Devil's Den State Park Campground accommodates equestrians in its dedicated horse camp area, offering both riders and their mounts spacious campsites with access to Lee Creek for watering horses. The park features numerous multi-use trails suitable for horseback riding, with trail lengths ranging from quarter-mile paths to the strenuous 15-mile Butterfield Trail that extends beyond park boundaries. The horseback riding trails are clearly marked and well-maintained, allowing riders to traverse wooded hills, follow rivers, and pass cave entrances and waterfalls. Horse campers must obtain a free permit from the visitor center before accessing the backcountry trail system or utilizing the horse camping area. The campground provides manure bins for proper waste disposal, helping maintain the pristine natural environment.
Located within the scenic Ozark Mountains, the horse camp at Devil's Den connects directly to the park's extensive trail network, providing immediate riding access without trailering. Riders particularly enjoy the newer Devil's Racetrack Monument multi-use trail, which offers varied terrain and connects to other paths including Yellowrock and Outlaw trails. The horse campground maintains separation from standard camping areas, minimizing conflicts between equestrians and other campers. During hunting seasons, riders venturing beyond park boundaries should wear bright orange for safety, as portions of the Butterfield Trail extend outside protected park lands. Weather conditions and seasonal flooding can affect trail accessibility, so calling ahead is recommended before planning extended rides. The visitor center staff provides knowledgeable guidance on current trail conditions and can help equestrians plan appropriate routes based on riding experience and horse fitness levels.
"General: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground"
"I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A."
from $20 / night
"Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area."
"This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly"
from $10 - $22 / night
"The picnic table had a few steps up to it. This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot."
"There is an unofficial overflow campground with a well kept pit toilet that offers the best view from the campgrounds over the Arkansas valley."
from $35 / night
"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!"
from $22 - $25 / night
"They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond. My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact."
"Also hiking trails. Also some tent sites. There is a whole new section for Class A and large 5th wheel campers now."
from $25 - $75 / night
"Store outside gate. Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m."
"We had a great spot located 200 yards from the lake. Also had the boat dock just on the other side of us. Great place to stay, friendly staff!"
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $10 - $50 / night
"Plenty of drive thru lots for big rigs. Higher end RV park, spacious lots, all utilities included. Beautiful new bathhouse kept very clean. Highly recommended!!!"
"They continue to upgrade trails and add beautiful camping spots. This is a family room ranch and Donny and Lynn are wonderful hosts. I always come home feeling reconnected with myself and family"
from $15 - $90 / night
"Easy access to Rocky Branch boat launch ramps"
"Nice and close to beaver lake. They had kayakes to rent and jet skies. Fishing is good as well. Also lots of wild life! Owls, lizards, tons of birds, deer, and foxes. I would definitaly come back!"
RangerPark has lots of hiking trails and lots of pro mountain bike trails too. The main Devils Den trail was closed for repairs when I arrived but still enjoyed the park. I have Verizon and the reception there was awful.
GuideThe campground was really nice. The sites were spread out really well for full hookup spots. Each spot had some privacy and distance between them. Bathrooms were super clean. There’s plenty of hiking trails around but other than that it’s a pretty relaxing campsite. Weather is 10-15 degrees cooler than what you’d expect in the River Valley.
GuideThis was a great stay with great spots for both smaller RV, tents & travel trailers. I loved this spot plus it was free. There are restrooms but no showers. First come first serve since there is no office or website to book! There was not many people when we went March-April and weather was nice. I also got to use my generator.
LegendWe took advantage of the 75 degree weather at the end of February to enjoy Mount Magazine. What a beautiful campground! All spaces have LOTS of room between them, it’s quiet, bathrooms are new and clean. A fantastic view of the region within a short walking distance. Lots and lots of hiking. 100% would visit again. I would probably stay in site 9, 15, or 17 if I had the choice again but none of the sites are bad. Full hookups.
GuideMount Magazine is absolutely gorgeous! Camping was great, bathrooms are kept very clean, campground had great sites that gave you lots of space and privacy.
