Best Equestrian Camping near Paron, AR
Bear Creek Horse Camp offers primitive equestrian camping in the Ouachita National Forest, approximately 1 mile north of Forest Road 11 on Forest Road 772. The camp features hitching posts and provides direct access to the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system, a network of interconnecting loop trails open to both riders and hikers. The grounds include four sites—two official with metal fire rings and two dispersed sites with rock fire rings—available on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge. Campers report the sites remain clean though the grounds do not appear regularly maintained. A small creek runs alongside the camp, providing water access for horses and riders. The camp includes a clean vault toilet at the rear of the grounds. Sites accommodate both tent and hammock camping under mostly shaded areas.
The trailhead for the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system is located at the rear of the camp, offering immediate riding access without needing to trailer horses to a separate location. Located deep within a beautiful forested area, the camp provides a secluded base for exploring the surrounding wilderness on horseback. Minor erosion exists where small creeks cross Forest Road 772, though Forest Road 11 remains in good condition. The camp's location on the western edge of the Deckard Mountain Walk-in Turkey Hunting Area gives riders access to diverse terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities. The shaded camp makes solar recharging challenging, and cell service is limited or nonexistent in this remote location. Note that while the camp remains available for use, it may no longer be listed as an official campground on the Ouachita National Forest website.
