Moccasin Gap Horse Trail National Forest Campground provides equestrian camping access 40 miles from Clinton, Arkansas in the Ozark National Forest. The campground sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation within a forested section of the Ozark Highland Trail system. The primitive sites arranged in a loop offer direct trail connections to riding paths throughout the forest.
What to do
Trail riding access: Moccasin Gap serves as a gateway to the extensive horse trail system throughout the Ozark National Forest. At Woolly Hollow State Park, campers can explore alternative riding options, as one visitor notes: "The park offers a pour-off waterfall during the wet season when the lake is high, biking options."
Swimming spots: Cool off at natural swimming locations after riding. "We love the peacefulness of this place and will continue coming back," shares a visitor about Woolum Dispersed Area, adding that it has "the best swimming hole!"
Fishing opportunities: The region offers multiple fishing options within short drives. One camper at Cherokee Recreation Area recalled: "I pulled out so many rainbow trouts from this lake! The camp sites are close to the water, and the boat docks are easy to access."
What campers like
Natural settings: The equestrian campgrounds maintain rustic environments that appeal to riders seeking authentic experiences. A camper at Tyler Bend Campground appreciated that it was "great for swimming in the cold Buffalo River. Lots of wildlife including elk."
Seasonal water features: Spring visits often provide the best waterfall viewing. One visitor to Woolum noted: "Beautiful scenery year-round. I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS."
Quiet environment: Many horse campgrounds near Clinton offer peaceful surroundings despite their accessibility. A camper at Camp Robinson Dispersed Site observed: "Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most equestrian sites prioritize trail access over facilities. A camper at Tyler Bend Campground advised: "Nice campground with minimal amenities. Please read description before coming or don't whine when you get here. No electricity, hot showers and water available close."
Road conditions: Access roads to some horse camps can become challenging after rain. A visitor to Woolum reported: "I have visited this spot multiple times and camped right on the riverbank. Beautiful scenery year-round."
Bug preparation: Arkansas horse camps can experience significant insect activity, especially in warmer months. A camper at Woolum warned: "Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine. Bring the bug spray and sunscreen."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several equestrian campgrounds offer amenities beyond riding. At Woolly Hollow State Park, a parent shared: "Amazing weekend right outside of the Ozark National Forest. The lake was closed for Maintenance but the state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition."
Educational opportunities: Some parks coordinate with naturalist groups. The same Woolly Hollow visitor added: "They put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed as well as answered every question she had. As a homeschool family we are always looking for learning opportunities."
Weather preparation: Temperatures can vary significantly in the Ozarks. A visitor to Macks Pines noted: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Horse campgrounds often have less developed RV pads. At Macks Pines, a reviewer observed: "Some sites require a bit of leveling, lots of full hookup and good amount of 50 amp. Some sites are close, so are not."
Supply planning: The rural location of most equestrian camps means limited shopping. A Macks Pines visitor warned: "Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive."
Road navigation: Access to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. A visitor to Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp cautioned: "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there."
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