Bear Creek Horse Camp provides primitive equestrian camping within the Ouachita National Forest near Royal, Arkansas. The campground consists of four sites—two official national forest sites with metal fire rings and two dispersed sites with rock fire rings. Sites are available first-come, first-served and include hitching posts for horses. A small creek runs alongside the camp, and a vault toilet is located at the rear of the grounds. The camp serves as a base for riders exploring the Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system, which features interconnected loop trails also open to hikers.
What to do
Trail riding: The Bear Creek Equestrian Trail system offers extensive riding opportunities through the Ouachita National Forest. As Fred S. notes about Bear Creek Horse Camp: "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."
Fishing: Many lakes and rivers near Royal provide excellent fishing. At Lake Catherine State Park, campers can enjoy both lake and stream fishing. "We absolutely love it here. Wonderful trails, fishing, cabins and camp sites and tons of photo opportunities," reports Tina B.
Hiking: The region offers trails suitable for various skill levels. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," shares Alison C. about her experience at Lake Catherine State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The area surrounding Royal supports diverse wildlife. Susan E. describes Erwin Estate High Point: "Wildlife sitings: Eagle, White-tail Deer, Wild Hogs, Birds, Squirrel, and more. Onsite catch and release pond bass fishing (bring your own gear)."
What campers like
Secluded camping: Horse campgrounds near Royal provide a quiet forest setting. Fred S. describes Bear Creek Horse Camp as having "a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp; it was well supplied. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Sites are mostly shaded."
Water recreation: The numerous lakes in the region offer swimming, boating, and paddling opportunities. At DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Jason W. notes there are "Great swimming beaches and shore fishing are available too. There's a Diamond Trail golf course across the road as well."
Sunrise and sunset views: Campers enjoy spectacular views from elevated points. At Mount Nebo State Park, Dave V. writes: "Turning off I-40 at Exit 88, Mount Nebo is viewed less than 10 miles southwest…a stand-alone mountain... There are two distinct areas of the 'Rim Trail' that can be driven to…to capture those special photos…Sunset Point and Sunrise Circle."
Close proximity to Hot Springs: Many equestrian campgrounds and riding trails are conveniently located near Hot Springs. "Just 15 minutes from beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas!" shares Susan E. about Erwin Estate High Point.
What you should know
Trail conditions: The terrain around Royal varies significantly. Jackie F. explains about Mount Nebo: "The trails in Nebo are a little rough. The map says easy... I think that is if you are an expert hiker. There were some steep points and going down various rock trails."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies throughout the Ouachita Forest. Fred S. notes about Bear Creek Horse Camp: "Sites are mostly shaded making solar recharging and Starlink access a challenge. I received no T-Mobile cell service."
Reservation needs: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. Jason W. advises regarding DeGray Lake Resort State Park: "Be sure to reserve well ahead of your desired dates."
Road access considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds have limited access. Fred S. mentions about Bear Creek Horse Camp: "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
Kid-friendly water activities: Several lakes offer swimming areas suitable for children. Alison C. shares about Lake Catherine State Park: "We enjoyed the hiking trails and rented a few kayaks. It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water."
Geocaching opportunities: Many parks in the Royal area offer geocaching. Natalie S. mentions at DeGray Lake Resort State Park: "Had fun geocaching and deer sighting."
Wildlife education: Teach children about local wildlife safely. Stacy M. recommends: "The water was just beautiful. We fished and skipped stones and if it had been a touch bit warmer, we would've even taken a dip in the water too."
Family-friendly trails: Choose appropriate trails for younger hikers. Alison C. suggests: "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Some horse camping areas have limited access for larger rigs. Fred S. notes about Bear Creek Horse Camp: "Coordinates: 34.78571,-93.15988... 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."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. Ray & Terri F. warn about DeGray Lake Resort State Park: "Few if any of the sites in this section of the CG were anywhere close to level and our site, one of the few pull-throughs, was one of the worst, I mean seriously sloped even after ratcheting up the front levelers as far as they'd go."
Seasonal road conditions: Forest roads leading to equestrian campgrounds may deteriorate seasonally. Fred S. reports: "Some minor erosion on FR772 where small creeks cross the road. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit."
Hookup availability: Most primitive horse camping areas lack hookups. At Bear Creek Horse Camp, there are no electrical hookups, drinking water, or sewer connections, requiring self-sufficient camping.
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