Lost Corral Horse Camp

Tennessee, with its breathtaking Appalachian Mountains, rolling hills, and vast national forests, offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventure. For those who cherish the tranquility of nature and the unique experience of camping, the state provides numerous hidden gems. Among these, Lost Corral Horse Camp in Delano stands out as a remarkable destination, especially for equestrian enthusiasts and anyone seeking a peaceful escape into the wilderness. This campground, nestled within the expansive Cherokee National Forest, provides a harmonious blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it a highly desirable spot for locals and visitors alike.

Lost Corral Horse Camp is not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to an immersive outdoor experience. Designed with horse trailers in mind, its spacious layout ensures that even the largest rigs can navigate with ease. What makes this campground particularly appealing is its commitment to providing a clean and well-maintained environment, often noted by visitors. It offers a chance to disconnect from the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature, all while being surprisingly accessible.

This facility embodies the spirit of Tennessee's outdoor recreation, offering a peaceful base from which to explore the surrounding natural wonders. Whether you're an experienced equestrian ready to hit the trails with your horse, a hiker eager to explore scenic paths, or simply someone looking for a quiet retreat under the stars, Lost Corral Horse Camp promises a memorable and refreshing experience. The blend of its natural beauty, functional amenities, and unique features makes it a truly special place in the heart of Tennessee's wilderness.

Lost Corral Horse Camp is located in Delano, TN 37325, USA, deep within the picturesque Cherokee National Forest. This strategic positioning offers campers an immediate immersion into one of Tennessee's most beautiful and biodiverse regions. Despite its wilderness setting, the campground is surprisingly easy to access, making it a convenient destination for various types of vehicles, including large horse trailers and RVs.

As noted by visitors, the roads leading to the entrance are paved, ensuring a smooth approach. After crossing train tracks, the roads within the campground transition to nice gravel, which is well-maintained and suitable for all rig sizes. This accessibility is a significant advantage, allowing campers to reach their destination without the challenges often associated with more remote, primitive sites.

The campground’s location also boasts proximity to several local points of interest. Directly at the entrance, visitors will find the Tennessee Valley scenic train, which offers scheduled rides up into the mountains and back, providing a unique recreational opportunity. The stunning Hiwassee River, known for its beauty and recreational activities like fishing and rafting, is merely half a mile away. For essential supplies, a store is conveniently located just two miles from the camp, and two towns are within an eight-mile drive, offering additional services and amenities. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to necessary resources makes Lost Corral Horse Camp an ideal base for exploring the diverse offerings of southeastern Tennessee. The surrounding area also provides numerous trails for both horseback riding and hiking, some of which are very close to the campground, while others are just a short drive away, broadening the scope of outdoor adventures available.

• Campsites Designed for Horse Trailers: The campground features 20 large, shady campsites, each thoughtfully designed to accommodate horse trailers and large rigs of any size. This ensures ample space and easy maneuverability for equestrian campers.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for outdoor dining, and a fire ring for campfires, perfect for cooking or simply enjoying the warmth and ambiance under the stars.

• Lantern Posts: Individual lantern posts are available at each site, offering a practical solution for hanging lanterns and providing illumination during the evening hours.

• Horse Hitching Areas (High Lines): For equestrian campers, designated horse hitching areas with high lines are provided at each site, ensuring a secure and comfortable spot for their equine companions.

• Potable Water Spigots: Potable water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground, providing access to clean drinking water for campers and their animals.

• Vault Toilets: Two clean vault toilets are available, offering basic, well-maintained restroom facilities for campers.

• Paved Roads to Entrance, Gravel within Camp: The approach to the campground features paved roads, transitioning to well-maintained gravel within the camp, ensuring easy access for all types of vehicles.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: The campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors must physically arrive at the campground to claim a site.

• Bear-Proof Food Storage Requirements: As the campground is within the Cherokee National Forest, food storage restrictions apply. All food and beverages must be stored in approved bear-proof containers, locked vehicles, or hard-sided campers when not being consumed or prepared.

• Maximum Occupancy: Each site accommodates a maximum of 5 people and 2 vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and controlled environment for all campers.

• "Free Gem in the Wilderness": Despite official information indicating a $15 fee, recent customer reviews suggest that the campground has temporarily become free due to issues with cash box theft. This makes it an incredibly attractive and valuable option for budget-conscious campers looking for a quality experience in the wilderness.

• Designed for Equestrians: The campground's original design caters specifically to horse owners, with spacious sites, horse hitching areas (high lines), and easy access to extensive horse trails like Starr Mountain and Chestnut Mountain Horse Trails. This makes it an ideal base for riding adventures.

• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the campground, particularly the vault toilets, indicating a commitment to maintaining a pleasant environment for all users.

• Proximity to Hiwassee River: The beautiful Hiwassee River is only half a mile away, offering opportunities for fishing, scenic views, and other water-based activities, adding another layer of recreational appeal.

• Tennessee Valley Scenic Train: Located right at the campground's entrance, the historic Tennessee Valley scenic train offers scheduled rides through the mountains, providing a unique and charming experience for all ages.

• Excellent Connectivity (Verizon 4G): Despite its secluded feel, the campground offers two bars of 4G Verizon service, which is a significant highlight for those who need to stay connected or use online maps and resources.

• Abundant Shady Spots: With twenty large and shady campsites, campers can enjoy protection from the sun, contributing to a more comfortable experience, especially during warmer months.

• Variety of Nearby Trails: Beyond the horse trails, the area around Lost Corral offers numerous hiking trails, some accessible directly from the campground or a short drive away, appealing to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Address: Delano, TN 37325, USA (within Cherokee National Forest)

Phone: (423) 476-9700 (This is the number for the Cherokee National Forest Supervisor's Office, which manages the campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 423-476-9700

For the most current information, including any changes to fees or operational status, it's advisable to contact the Cherokee National Forest directly or check their official website.

For Tennesseans, Lost Corral Horse Camp represents an exceptional opportunity for a local escape into the state's magnificent natural landscapes. Its location in Delano, within the Cherokee National Forest, makes it an accessible wilderness retreat without requiring extensive travel for many residents. This allows for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, more immersive vacations, maximizing time spent enjoying the outdoors rather than on the road.

The unique design catering to horse trailers, coupled with direct access to renowned equestrian trails like Starr Mountain and Chestnut Mountain, makes it an unparalleled destination for local horse owners. Imagine the ease of trailering your horse for a short drive and immediately having access to miles of scenic riding paths. Even for those without horses, the campground's spacious, shady sites, complete with picnic tables and fire rings, offer a classic and comfortable camping experience. The presence of clean vault toilets and potable water spigots throughout the camp significantly enhances comfort, even in this rustic setting.

The added amenities, such as the nearby Tennessee Valley scenic train rides and the close proximity to the beautiful Hiwassee River, provide diverse recreational opportunities for all ages and interests. Whether you're interested in fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature, Lost Corral delivers. The surprisingly good Verizon 4G signal is a welcome modern convenience, ensuring a degree of connectivity even while disconnected from urban life. Critically, the reported "free" status (though officially listed as $15/night, current reviews suggest otherwise due to payment system issues) makes this "hidden gem" an incredibly appealing and budget-friendly option for local families and individuals seeking a genuine wilderness experience right in their backyard. It's a testament to Tennessee's natural beauty and a perfect spot for creating lasting outdoor memories.