The Missouri Ozarks region surrounding Blue Eye offers diverse equestrian camping options with primitive to developed facilities. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,400 feet with rolling terrain that provides varied trail experiences for riders. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer brings humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F.
What to do
Trail riding networks: Forest service roads connect multiple riding paths throughout the area near Bar K Wrangler Camp. "It is also great for star gazing, hiking, mountain biking and trail rides. Swan Creek runs along side the camp so you will need to be aware of possible flash floods if you are camped right next to the creek," notes camper N I.
Trout fishing: Within driving distance of Blue Eye's equestrian camping areas, anglers can access premier fishing spots. At Roaring River State Park Campground, "Fishing is good for all ages and day fishing licenses are available and hiking trails are great. Cell phone service works depending on provider and there is a store to buy essentials and souvenirs as well as a restaurant and hotel," explains Sandi C.
Swimming opportunities: After a day of riding, cool off in nearby waterways. At Bar M Resort & Campground, Taylor D. reports, "Nice, easy and quiet with a great pool and lake access! We will definitely be coming back. Site 47 has a bit of sun."
What campers like
Open spaces for setup: The campgrounds around Blue Eye provide ample space for setting up horse pens. At Bar K Wrangler Camp, Miranda M. notes it has "Lots of space to camp, secluded. This a horse camp, but there is plenty of space to just pitch a tent if needed. Free site with a beautiful backdrop."
Water access: Many horse-friendly sites offer creek or lake access for cooling off after rides. At Busiek, Brandon D. shares, "This place is great! When we arrived a few people were sitting in the creek so we moved further up stream and found a nice site with easy creek access. We were likely the only group for at least 2 square miles."
Quiet environment: The secluded nature of equestrian camping areas provides peaceful surroundings. At Beaver Lake Hide A Way, John F. explains, "This camp ground is pretty decent as a Destination and is close to Rocky Branch park and boat launch. There is a store and swimming pool and they have a laundry and shower house. Sites are good size and can handle large RV busses."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some horse camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. At Bar K Wrangler Camp, Patricia S. warns, "There is about a mile of dusty, gravel road that is a little rough."
Variable cell service: Communication can be limited in the Ozarks region. Patricia S. also notes, "We had great T-Mobile 10 miles south, but it dropped to zero by the time we drove into camp."
Seasonal considerations: Different seasons offer varied riding experiences. At Big M, Hayley G. shares her spring experience: "We stayed at Big M in campsite 44 in mid-May. The campground was definitely lively and there was a lot of people and activity going on the whole time, though everyone was very pleasant."
Bathroom facilities: Most equestrian camping areas have minimal facilities. At Bar K Wrangler Camp, N I. explains, "This a primitive horse camp that is not far off the highway. There are picnic table, fire ring and a pit toilet. NO WATER."
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty ratings: Select appropriate trails for children when planning horse rides. At Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River, Miranda D. advises, "This is a great campsite if you're wanting to get outdoors, but aren't quite adventurous to go full-out. One thing to consider, however, is to make sure your car has pretty good handling and brakes— as the drive up to the entrance and down to the campsite is steep and curvy (it is paved, though)!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Blue Eye region offers abundant wildlife encounters during horse camping trips. At Steel Creek, Joey C. mentions, "Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears."
Swimming options: When camping with children, look for sites with safe swimming areas. At Steel Creek, Lindsey P. shares, "We loved camping at Steel Creek! The campsites are all in a big grassy field which I love. There are trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole!"
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: When bringing horse trailers with living quarters, note that some sites require significant leveling. At Big M, Hayley G. explains, "And the drive for the spot was at a pretty decent incline so a camper would definitely need to be leveled."
Hookup availability: Most equestrian sites near Blue Eye offer limited or no hookups. John F. notes that at Beaver Lake Hide A Way, "the sites are ok sizes and have full hookups... access capable for Large rigs."
Weather preparedness: Plan for variable conditions, especially when boondocking with horses. N I. warns about Bar K Wrangler Camp, "Swan Creek runs along side the camp so you will need to be aware of possible flash floods if you are camped right next to the creek."
