Best Equestrian Camping near Ponca, AR
Looking for a place to camp near Ponca with your horse? Finding a place to camp in Arkansas with your horse is easier than ever. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Ponca, AR (17)
1. Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Ponca, Arkansas24 Reviews•117 Photos•7 SavesOverview
Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in tent sites and another section of the campground offers 14 sites for those camping with horses. Half of the sites in the campground are available for reservations. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just off Highway 74.
Recreation
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
Facilities
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
Natural Features
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
Nearby Attractions
The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking or overnight backcountry opportunities.__ Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for more information..
Charges & Cancellations
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
$20 / night
2. Kyles Landing Campground — Buffalo National River
Compton, Arkansas22 Reviews•37 Photos•324 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
$12 / night
3. Erbie Campground — Buffalo National River
Marble Falls, Arkansas14 Reviews•62 Photos•97 SavesErbie Campground is a first come, first serve campground. Erbie has 14 drive in camp sites, 2 walk in tent only sites, and 5 group sites. There are no electrical amenities, flush restrooms, or water available.
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
4. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
Ponca, Arkansas9 Reviews•27 Photos•94 Saves- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$5 - $245 / night
5. Roaring River State Park Campground
Eagle Rock, Missouri44 Reviews•96 Photos•233 SavesRoaring River State Park is unique on so many levels! With a deep, narrow valley surrounded by a striking and rugged landscape, Roaring River State Park is one of Missouri’s most popular state parks. Located in the southwest Ozark hills, Roaring River State Park is one of three state parks stocked with rainbow trout and is a great place for camping near Bentonville. Eager anglers flock to the park year round to try and catch their lunker trout. The scenic setting makes everything more fun. The park has seven hiking trails, a swimming pool for cooling off, picnic tables for a leisurely lunch and a nature center to learn about the park. For those wanting to spend the night, the park has many options. The campground has basic, electric and sewer/electric/water site. Rustic cabins are scattered throughout the park or guests may choose a modern room at the Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center. The center also boasts a full-service restaurant.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park
Ponca, Arkansas5 Reviews•28 Photos•45 SavesOver 3000 acres of spectacular dirt and dual sport riding in a pristine natural area. One of a kind waterfall and specialty campsites. These are limited and must be reserved prior to arrival. Adjoins Buffalo National River Park & The Sweden Creek Natural Area. Most people bring their own off road vehicles and many come to hike and camp. Currently Open Most Days Year Round
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
$15 - $90 / night
7. Byrd's Adventure Center
St. Paul, Arkansas15 Reviews•40 Photos•112 SavesExperience the best tent and RV camping in Arkansas at Byrd’s Adventure Center. Right on the Mulberry River, Byrd’s offers a host of activities not found at any other Ozark campground.
Enjoy our comfortable RV and tent campsites as you relax in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Byrd’s Adventure Center offers spacious camping in a beautiful setting along the Mulberry River.
A variety of grassy and wooded campsites are available. Some sites have small shelters with picnic tables and campfire rings. In addition to our new Riverfront Restaurant (open weekly Friday-Sunday), we have more amenities than you’ll find in other Ozark campgrounds. These include a large heated shower house, a convenient on-site store with deli, stages, pavilions, an extensive trail network, two backcountry airstrips, rental cabins, plus floating and fishing on the pristine Mulberry River. All of this is located on our private 800-acre ORV park surrounded by the Ozark National Forest.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$10 - $22 / night
8. Down Home Campgrounds
Marble Falls, Arkansas2 Reviews•5 Photos•15 SavesCampground sits on 110 acre farm with mountain view and incredible stargazing. Only a few miles from the Buffalo national river (Erbie) and some of the best hiking trails in Arkansas. Water and Electric on 3 sites and tent camping at 2 sites. Bathroom and shower on site. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit/grill. Hiking, Waterfalls, Canoeing, Swimming, Caving and Horse Trails Within 5 miles. Parker-Hickman homestead, Thunder Canyon Falls, Hemmed In Hollow nearby as well. Convenience Store, JJs Bar and Grill, and Dollar General 8 miles away.
