Bear Creek Horse Camp provides primitive equestrian camping in the Ouachita National Forest approximately 35 miles north of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The landscape features rolling Ouachita Mountains with elevations ranging from 600-2,600 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall typically maintain moderate 60-75°F daytime temperatures.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the Ouachita National Forest for riders seeking varied terrain. According to one visitor at DeGray Lake Resort State Park, "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."
Geology exploration: The Hot Springs area contains unique mineral deposits including novaculite and quartz formations. A camper at Erwin Estate High Point notes, "Novaculite and Quartz geology, mineral exploration. Take home a piece of this mineral rich area of the world! Free rocks to all!"
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes within 30 minutes of Bear Creek offer fishing alternatives when not trail riding. "Our natural spring pond is a place to fish where it's an almost guaranteed catch as we have stocked it well!" mentions a review from Erwin Estate, with multiple other fishing spots available at nearby lakes.
What campers like
Natural privacy: The forested settings provide natural screening between campsites at many horse campgrounds near Hot Springs. At Lake Catherine State Park, "The camp sites are spaced for privacy and are level for both campers and tents. The facilities are updated and well maintained."
Wildlife viewing: The Ouachita region hosts diverse wildlife including deer, birds, and occasional eagles. One camper reported, "Wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more" at their campsite near Hot Springs.
Seasonal variety: Spring offers wildflowers while fall provides colorful foliage, making these different times ideal for equestrian camping visits. "Lake Catherine offers many different outdoor options close to Hot Springs. This SP will fill up quickly in the spring and fall, reservations are recommend."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most horse campgrounds in this region offer minimal amenities. At Bear Creek Horse 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."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the Ouachita forest area. A recent camper noted, "I received no T-Mobile cell service" at Bear Creek Horse Camp, while other locations report better connectivity.
Water requirements: Pack adequate water for both humans and horses as drinking water is not available at most horse camps. Many locations require you bring all necessary horse supplies including feed and water, as on-site water troughs are uncommon.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly trails: Several areas near Hot Springs offer less challenging trails suitable for young or inexperienced riders. At Lake Catherine State Park, "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Water activities: Combine horseback riding with swimming or boating opportunities at nearby lakes. "We enjoyed paddle boating, horse back riding and disc golf. Each trail had a information board where you can scan a QR code to know more about the trail," reports a visitor to DeGray Lake.
Wildlife education: Turn animal sightings into learning opportunities with wildlife guides specific to the Ouachita region. One camper mentioned, "We have had many happy campers... As of late, there is considerable wildlife to view and great fishing in our pond. Occasionally, we even have a Golden Eagle that will make an appearance!"
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many horse campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring extra leveling equipment. A camper with a 36-foot Class A reported, "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."
Access road conditions: Forest roads leading to horse camps may have seasonal erosion or rough sections. "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit," notes a recent camper describing access to Bear Creek Horse Camp.
Trailer parking space: Confirm adequate space for both RV and horse trailer before arrival. Sites specifically designed for horse camping typically provide "adequate room for parking and turning around" with your horse trailer, though space varies by location.
