Bear Creek Horse Camp provides primitive camping for equestrian riders in the Ouachita National Forest. Located along Forest Road 772 about 1 mile north of Forest Road 11, this small campground features four primitive sites with metal and rock fire rings. Hitching posts are available for securing horses, and the camp serves as a trailhead for the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. The grounds include a clean vault toilet at the rear of the camp. Sites are mostly shaded, making solar recharging challenging. The camp is situated deep in a beautiful forest with easy access to interconnecting loop trails that comprise the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system, which are also open to hikers.
Equestrian riders can access the network of trails directly from the campground. The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp, providing immediate entry to the trail system. A small creek runs alongside the camp, offering water access. The sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system in place. While the campground itself is not aesthetically pleasing, its location provides excellent access to forest trails. The camp does not appear to be regularly maintained, but visitors report clean sites. Tent and hammock camping are possible at this free primitive campground. Cell service may be limited, with no T-Mobile coverage reported. The Ouachita National Forest website no longer lists this site as an official campground, though it remains accessible to equestrian campers.
$15 - $25 / night
"Lake Catherine State Park, like all Arkansas state parks, is immaculately clean! Most RV sites have close access to the water and there are small stationary docks to park your boat. "
"We stayed in site 54 (w/e/s) that was right on the lake. We could walk to the dock right behind the site to fish, although did not have very good luck."
"This weekend we camped at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismarck, Arkansas. We had a blast! DeGray Lake has a lot to offer for groups large and small wanting to get away."
"Great ranger led boat tour of the lake. Lots of nice level sites. Super cool yurts for rent that have the best views! Arkansas has the best State Parks!"
"Reservable sites are nearly on top of each other. Might be good if you have kids with you. There is a playground adjacent and a pool/bathhouse close by."
"A great Arkansas destination for outdoorsy people.The steep road climbing to the top of Mount Nebo keeps the big RVs away. Stop your car at the lookout point before you reach the top."
$80 - $100 / night
"Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out."
"The lake has been partially drained to allow work to be done on stumps. The road back to it is well maintained and we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum. The sunset was beautiful."
TravelerReservable sites are nearly on top of each other. Might be good if you have kids with you. There is a playground adjacent and a pool/bathhouse close by. We opted for the hike in site and it was perfect for us. Off-road and hiking were great! Views are breathtaking!!
LegendCoordinates: 34.78571,-93.15988. Visited in early May 2025. Located along Forest Road 772, about 1 mile north of Forest Road 11 in the Ouachita National Forest. Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit. The camp is on the western edge of the Deckard Mountain Walk-in Turkey Hunting Area. 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. Free. 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. A small creek runs along side the camp. The grounds of the camp do not appear to be maintained, but the sites were clean. There is a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp; it was well supplied. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Sites are mnostly shaded making solar rechargiong and Starlink access a challenge. I received no T-Mobile cell service. The camp itself is not aesthetically pleasing, but it is located deep in a beautiful forest with easy access to a trail system. Note that, when I last checked, the Ouachita National Forest Web site no longer lists this site as a campground.
GuideThis weekend we camped at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismarck, Arkansas. We had a blast! DeGray Lake has a lot to offer for groups large and small wanting to get away. It has several camping spaces with water and electric hook ups (about $22/night), yurts (about $55/night), a lodge (about $100/night), a marina to rent boats or buy bait, several daily activities for children or adults of all ages (some free and some about $5-15/person), horse riding stables (no experience required, about $30/ride 1 hour trail), a full golf course, playgrounds, pavilions, overall clean facilities, and a restaurant. Although our bank fishing experience wasn’t so great, I’m sure with a boat it would have been better. And for those that want to make the camping trip into the ultimate family vacation, this park is about a 30 minute drive from Hot Springs, AR where there is tons to do like restaurants, mini golf, shopping, and we even decided to get ice cream at Scoops (24 homemade flavors and delicious)! We will definitely be back for a visit!!
TravelerSmall open Campground with no specific sites (Tent Only Area). There is a small lot nearby to park then you must walk everything in. This can be anything from right next to your car to a few hundred feet away depending on where you want to set up. Picnic tables, fire rings and campground grills located throughout but again nothing is marketed as far as site numbers. The area allows for up to six camp permits per night. Could be good for smaller groups. It’s up away from the lake unlike the rest of the campgrounds in the park. There are restrooms nearby with flushing toilets and sinks. Also a playground is located close to the campsite. Overall it was clean but felt cramped among other campers and parking away from the tent made for multiple trips back and forth.
