Southern Pines
Horse Country.

Southern Pines has been an equestrian destination for over a century, with deep traditions in polo, foxhunting, eventing, and dressage. The Sandhills region's sandy, well-drained soils provide ideal year-round footing, the Walthour-Moss Foundation preserves thousands of acres of riding trails, and the Carolina Horse Park hosts East Coast-level competitions. The combination of heritage, infrastructure, and natural advantages makes it exceptional.

The Walthour-Moss Foundation preserves over 4,000 acres of longleaf pine forest near Southern Pines with an extensive network of riding trails. It is one of the largest privately maintained equestrian trail systems in the Southeast and is free for riders. The trails wind through beautiful longleaf pine forests, sand roads, and open clearings.

Equestrian properties in the Southern Pines and Moore County area typically range from $350,000 for smaller farms to $3 million for premium estates. Properties with proximity to the Carolina Horse Park, Walthour-Moss trails, or established equestrian communities like The Fields command higher prices. Cameron-area properties tend to offer more acreage at lower price points.

Southern Pines supports an exceptionally diverse range of disciplines including polo, eventing, foxhunting, dressage, hunter-jumper, combined driving, and steeplechase. The area's equestrian heritage spans over a century, and active clubs and training barns serve riders at every level from beginner to international competitor.

Yes, polo has been played in the Southern Pines area since the early 1900s and remains active today. Local polo clubs host matches and tournaments, and the sport is deeply woven into the area's equestrian culture. The Sandhills' flat terrain and mild winters create ideal conditions for polo.

The Carolina Horse Park near Raeford (close to the Moore County border) is one of the premier eventing and combined driving venues on the East Coast. It hosts USEA-recognized horse trials, combined driving events, and other competitions throughout the year, drawing riders from across the region.

Yes, the Moore County Hounds and surrounding hunt clubs maintain active foxhunting seasons through the Sandhills countryside. Many properties in the area are designed with foxhunting in mind — featuring jump-friendly fencing, large pastures, and proximity to established hunt territory.

The Sandhills region's sandy, well-drained soils create naturally excellent footing that stays firm even after heavy rain. This means fewer lost riding days, better arena conditions year-round, and healthier pastures with significantly less mud compared to clay-heavy Piedmont soils found elsewhere in North Carolina.

Notable equestrian communities include The Fields near Cameron, Pine Ridge Farms, and the historic hunt country neighborhoods surrounding Southern Pines. These communities offer shared trails, equestrian amenities, and a built-in community of horse enthusiasts ranging from modest horse neighborhoods to upscale equestrian estates.

Southern Pines is approximately 70 miles from Raleigh (about 1 hour 15 minutes) and 120 miles from Charlotte (about 2 hours). The Sandhills location provides a rural equestrian atmosphere while remaining accessible to both major metro areas for travel, shopping, and professional services.