Horse camping is the perfect way to enjoy Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. If you're an equestrian lover who prefers nature-based adventure, yet still wants comfort, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. With our help, you'll find the best Arkansas equestrian campsites from scenic to easily accessible.
Mount Nebo State Park Campground is a gem tucked away near Dardanelle, Arkansas. This place is a haven for those who crave a mix of adventure and tranquility. The campground is perched atop a mountain, offering breathtaking views that make the steep drive up totally worth it. Just remember to use your low gears on the way down to save your brakes!
The campground is known for its stunning overlooks, especially from tent sites 17, 14, and 16, and cabins 11 and 14. If you're into mountain biking, you're in luck. The Monument Trail mountain biking system here is world-class, drawing enthusiasts from all over. Hiking trails are plentiful and well-maintained, with picturesque spots like the waterfall on Lizard Trail.
While the campground has a lot to offer, it's not exactly a luxury resort. There are no electric hookups, drinking water, or showers, so come prepared. The park store is the only place to grab supplies, and it's located at the top of the mountain. If you're planning to stay, note that trailers over 20 feet won't make it up the steep, winding road.
For those who prefer a bit more comfort, glamping and yurt accommodations are available. The park also features a swimming pool, which is a hit with families. Speaking of families, the playground and pool area are close to the campsites, making it a great spot for kids.
Cell service is surprisingly good for a mountaintop location, so you can stay connected if needed. Just be aware that this is a dry county, so plan ahead if you want to enjoy an adult beverage by the campfire.
In short, Mount Nebo State Park Campground offers a mix of rugged charm and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to escape into nature.
This peaceful park makes great camping near Little Rock and is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The only full-service marina on the lake is here at the park and open in the summertime for bait, snacks/drinks, and fuel. Boat rentals are available year-round. The park also includes a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, and a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall.
The park has 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. There are also many native stone and wood buildings on-site. The history of these structures dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round. Guided horseback rides are offered seasonally.
$15 - $25 / night
Woolly Hollow State Park, near Greenbrier, AR, is a fantastic spot for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. This place has it all: beautiful scenery, well-maintained facilities, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. The campsites are paved, making them perfect for RVs and big rigs, and the bathhouse is centrally located for easy access.
One of the standout features here is the lake, which offers swimming, fishing, and adorable pedal boats. The swim area is well-kept, and the park staff are friendly and helpful. If you're into hiking or biking, you'll love the trails. There's even a mountain biking trail that's suitable for kids and trail runners alike.
For families, the park is a hit. There's a playground for the kids, and you can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddle boats. The lake is just the right size for kids to learn how to kayak. Plus, the park has a snack bar and a visitor's area, so you won't go hungry or run out of things to do.
Pets are welcome, and there's a market on-site for any last-minute needs. The park is also big on cleanliness, with spotless grounds and well-maintained facilities. Whether you're into glamping, tent camping, or bringing your RV, Woolly Hollow State Park has got you covered.
Nestled between the Ozark National Forest to the north, and the Ouachita National Forest to the south, Mount Magazine State Park boasts the highest point in the state of Arkansas: Mount Magazine at 2753 feet. Located just 100 miles northwest of Little Rock, this area has been a recreation destination since the late 1800s. Recreation at Mount Magazine really started booming in the 1930s and 40s with the construction of a lodge, campgrounds and trails. Visitors came to beat the heat of the surrounding valleys, as well as to enjoy the panoramic views, abundant wildflowers, autumn color, and numerous opportunities to play outdoors. The area finally became a state park in 1998.
Whether you prefer a posh lodge or cabin, a fully-equipped RV pad, or a rustic campsite, there’s a place for you to stay and play at Mount Magazine. The park’s campground offers 18 spacious sites with full or partial hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. Campers are required to store food and trash properly to minimize black bear encounters. For more luxuriant accommodations, the park’s lodge offers 60 guest rooms and spa suites with a variety of comforts, as well as 13 full-equipped cabins with up to three bedrooms. Not in the mood for hot dogs over the campfire? The large dining room at the Skycrest Restaurant serves daily meals while overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley.
When you’re ready to play on Mount Magazine, you can do it by foot, wheels or wings. Hikers have access to 14 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 3 miles, with connecting options for going farther. The 34-mile Huckleberry Mountain Trail is great for mountain biking and horseback riding. For gravity-defying activities, the park offers more than 100 climbing routes on its southern bluff, as well as a hang gliding launch point over the Petit Jean River Valley. Less strenuous activities include bird and wildlife watching, guided ranger walks, historic site tours and various interpretive programs and outdoor skills workshops. There’s also spectacular leaf-peeping in the fall when the forest takes on its vibrant autumn transformation.
$35 / night
$20 / night
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
This recreation area is part of Greers Ferry Lake
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests is Mount Nebo State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 27 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, with real photos and reviews from campers.
