17 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Steel Creek Campground at Buffalo National River offers separate camping areas for horse owners, with a dedicated horse camp that accommodates trailers and provides essential equestrian facilities. The campground features clean restrooms, water access, and trash disposal, though the grass in the horse camping area may sometimes be overgrown. Sites cost $20 per night and require advance reservations, particularly during holiday weekends when the campground fills quickly. The horse camp area is strictly enforced for equestrian use, though during peak periods like Memorial Day weekend, non-horse campers have occasionally been allowed to use these sites.
The Buffalo River area provides excellent trail riding opportunities with access to both the Buffalo River Trail and Cecil Cove Trail directly from the campground. Erbie Campground, located a few miles from Steel Creek, offers additional horse-friendly camping options with proximity to the Erbie Ford and the historic community of Erbie. Down Home Campgrounds, situated close to Erbie Horse Camp, provides a more secluded alternative for equestrians seeking less crowded conditions. Devil's Den State Park also maintains equestrian trails and a dedicated horse campground with manure disposal facilities. Riders should be prepared for varying trail conditions and bring appropriate gear, as the terrain includes creek crossings, wooded paths, and occasional steep sections.
"Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area."
"This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly"
from $10 - $22 / night
Check Availability"The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us."
"You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away, and are greeted by the breathtaking view of the bluffs you are surrounded by!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"General: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground"
"I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"They continue to upgrade trails and add beautiful camping spots. This is a family room ranch and Donny and Lynn are wonderful hosts. I always come home feeling reconnected with myself and family"
from $15 - $90 / night
Check Availability"They have horse back riding and tons of world class rock climbing. Very safe and clean. Facilities were just fine."
"Car camp, hammock, tent camp, or rent one the cabins to enjoy the roaming goats and horses around the property. Infamously known in AR as one of the best climbing spots."
from $5 - $245 / night
Check Availability"Located within a few miles of the horse camp , this site is Aimed more at group camping, there is not as much shade as I’d like to see."
"I explored each in detail and took a day to enjoy the trails around them. "
"The picnic table had a few steps up to it. This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot."
"There is an unofficial overflow campground with a well kept pit toilet that offers the best view from the campgrounds over the Arkansas valley."
from $35 / night
Check Availability"Reservable sites are nearly on top of each other. Might be good if you have kids with you. There is a playground adjacent and a pool/bathhouse close by."
"A great Arkansas destination for outdoorsy people.The steep road climbing to the top of Mount Nebo keeps the big RVs away. Stop your car at the lookout point before you reach the top."
from $25 - $75 / night
Check Availability"It is so close to the Buffalo River, Jasper, and Erbie Horse camp. We had such a great weekend with our family! Loved being away from all of the crowds in this secluded area."
"Location had a nice setup for the bath house and a great setup for the camp sites."
from $30 / night
Check Availability
LegendI had heard so many great things about this park but I was not that impressed. The sites are fairly close together. There’s no signs warning that if you are in a large RV you shouldn’t come in on a certain highway. They do have equestrian trails and a campground to accommodate campers with horses. They have a lot of hiking trails. There are cabins and a pool.
LegendCamped here mid-week in early November, 2025. Came here to camp while doing some smallmouth bass fishing on the Buffalo River. Quickly found a large, open, level site with a rock fire ring on a grassy field. This site was large enough to accomodate multiple vehicles and horse trailers. I did not try to find a spot on the river bank, although the river bank appeared easy to access. Only two other camping groups were here during my stay - far enough away that I couldn't hear them. Including the one at the day use parking lot, there are three clean and supplied vault toilets here. The campground appeared well maintained. No potable water and no trash service. Solar recharging and Starlink connectivity are possible. I received spotty T-Mobile 2G and 4G LTE service. This primitive campground is convenient for kayakers and canoers, as well as for overlanders and equestrian campers. I met a backpacker who just came off of the Ozark Highland Trail across the river and was camping on the rocky river bank. I recommend, especially for those driving 2WD passenger vehicles, accessing the campground using Searcy County Road 15 - not CR14. Although open during my time here, narrow CR14 still had some damage from recent landslides which resulted in rough driving conditions (although, high clearance, 4x4 vehicles should have no problems). Overall, I enjoyed camping here, and I'm looking forward to returning to this beautiful area in the Arkansas Ozarks.
