Panther Creek Horseback Riding
Warning Alert
Temporary Road Closure
NOTICE: The park road leading to the Smallman Shelter and overlook will be closed to vehicles from March 1, 2026, through May 15, 2026, while extensive renovations to the Lake Observation Platform are performed. The road to and around the first picnic area island will remain open to visitors and vehicular traffic. Foot travel beyond the closed area is permitted but visitors will not be permitted in the immediate area of the construction site.
Major Improvements at the Park
A capital improvement project to construct a day-use recreation lodge and new playground will begin at the park on Monday, April 13, 2026. The swimming pool parking lot, playground, playground restrooms, beach volleyball and basketball courts will be closed to the public during construction, which is scheduled to be completed by mid-year 2027.
The tennis courts and disc-golf course will remain open but parking for these amenities will be limited to the lots adjacent to the visitor center and Spoone shelter. This project will significantly enhance the quantity and quality of recreational opportunities provided by the park. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to complete this exciting new project for the benefit of our visitors.
Playground Closed For Renovation
The park playground will be permanently closed to the public beginning Tuesday, April 7, 2026. The existing playground will be removed, and a new playground will be constructed at the park. The new playground is scheduled to be completed by mid-year 2027 and will be a tremendous improvement over the existing playground.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve the park for our visitors. If you have any questions, please contact the park office.
Horseback Riding at Panther Creek
Panther Creek State Park covers approximately 1,444 acres and is located on the shores of Cherokee Lake.
The park offers over 10 miles of scenic horse trails for equestrian riders. A horse trailer parking area is located just past the boat ramp. All riders must have proof of Coggins papers on them at all times.
Trails
Listed below are the trails available for horseback riding at Panther Creek State Park.
Discover More at Panther Creek
No events are scheduled at this time, but there's always more to explore.
