The Dyrt can help you find the perfect horse camping site near Alix. Finding a place to stay in Arkansas while traveling with your horse has never been easier. With our help, you'll find the best Arkansas equestrian campsites from scenic to easily accessible.
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
Devil’s Den includes 17 cabins with kitchens and fireplaces and 6 camper cabins. The park also offers 135 campsites (44 Class AAA, 4 Class B, 13 Class C, 24 Class D [no hookups], eight hike-in [tent only], and 42 sites with hookups in the horse camp that includes a bathhouse and access to the horse trails). The park’s cafe is open seasonally. The pool is open in summer only. Also on-site is a group camp, standard pavilion, playground, store, and meeting room.
Join park interpreters on hikes along trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail and for a variety of programs and special events year-round, like the Ozark Mountain Bike Festival held annually in the spring.
$20 / night
Experience the best tent and RV camping in Arkansas at Byrd’s Adventure Center. Right on the Mulberry River, Byrd’s offers a host of activities not found at any other Ozark campground.
Enjoy our comfortable RV and tent campsites as you relax in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Byrd’s Adventure Center offers spacious camping in a beautiful setting along the Mulberry River.
A variety of grassy and wooded campsites are available. Some sites have small shelters with picnic tables and campfire rings. In addition to our new Riverfront Restaurant (open weekly Friday-Sunday), we have more amenities than you’ll find in other Ozark campgrounds. These include a large heated shower house, a convenient on-site store with deli, stages, pavilions, an extensive trail network, two backcountry airstrips, rental cabins, plus floating and fishing on the pristine Mulberry River. All of this is located on our private 800-acre ORV park surrounded by the Ozark National Forest.
$10 - $22 / night
Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in tent sites and another section of the campground offers 14 sites for those camping with horses. Half of the sites in the campground are available for reservations. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just off Highway 74.
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking or overnight backcountry opportunities.__ Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for more information..
$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.
$5 - $245 / night
Over 3000 acres of spectacular dirt and dual sport riding in a pristine natural area. One of a kind waterfall and specialty campsites. These are limited and must be reserved prior to arrival. Adjoins Buffalo National River Park & The Sweden Creek Natural Area. Most people bring their own off road vehicles and many come to hike and camp. Currently Open Most Days Year Round
$15 - $90 / night
Let us help make your stay in Fort Smith a great one. William O. Darby RV Community is family-owned and operated with 47 RV sites providing local and cross-country RV campers with a wonderful place to stay and great service. Whether you are visiting for a day, a week, a month, or even longer, we offer great rates to make your stay the most affordable and enjoyable it can be. Our prices include WiFi, cable, & full hook-ups, which only helps make your decision even easier.
At William O. Darby RV Park, the level of comfort is incomparable. We like to consider ourselves to be a friendly community. We are located in a secluded country setting at Chaffee Crossing, but we are just minutes from all the amenities that Fort Smith has to offer. We are the perfect retreat whether you are just passing through, on vacation, visiting family, or on a job for an extended time in the area. We have something for everyone to enjoy and look forward to you coming to stay with us!
$22 - $25 / night
$20 / night
Scout
Absolutely beautiful from the Senic Overlook!! The trails are easy to traverse, and the nature here is breathtaking!!
Guide
Camping Review: A Slice of Paradise
If you're looking for the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I can't recommend this camping spot highly enough. Nestled in a remote area, far from the chaos of civilization, this campsite offers a rejuvenating experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene sounds of nature—the rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle flow of the Buffalo River nearby. With no cell service, it was liberating to disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in the beauty around me.
The campsite itself was impeccably maintained, with spacious sites that allowed for privacy and a true sense of seclusion. Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure.
During my stay, I hiked along the winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that took my breath away. The evenings were spent gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars that seemed to shine brighter than ever.
The lack of modern distractions was refreshing, allowing me to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of life—like the crackling fire and the warmth of good company. Whether you're an experienced camper or a beginner, this remote getaway is perfect for anyone looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
In summary, if you're seeking a peaceful retreat where you can truly escape the world, this camping spot is the best of the best. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in nature's embrace!
