Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground offers dedicated horse riding facilities 60 miles from Parks, Arkansas, within the Ouachita National Forest. The campground features both tent and RV camping options with access to over 100 miles of trails through diverse mountain terrain. Water and electrical hookups are available at most sites with 30-amp service.
What to do
Hiking on mountain trails: At Mount Nebo State Park Campground, visitors can access several trails with varying difficulty levels. "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," notes Dave V.
Horseback riding: The equestrian facilities at Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground connect to extensive trail systems. "This place was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! So beautiful with all the pine trees and being so far out from everything... Super close to the Talimena Scenic Drive and Horse Thief Spring and plenty of ATV/UTV trails," says Kristi B.
Fishing: Cedar Lake offers good fishing opportunities close to campsites. "We stayed in our camper by the lake and could just fish right out our back door," mentions Cynthia H. The lake contains multiple species of game fish and is accessible via shoreline or small watercraft.
Wildlife viewing: The forest areas around Parks contain diverse wildlife. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports Amelia S. about her stay at Cedar Lake. Early morning and dusk provide the best viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Mountain views: Mount Magazine State Park Campground offers panoramic vistas from Arkansas's highest peak. "The views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!" exclaims Charles H. The park sits at 2,753 feet elevation with viewing areas accessible by short walks from camping areas.
Private camping spaces: Many campers appreciate the layout at Cedar Lake. "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private," writes Ashley W. Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and level tent pads.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms are clean and positioned well to make them accessible to all the camp sites," notes Danielle L. Most equestrian campgrounds in the area maintain heated shower facilities with hot water year-round.
Trail access: Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area provides direct trail connections from campsites. "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," explains Matthew E.
What you should know
Remote location: Equestrian campgrounds near Parks are typically situated away from urban areas. "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you," advises Kristi B. Cell service can be limited or unavailable in many areas.
Steep access roads: Some mountain campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "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%," cautions Dave V. about Mount Nebo State Park.
Wildlife precautions: The area has active wildlife including venomous snakes and bears. "There is a pack of dogs that came through at night. So be sure to put up your trash and food at night. Especially since bears could be around," warns Jackie F. Most campgrounds provide bear-resistant storage containers.
Seasonal maintenance: Facilities may close periodically for repairs. "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!" advises Susan F.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some campgrounds offer swimming facilities for children. "State park with swimming pool in summer. Playground and swings for young ones," mentions Stan G. about Mount Nebo State Park, which provides a welcome activity after trail riding.
Hiking difficulty: Be aware of trail challenges when planning with children. "The trails in Nebo are a little rough. The map says easy... I think that is if you are an expert hiker. lol. There were some steep points and going down various rock trails. We had 5 dogs and 7 people and we were all struggling a tad," shares Jackie F.
Campsite selection: At Cedar Lake, request sites away from the lake if you have small children. "We will BE back!! 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," enthuses Patrick G. whose family enjoyed the campground with two boys.
Educational opportunities: The forests offer chances for nature education. "The hiking is wonderful. Cedar lake is beautiful. When we lived in Oklahoma we would camp out regularly in March, bring jackets and stuff to keep warm because it is still very chilly, but warm enough during the day for some nice hiking," recalls Megan P. who brought along another family.
Tips from RVers
Military option: William O. Darby RV Community provides a secure environment for overnight stays. "This was a great little park and stay at while we were in fort Smith. The price was right and operated by a family and the whole family chips in to run the park. The hosts were very accommodating and the military police patrolled the park," shares Leslie D.
Site amenities: Check for specific hookup details when planning an RV stay for horse camping. "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.
Road restrictions: Some campgrounds have limitations on RV size due to mountain roads. "Pretty good tow up the mountain. Limited number of sites. Full hookup. A lot of trees," explains Rob W. about Mount Magazine State Park. Larger rigs should verify access before booking.
