms and showers. Stalls are available here for horses. Riders who camp at Station Camp often trail ride at Big South Fork which has 180 miles of horse trails. Proof of a negative Coggins Test is required to bring horses into Big South Fork.
Bed and Breakfast
Twin Valley Bed & Breakfast and Horse Ranch, located in Walland, is nestled in the Smoky Mountains. Guests may choose to stay in log home bed and breakfast, a primitive shelter, or a cabin unit. Ranch horses are available but you may also bring your own horse. You may pick from guided rides on horseback that last the entire day, half a day or for just a short time period. Guests can enjoy other activities, such as fishing, swimming, campfires and a petting zoo.
Considerations
Many horseback riding vacation destinations are located in the mountains of Tennessee--also bear country. Please follow guidelines for proper storage of food while you are camping.
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