Cozy campground within minutes of Buffalo National River-Erbie Access (Marble Falls, AR), Sleeps 10, Grill, Fire Pit (Fire Wood and Charcoal Provided).Hiking, Waterfalls, Canoeing, Swimming, Caving and Horse Trails Within 5 miles. Horses can be accommodated on property for extra fee. Thunder Canyon Falls, Hemmed In Hollow nearby as well. Convenience Store, JJs Bar and Grill, and Dollar General 8 miles away. Remote location provides for a peaceful stay with 360 degree views!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$30 / night
9. Tyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
St. Joe, Arkansas5 Reviews•23 Photos•17 SavesOverview
Campers will delight in the picturesque river views at Tyler Bend. Located 11 miles (18 km) northwest of Marshall, Arkansas, Tyler Bend is set on a quiet, peaceful section of the great Buffalo National River. Known as the middle river region, the campground offers tranquil views of the river beside pastures.
Recreation
Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing license is required to fish anywhere on the river. The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer. Get a dose of history by hiking to the Collier Homestead, a restored Ozark dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.
Natural Features
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
Nearby Attractions
The Buffalo River Trail is accessible from the Collier trailhead parking area. This trail joins the Ozark Highlands Trail at Woolum, 14 miles (22.5 km) upstream from Tyler Bend.
Charges & Cancellations
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$50 / night
10. Big M
Golden, Missouri5 Reviews•23 Photos•49 SavesOverview
Big M is a spacious and grassy campground that sits along the White River Arm of Table Rock Lake in the Missouri countryside. Big M provides plenty of sites with a panoramic view of the beautiful Table Rock Lake, surrounded by the scenic foothills of the Ozark Mountains.
Recreation
Whether on water or land, Big M Campground offers visitors countless recreational activities. Picnicking, swimming, scuba diving, boating, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing are all popular pastimes at the park. With a large marina located just a short walking distance from the campsites, boating and fishing enthusiasts will find they have everything they need to enjoy the deep, clear waters of Table Rock Lake. While the lake boasts an abundance of crappie, catfish, and bluegill, Table Rock is most famous for bass, and is acclaimed as one of the best bass fishing lakes in this hemisphere. Multiple fishing tournaments are hosted yearly and anglers will there is no shortage of Largemouth, Smallmouth, White or Spotted bass. For visitors interested in staying near shore, a designated swimming beach near the campground's volleyball court, offers a convenient way to cool off during warm summer months. Table Rock Lakeshore Trail, about 2 miles long, runs from the Dewey Short Visitor Center to the Table Rock State Park Marina. During the spring hikers will see dogwood, serviceberry and redbud trees in bloom as well as many wildflower species. During the autumn months, visitors are treated to nature's colorful fall foliage. The trail also offers beautiful views of Table Rock Lake. Other hiking and mountain biking opportunities are available at the Mark Twain National Forest, parts of which are easily accessible from the campground. Click here for more information.
Natural Features
Table Rock Lake is a beautiful body of water surrounded by a forest of oak and hickory trees. Its waters wind down through the valleys and hollows of the Ozark Mountains, from Branson, Missouri to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. More than five million visitors per year take advantage of this recreational oasis. Originally built for flood control, the Table Rock Dam has created a lake that boasts 779 miles of shoreline for the public to enjoy.
Nearby Attractions
The Dewey Short Visitors Center is located at the south end of Table Rock Dam. It offers three educational films focused on the history of the dam, the story of Lewis and Clark and the history of eagles and their endangerment in the state of Missouri. The visitor center also contains exhibits on the natural history of the area. Those visitors arriving by boat can take advantage of the courtesy dock.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$28 / night
Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Ponca
164 Reviews of 17 Ponca Campgrounds
David B.
Scout
Rivers Edge RV Park
Hwy’s Edge RV Park
This Was An Ok, basic Spot To Overnight; pretty expensive at $60/night, but they did give either Sr discount or veteran discount of 10%. This is certainly not a resort, and is at least a quarter mile from White River, feeding Beaver Lake. Pretty Large RV PK, With Many Permanent Residents. No sign at entrance, and we passed it by winding around a neighborhood of houses that was between the RV Park and the true water’s Edge.