TravelerLake Catherine State Park, like all Arkansas state parks, is immaculately clean! Most RV sites have close access to the water and there are small stationary docks to park your boat.
A short trail leads you to a waterfall or take the longer trail for a fun hike through the woods. Swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking are all a part of the fun.
The cabins are rustic but well-appointed. All cabins have water views.
No matter the time of year, Lake Catherine State Park is a wonderful place to visit.
RangerA great Arkansas destination for outdoorsy people.The steep road climbing to the top of Mount Nebo keeps the big RVs away. Stop your car at the lookout point before you reach the top. When you arrive, walk into the Visitor's Center and right through the other door on the back to take in the view and step right onto a nice hiking trail. The campground has an open feel, so you might see cars going by on the main road, or strike up a conversation with your camping neighbors. It is nonetheless a nice place, particularly the sites that overlook the bluff. If you have kids, there are two sites that back up directly to a playground. For tent campers, the real draw is the hike-in campsites, which are easy to hike to on a flat, wide trail that circles the top of the mountain (similar in width to a fire road), or the various other well maintained hiking paths that parallel or criss-cross it. Wake up and check out the view at Sunrise Point, enjoy a day of hiking and other activities, then top it off with the view at Sunset Point.
GuideWe stayed in site 54 (w/e/s) that was right on the lake. We could walk to the dock right behind the site to fish, although did not have very good luck. I’m betting the fishing is better if you have a boat. We did not use the restrooms/bathhouse. This site is smaller but fit our 22’ trailer perfectly. We had our ebikes with us and road around a little, but the campground is not ideally set up for using them like we did at Petit Jean. We did have some pretty tall weeds that we wished would have been taken care of before we arrived, but not a deal breaker for sure. We hiked several trails that were challenging and beautiful. Close proximity to Hot Springs so spent one day there. If I had it to do over again, I would have skipped it. Casino close by for those folks so inclined. Wish we would have brought our kayaks🤨
ScoutI am quite fond of the state parks in Arkansas and this was a clean, quiet, beautiful and safe location near Hot Springs. I was very happy that I could also bring my dog. When I reached my campsite my booking tag was already there and there was some firewood placed on the fire pit for me already. I was only a minute walk from restroom facilities. I also found it was very easy to book last minute after receiving a recommendation from a local barista.
LegendLet me just start this out by saying, selecting a spot in Arkansas you are overwhelmed with options. State parks flourish and individual campgrounds seem to be countless. When traveling to the Hot Springs area It was a toss up as to which location would bear suit my journey, not only as a campground but as a part of the adventure. I elected to try Lake Catherine State Park, located just 10 miles outside of Hot Springs.
What sold me on this site were the numerous hiking trails, but what surprised me when I arrived were the lakeside water rentals located on premise as well as the actual beach recreation area.
I arrived later in the day and quickly made my camp in the primitive tent area. These sites have no water or electric hook ups however a very nice restroom facilities within 100 yards. They also boast a playground for the kids, not the only of the site. I was greeted by other campers and the sense of community was high at this facility.
My campsite included a table and grill and was nearby a fire ring. The area was much flatter than many camp areas and made for a quick site selection. In the distance deer grazed as the sun was setting.
The next morning I ventured toward the marina and was excited to find they have numerous boats for any level of experience available. Larger units available for full or half day use and smaller units for full or half day along with by the hour.
Hiking trails were my next stop after learning of the various skill levels including ADA accessible, moderate and difficult.
In addition to primitive camping the park offers RV and non-primitive tent camping. Also available are Yurt and Cabin rentals.
Office contains limited food and beverage options as well as supplies for lake visitors and a full picnic area overlooking the beach. Bathrooms and washrooms are scattered throughout the park and are kept impeccably clean with high water pressure.
Cell signal was good even on the remote trails during my stay.
This is by far one of the nicest parks I have camped not only on this journey but on any. Staff was knowledgeable about the park and others of the state and very helpful.
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Easy 5 of 5 Bunnies. I will return!
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Hot Springs Village, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Hot Springs Village, AR is Lake Catherine State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 84 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Hot Springs Village, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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