Best Equestrian Camping near Mabelvale, AR
Bear Creek Horse Camp offers primitive camping facilities for equestrian riders in the Ouachita National Forest. Located along Forest Road 772, about 1 mile north of Forest Road 11, the camp serves as a trailhead for the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. The grounds include four sites—two official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus two dispersed sites with rock fire rings—available on a first-come, first-served basis. Hitching posts are available throughout the camp for securing horses. The small creek running alongside the camp provides water access for horses. The camp features a clean vault toilet located at the rear of the grounds.
The Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system consists of interconnecting loop trails open to both riders and hikers. Trail access begins directly at the rear of the camp, making it convenient for horse owners to access riding routes. The grounds do not appear to be regularly maintained, but sites remain clean and functional for equestrian use. Sites are mostly shaded, which can make solar recharging challenging but provides comfort for horses during hot weather. Horse trailer parking is available at the camp, though the access roads may have minor erosion where small creeks cross Forest Road 772. The deep forest location offers a secluded experience for riders seeking trail access, though cell service is limited or non-existent in this remote area.
