Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground in Oklahoma features camping facilities designed specifically for visitors with horses. Located 68 miles southeast of Greenwood in the Ouachita National Forest, this campground provides RV sites with water and electric hookups, as well as tent camping areas that accommodate equestrian needs. The campground includes several horse-friendly amenities though no dedicated horse corrals are listed in the facility information. Campsites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets, with some sites offering 30-amp hookups for RVs. The campground maintains clean facilities and receives consistently high ratings from visitors who appreciate the peaceful setting.
Located near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border, Cedar Lake connects to multiple trail systems suitable for horseback riding through the Ouachita National Forest. Riders can access forest service roads and established trails directly from the campground without trailering horses to separate locations. The campground provides adequate space for horse trailer parking and camping setups that include horses. Cedar Lake features two separate equestrian camping areas - the North Shore and main Equestrian Camp, both designed with horse owners in mind. The surrounding forest terrain offers varied riding experiences through wooded areas with moderate elevation changes. Trail riders typically encounter well-maintained paths suitable for day rides of varying lengths. Reservation requirements apply as the campground's popularity among equestrians often results in full occupancy during peak seasons.
"Contacted owner late in the evening looking for a spot after a 9hour drive. This place had everything and the bathhouse was just like taking a shower at home!"
from $22 - $25 / night
"General: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground"
"I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A."
from $20 / night
"The picnic table had a few steps up to it. This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot."
"There is an unofficial overflow campground with a well kept pit toilet that offers the best view from the campgrounds over the Arkansas valley."
from $35 / night
"They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond. My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact."
"Also hiking trails. Also some tent sites. There is a whole new section for Class A and large 5th wheel campers now."
"Buffalo, horses and awesome amounts of fish! We stayed here in a duplex cabin and could just fish right out our back door. They have hiking trails and 2 private lakes."
from $35 - $40 / night
"If you want to hike, there are more hiking trails and equestrian trails than you could actually accomplish even in fourteen days. The GPS points are all over the map."
"we took a group of Trail Life boys there and we had a good time. There are plenty of good trails near by and we used Cedar Lake as our basecamp."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $15 - $40 / night
"Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area."
"This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly"
from $10 - $22 / night
"I’ve lived in OK for 30+ years and didn’t know of Cedar Lake in the Quachita mountains near Heavener, OK. It’s incredible!! Clean site, right in the national forest."
"It’s wonderful in the fall when the leaves are changing, the days are cooler, and the nights are perfect for gathering around a camp fire."
from $10 - $23 / night
"The ATV trails are around camp and the noise from the machines buzzing by can be a lot, but it wasn’t a busy weekend so not too bad."
"This was such a cool place and a perfect distance away from everything. There were plenty of options for camping spots but also plenty of people there that you don’t feel completely alone."
"This campground is located right off of Hwy 71 for easy access. Plenty of room for big rigs. Just a short ride to the Wolf Pen Gap trail system."
"I drive truck, always have a hard time getting in/out of places with a semi and usually end up not getting to camp. The main pavilion in the center of the grounds is HUGE!"
from $12 - $105 / night
RangerPark has lots of hiking trails and lots of pro mountain bike trails too. The main Devils Den trail was closed for repairs when I arrived but still enjoyed the park. I have Verizon and the reception there was awful.
GuideThe campground was really nice. The sites were spread out really well for full hookup spots. Each spot had some privacy and distance between them. Bathrooms were super clean. There’s plenty of hiking trails around but other than that it’s a pretty relaxing campsite. Weather is 10-15 degrees cooler than what you’d expect in the River Valley.
GuideWe arrived late. The pit toilet is boarded up. Not usable. The area is beautiful with a nice creek. Very peaceful. No potable water!
TravelerThis was such a cool place and a perfect distance away from everything. There were plenty of options for camping spots but also plenty of people there that you don’t feel completely alone.
LegendWe took advantage of the 75 degree weather at the end of February to enjoy Mount Magazine. What a beautiful campground! All spaces have LOTS of room between them, it’s quiet, bathrooms are new and clean. A fantastic view of the region within a short walking distance. Lots and lots of hiking. 100% would visit again. I would probably stay in site 9, 15, or 17 if I had the choice again but none of the sites are bad. Full hookups.
GuideMount Magazine is absolutely gorgeous! Camping was great, bathrooms are kept very clean, campground had great sites that gave you lots of space and privacy.
