18 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park accommodates horse enthusiasts near Witter, Arkansas with expansive campsites that provide direct access to miles of ATV and single track trails. The ranch features primitive camping areas throughout the 800-acre property, allowing campers to position their horse trailers with ample space for setup. Both tent and RV camping options are available in a peaceful setting with wide open views and natural surroundings. Campers report the ranch continuously upgrades trails and adds beautiful camping spots throughout the property. The family-run operation includes opportunities to see buffalo roaming the landscape, creating a unique camping environment for those traveling with horses. The owners are described as friendly, knowledgeable and helpful, maintaining the property for optimal trail riding experiences.
Multiple creek crossings and waterfalls enhance the trail system throughout the ranch, making it an ideal destination for equestrians seeking varied terrain. Riders access miles of trails directly from their campsites without needing to trailer to trailheads. During rainy conditions, 4x4 vehicles are recommended for navigating the property, particularly when departing with horse trailers. Byrd's Adventure Center offers an alternative horse-friendly camping option in the region, with riverside campsites and access to National Forest riding opportunities. The surrounding Ozark National Forest provides additional trail riding possibilities for equestrians looking to explore beyond private ranch properties. The combination of on-site wildlife viewing, natural water features, and extensive trail networks makes this area particularly attractive for weekend equestrian camping trips, with many visitors returning multiple times throughout the year for seasonal riding experiences.
"The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us."
"You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away, and are greeted by the breathtaking view of the bluffs you are surrounded by!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area."
"This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly"
from $10 - $22 / night
Check Availability"General: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground"
"I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"They continue to upgrade trails and add beautiful camping spots. This is a family room ranch and Donny and Lynn are wonderful hosts. I always come home feeling reconnected with myself and family"
from $15 - $90 / night
Check Availability"They have horse back riding and tons of world class rock climbing. Very safe and clean. Facilities were just fine."
"Car camp, hammock, tent camp, or rent one the cabins to enjoy the roaming goats and horses around the property. Infamously known in AR as one of the best climbing spots."
from $5 - $245 / night
Check Availability"Located within a few miles of the horse camp , this site is Aimed more at group camping, there is not as much shade as I’d like to see."
"I explored each in detail and took a day to enjoy the trails around them. "
"Located in South Missouri it is an easy day trip into Branson Missouri or Eureka Springs Arkansas. Very well located and very well run by the state."
"Campground 1 was tucked up in an inlet that went back into the valley. It dead ends at a wonderful trailhead. The west side on CG#1 is lined by a beautiful creek that runs into the rotating river."
from $16 - $53 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Plenty of drive thru lots for big rigs. Higher end RV park, spacious lots, all utilities included. Beautiful new bathhouse kept very clean. Highly recommended!!!"
"Easy access to Rocky Branch boat launch ramps"
"Nice and close to beaver lake. They had kayakes to rent and jet skies. Fishing is good as well. Also lots of wild life! Owls, lizards, tons of birds, deer, and foxes. I would definitaly come back!"
LegendI had heard so many great things about this park but I was not that impressed. The sites are fairly close together. There’s no signs warning that if you are in a large RV you shouldn’t come in on a certain highway. They do have equestrian trails and a campground to accommodate campers with horses. They have a lot of hiking trails. There are cabins and a pool.
LegendCamped here mid-week in early November, 2025. Came here to camp while doing some smallmouth bass fishing on the Buffalo River. Quickly found a large, open, level site with a rock fire ring on a grassy field. This site was large enough to accomodate multiple vehicles and horse trailers. I did not try to find a spot on the river bank, although the river bank appeared easy to access. Only two other camping groups were here during my stay - far enough away that I couldn't hear them. Including the one at the day use parking lot, there are three clean and supplied vault toilets here. The campground appeared well maintained. No potable water and no trash service. Solar recharging and Starlink connectivity are possible. I received spotty T-Mobile 2G and 4G LTE service. This primitive campground is convenient for kayakers and canoers, as well as for overlanders and equestrian campers. I met a backpacker who just came off of the Ozark Highland Trail across the river and was camping on the rocky river bank. I recommend, especially for those driving 2WD passenger vehicles, accessing the campground using Searcy County Road 15 - not CR14. Although open during my time here, narrow CR14 still had some damage from recent landslides which resulted in rough driving conditions (although, high clearance, 4x4 vehicles should have no problems). Overall, I enjoyed camping here, and I'm looking forward to returning to this beautiful area in the Arkansas Ozarks.