GuideWe rolled in at 8pm on a Friday night. The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us. The 26 sites are in two layers, one closer to the parking lot, one closer to the woods, river and bluffs. Rangers patrol regularly and are very helpful. There is a ranger station beyond the horse campground which is a pleasant walk or a quick drive. We stopped there to get our National Park stamp! Easy access to a trail directly from the lot, or walk beyond the horse camp to the Old River trail head. Centerpoint Trail is a 15 minute drive away and offers access to the Big Bluff/Goat Trail. Caution drivers: the road in to the campground is windy and steep. A sign warns against bringing RVs. However there were an enormous bus and tons of horse trailers and campers at the bottom of the hill - braver people than I:) Bathrooms are clean, dimly lit at night presumably to keep bugs out. Each site has a lantern pole, fire ring and picnic table. Lost Valley Trail and shelter are a 10-15 minute drive away. Since it was raining we cooked our dinner in the shelter. Overall a beautiful place with great access to multiple trails as well as river access. Sites are a little close, but if you're fine with having neighbors 20 or so feet away, we highly recommend:)
ScoutLocated within a few miles of the horse camp , this site is Aimed more at group camping, there is not as much shade as I’d like to see. It is immediately next to Erbie put in, with walking distance to both the Erbie Ford and the old community of Erbie, which includes several old homes that have been preserved, the old Erbie Church and Cherry Hill cemetery.
Both cecil Cove Trail and the main Buffalo River trail are right there. With bathrooms and a nice swimming hole, this is a local favorite. The water is seasonal, so ne aware of flash flood risks.
ScoutThis place is a true hidden gem. It is so close to the Buffalo River, Jasper, and Erbie Horse camp. We had such a great weekend with our family! Loved being away from all of the crowds in this secluded area.
LegendGeneral: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground). Limited rainfall resulted in less dramatic (or non-existent) waterfalls that are otherwise boasted of during other times of the year but the scenery was still beautiful, especially in the fall.
Sites/Facilities: Many different camping options (some loops have full hookups while others do not have hookups and there is a dump station near Loop E), a hike-in campground, a group campground, and an equestrian campground. There are also 17 rustic cabins (1-3 bedrooms with kitchens and a/c and heating plus nearby bathrooms). We camped in Loop E and there was reasonable separation between the sites. The pads were paved. Each site had a metal picnic table, lantern hook, and fire grate. Many of the sites provided shade from the many trees.
Bathhouse: Like some other Arkansas state parks, there are two bathhouses in some loops, and they were open on alternating days so that the other one may be cleaned and sanitized (Covid related policy). While the open one in Loop E was clean, the several soap dispensers were empty which does not make sense to me when hand washing is recommended. You also need to bring your own towel, which I have been doing regardless. There are showers but I did not use them so I cannot comment on how good they are.
Activities/Amenities: Hiking! I highly recommend the Yellow Rock Trail and the Devils Den Trail plus there are several others. During the summer, you can rent paddle boats and canoes. There are several areas with picnic tables throughout the park. There is also a swimming pool, although I did not see it when we were there in October(it would only be open in the summer). Firewood is available for sale.
TravelerReservable sites are nearly on top of each other. Might be good if you have kids with you. There is a playground adjacent and a pool/bathhouse close by. We opted for the hike in site and it was perfect for us. Off-road and hiking were great! Views are breathtaking!!
LegendThis is a gorgeous park, even on a rainy weekend. I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A. E was a large campground, with mixed tent and RV camping, with some sites along Lee Creek. Each site was well equipped with paved parking pads, nice flat sites for tents (some gravel pads, some just grassy areas), and many of the spots had electic and water. All had campfire rings, picnic tables, and grills. There were two nice hiking trails leading out of this particular campground, and some of the other campgrounds (A in particular) also had good trails. The bathhouses were really nice and modern and very clean. What I liked about this park, besides the great hiking trails, were all of the historic CCC buildings. There is a really neat scenic overlook that was built by the CCC near the Yellow Rock trailhead, and if you step in the visitor's center, you are actually in the old CCC motor pool. There is a really nice statue and plaque commemorating the work of the CCC in building the park near the lake and cafe.
