Bear Creek Horse Camp offers primitive camping for equestrians in Arkansas, located about 47 miles southwest of Bryant. The area features vault toilets and access to multiple riding trails through the Ouachita National Forest. For equestrians seeking equine-friendly camping near Bryant, Arkansas, several options exist within driving distance, ranging from primitive sites to more developed facilities with amenities.
What to do
Trail riding: At Bear Creek Horse Camp, visitors can access the network of interconnecting loop trails in the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. A reviewer notes that "The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp" and that "These trails are also open to hikers."
Hiking and exploring: Lake Catherine State Park offers several hiking trails with varied terrain. One camper shares: "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Water activities: The lakes near Bryant provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. At DeGray Lake State Park, visitors can enjoy various water sports. A reviewer mentions: "We were able to park boat next to campsite and get kayaks and floats in and out of water easily. Boat ramp super close by."
What campers like
Scenic views: Erwin Estate High Point offers impressive vistas just 15 minutes from Hot Springs. A camper describes it as having a "180+ degree view overlooking Benton to Malvern to Greater Hot Springs" and mentions "Star gazing at night with a very romantic sunset."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds in the region offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. One reviewer at Erwin Estate mentions sightings including "Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more."
Solitude and quiet: Some dispersed sites offer peaceful camping experiences. At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, a visitor noted: "The sunset was beautiful. Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening."
What you should know
Hitching posts available: Bear Creek Horse Camp includes hitching posts for horses, but does not have dedicated corrals. A visitor noted: "Hitching posts are available in the camp. A small creek runs along side the camp."
Water access varies: Many equestrian camping areas require you to bring your own water. At Bear Creek, no drinking water is available on site.
Reservation systems differ: While some parks like Woolly Hollow State Park allow reservations, Bear Creek Horse Camp operates on a "first-come, first-served" basis only.
Limited facilities: Most horse camps have basic amenities. A Bear Creek reviewer states: "Four sites (2 official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus 2 dispersed sites with rock fire rings)," and "There is a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp; it was well supplied."
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with planned activities: Some state parks offer ranger-led programs. At Woolly Hollow, one parent shared: "The state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition. The best part was the guided hike with Master Naturalist group of AR."
Consider parks with swim areas: During summer months, swimming areas provide family entertainment. A Woolly Hollow visitor noted: "There is a nice swimming area with a shop to order drinks/snacks. The park rangers and staff were super friendly and helpful."
Pack for insects: Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water sources. A reviewer at Adam's Lake commented: "Mosquito spray is more important than food."
Choose accessible sites: For families needing easier access, a reviewer recommended Woolly Hollow: "The best features of this State Park are: 1) it is close to Conway and an easy drive from Little Rock; 2) there is a separate loop for tent camping and it's closer to the water than the hookups loop; and 3) it has a nice swim beach open in season."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Forest roads leading to horse camps may present challenges. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, a visitor noted: "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit."
Consider leveling needs: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A DeGray Lake camper mentioned: "Few if any of the sites in this section of the CG were anywhere close to level and our site, one of the few pull-throughs, was one of the worst, I mean seriously sloped even after ratcheting up the front levelers as far as they'd go."
Campground layout matters: When choosing horse campgrounds near Bryant, Arkansas, consider the arrangement of sites. At Camp Conway RV Park, a visitor appreciated the "Wide-open layout, outside of town, quiet, full-hookups" and noted it's "friendly to monthly guests as well as nightly."
