Bear Creek Horse Camp is part of a network of equestrian camping areas in the Ouachita National Forest region. Located in a heavily forested section near Perryville, Arkansas, the area offers multiple primitive camping options for horse riders. The elevation ranges from 600-900 feet throughout the forest, with temperature variations typical of Arkansas highlands—summer highs averaging 89°F and winter lows around 26°F.
What to do
Trail riding on dedicated equestrian routes: The Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system provides multiple interconnected loops for riding through the Ouachita National Forest. As one visitor noted, "The camp serves as a small primitive camping area for equestrian riders on the network of interconnecting loop trails that comprise the Bear Creek Equestrain Trail system. These trails are also open to hikers."
Hiking nearby scenic trails: Lake Catherine State Park offers several trail options within 40 miles of Perryville. "Nice, shady, level sites with full hook-ups. Three very good trails within the park. Situated on a beautiful lake near Hot Springs, AR with a marina," mentions Michael D.
Fishing opportunities: Several camping areas provide lake or pond access. The nearby Camp Robinson Dispersed Site offers fishing access. One camper stated, "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out."
What campers like
Natural water features: Creeks and streams run alongside many camping areas near Perryville, providing both drinking water for horses and peaceful ambient sound. At Woolly Hollow State Park, "There is a large playground for the children (we don't have any of those). The trails are easy to walk and the nature is awesome here," according to Kathy E.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Perryville offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Erwin Estate High Point, campers report excellent wildlife watching: "Wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more. Onsite catch and release pond bass fishing(bring your own gear)."
Secluded camping experience: Most equestrian camping areas near Perryville offer a sense of isolation despite being accessible. The primitive nature of Bear Creek Horse Camp makes it ideal for those seeking a true wilderness experience. One camper notes, "The camp itself is not aesthetically pleasing, but it is located deep in a beautiful forest with easy access to a trail system."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Primitive equestrian camping areas typically lack modern conveniences. At Bear Creek, campers should plan to bring all supplies as one visitor reports, "Four sites (2 official national forest sites with metal fire rings plus 2 dispersed sites with rock fire rings), available on a first-come/first-based only."
Access considerations: Forest roads leading to horse camps can present challenges. "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit," notes one camper about Bear Creek Horse Camp.
Cell service limitations: Most horse camping areas near Perryville have minimal to no cell coverage. At Mount Nebo State Park, approximately 35 miles from Perryville, conditions vary: "TMobile 3 bars at site 17, Verizon lower..." reports Heather K.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed campgrounds for amenities: When camping with children near Perryville, consider state parks over primitive equestrian sites. One visitor to Woolly Hollow State Park mentioned, "Fantastic camping spot, but be sure to call way ahead to find the best spots near the edge for the best view...because it's fantastic."
Plan for weather variations: The Ouachita region experiences sudden temperature changes. "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," reports a camper at Mount Magazine State Park.
Bring your own entertainment: Most equestrian camping areas have limited recreational facilities for non-riders. A family visiting Woolly Hollow noted, "Amazing weekend right outside of the Ozark National Forest. The lake was closed for Maintenance but the state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions at horse camps: Most equestrian camping areas near Perryville have limited space for larger RVs. Plan for smaller rigs or tent camping at primitive sites.
Consider alternative campgrounds: For RV camping near Perryville with more amenities, Camp Conway RV Park offers full hookups. "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park. Convenient to Conway and even Little Rock," notes Burt.
Plan for leveling needs: Many forest campsites require leveling equipment. One RVer at Macks Pines commented, "some sites require a bit of leveling, lots of full hookup and good amount of 50 amp. some sites are close, so are not."
