Sorghum Hollow Horse Camp offers equestrians direct access to more than 20 miles of bridle paths through Ozark terrain. Located near Delaware, Arkansas, approximately 20 miles west of Dardanelle, this forest campground connects to multiple trail systems accommodating various riding skill levels. The area sees average summer temperatures in the 90s and winter lows in the 30s, with early spring and late fall providing optimal riding conditions when humidity levels drop.
What to do
Trail riding in national forest: The trails around Sorghum Hollow Horse Camp accommodate riders of varying experience. One visitor noted, "Not uncommon for horseback riders to come through. Can be rough and muddy getting down to the water."
Visit Mount Nebo State Park: Located approximately 20 miles from Dardanelle, this park offers hiking with panoramic views. According to one camper at Mount Nebo State Park, "Mt. Nebo reminded my a lot of Mt Mag. Both overlook the Arkansas river valley... The hikes are worth a trip to Mt Nebo."
Explore nearby waterfalls: Multiple waterfalls can be reached within an hour's drive from horse campgrounds near Dardanelle. A camper staying at Mack's Pines mentioned, "Very beautiful sites close by: falling water falls, big creek cave falls, glory hole falls, pedestal rocks and kings bluff trails, alum natural bridge—and so much more."
What campers like
Mountain-top camping views: The elevation at Mount Nebo provides cooler temperatures and scenic overlooks. One camper reported, "Sites on the bluff... Sunset and Sunrise points," while another mentioned, "Long, unobstructed views and refreshing breezes."
Bird watching opportunities: The natural areas around Dardanelle attract diverse wildlife. A camper at Camp Conway RV Park observed, "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park."
Equestrian facilities: Horse camps in the region cater specifically to trail riders with appropriate amenities. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, a visitor found, "Hitching posts are available in the camp. A small creek runs along side the camp... located deep in a beautiful forest with easy access to a trail system."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The mountain elevations can create challenging driving conditions. A Mount Nebo visitor warned, "The drive up the mountain is seriously windy though, so be cautious."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely throughout the Ozark forest areas. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, one camper reported, "I received no T-Mobile cell service," while another at Camp Robinson noted, "We had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. A Mount Nebo visitor advised, "Fantastic camping spot, but be sure to call way ahead to find the best spots near the edge for the best view...because it's fantastic."
Trail conditions vary: The equestrian trails around Dardanelle change with the seasons and weather. A camper at Woolly Hollow State Park observed, "The trails and waterfalls were better maintained and more beautiful in April."
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with family activities: Some parks offer more family-oriented amenities. At Woolly Hollow State Park, a visitor mentioned, "The park offers a fishing tournament for the kids," while another noted it has "a large playground for the children."
Consider elevation for comfort: Higher elevation camps offer relief during hot Arkansas summers. One camper at Mount Nebo observed, "State park with swimming pool in summer. Playground and swings for young ones. Several hammock friendly sites."
Plan for trail difficulty: Trails marked "easy" may still present challenges for young hikers. A Mount Nebo camper cautioned, "The trails in Nebo are a little rough. The map says easy... I think that is if you are an expert hiker. lol. There were some steep points and going down various rock trails."
Tips from RVers
Verify road restrictions: Mountain access roads may limit RV size. A Mount Nebo visitor warned, "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft.' I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%."
Check hookup availability: Horse campgrounds near Dardanelle vary widely in amenities. At Mount Magazine State Park, an RVer found, "The camping spaces are large and accommodating, most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in."
Consider service access: Some equestrian campgrounds offer limited amenities. A Mack's Pines visitor observed, "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. It's an all gravel path so not great for any elderly walkers or those in need of ADA."
