Horse camping is the perfect way to enjoy Branson. If you're an equestrian lover who prefers nature-based adventure, yet still wants comfort, this is the perfect opportunity for you. It's easy to find Branson equestrian campgrounds with the Dyrt. Search horse campsites and discover top-rated spots, as reviewed by other campers.
Roaring River State Park is unique on so many levels! With a deep, narrow valley surrounded by a striking and rugged landscape, Roaring River State Park is one of Missouri’s most popular state parks. Located in the southwest Ozark hills, Roaring River State Park is one of three state parks stocked with rainbow trout and is a great place for camping near Bentonville. Eager anglers flock to the park year round to try and catch their lunker trout. The scenic setting makes everything more fun. The park has seven hiking trails, a swimming pool for cooling off, picnic tables for a leisurely lunch and a nature center to learn about the park. For those wanting to spend the night, the park has many options. The campground has basic, electric and sewer/electric/water site. Rustic cabins are scattered throughout the park or guests may choose a modern room at the Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center. The center also boasts a full-service restaurant.
$48 - $233 / night
$12 / night
Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in tent sites and another section of the campground offers 14 sites for those camping with horses. Half of the sites in the campground are available for reservations. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just off Highway 74.
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking or overnight backcountry opportunities.__ Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for more information..
$20 / night
Big M is a spacious and grassy campground that sits along the White River Arm of Table Rock Lake in the Missouri countryside. Big M provides plenty of sites with a panoramic view of the beautiful Table Rock Lake, surrounded by the scenic foothills of the Ozark Mountains.
Whether on water or land, Big M Campground offers visitors countless recreational activities. Picnicking, swimming, scuba diving, boating, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing are all popular pastimes at the park. With a large marina located just a short walking distance from the campsites, boating and fishing enthusiasts will find they have everything they need to enjoy the deep, clear waters of Table Rock Lake. While the lake boasts an abundance of crappie, catfish, and bluegill, Table Rock is most famous for bass, and is acclaimed as one of the best bass fishing lakes in this hemisphere. Multiple fishing tournaments are hosted yearly and anglers will there is no shortage of Largemouth, Smallmouth, White or Spotted bass. For visitors interested in staying near shore, a designated swimming beach near the campground's volleyball court, offers a convenient way to cool off during warm summer months. Table Rock Lakeshore Trail, about 2 miles long, runs from the Dewey Short Visitor Center to the Table Rock State Park Marina. During the spring hikers will see dogwood, serviceberry and redbud trees in bloom as well as many wildflower species. During the autumn months, visitors are treated to nature's colorful fall foliage. The trail also offers beautiful views of Table Rock Lake. Other hiking and mountain biking opportunities are available at the Mark Twain National Forest, parts of which are easily accessible from the campground. Click here for more information.
Table Rock Lake is a beautiful body of water surrounded by a forest of oak and hickory trees. Its waters wind down through the valleys and hollows of the Ozark Mountains, from Branson, Missouri to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. More than five million visitors per year take advantage of this recreational oasis. Originally built for flood control, the Table Rock Dam has created a lake that boasts 779 miles of shoreline for the public to enjoy.
The Dewey Short Visitors Center is located at the south end of Table Rock Dam. It offers three educational films focused on the history of the dam, the story of Lewis and Clark and the history of eagles and their endangerment in the state of Missouri. The visitor center also contains exhibits on the natural history of the area. Those visitors arriving by boat can take advantage of the courtesy dock.
$28 / night
Bar M Resort is a beautiful vacation spot located in Branson West, Missouri.
The resort is situated on 10 unspoiled acres on a private cove of
Table Rock Lake, offering both lodging and campground accommodations to cater to a variety of tastes.
The resort is versatile, featuring everything from primitive camping to camping cabins, making it a unique property.
It also has full hook-up RV sites with 50- or 30-amp electric Notably, the resort includes a sparkling
swimming pool with a water slide, a boat dock, and a launch ramp.
All on 10 beautifully manicured acres on the shores of Table Rock Lake just minutes from Branson.
If you are interested in a fantastic Table Rock Lake Resort vacation, this is the place for
you and both Branson, Missouri and Springfield, Missouri are only a short drive away.
Bar M Resort is perfectly suited for family reunions with both cabins and camping facilities and a large
picnic pavilion for large family meals and meetings.
$50 - $60 / night
Bar-K Wrangler Camp is a primitive horse camp, with limited picnic tables and fire rings and one vault toilet. Parking to accommodate stock trailers and towing vehicles. Bar-K is located on the west bank of Swan Creek, serves as a Trailhead for the Swan Creek Trail and is open year round. Pack in/Pack out garbage. Click Here for a Recreational Opportunity Guide about this site. For information on the Swan Creek Trail.
