Equestrian camping near Gateway, Arkansas offers trail riders access to diverse terrain across the Ozark region. The area sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with rocky limestone landscapes and hardwood forests that transition through distinct seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer brings highs in the 90s, making spring and fall popular seasons for horse camping.
What to do
Trail riding in Ponca area: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch provides direct access to numerous sandstone formations and canyon trails. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit," notes Luke O., highlighting the terrain variety.
Trout fishing near campsites: Roaring River State Park Campground offers dedicated fishing areas with stocked waters. "Great for trout fishing. Several spots near the river most are basic sites. They have three loops each with their own shower houses," explains Jason C., who appreciates the specialized fishing setup.
Hiking with horses: Bring your own horses to explore the backcountry trails around Busiek. "This place is AMAZING! Gun range, Horse Riding Trails, Camping and a water source. The scenery is so breathtaking and you never want to leave!" shares Brandon M. about the trail network.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Erbie Campground provides secluded spaces for horse campers seeking solitude. "If you are looking for secluded camping spots this is your place, the river isn't close but the sites are within walking distance. Campsites are in wooded areas and very secluded," explains Ace R.
Sandy riverside areas: Steel Creek Campground features natural sand sites that serve practical purposes. "The sand may be a pain, but the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm," advises Leah H.
Year-round accessibility: Campsites like Beaver Lake Hide A Way maintain seasonal options for riders. "When we camped here (beginning of March) it was very quiet. It might have been a shoulder season or just opening. Payment was through a drop box and none of the facilities were open yet," reports Jennifer O. about off-season camping.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Bar M Resort & Campground provides protected sites during unpredictable weather. "Long scenic drive in on gravel road, used to be a pay campground is now disperse camping, sites may have picnic table and lantern hook, do have picnic table, firepits w grill," explains Lula L. about basic amenities.
Reservation strategies: Some equestrian campgrounds have complex booking systems. "Reservations are highly recommended as this is a trout fishing park and fills up during the summer and on weekends. At site, 20,30, & 50 amp service. No water nor sewer at site, but dump and fill stations are readily available," advises Gary P.
Road conditions: Many equestrian sites require navigating challenging roads. "If you're coming from the west, Apple/Google Maps' shortest route will take you through Kingston and then down some rough dirt roads with a couple low water crossings. Easier route is to go to Hwy. 7 then come back east," suggests Matt B.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers activities beyond horseback riding. "We took our two kiddos and they had a blast! Bathroom, camping, outdoor tables, roaming goats and horses," explains Kelsey R. about the family environment.
Educational experiences: Several campgrounds provide learning opportunities. "You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river. There is also a cave you can walk in where you'll find a pool of water that goes for miles underground," describes Wendy M.
Swimming options: Look for sites with safe water access. "There are few deep swimming holes in the park although their are plenty of area's to wade and catch crawdads. Several different types of campsites. One area is more shaded and near the pool but not by river," notes Sandi C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: RV sites often have partial connections only. "No water nor sewer at site, but dump and fill stations are readily available. New this year is free wifi, although spotty and very slow during busy hours. Verizon cell is ok, ATT non existent," shares Gary P. about connectivity.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at horse-friendly sites. "Our campsite had a lot of privacy on 3 sides and had a small creek running through a ways behind it, downhill. There really wasn't a good level spot for our tent due to where the firepit was placed so we had to sleep on an incline," warns Hayley G.
Size restrictions: Some equestrian campgrounds have tight access roads. "I've never been there but the reviews and the website look wonderful. I only reviewed to say it's probably not a good place for motorcycles to get in and out. The road in is dirt and gravel," cautions Sandy O. about vehicle access.
