Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground provides specialized accommodations for riders and their horses in the Ouachita National Forest. The campground features electric hookups, water connections, showers, and toilets in a heavily forested pine setting with sites situated near the lake. Campers report the bathroom facilities are clean and well-maintained, making extended stays comfortable. The park offers both tent and RV camping options with generous spacing between sites that creates a private camping experience. Cedar Lake North Shore and Cedar Lake Recreation Area both accommodate equestrians with similar amenities. The campground maintains a quiet hour after 10 pm, creating a peaceful environment for horses and riders alike.
Located approximately 45 minutes from the nearest town, Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground connects to multiple trail systems including the Horsethief Springs Trail which can be extended to a 14-mile route. The trail around the lake measures just over two miles, offering an easy ride option with scenic views. Horse owners find the proximity to the Talimena Scenic Drive provides additional riding opportunities. Trailer parking is available at designated sites with sufficient room for vehicles and equipment. The campground experiences periodic closures for maintenance and septic system repairs, so calling ahead is recommended before planning a horse camping trip. Most riders note the quiet, peaceful setting makes this location ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway with horses, though all supplies should be brought in as no services are available on site.
$22 - $25 / night
"Contacted owner late in the evening looking for a spot after a 9hour drive. This place had everything and the bathhouse was just like taking a shower at home!"
$20 / night
"General: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground"
"I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A."
$35 - $40 / night
"Buffalo, horses and awesome amounts of fish! We stayed here in a duplex cabin and could just fish right out our back door. They have hiking trails and 2 private lakes."
$15 - $40 / night
"If you want to hike, there are more hiking trails and equestrian trails than you could actually accomplish even in fourteen days. The GPS points are all over the map."
"we took a group of Trail Life boys there and we had a good time. There are plenty of good trails near by and we used Cedar Lake as our basecamp."
$35 / night
"The picnic table had a few steps up to it. This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot."
"There is an unofficial overflow campground with a well kept pit toilet that offers the best view from the campgrounds over the Arkansas valley."
$10 - $23 / night
"I’ve lived in OK for 30+ years and didn’t know of Cedar Lake in the Quachita mountains near Heavener, OK. It’s incredible!! Clean site, right in the national forest."
"It’s wonderful in the fall when the leaves are changing, the days are cooler, and the nights are perfect for gathering around a camp fire."
"They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond. My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact."
"Also hiking trails. Also some tent sites. There is a whole new section for Class A and large 5th wheel campers now."
"The ATV trails are around camp and the noise from the machines buzzing by can be a lot, but it wasn’t a busy weekend so not too bad."
"This was such a cool place and a perfect distance away from everything. There were plenty of options for camping spots but also plenty of people there that you don’t feel completely alone."
"Super close to the Talimena Scenic Drive and Horse Thief Spring and plenty of ATV/UTV trails. The park hosts were amazing and came to check on us throughout our stay."
"With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma"
LegendI had heard so many great things about this park but I was not that impressed. The sites are fairly close together. There’s no signs warning that if you are in a large RV you shouldn’t come in on a certain highway. They do have equestrian trails and a campground to accommodate campers with horses. They have a lot of hiking trails. There are cabins and a pool.
LegendThis place genuinely is amazing. If you want to hike, there are more hiking trails and equestrian trails than you could actually accomplish even in fourteen days. The GPS points are all over the map. Essentially, come down to Cedar Lake. And there are two group campgrounds, a spot called shady lane equestrian, campground, and then the campground right on the water, they're all terrific. Most nights there wasn't anybody here. I spent four nights in the equestrian, campground and two nights in shady lane absolutely terrific.
LegendGeneral: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground). Limited rainfall resulted in less dramatic (or non-existent) waterfalls that are otherwise boasted of during other times of the year but the scenery was still beautiful, especially in the fall.
Sites/Facilities: Many different camping options (some loops have full hookups while others do not have hookups and there is a dump station near Loop E), a hike-in campground, a group campground, and an equestrian campground. There are also 17 rustic cabins (1-3 bedrooms with kitchens and a/c and heating plus nearby bathrooms). We camped in Loop E and there was reasonable separation between the sites. The pads were paved. Each site had a metal picnic table, lantern hook, and fire grate. Many of the sites provided shade from the many trees.