Erbie Campground is a first come, first serve campground. Erbie has 14 drive in camp sites, 2 walk in tent only sites, and 5 group sites. There are no electrical amenities, flush restrooms, or water available.
Swan Creek is an 8,488 acre area that provides for year-round nonmotorized dispersed recreation use as it is a designated Semi-Primitive Nonmotorized (SPNM) Area. There are approximately 20 miles of moderately used riding, hiking, and mountain bike trails available. Swan Creek itself offers swimming, fishing, and a non-potable water supply. For more detail of the trail visit Map of the Trail System. Trail System Map (printable) and Trail System Map GEO Referenced for use with Map Apps
Guide
Great trip. Beautiful campground. Beautiful scenery
Traveler
No amenities other than composting toilets. There are a few tent sites along the road and there is plenty of grassy area near the creek for RVs/trailers. This is a horse camp with plenty of evidence, but it was only us and a couple of other tent campers.
The creek was obviously spring fed, crystal clear and had a gravelly bottom. There were plenty of places to get in the water...understanding that this is horse camp.
The place was well maintained and mowed and it was super peaceful and quiet. The main annoyance was some trash in fire pits along the creek.
If you consider this as a waypoint, two things:
1. There is about a mile of dusty, gravel road that is a little rough.
2. We had great T-Mobile 10 miles south, but it dropped to zero by the time we drove into camp.
Guide
Camping Review: A Slice of Paradise
If you're looking for the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I can't recommend this camping spot highly enough. Nestled in a remote area, far from the chaos of civilization, this campsite offers a rejuvenating experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene sounds of nature—the rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle flow of the Buffalo River nearby. With no cell service, it was liberating to disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in the beauty around me.
The campsite itself was impeccably maintained, with spacious sites that allowed for privacy and a true sense of seclusion. Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure.
During my stay, I hiked along the winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that took my breath away. The evenings were spent gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars that seemed to shine brighter than ever.
The lack of modern distractions was refreshing, allowing me to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of life—like the crackling fire and the warmth of good company. Whether you're an experienced camper or a beginner, this remote getaway is perfect for anyone looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
In summary, if you're seeking a peaceful retreat where you can truly escape the world, this camping spot is the best of the best. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in nature's embrace!
Scout
Campground was nice and maintained. Showers in campground 2 were dirty.
Scout
We had a great stay here it was very secluded and very easy to find. Location had a nice setup for the bath house and a great setup for the camp sites. All the spots had hookups for electric but our spot the outlet was melted but we were able to use the one next to ours. We enjoyed our stay but we ended up having to leave a day early but this would have been a great spot, I would definitely recommend staying here if you camping or staying in a camper or RV.
Scout
Worst experience in this park while waiting on our land to be ready.the owners ad claim's that the RV park is in Rogers Arkansas and is a lie. the park is located in parie creek far back in the woods very far from civilization. It was also very hard to sleep at night due to the fact that the middle of the park is the only clean side while the right side and the left side was full of meth heads yelling,fighting also cops chasing them doing almost 80mph inside the park.alot of kids running loose with no parents, grabbing things from ppls lots.animals doing there needs in my yard,me having to clean up after others,restrooms where gross I can say jail restrooms looked better.also watch ur vehicle because the owners maintenance man on drugs left$2000 damage's in my custom paint truck with a$20 lawnmower mowing rocks next to my vehicle while there was no grass at all.after I noticed it the maintenance man stopped mowing, went on hide mode..I notified the owner, she laughed,told me to contact my insurance while they did not cover custom paint so i had to pay that out of my pocket.i stayed there almost 8 months the winter was the worse you can not get up those snowy hills, curves not even on a 4wd I had to stay at a hotel to not risk my family.also it was very scary being in any kind of an emergency due to the fact that the emergency hospitals were so far enough to not make it in time..would never go back to staying there again.if your looking for a reliable RV park near Rogers there's actually a few of them close to town near hospitals,gas stations, groceries honestly that place is a joke definitely not the place to take your family..and if you guys think I'm wrong about this go and find out yourselfs
GuideStayed here Memorial Weekend 2023. Had Site #2, which was large, flat and shady. Not a lot of privacy, as could see #1 and #3 easily. Also, the group sites were between us and the river, so fair amount of traffic as one of the paths to the group sites is between #2 & #4. Everyone got quiet in the evening though so not a problem.
The campground was clean with lots of parking. Vault toilets only and they were not stocked regularly, but we had our own toilet paper.
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. Road still isn't great, but better than the other route.
We hiked the Goat Bluff Trail from the campground with a 6 year old who had no problems. https://btoellner.typepad.com/exploring\_nw\_arkansas/2011/11/old-erbie-area-loop-trail.html
Also floated from Kyles down to Erbie. Nice short float as water was very low.