Verizon signal was good at 3 jiggers; and stronger than their wifi. We were about 100 yds from nice new looking bathhouse which had wifi antenna with good reception at bathhouse but weak at our camper. Supposedly there are repeaters to amplify the WiFi signal, but they were not operational. We got by streaming YouTube TV through our Verizon Hotspot on our phones. We had to buy an extra sewer hose to connect to sewer, as it was placed so far toward entrance of the site, rather than toward rear of site where electric and water were appropriately placed. Nice courteous staff. We were on a level, narrow concrete pad; ~half of sites were gravel; no picnic table.
870VERLAND
Guide
Erbie Campground — Buffalo National River
Great but no signal
Great trip. Beautiful campground. Beautiful scenery
- CChristopher H.Guide
Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Peaceful Fall Trip
Camping Review: A Slice of Paradise
If you're looking for the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I can't recommend this camping spot highly enough. Nestled in a remote area, far from the chaos of civilization, this campsite offers a rejuvenating experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene sounds of nature—the rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle flow of the Buffalo River nearby. With no cell service, it was liberating to disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in the beauty around me.
The campsite itself was impeccably maintained, with spacious sites that allowed for privacy and a true sense of seclusion. Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure.
During my stay, I hiked along the winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that took my breath away. The evenings were spent gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars that seemed to shine brighter than ever.
The lack of modern distractions was refreshing, allowing me to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of life—like the crackling fire and the warmth of good company. Whether you're an experienced camper or a beginner, this remote getaway is perfect for anyone looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
In summary, if you're seeking a peaceful retreat where you can truly escape the world, this camping spot is the best of the best. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in nature's embrace!
Jason M.Scout
Roaring River State Park Campground
Nice
Campground was nice and maintained. Showers in campground 2 were dirty.
Lucy P.
Ranger
Tyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
Fine but not amazing
Pretty basic campground, kind of just a bunch of spots in a field. About half are first come first serve, was there during the week and it was pretty empty. Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small.
The river is gorgeous, I was sad it was too cold to swim! Only one bathhouse in the car camping area so it’s gets pretty busy. Excellent cell service.
We had a nice time but weren’t particularly wowed, our only issues were lack of hookups, bad weather, and some people who decided to crowd us and run a loud generator despite the campground being mostly empty.
ngilly587Scout
Down Home Campgrounds
Great secluded location.
We had a great stay here it was very secluded and very easy to find. Location had a nice setup for the bath house and a great setup for the camp sites. All the spots had hookups for electric but our spot the outlet was melted but we were able to use the one next to ours. We enjoyed our stay but we ended up having to leave a day early but this would have been a great spot, I would definitely recommend staying here if you camping or staying in a camper or RV.
Bob B.Scout
Beaver Lake Hide A Way
Disgusting and not worth the money unless you like tweekers
Worst experience in this park while waiting on our land to be ready.the owners ad claim's that the RV park is in Rogers Arkansas and is a lie. the park is located in parie creek far back in the woods very far from civilization. It was also very hard to sleep at night due to the fact that the middle of the park is the only clean side while the right side and the left side was full of meth heads yelling,fighting also cops chasing them doing almost 80mph inside the park.alot of kids running loose with no parents, grabbing things from ppls lots.animals doing there needs in my yard,me having to clean up after others,restrooms where gross I can say jail restrooms looked better.also watch ur vehicle because the owners maintenance man on drugs left$2000 damage's in my custom paint truck with a$20 lawnmower mowing rocks next to my vehicle while there was no grass at all.after I noticed it the maintenance man stopped mowing, went on hide mode..I notified the owner, she laughed,told me to contact my insurance while they did not cover custom paint so i had to pay that out of my pocket.i stayed there almost 8 months the winter was the worse you can not get up those snowy hills, curves not even on a 4wd I had to stay at a hotel to not risk my family.also it was very scary being in any kind of an emergency due to the fact that the emergency hospitals were so far enough to not make it in time..would never go back to staying there again.if your looking for a reliable RV park near Rogers there's actually a few of them close to town near hospitals,gas stations, groceries honestly that place is a joke definitely not the place to take your family..and if you guys think I'm wrong about this go and find out yourselfs
- MMatt B.Guide
Erbie Campground — Buffalo National River
Average campground but good access to trails and river
Stayed here Memorial Weekend 2023. Had Site #2, which was large, flat and shady. Not a lot of privacy, as could see #1 and #3 easily. Also, the group sites were between us and the river, so fair amount of traffic as one of the paths to the group sites is between #2 & #4. Everyone got quiet in the evening though so not a problem.