TravelerDevil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great. The sites are generally spacious. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space. There are several hiking trails within the park and other activities during warmer months (i.e. pool). If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow). There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services.
Steel Creek Campground serves as a primary access point to the Buffalo National River with sites spread across a grassy field adjacent to towering bluffs. The main campground area features open, well-maintained sites that provide minimal privacy but excellent access to swimming holes and trails. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this river valley, with thunderstorms creating dramatic echoing sounds off the surrounding rock faces and occasional standing water in grassy areas after heavy rains.
Trail riding expansion options: For equestrians seeking additional trails beyond Steel Creek, Byrd's Adventure Center offers extensive off-road options. "They own 800 acres and have a ton of off-road trails for all," notes Desiree Y., adding that "the river runs right through the property." The trails accommodate different skill levels and connect to national forest terrain.
Swimming access points: The Buffalo River provides excellent swimming opportunities during summer months. At Steel Creek Campground, campers can easily reach the water. "There is a great swimming hole!" according to Lindsey P., who mentions "trails to the river nearby" make access simple from the campsites.
Historic site exploration: Erbie area offers historic structures for those interested in regional history. "Walking distance to both the Erbie Ford and the old community of Erbie, which includes several old homes that have been preserved, the old Erbie Church and Cherry Hill cemetery," explains Jane T., making this location valuable for those interested in cultural heritage alongside trail riding.
Natural wildlife encounters: The parks around Pettigrew attract diverse wildlife. Mount Nebo State Park provides unique animal viewing opportunities. "The deer will walk up to you and you can pet them," states Steve S., though interacting with wildlife should always be done with caution and respect.
River accessibility: Proximity to water remains a key advantage for horseback riders. "You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away," reports Miranda D., highlighting the convenience of having water access for both people and horses at Steel Creek.
Primitive options for seclusion: Down Home Campgrounds provides an alternative to more crowded equestrian areas. "Loved being away from all of the crowds in this secluded area," says Brady, noting its proximity to "Buffalo River, Jasper, and Erbie Horse camp" makes it ideal for riders seeking quieter camping conditions.
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to many horse camps requires navigating difficult roads. "The road is steep, has sharp, blind curves and is very narrow. But SOOO worth it!" warns Leah H. about Steel Creek. Four-wheel drive is highly recommended, particularly after rainfall when dirt roads may become slippery.
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: Devil's Den State Park offers equestrian camping with different reservation policies throughout the year. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" advises Jo, highlighting the importance of verifying availability before traveling.
Cell service limitations: Most equestrian camping areas have minimal connectivity. Erbie Campground has "no cell service" according to Wendy M., so riders should plan accordingly with printed maps and emergency contact plans before heading out on trails.
Swimming options for children: River access points provide natural recreation for younger visitors. "The sand may be a pain, but the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm," notes Leah H., indicating that riverside sites at Steel Creek offer better drainage for family camping.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Erbie Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing chances for children. "Watch for Elk, you'll probably see an armadillo or two as well," suggests Wendy M., mentioning these sightings occur on relatively flat, family-friendly hikes from the campground.
Advance planning for peak periods: Holiday weekends fill quickly at all equestrian camping locations. "We went on a weekend in mid-October and there were probably about 5 to 8 other sites being used (with plenty of vacancy still)," reports Ashley F., indicating that scheduling trips during off-peak times provides more options for families with horses.
Access road limitations: Many equestrian campgrounds have strict size restrictions for trailers and RVs. For Mount Nebo, "signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'," cautions Dave V., adding that "grades are up to 18%" making this challenging for large horse trailers.
Hookup availability: Limited amenities exist at most horse camps, but options exist. "Primitive camping with trailers," describes Wendy M. about Erbie, contrasting with Joey C.'s description of Steel Creek as having "restrooms and running water" but no electric hookups.
Site selection strategy: When horse camping with an RV, choosing the right location matters. "I would recommend calling ahead and seeing if you can get the site on the Bluff it looked beautiful," suggests Jackie F., noting that even at developed campgrounds, specific sites offer superior access for loading and unloading horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Pettigrew, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Pettigrew, AR is Byrd's Adventure Center with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Pettigrew, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near Pettigrew, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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