Bear Creek Horse Camp is located in the Ouachita National Forest, offering equestrian camping near Mayflower, Arkansas. The trailhead for the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system connects directly to the camp, providing immediate access to interconnecting loop trails. This free primitive camping area consists of four sites available first-come, first-served with metal and rock fire rings. While the campground has limited amenities, it serves as a strategic basecamp for horseback riders exploring the forest trail network.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The Bear Creek Horse Camp offers direct access to equestrian trails. According to a camper, "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."
Hiking at Mount Nebo: Take a day trip to Mount Nebo State Park for challenging trails with panoramic views. A visitor notes, "Different sections of the Rim Trail range from easy to moderate to strenuous. They are marked. Bicycles are not permitted on the Rim Trail but are permitted on other trails as are horses."
Fishing opportunities: Fish at nearby lakes like those at Lake Catherine State Park. A camper reports, "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."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The forested setting around Camp Robinson Dispersed Site offers excellent wildlife spotting. One camper shared, "The peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening."
Waterfall access: Many visitors appreciate the natural water features at Lake Catherine State Park. A reviewer mentioned, "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Shaded campsites: The tree cover provides relief from summer heat. A visitor to Woolly Hollow State Park commented, "The sites are all asphalted and the bathhouse is located in the center of all of the sites so access is easy."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Forest roads leading to horse camps have seasonal challenges. A visitor noted about Bear Creek Horse Camp, "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit."
Limited amenities: Prepare for primitive conditions at horse camps. A camper reported, "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."
Connectivity challenges: Technology access varies by location. At Erwin Estate High Point, a camper noted, "Great cell phone reception," while at Bear Creek Horse Camp, someone reported, "Sites are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families appreciate water activities during summer months. A visitor to Woolly Hollow State Park said, "This park has so much going for it. It is clean, small, handicap accessible...great hiking with short and long options...You can rent paddle boats and kayaks for the small but beautiful lake."
Educational programs: Some parks offer learning opportunities for children. A parent shared about Woolly Hollow, "The guided hike with Master Naturalist group of AR. They put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed as well as answered every question she had. As a homeschool family we are always looking for learning opportunities."
Safety precautions: Be aware of wildlife when camping with children. At Mount Nebo, a camper warned, "There are bear in this area, and precautions are taken by the park. Park staff informed us of numerous venomous reptilian, too...so be aware on the trails, or if you choose to wander off them."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Check road access before traveling with larger rigs. For Mount Nebo, a visitor cautioned, "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'. I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%."
Camp Conway amenities: For full-hookup options near Mayflower, Camp Conway RV Park offers necessary services. A camper reported, "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park. Convenient to Conway and even Little Rock. Camp ground is friendly to monthly guests as well as nightly."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management if staying at primitive sites. About the Adam's Lake area, a reviewer cautioned, "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there."