Guide
There is not a lot to do, and it is pretty far from the city. However, there are big RV sites and amazing sunsets. There is also a lake nearby.
Dog friendly.
There are lots of nature trails, but none very long.
Lots of ticks, tricky to get good starlink connection.
Scout
Contacted owner late in the evening looking for a spot after a 9hour drive. This place had everything and the bathhouse was just like taking a shower at home! Would stop here again when passing through!!
LegendI’ve lived within 2 hours almost 20 years and hadn’t visited. I’m so mad! LARGE, well spaced sites with two bath house within 50 yards in either direction. There were trails out of the campground. Riverfront spots are most ideal but the anything on the outside of the loop is beautiful. Visitors center with wood. Small store with small amount of camping supplies and snacks. Cafe onsite offering three things. The hikes are short and just amazing!!!!!
TravelerMy husband and I have yet to have a camping trip together. Both of us have always talked about and loved doing it as a kid but never found the time to do it until now. We had a blast.
We tent camped and stayed in Site 80 on the RV camping area as it was the only area that had electric and water. We weren’t quite ready to go without electricity just yet as we kind of scrambled to make this trip happen before the weather turned cold and gets jammed with holidays.
We stayed a Sunday & Monday night. Upon checking on Sunday the park was PACKED as expected. Rangers were advising people to avoid Yellowrock and find other trails to do. We weren’t even going to bother until the Monday afternoon. So we went down to check out our site and get set up. Site was clean and close to the bathrooms. Neighbors were a little noisy at night but calmed down around 9:45.
Slept great and had a great day exploring the park and walking along the creek and went to Yellowrock which was gorgeous. Just download your maps before you go. No service so be mindful of that. I loved that aspect though.
Monday night was great and previous neighbors had check out that day so a peaceful nights sleep was had.
Can’t wait to come back and visit again!
TravelerGreat get away close to the Ozarks. Clean, quiet, beautiful views!
TravelerWe absolutely loved our stay in Site #11 in Campground A. The site was absolutely massive, and turned out to be even better than the one that we had initially picked out, but was already reserved. We were a little concerned about lack of shade in this site, as it only had one tree in it, but it shaded at least some of the site all day every day, and even provided a nice umbrella to hang out under during the brief bouts of rain. Hiking was fantastic, with each trail being dramatically different than the one before, and we did at least 7 of them in the 4 full days we were there.
Things I loved:
- no cell signal. They did offer ViaSat WIFI for a fee, but I love to unplug when I get the chance.
- the quiet natural beauty and dark sky
- very clean bathrooms, which were cleaned daily, even though there might have been a total of 4 sites occupied at any given time during our stay.
- frequent patrols by park rangers
- beautiful trails
Things I was not fond of:
- the park rangers that patrolled did nothing to enforce the rule that dogs must be on-leash, even when we know they saw this multiple times. Thanks to this, we had two dogs in the site next door that would randomly wander over to and through our site, much to the consternation of our two on-lead dogs. Thankfully, this couple left the day after we got there.
- the firewood was soaking wet when we purchased it, even though it was stored in a shed near the visitor's center. Decent price for the amount, but it was very difficult to start.
- a few more people than I would have expected during the week at this time of year. I would hate to see it on the weekends.
Traveler
Beautiful! So peaceful. If tent camping, sites 17,14,16 have the best views of an overlook. Cabins 11 and 14 have great views as well.
TravelerWe stayed at Devil’s Den state park over indigenous peoples holiday weekend (Sunday-Tuesday) and had a really relaxing time. The site are large and clean, most of them are shaded and the bathroom is a full bathroom with flush toilets, sinks, and showers. The trails are gorgeous and plentiful. We saw deer, armadillos, and skunks and while we are not bird watchers there were a ton of birds. We were at site 5 which is a very spread out site. You park in the middle between your fire pit and the tent pad, which was big enough for our 8 person tent. We also had a small meadow to ourselves and then woods between us and site 3 which was great for privacy. Site 7 is close to the tent pad but not too close. Site 6 was vacant the first night but the second night had 2 large families (about 15 people) that were closer than we would have liked but still fine. All the even sites are in the center and all odd site are on the outer ring, which I think giver more privacy. Sites 4 and 1 are the least shaded with almost no trees. 1 has the advantage of direct access to the creek and a gorgeous view. My husbands favorite site was 16 which has about 10 trees and would be perfect for hammocking. It’s on the end of the loop. There was talk that a bear was spotted in the park, so be prepared and be sure not to leave scraps out or the skunks can get close to your site. Overall, it was a great campground and we would 100% go back!
