Village Creek State Park campground in Wynne, Arkansas features dedicated areas for horse enthusiasts approximately 45 miles west of Newport. The park spans 7,000 acres with three distinct camping areas suitable for different camping styles. Located on Crowley's Ridge, this geological formation creates unique terrain with soil and plant species uncommon elsewhere in Arkansas.
What to do
Trail riding on 33 miles of trails: Village Creek State Park offers extensive multi-use trails where horse riders frequently encounter wildlife. "This is a huge Campground with lots of available activities such as hiking on the Trail of Tears, boating, fishing... the RV sites are flat and they have water and electricity," notes Teresa M. in her review of Village Creek State Park Campground.
Golf near camp: The park features a 27-hole golf course adjacent to camping areas. "There are 3 camping areas, two lakes, and a gorgeous golf course!" reports Linda A. about her experience at Village Creek. This makes it possible to combine camping and golfing in one trip.
Fishing at multiple locations: The park contains two small lakes popular with anglers. "The lakes have produced state record fish. It's well maintained, and has a lot of options," explains Jonathan C. Boat ramps accommodate fishing boats, though swimming areas are limited and described as muddy.
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: The B loop full hookup area offers particularly roomy sites. "The sites there are large, and spaced out pretty well. Bathrooms were clean, park staff was great," writes Bob M. about his 4-night stay at Village Creek State Park.
Variety of accommodation options: Beyond the equestrian facilities, Village Creek offers standard tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. "This place is very beautiful and DEEP into to woods. The sites are very spread out with privacy though and we loved that!" shares Brittany R. in her review.
Historical significance: The park contains well-preserved sections of the Trail of Tears. "There is a particularly stunning trail that includes one of the most well-preserved sections of the Trail of Tears," notes Laura G., adding that this creates both a scenic experience and educational opportunity.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty or non-existent in the park. "We lost service about 5/10 minutes out from the park with Verizon so if there are things you need to search before do that!" advises Brittany R., though free WiFi is available near the visitor center.
Weather considerations: Seasonal conditions affect both comfort and trail conditions. "Wish we weren't staying in a tent and would have come at a cooler part of the year. Was too hot to do anything at the beginning of July. Ended up leaving early," shares Kali D. after her summer visit to Village Creek State Park.
Site terrain varies significantly: Some camping areas have undergone recent renovations while others show signs of erosion. "It almost looks like major erosion has occurred since these sites were first built - at every site in this loop, the picnic table and fire ring are IN the woods, and often partway down a ravine," notes Laura G. about the equestrian camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: Different loops offer varying proximity to amenities and activities. "If you stay in the B loop, you're about a two mile hike to the hiking trails fyi. The A loop is much closer to that," advises Bob M. from his experience at Village Creek State Park Campground.
Be prepared for wildlife encounters: The natural setting means various wildlife species are present. "We saw them everywhere. We couldn't even hike without seeing them," reports Holly C. about park rangers regularly checking the grounds, which helps ensure safety.
Pack insect protection: Ticks and mosquitoes are common, especially in warmer months. "Take lots of bug spray in summer," recommends Laura G. based on her family's experience camping in the park.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: Some areas accommodate larger rigs better than others. "Camp sites are spacious and bath houses co located. Well maintained areas and friendly helpful staff," notes Shelly S., indicating that Village Creek works well for RVs in certain loops.
Utilize the dump station: Full hookup sites are limited to certain loops. "There is a dump station as she exit each Campground loop," explains Teresa M., providing essential information for RVers planning extended stays at Greers Ferry Lake - COE/Cherokee Rec Area.
Stock up on supplies beforehand: The remote location means limited access to groceries and equipment. "I would suggest buying your supplies at the nearest town," advises a reviewer about camping at Greers Ferry Lake, approximately 50 miles from Newport. This applies to most horse campgrounds near Newport, Arkansas.