The campground was clean with lots of parking. Vault toilets only and they were not stocked regularly, but we had our own toilet paper.
If you're coming from the west, Apple/Google Maps' shortest route will take you through Kingston and then down some rough dirt roads with a couple low water crossings. Easier route is to go to Hwy. 7 then come back east. Road still isn't great, but better than the other route.
We hiked the Goat Bluff Trail from the campground with a 6 year old who had no problems. https://btoellner.typepad.com/exploring\_nw\_arkansas/2011/11/old-erbie-area-loop-trail.html
Also floated from Kyles down to Erbie. Nice short float as water was very low.
Zachary J.Ranger
Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park
Last minute relaxation
Place is perfect we are amping at scooters roost. Gorgeous, quiet, and heaven. Recommend to anyone!!!
- LLorenzo B.Scout
Kyles Landing Campground — Buffalo National River
Good spot
Kayaked from steel creek and stayed here
Howard P.Scout
Byrd's Adventure Center
Beware
Dangerous dog roaming loose. I was walking up the steps of the restaurant to see if it was open. There was a full size White Pyrenees at the top of the steps. They are usually friendly dogs. This one growled and lunged at me. I had to backpedal so quickly that I almost flipped over backwards down the stairs which most likely would have broken things. Pyrenees are a protectorate breed bred to fight and kill wolves and bears. Their jaw strength exceeds a pit bull. They could kill a child and most adults instantly.
Steve S.
LegendTyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
nice
Beautiful park, very well maintained. Great for swimming in the cold Buffalo River. Lots of wildlife including elk. Great bathrooms but no hook-ups for our rv and most sites are first come, first serve.
Josh S.GuideRoaring River State Park Campground
Nice Reunion
We had a family reunion here and rented out some cabins. It was a great time. Fishing is great. Listening to the river while falling asleep is also hard to beat.
Roscoe's R.Guide
Macks Pines
Hospitality here can't be beat
this campground is geared more to the atv / utv / jeep / offraod vehicle crowd. if you are use to / expecting an rv resort that is the same as staying at your own home this is not for you. if you want outdoors, get lost in the woods and want to unplug from society then this is the spot. some sites require a bit of leveling, lots of full hookup and good amount of 50 amp. some sites are close, so are not. cafe onsite during the weekend with good breakfast and AWESOME burgers. i know many folks love to cookout when rving, but the burgers are worth a stop.
in just the 3 years since our first visit, greg has improved / continues to improve at an incredible rate. as with my title, and review above, greg and his wife are top notch hosts. they truly love what they do and want to do everything to make sure your stay is enjoyable. neighbors are friendly and respectful, no issues.
short drives from the campgrounds to beautiful scenery with a little bit of research, or ask greg. alot are even accessible by car. take the 30 min drive to hillbillys lims bbq as well.
Vivian Marie T.ScoutByrd's Adventure Center
No so good
They where very rude the other day to a guest that's been coming for years and years. I only been there when they where there. They informed me today they will never be back after years of going.. guess tuner bends right down the road will get our business next year
Amy & Stu B.LegendMacks Pines
Rough around the edges but does the job
We stayed here for some backwoods hiking in the Ozarks and it was about 40 minutes from the various hikes we had planned. There are some trails nearby, but the area and trails are really designed for ATVs.
It doesn’t offer a lot in terms of comfort—there are full hookups but no real fire rings, no trees or shade and it’s HOT in early June. It’s an all gravel path so not great for any elderly walkers or those in need of ADA. The showers are ROUGH, but they exist. They have hot water, but there’s a literal nail to operate the handles. Toilets are okay. No laundry. It has stables for horses and seems to really be built for ATVers.
