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Bear Creek Horse Camp

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Forest Road 772 leads campers about a mile north from Forest Road 11 to this primitive horse camp within the Ouachita National Forest. The four sites include two official spots with metal fire rings and two dispersed areas with rock fire rings, all available first-come, first-served at no cost. Hitching posts accommodate equestrian visitors, while the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system trailhead sits at the camp's rear.

A small creek runs alongside the camping area, which sits mostly shaded under forest cover. The vault toilet stays well-maintained and supplied. Cell service proves spotty, and the heavy tree cover challenges solar charging. Sites work for both tents and hammocks, though campers should expect minimal ground maintenance. The camp serves as a practical base for riders and hikers accessing the interconnected trail loops, with Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest offering another dispersed option five miles east.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Bear Creek Horse Camp is located in Arkansas

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

34.78546409827295 N
93.16113709879306 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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1 Review

Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jun. 5, 2025

Small, Secluded Primitive Equestrian Campground

Coordinates: 34.78571,-93.15988. Visited in early May 2025. Located along Forest Road 772, about 1 mile north of Forest Road 11 in the Ouachita National Forest. Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit. The camp is on the western edge of the Deckard Mountain Walk-in Turkey Hunting Area. The camp serves as a small primitive camping area for equestrian riders on the network of interconnecting loop trails that comprise the Bear Creek Equestrain Trail system. These trails are also open to hikers. The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp. Free. Four sites (2 official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus 2 dispersed sites with rock fire rings), available on a first-come/first-based only. Hitching posts are available in the camp. A small creek runs along side the camp. The grounds of the camp do not appear to be maintained, but the sites were clean. There is a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp; it was well supplied. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Sites are mnostly shaded making solar rechargiong and Starlink access a challenge. I received no T-Mobile cell service. The camp itself is not aesthetically pleasing, but it is located deep in a beautiful forest with easy access to a trail system. Note that, when I last checked, the Ouachita National Forest Web site no longer lists this site as a campground.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Horse Camp by Fred S., June 5, 2025
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Horse Camp by Fred S., June 5, 2025
  • Review photo of Bear Creek Horse Camp by Fred S., June 5, 2025
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Showing results 1-1 of 1 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the reservation requirements for Bear Creek Horse Camp?

Bear Creek Horse Camp in the Ouachita National Forest may operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but this should be verified with forest management. Many horse camps in national forests don't require advance reservations, especially smaller, more primitive sites. Contact the Ouachita National Forest district office directly to confirm the current reservation policy, any associated fees, and whether permits are required for overnight stays. If planning a visit during peak seasons or holidays, reaching out well in advance is advisable as equestrian campsites can fill quickly during popular riding seasons.

What facilities are available at Bear Creek Horse Camp?

Bear Creek Horse Camp offers basic facilities designed for equestrian campers in the Ouachita National Forest. The camp is primarily set up for visitors with horses, featuring designated areas for camping with your equine companions. The camp is situated along Forest Road 772 in a natural forest setting. For specific details about water availability, restrooms, corrals, or other amenities, it's best to contact the Ouachita National Forest office before your trip as facilities at horse camps can vary seasonally.

Are there good riding trails near Bear Creek Horse Camp?

Yes, Bear Creek Horse Camp provides excellent access to riding trails throughout the Ouachita National Forest. The camp's strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for trail riders. The surrounding area offers diverse terrain through forested landscapes, with trails that likely follow creek beds, ridge lines, and forest roads. The camp's position along Forest Road 772, approximately one mile north of Forest Road 11, places riders in close proximity to the trail network. For current trail conditions and maps, check with the Ouachita National Forest office before your visit.

How can I find photos of Bear Creek Horse Camp before visiting?

To find photos of Bear Creek Horse Camp, check The Dyrt's campground page which often features user-submitted photos. The Ouachita National Forest official website may also have images of the camp. Social media groups dedicated to horse camping or Arkansas outdoor recreation frequently share photos of equestrian campsites. Additionally, you can contact the forest service office that manages the Ouachita National Forest to request visual information about the camp before your visit.