Bear Creek Horse Camp offers primitive equestrian camping near Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. The camp is positioned on Forest Road 772 in the Ouachita National Forest, approximately 1 mile north of Forest Road 11. The small campground features four primitive sites with hitching posts for horses and serves as an access point to the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. Trails are also open to hikers looking to explore the dense forest surroundings.
What to do
Trail riding on Bear Creek Equestrian Trails: The network of interconnecting loop trails starts right from the Bear Creek Horse Camp trailhead. "The camp serves as a small primitive camping area for equestrian riders on the network of interconnecting loop trails that comprise the Bear Creek Equestrain Trail system. These trails are also open to hikers. The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp," notes Fred S.
Hiking at Mount Nebo State Park: Located about 1.5 hours from Hot Springs Village, the mountain offers several trail options. "The 'Rim Trail' is just that…a 3 1/2 mile trail running the top rim of the mountain, with long views. Different sections of the Rim Trail range from easy to moderate to strenuous. They are marked," shares Dave V. from Mount Nebo State Park Campground.
Fishing at Lake Catherine: Just 30 minutes from Hot Springs Village, this lake provides excellent fishing opportunities. "We got an amazing site right on the water and spent a day here because it was so beautiful. We were driving out west and didn't plan on stopping but it was so beautiful, we took a couple hikes and thoroughly enjoyed the day," says David B. who stayed at Lake Catherine State Park Campground.
What campers like
Scenic views from mountain sites: At Mount Nebo, campers appreciate the elevation advantages. "Great campsites right on the edge of the mountain. Wonderful showers at the bathhouse. Sites are fairly close together it's wonderful with the views of the city," reports Dale H.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Many camping areas near Hot Springs Village offer chances to observe local fauna. At DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Tina B. mentions "Depending on where you are in the park you can see the Ouachita mountains in the horizon. Great place for photo enthusiast with Beautiful sunsets and an abundance of wildlife."
Shade at primitive sites: Bear Creek Horse Camp provides tree cover that keeps temperatures more comfortable during summer months. Fred S. notes "Sites are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge." This natural canopy creates more comfortable camping conditions during hot Arkansas summers.
What you should know
Limited facilities at equestrian sites: Bear Creek Horse Camp offers basic amenities only. "Four sites (2 official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus 2 dispersed sites with rock fire rings), available on a first-come/first-based only. Hitching posts are available in the camp," explains Fred S.
Road conditions can vary seasonally: Access roads to camping areas may have erosion issues. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, there's "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit."
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, one camper reports "I received no T-Mobile cell service." When planning horseback riding trips or dispersed camping near Hot Springs Village, bring printed maps as backup.
Wildlife awareness needed: At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, campers should prepare for insects. Ken H. advises, "I definitely put on bug spray right away. Nice place to sleep and get back on 40East in the morning."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with swimming options: Lakes provide refreshing breaks for kids during hot summer months. At Lake Catherine State Park, Alison C. shares, "We took my nieces on a weekend trip in our camper to Lake Catherine State Park. Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors. There were trees to hang our hammocks."
Look for kid-friendly trails: Some parks offer easier hiking paths suitable for younger children. Alison C. continues, "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Bring mosquito protection: Arkansas camping often means dealing with insects, especially near water. Mason G. at Camp Robinson notes people "driving in then 12:30am then at 1:30 a loud truck came in slinging rocks and a guy was screaming out the window." Consider quieter, more family-oriented established campgrounds instead of dispersed sites.
Tips from RVers
Check road grades before driving: Mountain access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. At Erwin Estate High Point, campers enjoy elevated views but should note it's "Just 15 minutes from beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas!" with "180+ degree view overlooking Benton to Malvern to Greater Hot Springs."
Consider hookup availability: Many equestrian camping areas near Hot Springs Village lack RV connections. Loren J. at Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp warns, "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there."
Seek out level sites: Many primitive campgrounds have uneven terrain. Fred S. notes about Bear Creek Horse Camp, "In fact, you need to be somewhat creative in locating a level tent spot." This applies even more to RVs requiring stable positioning.
