Campers near Elizabeth, Arkansas can explore a network of recreational areas in the Ozark highlands. The region contains numerous bodies of water including the 11 Point River, which maintains a consistent flow throughout the year due to spring-fed tributaries. Equestrian sites in this area typically remain open year-round with limited closures during hunting seasons.
What to do
Trail riding access: The 11 Point River area offers multiple riding trails accessible from local campgrounds. At Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground, riders can arrange shuttle services for various excursions. "Close to Grand Gulf, Greer Spring, Mammoth Spring, and right on beautiful highway 19," notes Delanie J.
Fishing opportunities: Bryant Creek at Rippee Conservation Area provides fishing spots for equestrian campers seeking additional activities. "Has great fishing, nice and peaceful and not well known not many campsites, I believe only four but it does have firepits and grills," states Glen T.
Water activities: Kayaking and swimming complement horseback riding activities. The 11 Point River offers float trips for campers. "This is a great place to start your 11 Point river trip! Stop here to rent your canoes or kayaks and get dropped off wherever," recommends Elisha P. about Richard's Canoe Rental.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Horse campers appreciate economical sites in the region. "Great place to camp and the people are Great!! We stayed in the primitive camping section but were informed there are also cabins available," explains Stephanie W. about Richard's Canoe Rental & Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting around Elizabeth provides opportunities to see animals beyond your own horses. Tyler Bend Campground visitor Steve S. notes, "Beautiful park, very well maintained. Great for swimming in the cold Buffalo River. Lots of wildlife including elk."
Waterfront sites: Campers with horses value access to water for their animals. At Bidwell Point Park, Brent M. reports, "We are in site 13 right on the water! But be warned if you are not proficient in backing your camper sites 10-13 are probably not the best choice. You have to back down a hill quite a ways."
What you should know
Site accessibility limitations: Some equestrian sites have challenging terrain. At Tyler Bend Campground, Lucy P. observes, "Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small."
Seasonal closures: Water levels affect campground availability. N I. reports about Henderson Park, "This is a wonderful small campground. Will not handle large rigs. Better suited to smaller trailers or tents. Right on the water so it is great if you have kayaks or similar. Arkansas is experiencing flooding at this time and we were fortunate that our site was not flooded."
Amenity variations: Horse camping facilities range from primitive to developed. According to Marty at Tyler Bend, "Bathroom and showers need some upgrading of walls and fixtures but worked well. Water but no hookups."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Families with horses can cool off after rides. "Great place to swim we go a couple times a year nice quiet and well kept love the picnic area right above the river try it you won't be disappointed," advises Steve S. about Tyler Bend Campground.
Campsite selection: Families need adequate space for horses and gear. At Bidwell Point Park, Valerie D. suggests, "We stayed here for a week! We loved it! Nice and beautiful view over the water! Very clean! I'll be staying here again next year!"
Safety considerations: Water access requires monitoring. "The river is gorgeous, I was sad it was too cold to swim! Only one bathhouse in the car camping area so it gets pretty busy," notes Lucy P. about Tyler Bend Campground.
Tips from RVers
Rig size restrictions: Horse trailers with living quarters require assessment of campground access. N I. advises about Henderson Park, "This would be five stars except for lack of showers. Beautiful site right on beautiful lake. Short distance from town. Small park mature trees."
Weather impacts: Seasonal conditions affect horse camping sites. "Reservations only and if there has been a lot of rain some sites could be under water," warns N I. about Bidwell Point Park.
Cell service: Connectivity varies for those tracking weather or trail conditions. Lucy P. reports about Tyler Bend, "Excellent cell service. We had a nice time but weren't particularly wowed, our only issues were lack of hookups, bad weather, and some people who decided to crowd us and run a loud generator despite the campground being mostly empty."