GuideWe rolled in at 8pm on a Friday night. The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us. The 26 sites are in two layers, one closer to the parking lot, one closer to the woods, river and bluffs. Rangers patrol regularly and are very helpful. There is a ranger station beyond the horse campground which is a pleasant walk or a quick drive. We stopped there to get our National Park stamp! Easy access to a trail directly from the lot, or walk beyond the horse camp to the Old River trail head. Centerpoint Trail is a 15 minute drive away and offers access to the Big Bluff/Goat Trail. Caution drivers: the road in to the campground is windy and steep. A sign warns against bringing RVs. However there were an enormous bus and tons of horse trailers and campers at the bottom of the hill - braver people than I:) Bathrooms are clean, dimly lit at night presumably to keep bugs out. Each site has a lantern pole, fire ring and picnic table. Lost Valley Trail and shelter are a 10-15 minute drive away. Since it was raining we cooked our dinner in the shelter. Overall a beautiful place with great access to multiple trails as well as river access. Sites are a little close, but if you're fine with having neighbors 20 or so feet away, we highly recommend:)
ScoutLocated within a few miles of the horse camp , this site is Aimed more at group camping, there is not as much shade as I’d like to see. It is immediately next to Erbie put in, with walking distance to both the Erbie Ford and the old community of Erbie, which includes several old homes that have been preserved, the old Erbie Church and Cherry Hill cemetery.
Both cecil Cove Trail and the main Buffalo River trail are right there. With bathrooms and a nice swimming hole, this is a local favorite. The water is seasonal, so ne aware of flash flood risks.
ScoutThis 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.
LegendGeneral: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground). Limited rainfall resulted in less dramatic (or non-existent) waterfalls that are otherwise boasted of during other times of the year but the scenery was still beautiful, especially in the fall.
Sites/Facilities: Many different camping options (some loops have full hookups while others do not have hookups and there is a dump station near Loop E), a hike-in campground, a group campground, and an equestrian campground. There are also 17 rustic cabins (1-3 bedrooms with kitchens and a/c and heating plus nearby bathrooms). We camped in Loop E and there was reasonable separation between the sites. The pads were paved. Each site had a metal picnic table, lantern hook, and fire grate. Many of the sites provided shade from the many trees.
Bathhouse: Like some other Arkansas state parks, there are two bathhouses in some loops, and they were open on alternating days so that the other one may be cleaned and sanitized (Covid related policy). While the open one in Loop E was clean, the several soap dispensers were empty which does not make sense to me when hand washing is recommended. You also need to bring your own towel, which I have been doing regardless. There are showers but I did not use them so I cannot comment on how good they are.
Activities/Amenities: Hiking! I highly recommend the Yellow Rock Trail and the Devils Den Trail plus there are several others. During the summer, you can rent paddle boats and canoes. There are several areas with picnic tables throughout the park. There is also a swimming pool, although I did not see it when we were there in October(it would only be open in the summer). Firewood is available for sale.
LegendThis is a gorgeous park, even on a rainy weekend. I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A. E was a large campground, with mixed tent and RV camping, with some sites along Lee Creek. Each site was well equipped with paved parking pads, nice flat sites for tents (some gravel pads, some just grassy areas), and many of the spots had electic and water. All had campfire rings, picnic tables, and grills. There were two nice hiking trails leading out of this particular campground, and some of the other campgrounds (A in particular) also had good trails. The bathhouses were really nice and modern and very clean. What I liked about this park, besides the great hiking trails, were all of the historic CCC buildings. There is a really neat scenic overlook that was built by the CCC near the Yellow Rock trailhead, and if you step in the visitor's center, you are actually in the old CCC motor pool. There is a really nice statue and plaque commemorating the work of the CCC in building the park near the lake and cafe.
TravelerDevil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great. The sites are generally spacious. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space. There are several hiking trails within the park and other activities during warmer months (i.e. pool). If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow). There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services.
LegendAmazing State Park with something for everyone
I have been to Devil's Den State Park twice now and this is my favorite state park in Arkansas. Devil's Den State park has something for every camper, no matter how you prefer to camp. Tent camping, hike in camping, RVs, cabins, they have it all. Want to bring your horse, you can do that as well. Devil's Den has some great hiking and mountain biking trails, from short to long. If you only do one trail be sure that is the Devil's Den Trail, you won't be disappointed on this 1.5 mile trail. If you want a longer trail there is the 15 mile Butterfield Hiking Trail. Devil's Den campground includes 135 campsites ranging from basic tent sites to full hookups for the RV crowed and horse sites. Campground are all paved with paved parking pads. Individual sites have tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings and a first for me, hooks for hanging your lantern. Flush toilets and showers are included. If you like to swim they even have a pool. Park has a store to provide your food needs. Sites all appeared to be well spaced. If you want complete privacy the word is get one of the walk in sites, you will have a bit of a walk but the reward is complete solitude. Lee Creek runs through the park and a 8-acre lake which allows fishing and boating with canoes and pedal boats. You need to reserve your site before hand or at the visitor center. One thing I do like is if you arrive to late to register at the visitor center, then you can just grab an empty site for the night, you just have to register the next day by 10am.
