Moccasin Gap Horse Trail NF Campground provides direct access to the Ozark Highlands Trail in the forested terrain near Pelsor, Arkansas. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet in the Ozark National Forest. While primarily serving equestrian campers, the sites also accommodate tent and RV campers with limited amenities and highway proximity.
What to do
Trail riding access: Equestrian camping near Pelsor, Arkansas centers around the extensive trail network connecting to the Ozark Highlands Trail. At Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park, visitors encounter diverse terrain. "Miles and miles of ATV and single track trails for dirt biking. Creeks, waterfalls and buffalo everywhere," notes Mike B., highlighting the ranch's varied riding options.
River exploration: The Buffalo National River offers water-based activities a short drive from horseback riding areas. "Kayaking, swimming, and fishing were awesome!" according to Donna M. about her visit to Steel Creek Campground. The campground provides river access for day trips during warmer months.
Hiking alternatives: When taking a break from horseback riding, numerous hiking trails present opportunities for on-foot exploration. The Byrd's area offers "a ton of trails to explore" according to Desiree Y., who visited Byrd's Adventure Center. The 800-acre property includes both private trails and connects to National Forest routes.
What campers like
River access points: The region's waterways provide relief during hot weather. At Woolum Dispersed Area, Candace R. reports, "So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose!" She adds that "Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine."
Primitive camping solitude: The remote nature of camping options near Moccasin Gap provides quiet surroundings with basic amenities. "We took our two kiddos and they had a blast! Bathroom, camping, outdoor tables, roaming goats and horses," shares Kelsey R. about her experience at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, indicating the appeal of rustic settings for families.
Wildlife encounters: The natural surroundings host diverse wildlife visible from campsites. Joey C. describes seeing "lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears" at Steel Creek Campground, noting the campground sits "next to the Buffalo River and Roark Bluff background."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to horse camps can present challenges, especially after rain. Regarding the Buffalo Ranch, Mike B. advises, "4X4 wasn't necessary getting in but the morning we left, it was raining and I was glad I had it on the way out." Similar conditions affect many access roads in the area.
Limited services: Most horse camps have minimal facilities beyond the basics. At Woolum Dispersed Area, John W. notes it's "one of the best remote campgrounds in AR" but warns visitors should know "the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS" during his planned visit in 2022.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. Amy & Stu B. report from Mack's Pines: "No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around." This makes advance planning essential for equestrian campers.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Children often enjoy the river access points during summer visits. Lindsey P. recommends Steel Creek: "You can see beautiful bluff from the campground. The campsites are all in a big grassy field which I love. There are trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole!"
Safety preparations: The remote nature of horse camps requires extra planning with children. Leah H. advises about Steel Creek Campground: "Be warned: four wheel drive is highly recommended. The road is steep, has sharp, blind curves and is very narrow. But SOOO worth it!"
Wildlife education opportunities: The chance to observe animals makes for educational experiences. At Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch, Leslie D. describes it as a "Perfect place to go to relax and unplug" where her family tries "to go 3 or 4 times a year" because she "always comes home feeling reconnected with myself and family."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers using Moccasin Gap should carefully consider trailer positioning. Jeff P. notes about Byrd's Adventure Center, "The campground is offered lots of shade but also offered open land for RV and primitive camping," providing options based on RV size and season.
Hookup availability: Unlike Moccasin Gap, some nearby campgrounds offer more amenities for RVers. Amy & Stu B. report from Mack's Pines: "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."
Weather considerations: The exposed nature of some camping areas affects RV comfort levels. Lucy P. explains that at Tyler Bend Campground, "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."