RangerThis is a great place to visit . Trailers under 20’ only , steep road and switchbacks up the mountain . No RV’s will make it . Also home to a Monument Trail mountain biking system that’s is world class . There is a swimming pool showers and hiking for days . Only the park store is on top of the mountain . Hike in camp sites are available , group sites and 30 amp hookups with water . Some sites are a little un level . Spend some time here , you will not regret it . Most cell carriers work well up here
LegendI had heard so many great things about this park but I was not that impressed. The sites are fairly close together. There’s no signs warning that if you are in a large RV you shouldn’t come in on a certain highway. They do have equestrian trails and a campground to accommodate campers with horses. They have a lot of hiking trails. There are cabins and a pool.
Ranger
Place is perfect we are amping at scooters roost. Gorgeous, quiet, and heaven. Recommend to anyone!!!
GuideSuch a beautiful park and amazing view from our campsites! The trails were nicely kept and the waterfall we hiked to on Lizard Trail was so picturesque! Not a big park and like how the community blended in with the park. We aren’t cyclists but it’s a great spot to bring your bikes.
My favorite park so far in Arkansas.
Scout
Dangerous dog roaming loose. I was walking up the steps of the restaurant to see if it was open. There was a full size White Pyrenees at the top of the steps. They are usually friendly dogs. This one growled and lunged at me. I had to backpedal so quickly that I almost flipped over backwards down the stairs which most likely would have broken things. Pyrenees are a protectorate breed bred to fight and kill wolves and bears. Their jaw strength exceeds a pit bull. They could kill a child and most adults instantly.
GuideSteep switchbacks up to the campground. The campground has private residences dispersed throughout. The outlay of the park is somewhat confusing. Be sure to study a map well. The campground is almost immediately to the right as you get to the top, but you have to go past that quite a ways to the visitor's center to check in. The views are amazing, but it is windy being at the top of the mountain. There are cabins but I stayed at a campsite (#14) with a view. The bathroom facilities near the campground are a bit of a walk from the campground. If you have your own potty tent, you may consider bringing it. My site was not level so I used leveling blocks. I have my Jeep outfitted for sleeping in. The more interior sites looked to be more level. No big rigs are allowed up the mountain, I think nothing longer than 24'. I did not take any of the hiking trails, so I can't comment on those. My old dog just can't do too much hiking anymore. Staff were friendly. The electricity worked great, but the water spigot was barely functional. Bathroom was kept clean and had one shower with typical camp wall spigot. The road down the mountain leads into a small, industrial type town. Walmart, Dollar General is nearby as well as many typical restaurants. I utilize a WeBoost, and a hotspot on my iPhone. I was able to stream shows without much buffering. I got anywhere from 1-4 bars on ATT LTE.
LegendFollow route alerts by taking AR170 at West Fork from Interstate 49!
Do not go to Visitor Center to check in while towing. Go to campsite, unhitch, and then go to Visitor Center.
Fayetteville for Walmart, Target and other box stores + Braun's Ice Cream
Jakes in West Fork Harps grocery store & fuel
PROS
Senior discount
No fee to make my own on-line reservation
Dark sky friendly
Quiet during weekday stay
Campground E has lots of trees
Campsite asphalt parking pad level
Metal picnic table (on concrete pad), pedestal BBQ grill, metal fire ring with cooking grate that consumed half of the ring and metal lantern hook
Good space between most campsites
Campground E trash bin at every other campsite
Clean toilet/shower facility
Ample TP, hand soap and an electric hand dryer in toilet facility Campground E
Climate controlled toilet/shower facility. Felt great on a 38 degree morning!