LegendThis place genuinely is amazing. If you want to hike, there are more hiking trails and equestrian trails than you could actually accomplish even in fourteen days. The GPS points are all over the map. Essentially, come down to Cedar Lake. And there are two group campgrounds, a spot called shady lane equestrian, campground, and then the campground right on the water, they're all terrific. Most nights there wasn't anybody here. I spent four nights in the equestrian, campground and two nights in shady lane absolutely terrific.
RangerDevil’s Den SP had a great campground with full hookups available. The natural beauty of this area is breathtaking! Plenty of hiking opportunities and tons of activities. Very pet friendly. And close to so many attractions in Northwest Arkansas!
LegendGreat stop right off highway between Ft Smith and Fayetteville. Nice mix of all types of camping from tent-RV. Mountain Biking trails are on point, and plenty of hiking to scratch that itch or keep in shape for big trips
Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground offers dedicated facilities for horseback riders 68 miles southeast of Greenwood, Arkansas. The campground sits at the edge of the Ouachita National Forest where pine trees dominate the landscape. Winter temperatures typically range from 30°F to 50°F, while summer months can reach into the 90s with high humidity.
Trail riding exploration: Cedar Lake connects to multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. The Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp provides direct trail access without needing to trailer horses. "This place was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! So beautiful with all the pine trees and being so far out from everything... Super close to the Talimena Scenic Drive and Horse Thief Spring and plenty of ATV/UTV trails," notes Kristi B.
Lake activities: The lake offers fishing and paddling opportunities for when you're not riding. At Cedar Lake (Oklahoma), campers can enjoy water recreation between trail rides. "We brought our kayaks and had so much fun hitting the lake in the morning. It does get busy as the day goes on, especially in the summer on the weekends," reports Ashley W.
Hiking options: A network of trails surrounds the equestrian areas, suitable for both riders and hikers. "There is a really fun trail that runs right around the entire lake, and it's a little over two miles. Nearly all natural terrain throughout the hike which makes it especially nice," explains Patrick G. from Cedar Lake North Shore.
Clean facilities: The campground maintains well-kept amenities despite its remote location. A visitor at Cedar Lake North Shore noted, "The bathrooms are clean and positioned well to make them accessible to all the camp sites."
Privacy between sites: The campground layout provides good separation between camping spots. "Campgrounds were incredibly peaceful and quiet. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area," reports Amelia S. who stayed in the non-electric sites.
Forest setting: The pine forest creates a serene atmosphere throughout the campground. "The setting is absolutely beautiful with tall pines, rolling hills and a gorgeous lake. Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," adds another Cedar Lake camper.
Limited supplies nearby: The equestrian campground's remote location means you need to bring all supplies. "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you," warns a visitor from Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp.
Seasonal maintenance: The facilities undergo periodic maintenance that may affect availability. "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!" advises Susan F. from Oklahoma Cedar Lake North Shore.
Wildlife awareness: The area has active wildlife that campers should prepare for. "The setting is absolutely beautiful with tall pines, rolling hills and a gorgeous lake. Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," notes Amelia S. who stayed at Cedar Lake.
Bring extra activities: While horses are the main attraction, having backup plans helps. At Devil's Den State Park, one family found plenty to do: "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" shares Melissa M.
Pack for variable weather: The mountain setting can create temperature fluctuations. "Pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket. You will probably be cold otherwise," suggests a camper who experienced cooler evening temperatures in the area.
Consider seasonal crowds: Plan your horse camping trip around busy periods. "It does get busy as the day goes on, especially in the summer on the weekends. Hiking is great, and there are multiple good spots nearby. Again, go early to beat the crowds!" advises Ashley W.
Site selection for equestrian needs: Choose sites designed with horses in mind. At Mount Magazine State Park, an RVer noted, "Magazine Mountain is the highest peak in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. It has 18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30."
Utilities and hookups: Electric options vary between camping areas. "We stayed in the non-electric sites (North Shore loop)... There is running water and bathrooms which were relatively clean," explains Amelia S. from Cedar Lake, noting the difference between the main equestrian area and the north shore section.
Advance reservations: Popular equestrian camping areas fill quickly during peak seasons. "This campground is one of my all time favorites!! It has everything you want in a campground and more," says Ashley W., highlighting why securing a spot early is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Greenwood, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Greenwood, AR is William O. Darby RV Community with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Greenwood, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Greenwood, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
