Bear Creek Horse Camp offers primitive camping options with toilet facilities for equestrians in the Ouachita National Forest near Royal, Arkansas. The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping with drive-in access and allows pets alongside horses. Situated approximately 30 miles northwest of Hot Springs, the area provides direct access to forest service roads and trails suitable for riding. The campground maintains basic amenities without electrical hookups, drinking water, or shower facilities, creating an authentic backcountry experience for riders seeking solitude with their horses.
The extensive trail system connects riders to scenic routes through the Ouachita Mountains with varied terrain suitable for different experience levels. Trail riders can access multiple connecting paths without leaving the forest, allowing for rides ranging from a few hours to full-day excursions. The natural setting attracts equestrians looking for undeveloped camping experiences where horses can be kept at individual campsites. During peak seasons, weekends see moderate use by horse enthusiasts, while weekdays typically offer more solitude. Practical considerations include bringing sufficient water for both horses and humans, as the campground has limited facilities compared to more developed equestrian campgrounds in the region.
$15 - $25 / night
"We stayed in site 54 (w/e/s) that was right on the lake. We could walk to the dock right behind the site to fish, although did not have very good luck."
"Lake Catherine State Park, like all Arkansas state parks, is immaculately clean! Most RV sites have close access to the water and there are small stationary docks to park your boat. "
"This weekend we camped at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismarck, Arkansas. We had a blast! DeGray Lake has a lot to offer for groups large and small wanting to get away."
"Nice campsites, lakeside, lake view and in the woods, YURT rentals have the best location, DeRoche Ridge second best if you want to be right next to the lake."
"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."
$80 - $100 / night
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!!
LegendCoordinates: 34.78571,-93.15988. Visited in early May 2025. 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. FR11 is in good condition at the time of this visit. The camp is on the western edge of the Deckard Mountain Walk-in Turkey Hunting Area. 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. The trailhead is located at the rear of the camp. Free. 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. A small creek runs along side the camp. The grounds of the camp do not appear to be maintained, but the sites were clean. There is a very clean vault toilet located at the rear of the camp; it was well supplied. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Sites are mnostly shaded making solar rechargiong and Starlink access a challenge. 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. Note that, when I last checked, the Ouachita National Forest Web site no longer lists this site as a campground.
GuideThis weekend we camped at DeGray Lake Resort State Park in Bismarck, Arkansas. We had a blast! DeGray Lake has a lot to offer for groups large and small wanting to get away. It has several camping spaces with water and electric hook ups (about $22/night), yurts (about $55/night), a lodge (about $100/night), a marina to rent boats or buy bait, several daily activities for children or adults of all ages (some free and some about $5-15/person), horse riding stables (no experience required, about $30/ride 1 hour trail), a full golf course, playgrounds, pavilions, overall clean facilities, and a restaurant. Although our bank fishing experience wasn’t so great, I’m sure with a boat it would have been better. And for those that want to make the camping trip into the ultimate family vacation, this park is about a 30 minute drive from Hot Springs, AR where there is tons to do like restaurants, mini golf, shopping, and we even decided to get ice cream at Scoops (24 homemade flavors and delicious)! We will definitely be back for a visit!!
TravelerSmall open Campground with no specific sites (Tent Only Area). There is a small lot nearby to park then you must walk everything in. This can be anything from right next to your car to a few hundred feet away depending on where you want to set up. Picnic tables, fire rings and campground grills located throughout but again nothing is marketed as far as site numbers. The area allows for up to six camp permits per night. Could be good for smaller groups. It’s up away from the lake unlike the rest of the campgrounds in the park. There are restrooms nearby with flushing toilets and sinks. Also a playground is located close to the campsite. Overall it was clean but felt cramped among other campers and parking away from the tent made for multiple trips back and forth.
RangerA 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. When you arrive, walk into the Visitor's Center and right through the other door on the back to take in the view and step right onto a nice hiking trail. The campground has an open feel, so you might see cars going by on the main road, or strike up a conversation with your camping neighbors. It is nonetheless a nice place, particularly the sites that overlook the bluff. If you have kids, there are two sites that back up directly to a playground. For tent campers, the real draw is the hike-in campsites, which are easy to hike to on a flat, wide trail that circles the top of the mountain (similar in width to a fire road), or the various other well maintained hiking paths that parallel or criss-cross it. Wake up and check out the view at Sunrise Point, enjoy a day of hiking and other activities, then top it off with the view at Sunset Point.
GuideWe stayed in site 54 (w/e/s) that was right on the lake. We could walk to the dock right behind the site to fish, although did not have very good luck. I’m betting the fishing is better if you have a boat. We did not use the restrooms/bathhouse. This site is smaller but fit our 22’ trailer perfectly. We had our ebikes with us and road around a little, but the campground is not ideally set up for using them like we did at Petit Jean. We did have some pretty tall weeds that we wished would have been taken care of before we arrived, but not a deal breaker for sure. We hiked several trails that were challenging and beautiful. Close proximity to Hot Springs so spent one day there. If I had it to do over again, I would have skipped it. Casino close by for those folks so inclined. Wish we would have brought our kayaks🤨
TravelerLake Catherine State Park, like all Arkansas state parks, is immaculately clean! Most RV sites have close access to the water and there are small stationary docks to park your boat.
A short trail leads you to a waterfall or take the longer trail for a fun hike through the woods. Swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking are all a part of the fun.
The cabins are rustic but well-appointed. All cabins have water views.
No matter the time of year, Lake Catherine State Park is a wonderful place to visit.
ScoutI am quite fond of the state parks in Arkansas and this was a clean, quiet, beautiful and safe location near Hot Springs. I was very happy that I could also bring my dog. When I reached my campsite my booking tag was already there and there was some firewood placed on the fire pit for me already. I was only a minute walk from restroom facilities. I also found it was very easy to book last minute after receiving a recommendation from a local barista.
LegendLet me just start this out by saying, selecting a spot in Arkansas you are overwhelmed with options. State parks flourish and individual campgrounds seem to be countless. When traveling to the Hot Springs area It was a toss up as to which location would bear suit my journey, not only as a campground but as a part of the adventure. I elected to try Lake Catherine State Park, located just 10 miles outside of Hot Springs.
What sold me on this site were the numerous hiking trails, but what surprised me when I arrived were the lakeside water rentals located on premise as well as the actual beach recreation area.
I arrived later in the day and quickly made my camp in the primitive tent area. These sites have no water or electric hook ups however a very nice restroom facilities within 100 yards. They also boast a playground for the kids, not the only of the site. I was greeted by other campers and the sense of community was high at this facility.
My campsite included a table and grill and was nearby a fire ring. The area was much flatter than many camp areas and made for a quick site selection. In the distance deer grazed as the sun was setting.
The next morning I ventured toward the marina and was excited to find they have numerous boats for any level of experience available. Larger units available for full or half day use and smaller units for full or half day along with by the hour.
Hiking trails were my next stop after learning of the various skill levels including ADA accessible, moderate and difficult.
In addition to primitive camping the park offers RV and non-primitive tent camping. Also available are Yurt and Cabin rentals.
Office contains limited food and beverage options as well as supplies for lake visitors and a full picnic area overlooking the beach. Bathrooms and washrooms are scattered throughout the park and are kept impeccably clean with high water pressure.
Cell signal was good even on the remote trails during my stay.
This is by far one of the nicest parks I have camped not only on this journey but on any. Staff was knowledgeable about the park and others of the state and very helpful.
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Easy 5 of 5 Bunnies. I will return!
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.
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)."
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.
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."
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."
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Royal, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Royal, AR is Lake Catherine State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 84 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Royal, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Royal, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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