RangerDevil’s Den SP had a great campground with full hookups available. The natural beauty of this area is breathtaking! Plenty of hiking opportunities and tons of activities. Very pet friendly. And close to so many attractions in Northwest Arkansas!
LegendGreat stop right off highway between Ft Smith and Fayetteville. Nice mix of all types of camping from tent-RV. Mountain Biking trails are on point, and plenty of hiking to scratch that itch or keep in shape for big trips
ScoutThis is more of a month to month rental place than it is for overnight stays and stops. The Wi-Fi is horrible here You cannot watch videos or anything like that on it. They charge you over the electrical limit but we used electricity all the time and never went over it. They have big pull through sides they have big park sides the picnic tables and some pretty good amenities there. But they didn't give you a deposit back. They're really bad about that. They stiff me on a $1,000 deposit even though I had a month to month rental. It was paid over that month and left two weeks early. Said that I had broke my lease. Laundry room is decent priced. Showers are great They only have hot water for about 15 minutes. It's in Sonora which is outside of Springdale, but convenient to Fayetteville.
RangerStayed here for a four wheeling trip. Was a decent location - sites were mostly dirt/gravel.
Devil's Den State Park offers extensive equestrian camping facilities near Chester, Arkansas, in addition to its hiking trails and natural features. The park sits in the Boston Mountain region of the Ozark Mountains at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,200 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer highs regularly exceed 90°F with significant humidity.
ATV and off-road adventures: The Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch provides miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. "There are miles and miles of ATV and single track trails for dirt biking. Creeks, waterfalls and buffalo everywhere," notes Mike B. in his review of Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park.
Explore underground features: Devil's Den includes opportunities for caving excursions when conditions permit. "4 days of camping with the guys, exploring caves and trails, and overall having a blast!" reports Brian E. at Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Fly fishing access: Many streams in the area provide fishing opportunities year-round. "The trout stream below the dam is one of only two year-round trout fisheries in Oklahoma, and is regularly stocked with rainbow trout," according to information about Chicken Creek Campground.
Reliable cell service: Some campgrounds maintain better connectivity than others. "TMobile 3 bars at site 17, Verizon lower..." notes Heather K. about her stay at Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds provide water access for cooling off. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" writes Melissa M. about Devil's Den.
Security features: Some locations offer enhanced security measures. "This was a great little park and stay at while we were in fort Smith. The price was right and operated by a family and the whole family chips in to run the park. The hosts were very accommodating and the military police patrolled the park," explains Leslie D. about William O. Darby RV Community.
Seasonal closures: Water levels can affect accessibility throughout the year. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" advises Jo at Devil's Den State Park.
Bathhouse conditions: Facilities vary significantly between locations. "The campground is clean, but the showers could use some work. I gave it a 4 star rating just because the regulars are a little sketchy and we had to deal with the Ranger a few times because of them," reports Taren S. about Devil's Den.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations can create challenging conditions. "Due to the elevation and drastic temperature change from the base of the mountain and the campground, it frankly isn't safe at all to drive on the mountain in the early morning or evening," warns Donny S. about his experience at Mount Magazine State Park.
Bug protection: Insects can be prevalent during warmer months. "P.S make sure and bring lots of bug spray," recommends Cj C. after camping at Devil's Den State Park.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities. "We chose this campground for the Tiny House rental for our Daughter and her husband & kids. We stayed in an RV site, enjoyed the pool, bounce pad & basketball," shares Cheryl T. about her stay at Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA.
Supply planning: Remote locations require advance preparation. "We love camping at Devils Den every spring! The trails are great and have beautiful views. The rangers and staff in the shop are very nice. Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," advises tiffany H.
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully for the best experience. "If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space," recommends Gonzo A. about Devil's Den State Park.
Access routes: Large vehicles require specific approaches. "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)," advises Gonzo A. about traveling to Devil's Den.
Hookup locations: RV site design varies between campgrounds. "We had to buy an extra sewer hose to connect to sewer, as it was placed so far toward entrance of the site, rather than toward rear of site where electric and water were appropriately placed," notes David B. about Rivers Edge RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Chester, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Chester, AR is Devil's Den State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 88 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Chester, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 equestrian camping locations near Chester, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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