Ranger Review of Banner& Oaks Bull Tan Hat
Got the Bull Tan hat and have been wearing it for about a month now. Hat fits great, looks great. This is a very well made hat with quality materials and made in the U.S.A. It has held up amazing well in all weather conditions, sun, heat, rain and even snow and continues to hold its shape. I have a lot of hats and this one is one of my favorites.
Equestrian camping near Witter, Arkansas centers on a region marked by limestone bluffs, seasonal creek crossings, and elevations ranging from 1,100 to 2,000 feet across the Ozark highlands. The area receives approximately 44 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation but sometimes challenging trail conditions during wet seasons. Most horse campsites require riders to bring their own water for animals, as natural water sources can become seasonal.
Trail riding options: The Buffalo National River area offers extensive trail systems beyond ranch properties. At Steel Creek Campground, riders can access trails directly from campsites. "Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears. Very quiet and every site has a picnic table," notes Joey C.
River activities: Many equestrians combine riding with water recreation. Byrd's Adventure Center provides riverside camping with river access. "The river runs right through the property. There are a ton of trails to explore. They have a store and restaurant on site," according to Desiree Y.
Cave exploration: Several trails lead to limestone features and caves. Seasonal access depends on weather conditions, with most caves accessible during drier months. Some require guides or permits, so check with local ranger stations before planning visits.
Photography spots: Morning fog rising from valleys creates ideal conditions for photographing horses against mountain backdrops. Spring and fall provide optimal lighting conditions with less humidity affecting visibility.
Natural water features: Beyond standard creek crossings, equestrian campers appreciate access to multiple swimming spots. "Kayaking, swimming, and fishing were awesome!" reports Donna M. about her experience at Steel Creek Campground.
Open camping layouts: Large camping areas provide flexibility for groups traveling with multiple horses. "Wide open and beautiful views. There are miles and miles of ATV and single track trails for dirt biking. Creeks, waterfalls and buffalo everywhere," writes Mike B. about his stay at Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch.
Wildlife viewing: Aside from buffalo, the region supports diverse wildlife that enriches the equestrian camping experience. Many riders report dawn and dusk sightings of deer and other wildlife from their campsites.
Seasonal variations: Each season offers different riding experiences with spring wildflowers, summer swimming holes, fall foliage, and winter views when foliage thins to reveal distant vistas normally hidden by vegetation.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly in this region. Pack layers and rain gear even during summer months, as afternoon thunderstorms develop rapidly.
Trail conditions: Recent improvements continue on many properties but accessibility varies with rainfall. "4X4 wasn't necessary getting in but the morning we left, it was raining and I was glad I had it on the way out. May not have needed it but glad to have it," shares Mike B. about Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season. Some sites fill months in advance during holiday weekends and fall color season.
Cell coverage limitations: Prepare for limited or no cell service throughout most of the region. Download offline maps and trail information before arrival.
Safety preparations: When camping with children around horses and buffalo, establish clear boundaries. "They may not have showers but they do have bathrooms and running water. Right next to the Buffalo River along the gorgeous towering bluff," says Jessica W. about Devil's Den State Park.
Mixed activities: Balance riding time with other recreation options. "The campground is well maintained with lots of picnic/day use areas, a beach and lots of nature trails (for hiking and horseback riding)," reports Ashley F.
Educational opportunities: Several locations provide wildlife learning experiences. Rangers often conduct programs about local ecology, especially during summer weekends.
Weather contingencies: Have backup plans for rainy days when trails become too muddy. The area offers several indoor attractions within an hour's drive, including pioneer museums and educational centers.
Access considerations: Roads to equestrian camping areas often include gravel sections and tight turns. "The road is steep, has sharp, blind curves and is very narrow. But SOOO worth it!" advises Leah H. about accessing Erbie Campground.
Hookup limitations: Most horse-friendly campsites offer minimal or no hookups. Bring sufficient water supplies and plan for limited electrical availability.
Positioning strategies: When parking horse trailers with living quarters, experienced campers recommend positioning to allow space for tying horses while maintaining access to RV amenities.
Generator regulations: Check specific campground rules about generator usage. Many restrict hours or prohibit generators in certain camping sections to maintain the natural environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Witter, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Witter, AR is Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River with a 4.5-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Witter, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Witter, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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