Horse enthusiasts face limitations when seeking equestrian camping near Sherwood, Arkansas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 300 to 400 feet above sea level with terrain characterized by lowland forests and lake areas. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for horse camping activities in the area.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camp Robinson Dispersed Site offers a partially drained lake area for fishing. One visitor noted, "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out" while another mentioned the "sunset was beautiful. Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening."
Hiking with family: Woolly Hollow State Park provides accessible trails suitable for family outings. A camper shared: "This park has so much going for it. It is clean, small, handicap accessible....great hiking with short and long options, a pour-off waterfall during the wet season when the lake is high, biking options."
Waterfall exploration: The Falls Branch Trail at Lake Catherine State Park offers waterfall viewing. A visitor recommends: "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail." Another camper emphasized, "You can rent a boat and fish all day. Play in the waterfall or walk the great trails!"
Wildlife observation: The Erwin Estate High Point area provides nature viewing opportunities. According to a visitor: "As of late, there is considerable wildlife to view and great fishing in our pond. Occasionally, we even have a Golden Eagle that will make an appearance!"
What campers like
Peaceful surroundings: Greers Ferry Lake - COE/Cherokee Rec Area offers a quiet camping experience. A camper described it: "This campground is very rural. If you want to enjoy the peace and quiet this is your stop. The view is beautiful with all the water sites."
Accessible swimming: Woolly Hollow State Park features a swimming area with rentals available. One camper shared: "You can rent paddle boats and kayaks for the small but beautiful lake that is known for fishing. The visitor's center has nice restrooms, local author's books and art, and is well-stocked in emergency supplies."
Spacious campsites: Lake Catherine State Park provides well-sized sites for various activities. A visitor noted: "Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors. There were trees to hang our hammocks."
Stargazing opportunities: While not specifically designed for horse camping near Sherwood, Arkansas, Erwin Estate High Point offers excellent night sky viewing. As described by a camper: "Star gazing at night with a very romantic sunset. Drone flying is superb! Great cell phone reception."
What you should know
Summer heat management: Camp Robinson Dispersed Site can be uncomfortable during hot months. A camper advised: "Thank goodness there is a slight breeze. 90 degrees. Summer swampy area. I definitely put on bug spray right away. Nice place to sleep and get back on 40East in the morning."
Limited horse facilities: None of the campgrounds near Sherwood explicitly mention equestrian facilities like corrals or designated horse trails. Horse owners should call ahead to confirm policies before planning a visit with horses.
Site reservation timing: Popular parks like Woolly Hollow fill quickly. A local advises: "Sites fill up fast. New visitor center is nice. Park has a fishing tournament for the kids."
Road access challenges: Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp has difficult terrain for larger vehicles. A visitor warned: "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly environments: Woolly Hollow State Park is rated highly for first-time campers. A parent shared: "Amazing weekend right outside of the Ozark National Forest. The lake was closed for Maintenance but the state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition."
Educational opportunities: Parks offer learning activities for children. One homeschooling family reported: "They put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed as well as answered every question she had. As a homeschool family we are always looking for learning opportunities."
Water recreation for kids: Camp Conway RV Park provides bird-watching opportunities for children. A visitor mentioned: "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park."
Bug protection essentials: For equestrian camping excursions near Sherwood with children, insect protection is crucial. As one camper at Adam's Lake advised: "Another no-frills camp on a wildlife management area. Mosquito spray is more important than food."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV camping near Sherwood, Lake Catherine State Park offers quality sites. A camper recommended: "Nice, shady, level sites with full hook-ups. Three very good trails within the park. Situated on a beautiful lake near Hot Springs, AR with a marina."
Distance considerations: Camp Conway RV Park provides accessibility to urban amenities despite rural setting. A visitor noted: "Convenient to Conway and even Little Rock. Camp ground is friendly to monthly guests as well as nightly."
Overnight convenience: For horse owners seeking brief stays near Sherwood, Camp Robinson offers basic overnight options. A camper reported: "Nice place to sleep and get back on 40East in the morning. Doing a cross country from San Francisco to Pennsylvania."
