Bar K Wrangler Camp provides equestrian facilities near Greeson Lake in the Missouri Ozarks. Located about one mile down a gravel access road, this free primitive campground sits alongside Swan Creek with various camping options. The campground offers both tent sites along the road and more spacious areas for groups with horses near the creek.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Direct access to forest riding trails from Bar K Wrangler Camp makes it popular with equestrians. "This is a horse camp with plenty of evidence, but it was only us and a couple of other tent campers," notes one visitor who found the area peaceful despite its designation.
Creek exploration: The crystal-clear Swan Creek provides excellent water activities during warmer months. "The creek was obviously spring fed, crystal clear and had a gravelly bottom. There were plenty of places to get in the water," reports a recent camper who enjoyed the accessible swimming areas.
Hiking and trail exploration: The surrounding forest offers opportunities for day hikes. At Busiek, a nearby alternative, trails accommodate various skill levels. "I have been hiking here twice but haven't camped yet. The trails and the river make for some great scenery," shares one visitor, though they caution to "be wary of the water level, this can impact any hiking you might be looking to do."
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Many visitors appreciate the uncrowded nature of equestrian camping areas. "I went here with a group of friends looking for a free campsite that had enough space. This place is great! When we arrived a few people were sitting in the creek so we moved further up stream and found a nice site with easy creek access. We were likely the only group for at least 2 square miles," explains one camper at Bar K Wrangler Camp.
Natural water features: Access to clean, natural water sources ranks highly for visitors to horse campgrounds near Greeson Lake. At Erbie Campground along the Buffalo National River, one camper reports, "Nice primative camp. Quiet, plenty of private campsites. Free. Gorgeous in the fall."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution at these rural sites provides exceptional stargazing. "Site #16 which was out in the open and provided us the best seats for the nighttime sky," reports a visitor to Steel Creek Campground, another option in the region with primitive camping opportunities.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to horse camps can be challenging for larger vehicles. "There is about a mile of dusty, gravel road that is a little rough," explains a Bar K visitor, while another camper at Woolum Dispersed Area recommends "accessing the campground using Searcy County Road 15 - not CR14. Although open during my time here, narrow CR14 still had some damage from recent landslides which resulted in rough driving conditions."
Limited services: Most equestrian camping areas near Greeson Lake provide minimal amenities. "No amenities other than composting toilets," notes a Bar K camper, which is typical of horse-friendly sites in the region. Expect to bring all supplies and follow "Pack it in Pack it out" principles.
Cell coverage gaps: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. "We had great T-Mobile 10 miles south, but it dropped to zero by the time we drove into camp," reports a Bar K visitor, highlighting the importance of downloading maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural play areas: Creeks and open spaces provide built-in entertainment. At Swan Creek, "the creek is accessible" and provides natural swimming opportunities according to visitors, making it particularly appealing for families with children who enjoy water play.
Consider equestrian safety: When camping with children at horse-friendly sites, maintain appropriate distance from other campers' horses. The spacious layout at most equestrian campgrounds allows for this separation naturally.
Pack extra supplies: With limited services available, families should bring all essentials. "Having said that. This is one of the best places to camp. Always find room to camp," notes a visitor to Erbie, emphasizing the trade-off between convenience and natural beauty.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Horse trailers require specific considerations when camping. At Rippee Conservation Area, visitors note it's "a really quit and nice place" with limited sites that can accommodate small trailers and RVs.
Water access planning: RVers staying at equestrian campgrounds should plan carefully for water needs. Without hookups available, bring sufficient water for both human and animal needs during your stay.
Consider campground layout: Select sites based on the terrain and your equipment. "Sites can accommodate tents and smaller RVs with adequate space for horse trailers," though larger rigs may find challenges navigating some of the narrower access roads to horse camps near Greeson Lake.
