Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground offers more than just horseback riding opportunities near Boles, Arkansas. Located in the rugged Ouachita Mountains, this area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,500 feet with dense pine forests creating natural shade for campers. Trail systems connect to multiple forest service roads with varying terrain conditions depending on recent rainfall.
What to do
Hike the lake perimeter trail: At Cedar Lake Recreation Area, a relatively flat 3-mile trail circles the entire lake with natural terrain throughout. "There is a really fun trail that runs right around the entire lake, and it's a little over two miles. Nearly all natural terrain throughout the hike which makes it especially nice," notes Patrick G. from Cedar Lake North Shore.
Visit Mount Magazine State Park: As the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet, Mount Magazine offers spectacular views. "The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain. The entrance and welcome center is grand and very accepting of anything from small vehicles to large diesel pushers," shares Charles H. from Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Explore Ouachita National Forest trails: The forest contains hundreds of miles of trails for hikers and equestrians. "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," writes Matthew E. about Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Pine forest atmosphere: The tall pine trees create a distinctive camping experience. "This campground is heavily forested with pine trees and there are some sites right off the lake. It has a very nice bathroom facility with showers," explains Kelly Z. about Cedar Lake North Shore.
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds in the area are designed with space between neighbors. "The camp sites were great and hiking trails were within the park so we didn't need to drive anywhere. The fire ring was great with the added grill top," shares Missy G. about Cedar Lake North Shore.
Scenic mountain views: The elevated terrain provides outstanding vistas. "For anyone with kids, I would say at the outset that this isn't a very kid-friendly park. No playgrounds, very, very mountainous, and generally just not a park for kids. With that said, if you're a hiker, photographer or someone who can't wait to chase down the spectacular view, this park is for you," notes Donny S. from Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited supplies nearby: The remote location requires advance planning. "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you. Super close to the Talimena Scenic Drive and Horse Thief Spring and plenty of ATV/UTV trails," warns Kristi B. about Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp.
Potential for extreme weather: The mountainous terrain can experience fog and rapid temperature changes. "Due to the elevation and drastic temperature change from the base of the mountain and the campground, it frankly isn't safe at all to drive on the mountain in the early morning or evening," cautions Donny S. about Mount Magazine State Park.
Firewood availability varies: Not all campgrounds sell firewood on-site. "It was difficult to get fire wood. The campground didn't have any available but a local stated we could call a guy who would deliver some - we didn't have cell service so that wasn't an option. We drove about 30 mins to the closest 'town' to get firewood from a gas station quick stop," shares Missy G.
Tips for camping with families
Bring your own entertainment: Most campgrounds lack playgrounds or dedicated children's areas. "This is a very nice state park that mostly offers hiking and beautiful views. The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice," advises Jeremy C. about Mount Magazine State Park.
Consider tent pads for comfort: Many sites feature level tent pads. "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," notes Amelia S. about Cedar Lake.
Watch for wildlife: The area hosts diverse wildlife including snakes. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports Amelia S. about Cedar Lake.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications: RV sites vary in size and hookups. "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," shares Amelia S.
Consider seasonal temperature variations: Higher elevations experience significant temperature drops. "The temperature is literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below. One night we were there it got down to mid teens. So unless you're going in July, I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket," advises Donny S.
Look for pull-through availability: Some sites accommodate larger rigs. "The RV area looked new because all of the power boxes had 50/30 and 120 outlets and breakers which is super cool. All of the sites had sewer and water connections too," notes Cynthia H. about Long Lake Resort.