Park ranger drive thru campground during daylight hours
Good signage throughout park concerning burn ban
Good assistant park superintendent presentation at the park amphitheater regarding the CCC constructing DDSP
Nice hiking trails
Squirrels will eat from your hand in Campground E
CONS
No cell service. Pay phone at campground toilet/shower facility
Only free WiFi is at camp store by the pool. We purchased WiFi from park vendor Viasat $20 unlimited for 3 days for one device
Cannot see or hear creek from site 89
Sewer connection at rear of site pad
No privacy from any other campsite in Campground E
Cannot move site picnic table
No camp host
RangerWe ended up staying at Cameron Bluff - a different site on top of the mountain, but this area looked pretty good as well! Clean bathrooms, neat visitor center, picnic tables, pavilion, and a bunch of trailheads
RangerWe’ve visited this site many times throughout the years and there is almost always something new to see! There are trails for all levels and a bunch of caves (sadly closed) scattered around the area. Fantastic views!
RangerJoined a lot of fall campers. Good overall experience, didn’t have time to take in all the trails. No phone or internet, no problem!
Guide
this campground is geared more to the atv / utv / jeep / offraod vehicle crowd. if you are use to / expecting an rv resort that is the same as staying at your own home this is not for you. if you want outdoors, get lost in the woods and want to unplug from society then this is the spot. some sites require a bit of leveling, lots of full hookup and good amount of 50 amp. some sites are close, so are not. cafe onsite during the weekend with good breakfast and AWESOME burgers. i know many folks love to cookout when rving, but the burgers are worth a stop.
in just the 3 years since our first visit, greg has improved / continues to improve at an incredible rate. as with my title, and review above, greg and his wife are top notch hosts. they truly love what they do and want to do everything to make sure your stay is enjoyable. neighbors are friendly and respectful, no issues.
short drives from the campgrounds to beautiful scenery with a little bit of research, or ask greg. alot are even accessible by car. take the 30 min drive to hillbillys lims bbq as well.
ScoutThey where very rude the other day to a guest that's been coming for years and years. I only been there when they where there. They informed me today they will never be back after years of going.. guess tuner bends right down the road will get our business next year
GuideNot great for camping. Not peaceful. Not private. Campsites are next to playground and pool. Along with a neighborhood. Imagine camping in a public park. That’s this place. Hikes are pretty and trails are designed for mountain biking. My buddy said they’re awesome. If I camped here again, I’d do it in a camper. Not a hammock. Also, bugs are horrible.
LegendWe stayed here for some backwoods hiking in the Ozarks and it was about 40 minutes from the various hikes we had planned. There are some trails nearby, but the area and trails are really designed for ATVs.
It 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. The showers are ROUGH, but they exist. They have hot water, but there’s a literal nail to operate the handles. Toilets are okay. No laundry. It has stables for horses and seems to really be built for ATVers.
No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around.
Nicest people in the world own it and work there. They have a shop and cafe on site that is open only on the weekends. The cafe is okay. It does have WiFi, but that does not extend to the camp/ RV sites. The real draw is the folks who work there, can’t state enough how wonderful and helpful they are.
Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive.
Very beautiful sites close by: falling water falls, big creek cave falls, glory hole falls, pedestal rocks and kings bluff trails, alum natural bridge—and so much more.
LegendAwesome Small Campground! What a gem! Not a glamping campground, but beautiful peaceful change. Only 16 sites, with only 2, 50 amp sites. We were lucky enough to get one. Site is huge and private. Has fire pit with grill, separate bbq, siting area and great hook ups. Bear proof refuge container on site as well. Half off if disabled! Site 3 wasn't completely level, but quick fix. Sights and hiking were breathtaking. No laundry, cable or wifi, but restrooms and showers were clean. Cell service was spotty. Gorgeous lodge with great overlooks and restaurant close by. A diamond in the rough.
GuideExtended our plans to stay 2 nights (considered for the 10 miles to the park) after arriving at our site. TMobile 3 bars at site 17 Verizon lower...
TravelerStayed four nights un site 54 with a view of the babling brook. The park is spectacular. The sites had ample space around them and the shower houses and restrooms were very nice and cleaned regularly. We lived this park and will definately be back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Alix, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Alix, AR is Mount Magazine State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Alix, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Alix, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