Bathhouse: Like some other Arkansas state parks, there are two bathhouses in some loops, and they were open on alternating days so that the other one may be cleaned and sanitized (Covid related policy). While the open one in Loop E was clean, the several soap dispensers were empty which does not make sense to me when hand washing is recommended. You also need to bring your own towel, which I have been doing regardless. There are showers but I did not use them so I cannot comment on how good they are.
Activities/Amenities: Hiking! I highly recommend the Yellow Rock Trail and the Devils Den Trail plus there are several others. During the summer, you can rent paddle boats and canoes. There are several areas with picnic tables throughout the park. There is also a swimming pool, although I did not see it when we were there in October(it would only be open in the summer). Firewood is available for sale.
LegendThis is a gorgeous park, even on a rainy weekend. I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A. E was a large campground, with mixed tent and RV camping, with some sites along Lee Creek. Each site was well equipped with paved parking pads, nice flat sites for tents (some gravel pads, some just grassy areas), and many of the spots had electic and water. All had campfire rings, picnic tables, and grills. There were two nice hiking trails leading out of this particular campground, and some of the other campgrounds (A in particular) also had good trails. The bathhouses were really nice and modern and very clean. What I liked about this park, besides the great hiking trails, were all of the historic CCC buildings. There is a really neat scenic overlook that was built by the CCC near the Yellow Rock trailhead, and if you step in the visitor's center, you are actually in the old CCC motor pool. There is a really nice statue and plaque commemorating the work of the CCC in building the park near the lake and cafe.
TravelerDevil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great. The sites are generally spacious. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space. There are several hiking trails within the park and other activities during warmer months (i.e. pool). If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow). There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services.
LegendAmazing State Park with something for everyone
I have been to Devil's Den State Park twice now and this is my favorite state park in Arkansas. Devil's Den State park has something for every camper, no matter how you prefer to camp. Tent camping, hike in camping, RVs, cabins, they have it all. Want to bring your horse, you can do that as well. Devil's Den has some great hiking and mountain biking trails, from short to long. If you only do one trail be sure that is the Devil's Den Trail, you won't be disappointed on this 1.5 mile trail. If you want a longer trail there is the 15 mile Butterfield Hiking Trail. Devil's Den campground includes 135 campsites ranging from basic tent sites to full hookups for the RV crowed and horse sites. Campground are all paved with paved parking pads. Individual sites have tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings and a first for me, hooks for hanging your lantern. Flush toilets and showers are included. If you like to swim they even have a pool. Park has a store to provide your food needs. Sites all appeared to be well spaced. If you want complete privacy the word is get one of the walk in sites, you will have a bit of a walk but the reward is complete solitude. Lee Creek runs through the park and a 8-acre lake which allows fishing and boating with canoes and pedal boats. You need to reserve your site before hand or at the visitor center. One thing I do like is if you arrive to late to register at the visitor center, then you can just grab an empty site for the night, you just have to register the next day by 10am.
Ranger Review of Banner& Oaks Bull Tan Hat
Got the Bull Tan hat and have been wearing it for about a month now. Hat fits great, looks great. This is a very well made hat with quality materials and made in the U.S.A. It has held up amazing well in all weather conditions, sun, heat, rain and even snow and continues to hold its shape. I have a lot of hats and this one is one of my favorites.
TravelerWe bought our first camper this year and have loved staying at Devil's Den. We made 4 trips there and enjoyed each one. The RV sites have full hookups and most are well shaded. There's easy access to Lee Creek and trails that lead from the campground around to the dam, pool and gift shop.
They also have a horse camp, tent camping, cabins and camper cabins. Whether you're looking to relax or explore one of the many hiking trails, there's something for everyone!
GuideWe only had three days and it rained all day for the first day but I still really enjoyed this park. The trails are great and our campsite had a path right down to the river. The water hookup was a bit tricky, it leaks all over the place until you turn it all the way. We were not used to this setup so we thought it was broken. We were on site 53. I don’t like the placement of the fire pits, they are off at the road side of the site which makes it feel too close to other campers, rather than tucked into your own site. The bathrooms are probably the nicest I’ve experienced at a state park.
