Horseback riding in South Carolina State Parks is a longtime favorite activity, which is why you’ll find miles of horseback riding trails that are just as hoof-friendly as they are boot-friendly. The natural and geographical features in South Carolina’s parks are so diverse, that horseback riders will be able to traverse a variety of terrain. 

Challenging rides can be found along the rocky outcroppings at Kings Mountain, while Lee State Park offers a flatter, swampy trail through the Sandhills region. Many of the parks offer short and easy routes, but riders seeking longer distances can find more than 20 miles of horse trails at H. Cooper Black, Jr. Memorial Field Trail and Recreation Area and Kings Mountain State Park. Coastal rides can be taken during the winter months at Myrtle Beach and Hunting Island State Park. 

There is no shortage of equestrian facilities and amenities, either. Long rows of equestrian stalls, show rings for competitions and equestrian campsites with water and electrical hookups are available at several of the parks. Guests will need to contact the park for rental rates and availability, and must have negative Coggins papers for their horse in order to use the park’s facilities. 

Visit our Park Finder to locate a park with equestrian trails and other amenities.

For more information on equestrian trails across the state, visit the South Carolina Trails website.