No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around.
Nicest people in the world own it and work there. They have a shop and cafe on site that is open only on the weekends. The cafe is okay. It does have WiFi, but that does not extend to the camp/ RV sites. The real draw is the folks who work there, can’t state enough how wonderful and helpful they are.
Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive.
Very beautiful sites close by: falling water falls, big creek cave falls, glory hole falls, pedestal rocks and kings bluff trails, alum natural bridge—and so much more.
Hayley G.Guide
Big M
Lively campground with lots of shade and wooded area.
We stayed at Big M in campsite 44 in mid-May. The campground was definitely lively and there was a lot of people and activity going on the whole time, though everyone was very pleasant. It was more college kids/large families than the quiet retired crowd. Our campsite had a lot of privacy on 3 sides and had a small creek running through a ways behind it, downhill. There really wasn't a good level spot for our tent due to where the firepit was placed so we had to sleep on an incline. And the drive for the spot was at a pretty decent incline so a camper would definitely need to be leveled. A smaller tent could probably squeeze in well. The marina had a decent restaurant where you could get a beer and dinner. It's not too far of a drive from Roaring River which has lots of hiking trails. The bathrooms were pretty outdated and you need to bring your own hand soap, but that's pretty normal. The showers were a ways away from our site so did not end up seeing them.
- MMartyGuide
Tyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
Nice but LOUD
The close proximity to US 65 Highway detracts from what is otherwise a beautiful campground. Truckers seem to favor Jake brakes when descending into the river Valley…especially at 4:00 am. Campsites have pullouts and tent pads. Bathroom and showers need some upgrading of walls and fixtures but worked well. Water but no hookups.
kcki M.GuideRoaring River State Park Campground
Awesome fishing!
Great place to fish. Nice open camp spots, easy access to hiking trails and great fishing!
Drea R.
Traveler
Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
Magical lil’ Campground
This place is not your run of the mill rest stop. 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. It does get quite busy, so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day to claim a good spot.
Callie F.GuideSteel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Busy, but clean!
Campground was busy! But bathrooms stayed clean, visited often by a ranger, and so peaceful at night!
- JJenniferTraveler
Byrd's Adventure Center
Rendezvous in the Ozarks
Took the family to Rendezvous in the Ozarks at Byrds Adventure Center. We had the best time the the scenery is absolutely beautiful. Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area.
- MMarlaScout
Byrd's Adventure Center
Primitive and Perfect
We enjoyed camping here. Things were a little chaotic because we were there during the Byrdfest Music Festival, but the campground was just what we were hoping for.
Bill M.GuideRoaring River State Park Campground
SW MO state park camping
Spent a quick one night passing thru here. Sites just ok but surrounding area and hiking nice. If fly fishing is your thing then this place will do it.
- TTye S.Traveler
Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Beautiful views
Last minute 2 night trip with my girls (6,8). I haven’t been this far up river since I was a kid, so I didn’t know what to expect. It’s a slow drive from the south on 7 (20mph speed limit in places), so account for the extra time to set camp before dark. We went during the week, so it was practically empty. Short walk to river which you cannot see from sites due to trees, but you do have lovely rock views. There is a bathroom and water spigots. Be advised you do not have any cell service unless you drive into Ponca (10 min) and get on the store’s WiFi. So, if you need to call and let someone know you’ve arrived you will have to take that into account. We had a great time and can’t wait to go back and spend more time exploring the nearby trails.
gebriell S.GuideTyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
Great
The pictures of the river are from a different buffalo river access point Easy access to bathroom, drinking water and river from this spot.
Alex M.ScoutHorseshoe Canyon Ranch
Amazing place to stay & climb
This ranch is beautiful and great for hiking and climbing. The environment is awesome and the place is well-managed. The sport climbing here in particular is really well maintained and the sandstone rock is grippy and clean. HCR is great; my friends and I have been coming there for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ponca, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ponca, AR is Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ponca, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 equestrian camping locations near Ponca, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.