ScoutThis is a great place to camp or hike. It has a great trail that you can explore, with lots of large boulders and some caves that you can get real close to. I think you can go in them at some times too but when I was there it was closed due to something with the bats. There is also a pretty dam and lake that is right there for fishing or kayaking. When you think of a campsite that has it all, this one is it. It's got your water source, trails, big boulders to climb, caves. There is also a state park center to visit and get info. There are plenty of campsites and several cabins to rent. There is a horse trail and other things for horse but I haven't explored it. They do have a pool that is open for the summer. I have just been there to hike but saw these other amenities. Hope this helps.
Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground offers specialized facilities for horse owners in the Ouachita National Forest. The campground sits about 45 minutes from nearby towns at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet in heavily forested pine terrain. Trails connect directly to camping areas with access to multiple route options including the 14-mile Horsethief Springs Trail extension.
Trail riding around the lake: The trail that circles Cedar Lake measures just over two miles, making it an ideal short ride for beginners or those wanting a quick scenic option. At Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground, visitors note that "The lake was absolutely beautiful and so were the campsites. Our camp host was super nice and got us a great spot to spend the weekend."
Hiking through pine forests: The Ouachita National Forest offers multiple trails accessible from campgrounds. A visitor at Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area mentioned "With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma."
Access the Talimena Scenic Drive: This renowned driving route runs along the Ouachita Mountains ridges with numerous lookout points. One camper at Cedar Lake North Shore shared: "You can go up on the mountain to catch the views. There are sites for people with horses also."
Privacy between campsites: The spacing and natural barriers create secluded camping experiences even during busy periods. A reviewer noted about Cedar Lake North Shore: "This is our all time favorite camping spot. It's wonderful in the fall when the leaves are changing, the days are cooler, and the nights are perfect for gathering around a camp fire."
Clean facilities: Despite remote location, bathrooms and shower buildings receive regular maintenance. One camper at Cedar Lake (Oklahoma) Equestrian Camp mentioned: "Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area. The setting is absolutely beautiful with tall pines, rolling hills and a gorgeous lake."
Quiet atmosphere: The remote setting and campground policies create a peaceful environment. A visitor stated: "Beautiful and lush and QUIET. I love it. Asphalt and gravel sites. Clean bathrooms. Water and electric only. Gorgeous 3 mile hike around the lake."
Limited supplies nearby: No stores or services are available at the campgrounds. One camper at Cedar Lake advised: "Beautiful and quiet family fun! One of the best camping trips that our family has ever taken. Lots of things to do, hiking and camping was amazing."
Periodic facility closures: The campgrounds undergo maintenance that may affect bathroom availability. A reviewer at CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground shared a similar experience at their campground: "The manager (John) even wanted us to stay in a storm shelter room if the rain got worse. Nonetheless, we left due to the rain, but will definitely go back if we could!"
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for natural wildlife interactions in this remote setting. One camper observed: "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes."
Pack all essentials: The remote location requires bringing everything you need. A camper at Cedar Lake North Shore noted: "This campground is beautiful. Clean showers with hot water. Swimming for the kids and a playground."
Consider weather variations: Mountain elevations can create temperature differences between valley and campsite. A visitor remarked: "We camped here in the fall, bring jackets and stuff to keep warm because it is still very chilly, but warm enough during the day for some nice hiking."
Plan water activities: The lake provides swimming and fishing opportunities during warmer months. One visitor recalled: "I needed an electric hookup to charge the batteries on my boat every night and he was able to give us a site with hookups close to the boat ramp."
Check road conditions: The mountain access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles, especially in poor weather. At Mount Magazine State Park Campground, an RVer noted: "Pretty good tow up the mountain. Limited number of sites. Full hookup. A lot of trees."
Reserve sites in advance: The limited number of suitable RV spaces fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper mentioned: "We stayed in the non-electric sites (North Shore loop). Campgrounds were incredibly peaceful and quiet. There is running water and bathrooms which were relatively clean."
Bring leveling equipment: Many sites require adjustments for comfortable parking. One visitor advised: "The sites are level, and were Pull-Thru so we didn't even unhook."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Midland, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Midland, AR is William O. Darby RV Community with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
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