Bear Creek Horse Camp offers primitive camping opportunities for equestrians in the Ouachita National Forest region. Located approximately 70 miles southwest of Cammack Village at an elevation of 1,200 feet, this rustic area connects to a network of bridle paths through diverse forest terrain. The unpaved access road (Forest Road 772) has some minor erosion points where small creeks cross, requiring careful navigation during wet weather.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Bear Creek Horse Camp connects to multiple loop trails in the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. "Located along Forest Road 772, about 1 mile north of Forest Road 11 in the Ouachita National Forest... The camp serves as a small primitive camping area for equestrian riders on the network of interconnecting loop trails," notes Fred S.
Hiking and exploring: The trails around equestrian sites near Cammack Village are often open to hikers as well. At Woolly Hollow State Park, "They have great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is a nice swimming area with a shop to order drinks/snacks," reports Alison C.
Fishing opportunities: Many camping areas near Cammack Village offer fishing access. At Lake Catherine State Park, Michael D. found "nice, shady, level sites with full hook-ups. Three very good trails within the park. Situated on a beautiful lake near Hot Springs, AR with a marina."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Cammack Village attract diverse wildlife. At Erwin Estate High Point, Susan E. describes "Wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more. Onsite catch and release pond bass fishing (bring your own gear)."
Quiet seclusion: Most equestrian camping near Cammack Village provides peaceful settings away from crowds. At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, Rylie R. found "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out."
Water features: Lakes and streams enhance many camping experiences. Julie A. writes about Camp Robinson: "The sunset was beautiful. Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening." Many equestrian camps also have creeks for horse watering.
What you should know
Facility limitations: Most equestrian sites have minimal amenities. Bear Creek Horse Camp offers "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."
Weather impacts: Seasonal conditions affect trail quality. At Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp, Jason W. warns it's "Another no-frills camp on a wildlife management area. Mosquito spray is more important than food."
Accessibility challenges: Some roads to equestrian camps can be difficult. Loren J. cautions about Adam's Lake: "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there."
Cell service issues: Communication can be unreliable at remote sites. Fred S. reports about Bear Creek Horse Camp: "Sites are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge. I received no T-Mobile cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational programs: Some parks offer nature learning opportunities. At Lake Catherine State Park, Alison C. shares: "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Choose sites with kid-friendly activities: Water features often entertain children. Tina B. says about Lake Catherine: "We absolutely love it here. Wonderful trails, fishing, cabins and camp sites and tons of photo opportunities."
Consider parks with facilities: Full amenities make family camping easier. Kelci C. described Woolly Hollow: "Bathhouses were clean, the snack bar was great, the camp spots were roomy. Highly recommend."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Unpaved access can be challenging for larger rigs. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, 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."
Consider parking limitations: Many equestrian sites have limited trailer space. Burt from Camp Conway RV Park recommends this alternative: "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park. Convenient to Conway and even Little Rock."
Plan for hookup availability: Most horse camps lack RV connections. For full services, 2SHOE S. suggests Woolly Hollow: "If you camp in the RV loop you will likely meet some nice folks and enjoy nature among other RVers. The park is well taken care of."
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