Bear Creek Horse Camp provides primitive equestrian camping in the Ouachita National Forest north of Malvern, Arkansas. Located along Forest Road 772, this rustic site offers direct access to horse trails for riders seeking backcountry experiences. The camp maintains four sites with metal or rock fire rings available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a vault toilet that campers report is well-maintained. While the campground lacks amenities like water or electric hookups, its location provides convenient access to surrounding forest trails.
What to do
Horseback riding on forest trails: Bear Creek Horse Camp connects to a network of loop trails in the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system. "These trails are also open to hikers. The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp," notes Fred S., who visited in early 2025.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Several camping areas provide access to fishing opportunities within short driving distance. At DeGray Lake, visitors can enjoy shoreline fishing or boat access. Jason W. notes that DeGray Lake has "great swimming beaches and shore fishing are available too. There's a Diamond Trail golf course across the road as well."
Hiking to waterfalls: Lake Catherine State Park offers 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., who camped at Lake Catherine State Park.
What campers like
Elevated views: The high points around Malvern offer unique vantage points not found at standard campgrounds. Erwin Estate High Point provides "180+ degree view overlooking Benton to Malvern to Greater Hot Springs" according to Susan E., who notes the area is "great for nature, vista, and sunset photography."
Lake access: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites in the region. Alison C. reports that at Lake Catherine, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The forests and lakes around Malvern support diverse wildlife populations. At DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Stacy M. observed that "we fished and skipped stones and if it had been a touch bit warmer, we would've even taken a dip in the water too."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most horse campgrounds near Malvern, Arkansas offer minimal amenities. Fred S. notes that 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."
Cell service variability: Reception varies significantly between camping areas. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, one camper reported no T-Mobile service, while at Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, Julie A. found "good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum."
Road conditions: Forest service roads leading to some equestrian campsites may require careful driving. Fred S. noted "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road" when accessing Bear Creek Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Choose state parks for amenities: Family camping is more comfortable at developed sites with facilities. Tina B. recommends Lake Catherine State Park, saying, "Wonderful trails, fishing, cabins and camp sites and tons of photo opportunities. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. I highly recommend taking the family."
Pack for water activities: Lakeside campgrounds offer swimming and boating options popular with children. At Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp, Jason W. advises, "Another no-frills camp on a wildlife management area. Mosquito spray is more important than food."
Plan for wildlife education: The forests around Malvern provide learning opportunities for children. Stacy M. recalls, "As it was, we had walkable access to two (three if we would have walked further) hiking trails and the water. The water was just beautiful."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many forested camping areas near Malvern have uneven terrain. Ray & Terri F. caution about DeGray Lake: "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 even after ratcheting up the front levelers."
Access limitations: Equestrian campgrounds often have limitations for larger vehicles. Loren J. warns about Adam's Lake: "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there."
Consider seasonal timing: Some equestrian camping areas near Malvern offer better RV access during drier months. Visitors to Camp Robinson note that water levels affect accessibility, with Julie A. observing, "The lake has been partially drained to allow work to be done on stumps. The road back to it is well maintained."
