Bear Creek Horse Camp provides a rustic equestrian camping experience within the Ouachita National Forest. Located 27 miles north of Hot Springs National Park at 1,800 feet elevation, this primitive campground connects to multiple forest riding trails. The terrain features diverse woodland ecosystems with moderate temperature fluctuations throughout spring and fall seasons. Four dispersed sites accommodate both equestrians and regular campers seeking a more natural, undeveloped camping experience.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Bear Creek Horse Camp serves as a gateway to the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. "The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp. These trails are also open to hikers," notes Fred S., describing the network of interconnecting loop trails available to riders.
Waterfall hiking: At Lake Catherine State Park, families can explore marked trails leading to scenic water features. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," shares Alison C., highlighting one of the park's most accessible natural attractions.
Mountain views: The elevated terrain around Hot Springs provides excellent vantage points for photography. When staying at Mount Nebo State Park, campers can access "the 'Rim Trail'... a 3 1/2 mile trail running the top rim of the mountain, with long views," according to Dave V., who notes the trail varies from easy to strenuous sections.
What campers like
Natural spring fishing: Many equestrian campers appreciate supplementing trail riding with fishing opportunities. At Erwin Estate High Point, visitors enjoy "our natural spring pond where it's an almost guaranteed catch as we have stocked it well," according to Susan E., noting the close proximity to river and lake fishing options 3-15 miles away.
Wildlife viewing: The forests surrounding Hot Springs National Park host diverse animal species. At Mount Nebo State Park, Jackie F. reports, "Deer. You can burn what you find around the site so that's awesome," though she cautions about wildlife encounters at night, suggesting proper food storage practices.
Lake activities: Water recreation complements equestrian camping in the Hot Springs region. Alison C. describes Lake Catherine as "a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," highlighting the peaceful conditions for paddling.
What you should know
Limited amenities: The primitive nature of equestrian campgrounds means planning ahead for supplies. Fred S. reports Bear Creek Horse Camp has "a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp; it was well supplied," but campers need to bring their own water for themselves and horses.
Weather considerations: The mountainous terrain can create unique camping conditions. At DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Stacy M. notes, "There are lots of sites, but somehow they've maintained enough wooded space between each site to feel fairly secluded," providing natural wind protection in an otherwise exposed area.
Terrain challenges: Roads accessing equestrian areas may require appropriate vehicles. Fred S. describes Bear Creek Horse Camp's access road as having "some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road," indicating high-clearance vehicles may be preferable for accessing certain campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer safe water access for children. Tina B. describes Lake Catherine as having "wonderful trails, fishing, cabins and camp sites and tons of photo opportunities," making it suitable for families who want to combine equestrian activities with water recreation.
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystems provide natural learning experiences. Susan E. at Erwin Estate High Point mentions "wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more," offering children chances to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Accessibility planning: Some trails are more suitable for younger riders than others. At Mount Nebo, Jackie F. cautions, "The map says easy... I think that is if you are an expert hiker. There were some steep points and going down various rock trails," suggesting families should research trail difficulties before bringing children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many equestrian campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Buck Knob, the dispersed camping area is noted as not big-rig friendly, making it better suited for smaller campers and horse trailers under 24 feet.
Leveling challenges: Horse camps often have natural, ungraded sites requiring preparation. Ray & Terri F. caution about DeGray Lake campsites: "Few if any of the sites in this section of the CG were anywhere close to level and our site, one of the few pull-throughs, was one of the worst, I mean seriously sloped," recommending additional leveling equipment.
Trailer positioning: When camping with horses, site selection affects convenience. Fred S. notes Bear Creek Horse Camp provides "hitching posts available in the camp," allowing equestrians to secure horses near their camping area rather than keeping them at a distant corral facility.
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