Dispersed camping is available around St. Joe, Arkansas, primarily along the Buffalo National River. The elevation in this region ranges from 800-1,500 feet, creating diverse terrain for equestrian trails. During summer months, temperatures typically reach 85-95°F, with cooler nights dropping to 60-70°F, making evening camping comfortable even during peak season.
What to do
Riverside swimming access: Woolum Dispersed Area offers excellent swimming opportunities during summer months. "Right on the river with both a rock and sand beach currently. Fire rings. Only one other camper that's at the other end of the campground on memorial weekend," notes William M. about Woolum Dispersed Area.
Trail riding: Multiple trails suitable for horses connect across the Buffalo National River region. "This ranch is beautiful and great for hiking and climbing. The environment is awesome and the place is well-managed," says Alex M. about Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, which offers horse-friendly trails nearby.
Goat Trail hiking: For experienced hikers, trails near Steel Creek offer challenging terrain with unique views. "Right from the Steel Creek campground we took the Old River Trail (abbreviated as ORT on trail posts) up to the Centerpoint trailhead, which happens to have its own parking lot since it is a pretty popular hiking trail," explains a visitor at Steel Creek Campground.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Down Home Campgrounds provides isolation from crowds. "This place is a true hidden gem. It is so close to the Buffalo River, Jasper, and Erbie Horse camp. We had such a great weekend with our family! Loved being away from all of the crowds in this secluded area," writes Brady about Down Home Campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas offer opportunities to see native Arkansas wildlife. "Gorgeous, quiet, and heaven," shares Zachary J. about camping at Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch. Many equestrians report seeing deer, armadillos, and occasionally elk while camping in the region.
Off-grid experience: Many horse campgrounds near St. Joe maintain minimal facilities. "This is a very primitive campground, but it's one of our favorites! We can almost always find a spot to camp and it's super easy to pull our trailer into every spot there," states Shelly J. regarding Woolum Dispersed Area.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many horse camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. "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," advises Matt B. about Erbie Campground.
Water availability: Seasonal fluctuations affect river levels. "I have visited this spot multiple times and camped right on the riverbank. Beautiful scenery year-round. I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS," reports John W. about Woolum.
Limited amenities: Most horse camping areas provide only basic facilities. "Primitive camping along with vault toilets but no electricity or water hookups," describes a typical setup. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including water for horses during dry periods.
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection: Summer camping requires preparation for insects. "So many options to make your home away from home! Grassy meadows or river side oasis, you choose! Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine. Bring the bug spray and sunscreen," advises Candace R. about camping near Buffalo River.
Swimming spots: Family-friendly water access points offer natural recreation. "We loved camping at Steel Creek! You can see beautiful bluff from the campground. There are trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole!" shares Lindsey P. about Steel Creek Campground.
Private sites: Some areas provide more separated camping for families with horses. "If you are looking for secluded camping spots this is your place, the river isn't close but the sites are within walking distance. Campsites are in wooded areas and very secluded," notes Ace R. about camping options near St. Joe.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV sites at many horse campgrounds require preparation. "Some sites require a bit of leveling, lots of full hookup and good amount of 50 amp. Some sites are close, some are not," explains a reviewer about Macks Pines, which accommodates RVs near equestrian trails.
Trailer parking: Horse trailer parking varies by location. "Spacious areas allow for setting up temporary corrals or highlines for horses," describes a common feature at horse-friendly campgrounds. Most developed campgrounds have designated areas for trailer parking separate from tents.
Access challenges: Large RVs and trailers face limitations at some sites. "Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small," warns Lucy P. about Tyler Bend Campground, reflecting a common challenge at horse campgrounds near St. Joe, Arkansas.
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