Bear Creek Horse Camp provides primitive camping for equestrian enthusiasts in the Ouachita National Forest. The camp sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in a deep forest setting with minimal facility development beyond a vault toilet and hitching posts. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 60-75°F daytime temperatures and cooler nights.
What to do
Trail riding in national forest: The Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system starts directly from the campground with interconnecting loops designed primarily for horseback riders. At Mount Nebo State Park Campground, visitors find additional riding opportunities. According to Ben S., "Fantastic camping spot, but be sure to call way ahead to find the best spots near the edge for the best view...because it's fantastic."
Fishing in nearby waters: Multiple fishing opportunities exist within 30 minutes of Adona. At Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp, Jason W. notes it's "Another no-frills camp on a wildlife management area. Mosquito spray is more important than food." The camp offers access to free shoreline fishing.
Hiking varied terrain: Beyond equestrian trails, the area offers hiking options for non-riders. At Woolly Hollow State Park, Amy W. reports, "This park has so much going for it. It is clean, small, handicap accessible....great hiking with short and long options, a pour-off waterfall during the wet season when the lake is high, biking options."
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Equestrian camping near Adona, Arkansas provides genuine forest immersion. Fred S. describes Bear Creek Horse Camp as having "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... Sites are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife observation. At Erwin Estate High Point, Susan E. reports "Wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more. Onsite catch and release pond bass fishing(bring your own gear)."
Seasonal temperature variations: The mountain setting offers cooler temperatures during summer months. Stan G. notes that Mount Nebo is a "Nice park-cooler in summer" with "Several hammock friendly sites. Hang gliders frequently use the bluffs to launch. Beautiful views of Arkansas River/Lake Dardanelle."
What you should know
Mobile connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the Ouachita National Forest. Fred S. reports "I received no T-Mobile cell service" at Bear Creek Horse Camp. In contrast, at Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, Julie A. found "The road back to it is well maintained and we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum."
Horse containment options: Equestrian campers should note facilities are minimal. Bear Creek provides hitching posts but no corrals, so portable containment systems may be necessary for overnight stays.
Road conditions and access: Forest roads serving camping areas have variable conditions. Fred S. notes "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit."
Tips for camping with families
Look for camps with restroom facilities: When camping with children, restroom access matters. At Lake Catherine State Park Campground, Alison C. reports "We took my nieces on a weekend trip in our camper to Lake Catherine State Park. Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors."
Pack for weather variations: Mountain elevations near Adona experience significant temperature shifts between day and night. Dave V. notes that Mount Nebo has "Being on an 1800 ft elevation summit, surrounded by valley...its quiet and enjoys a constant breeze. Enjoying blue skies, the shade trees are appreciated in the camping area."
Consider swimming options: During summer, water access helps manage heat. Tiffany H. describes Lake Catherine: "This is a wonderful park I grew up camping at. You can rent a boat and fish all day. Play in the waterfall or walk the great trails!"
Tips from RVers
Check access limitations: Mountain roads present challenges for larger rigs. At Mount Nebo, Gary F. advises "Mount Magazine Mountain is the highest peak in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. Mount Magazine SP sits at the top of Magazine Mountain. It has 18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30."
Research hookup availability: Full-service campsites are limited near Adona. Stu and Amy B. report Macks Pines "doesn't offer a lot in terms of comfort—there are full hookups but no real fire rings, no trees or shade and it's HOT in early June. It's an all gravel path so not great for any elderly walkers or those in need of ADA."
Note campsite spacing: Sites at established campgrounds often provide better separation. Kathy E. says about Woolly Hollow, "We have camped twice at Wooly Hollow and visited once as a day trip. We love Wooly Hollow. It is very clean and quiet. There is lots of shade and several sites on the water."
