Best Equestrian Camping near Nimrod Lake
Bear Creek Horse Camp offers four primitive equestrian campsites along Forest Road 772 in the Ouachita National Forest, approximately one mile north of Forest Road 11. The camp serves as a trailhead for the interconnecting loop trails of the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system, accessible to both riders and hikers. Hitching posts are available throughout the camp for securing horses. Sites include both official national forest sites with metal fire rings and dispersed sites with rock fire rings, available on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. A clean vault toilet is maintained at the rear of the camp. The grounds appear minimally maintained but sites remain clean. A small creek runs alongside the camp providing water access.
The Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system connects directly from the camping area, allowing immediate trail access without having to trailer horses to a separate trailhead. These trails wind through the dense forest of the Deckard Mountain area, providing varied terrain for riders of different skill levels. Forest Road 11 remains in good condition for horse trailer access, though Forest Road 772 has minor erosion where small creeks cross the road. Horse owners should note there are no designated corrals or stalls, requiring use of the provided hitching posts or bringing portable containment systems. The heavily wooded sites provide ample shade but challenge solar charging capabilities. No cell service is available through T-Mobile carriers, making this a truly primitive equestrian camping experience away from connectivity.
