Bear Creek Horse Camp provides primitive camping facilities for equestrians in the Ouachita National Forest. Located approximately 1 mile north of Forest Road 11 on Forest Road 772, this small campground serves as an access point to the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. The camp contains four primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Visitors can expect basic accommodations with hitching posts for horses throughout the grounds.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Bear Creek Equestrian Trail network offers multiple interconnected loop trails through diverse Ouachita National Forest terrain. At Lake Catherine State Park, visitors can explore additional trails. As Michael D. notes, "Three very good trails within the park. Situated on a beautiful lake near Hot Springs, AR with a marina."
Hiking and nature viewing: While primarily designated for equestrians, trails are also open to hikers seeking to explore the forest ecosystem. The trails at DeGray Lake Resort State Park offer informative features as one camper explains: "Each trail had an information board where you can scan a QR code to know more about the trail, what made it unique and what to look out for while you are out there."
Fishing opportunities: The small creek running alongside Bear Creek Horse Camp provides water for horses, while nearby lakes offer fishing. Jason W. from DeGray Lake Resort State Park notes, "Great swimming beaches and shore fishing are available too."
What campers like
Scenic views: The horse campgrounds near Bismarck, Arkansas provide scenic forest and mountain views. At Erwin Estate High Point, Susan E. highlights the "180+ degree view overlooking Benton to Malvern to Greater Hot Springs" and mentions it's "Great for nature, vista, and sunset photography."
Privacy and spacing: The campsites at many equestrian campgrounds in the region offer good separation between sites. At Lake Catherine State Park, Alison C. appreciates that "The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors. There were trees to hang our hammocks."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Bismarck provide opportunities to observe native wildlife. At Erwin Estate High Point, visitors can experience "Wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most horse camps near Bismarck offer only basic facilities. Buck Knob is completely primitive with no water, electricity, or restroom facilities.
Cell service challenges: Connectivity can be limited or nonexistent depending on your carrier. Bear Creek Horse Camp has no reliable cell service, which affects communication and navigation capabilities.
Water considerations: No drinking water is available at many horse campgrounds, including Bear Creek Horse Camp. Campers should bring sufficient water for themselves and their horses. At DeGray Lake, Shannon M. notes the water access advantage: "Right across from the campsite was a trail to the water, which was very convenient!"
Tips for camping with families
Plan for bathroom needs: With limited facilities at horse camps, families should prepare accordingly. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, there is "a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp" according to Fred S., but many dispersed camping areas have no facilities.
Bring entertainment: Families can enhance their experience with activities beyond horseback riding. Alison C. from DeGray Lake Resort State Park shares: "We enjoyed paddle boating, horse back riding and disc golf."
Consider weather preparation: The Ouachita region experiences variable weather conditions throughout the year. At Lake Catherine State Park, campers appreciate the natural shade, with Michael D. noting the "Nice, shady, level sites."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Forest roads leading to horse camps may have seasonal erosion issues. Fred S. notes about Bear Creek Horse Camp: "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit."
Solar limitations: For RVers relying on solar power, be aware that most equestrian campgrounds are heavily wooded. Fred S. points out that sites at Bear Creek Horse Camp "are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge."
Nearby amenities: Know where to access supplies. At DeGray Lake Resort State Park, campers note it's "Close enough to Arkadelphia if you need supplies," while Erwin Estate provides information that "Bait, gas and convenience store within 3 miles. Walmart and restaurants 10 miles."
