Equestrian Camping near Vandervoort, AR

Camping opportunities near Vandervoort, Arkansas center around the Ouachita National Forest, where elevations range from 600 to 2,600 feet. The region receives approximately 54 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush pine forests and clear mountain streams. Fall temperatures average 50-70°F, making September through November particularly comfortable for overnight stays in this remote section of western Arkansas.

What to do

Trail riding on horseback: Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground in Oklahoma provides direct access to miles of forested trails about 37 miles from Vandervoort. According to one visitor at Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground, "This campground is beautiful. Clean showers with hot water. swimming for the kids and a playground. There are sites for people with horses also. And you can go up on the mountain to catch the views."

Hiking forest trails: The 3-mile trail around Cedar Lake offers relatively flat terrain suitable for beginners. "The trail around the lake is flat and easy but other more difficult trails aren't far away," notes one camper. For more challenging routes, connect to the Horsethief Springs Trail which extends to a 14-mile loop through varied terrain.

Fishing opportunities: Boondockers Landing sits beside the Mountain Fork River and offers good fishing access. One camper mentioned it's "Nestled right beside the upper Mountain Fork river, this campground doesn't disappoint. Roomy, with large shade trees, cement pads and all services."

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Many equestrian campgrounds near Vandervoort, Arkansas feature well-spaced campsites. At Cedar Lake, one camper noted: "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private. They do have a quiet hour which is after 10pm. This is nice because there aren't people partying all night long."

Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers mention the well-maintained facilities: "We stayed in the non-electric sites (North Shore loop). Campgrounds were incredibly peaceful and quiet. There is running water and bathrooms which were relatively clean... Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area."

Wildlife viewing: The forests around Vandervoort support diverse wildlife. "The setting is absolutely beautiful with tall pines, rolling hills and a gorgeous lake. Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reported one visitor to Cedar Lake. At Beavers Bend State Park Campground, another noted: "Deer were everywhere in the evening."

What you should know

Remote location requires preparation: The horse campgrounds near Vandervoort sit deep in national forest land. A visitor to CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground observed: "This campground is located right off of Hwy 71 for easy access. Plenty of room for big rigs. Just a short ride to the Wolf Pen Gap trail system. Located in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, 7 miles south of Mena."

Limited supplies nearby: Pack everything you need before arrival. "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you," warns one camper at Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp. Another adds: "Don't forget the ice, there's nothing close."

Seasonal closures: National forest campgrounds occasionally close for maintenance. One reviewer noted: "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!" Always check current status before traveling.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for children. At Long Lake Resort, one family reported: "Buffalo, horses and awesome amounts of fish! We stayed here in a duplex cabin and could just fish right out our back door. They have hiking trails and 2 private lakes."

Short hiking options: For families with young children, the lakeside trails work well. One visitor to Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area shared: "With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma."

Campground amenities: Look for sites with basic amenities. "Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area," noted one camper describing Cedar Lake facilities, making meal preparation easier for families.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: At Cedar Lake's RV sites, choose locations based on your needs. "Beautiful and lush and QUIET. I love it. Asphalt and gravel sites. Clean bathrooms. Water and electric only... Site 33 looks to be my fav," shares one RVer.

Full hookup availability: For those needing complete services, note which campgrounds offer sewer connections. One visitor to Beavers Bend mentioned: "Buckeye campground is a newly renovated loop. The sites on the water are absolutely beautiful! Easy set up. Plenty of room for our 5th wheel and truck. Level concrete site."

Weather considerations: Prepare for potential rain. A Beavers Bend camper noted: "It rained a lot during our stay but we were not bothered at all since there was no mud around us," highlighting the importance of properly surfaced sites for RVs during wet weather.