Equestrian campgrounds near Plainview, Arkansas offer access to extensive trail systems across the Ouachita National Forest region. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,500-2,700 feet, creating cooler summer camping conditions than surrounding lowlands. Forest roads accessing these horse camps often require high-clearance vehicles, especially after heavy rainfall when creek crossings may become challenging.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Trails at Moccasin Gap Horse Trail NF Campground connect to the Ozark Highlands Trail for extended riding options. "Loop of primitive sites along Hwy 7 providing access to Ozark Highlands Trail" with "drinking water and toilet facilities," notes reviewer Stan G.
Mountain photography: The elevation changes provide excellent landscape photography opportunities at Mount Magazine State Park Campground. "The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain," shares Charles H., adding "the views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!"
Waterfall hikes: Several horse camps offer access to waterfall trails within a 30-minute ride. At Lake Catherine State Park Campground, Amy H. recommends "Pleasant hike. Pleasant environment. Pleasant waterfall. I remember this place being rather peaceful!"
What campers like
Cooler mountain temperatures: Horse camps at higher elevations provide relief from summer heat. At Mount Magazine, Jeremy C. notes this is "a very nice state park that mostly offers hiking and beautiful views. The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids."
Private camping layouts: Bear Creek Horse Camp receives praise for its seclusion. Fred S. describes it as having "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. Hitching posts are available in the camp."
Lake access: Several equestrian campgrounds offer swimming opportunities. At Sorghum Hollow Horse Camp, Athina W. mentions it's "not uncommon for horseback riders to come through. Can be rough and muddy getting down to the water" but calls it a "beautiful quiet spot, with enough rain swimming."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most horse camps have spotty connectivity. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, Fred S. reports "I received no T-Mobile cell service. The camp itself is not aesthetically pleasing, but it is located deep in a beautiful forest with easy access to a trail system."
Seasonal water availability: Creek levels near equestrian campgrounds fluctuate significantly. Lake Catherine State Park experiences this seasonally, as tiffany H. mentions: "The only reason I didn't give a 5 is the partying kids across from us... This is a wonderful park I grew up camping at. You can rent a boat and fish all day. Play in the waterfall or walk the great trails!"
Road conditions: Forest roads to horse camps often deteriorate in wet weather. Fred S. notes Bear Creek Horse Camp access requires caution: "Located along Forest Road 772, about 1 mile north of Forest Road 11 in the Ouachita National Forest. Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road."
Tips for camping with families
Bring portable containment: Since permanent horse corrals are limited at Plainview area equestrian campgrounds, portable fencing is essential. At Macks Pines, Amy & Stu B. note facilities are "rough around the edges but does the job" and "it's an all gravel path so not great for any elderly walkers or those in need of ADA."
Pack extra water containers: Water access varies by campground and season. At Macks Pines, campers should know "Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive," according to Amy & Stu B.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain elevations near Plainview experience rapid temperature shifts. Mount Magazine camper Donny S. advises: "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. So unless you're going in July, I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Horse-friendly campgrounds often have uneven terrain. At Mount Magazine, Rob W. notes: "Pretty good tow up the mountain. Limited number of sites. Full hookup. A lot of trees."
Parking configurations: RV sites at horse campgrounds accommodate trailers differently. Jennifer H. at Mount Magazine shares: "Beautiful camping experience! There were a very limited number of RV sites, but they were all very private feeling and nicely maintained."
Road access limitations: Some horse-friendly camping areas have restrictions. Gary F. observes Mount Magazine has "18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30. All of the campsites have a large level tent pad, table, fire ring, and plenty of shade."
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