Ranger
Place is perfect we are amping at scooters roost. Gorgeous, quiet, and heaven. Recommend to anyone!!!
Scout
Kayaked from steel creek and stayed here
GuideWe had a family reunion here and rented out some cabins. It was a great time. Fishing is great. Listening to the river while falling asleep is also hard to beat.
ScoutI went here with a group of friends looking for a free campsite that had enough space.
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.
Guide
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. It was more college kids/large families than the quiet retired crowd. Our campsite had a lot of privacy on 3 sides and had a small creek running through a ways behind it, downhill. There really wasn't a good level spot for our tent due to where the firepit was placed so we had to sleep on an incline. And the drive for the spot was at a pretty decent incline so a camper would definitely need to be leveled. A smaller tent could probably squeeze in well. The marina had a decent restaurant where you could get a beer and dinner. It's not too far of a drive from Roaring River which has lots of hiking trails. The bathrooms were pretty outdated and you need to bring your own hand soap, but that's pretty normal. The showers were a ways away from our site so did not end up seeing them.
LegendOpen: year round
FREE
FCFS
Pack it in Pack it out
LNT
This a primitive horse camp that is not far off the highway. It is far enough that it is or can be quiet. 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. There are picnic table, fire ring and a pit toilet. NO WATER
BTYFI
Travel safe
GuideGreat place to fish. Nice open camp spots, easy access to hiking trails and great fishing!
Traveler
This place is not your run of the mill rest stop. 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. It does get quite busy, so it’s best to arrive earlier in the day to claim a good spot.
GuideCampground was busy! But bathrooms stayed clean, visited often by a ranger, and so peaceful at night!
GuideSpent a quick one night passing thru here. Sites just ok but surrounding area and hiking nice. If fly fishing is your thing then this place will do it.
TravelerLast minute 2 night trip with my girls (6,8). I haven’t been this far up river since I was a kid, so I didn’t know what to expect. It’s a slow drive from the south on 7 (20mph speed limit in places), so account for the extra time to set camp before dark. We went during the week, so it was practically empty. Short walk to river which you cannot see from sites due to trees, but you do have lovely rock views. There is a bathroom and water spigots. Be advised you do not have any cell service unless you drive into Ponca (10 min) and get on the store’s WiFi. So, if you need to call and let someone know you’ve arrived you will have to take that into account. We had a great time and can’t wait to go back and spend more time exploring the nearby trails.
ScoutThis ranch is beautiful and great for hiking and climbing. The environment is awesome and the place is well-managed. The sport climbing here in particular is really well maintained and the sandstone rock is grippy and clean. HCR is great; my friends and I have been coming there for years.
ScoutThe campground is beautiful and has a nice walk down to the river. Would recommend to anyone who is headed to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch or the Buffalo National River.
GuideThe campground is smaller which I like but always busy. It's a good place for families that want to get into the river. Half the sites are near a tree line and the others out in the open. It's a very pretty area.
RangerWe have been going here over 3 years and try to go 3 or 4 times a year. 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
Traveler
This was a weekender for us. The campground is well organized and very clean. Kids have lots of fun activities waiting for them.
One great feature of this place, is the fact that they separated the 'Family' and 'Activity' areas from the older folks area. Oldies like us can enjoy the kids play and noise, but can get away when it becomes too much. That's great.
Nice hot showers.
GuideI enjoy this campground. There are nice sites and emenities. It's has a good place to put kayaks in the river and a few good trail heads right there. The road to it is not the best but it has improved. At the top of the road there is a general store to rent kayaks and a coin operated shower too. The store doesn't offer alot in goods but Ponca's store is not not too far or you can go to Jasper.
GuideGreat campground with virtually every single amenity that you could think of. I really enjoyed my time here.
Amenities include potable water, flush toilets, showers, and a trash dumpster.
The only downside to this campground is that it can be moderately expensive.
GuideWe pulled in several hours early and were allowed to go immediately to our campsite, #121. The camp hosts were extremely nice. It was a back-in, across the road from the river, and next door to the bathrooms. The campsites around us were electrical only, but it just so happens that the water for our area was at site 121. This was a very shady site. It rained off and on all afternoon and evening. That didn't keep us from enjoying the beautiful Roaring River and pointing out all the trout visible in its waters. This is a fisherman's heaven.
While there is much to do at Roaring River, for us it was cut super short. The National WX service issued flood warnings, so at 10:15pm our camp host knocked on our door and said the Park Ranger advised us to leave. Even with the light rain, this particular site was already full of puddles. So we obediently packed up, with water up to our ankles as we headed for high ground. As the following day's forecast continued with rain and predictions of flood we bailed and headed for a different campground. The rest rooms were clean and there were plenty of individual showers, but we did not have a chance to check them out.
GuideOur yearly trip to Roaring River is one of our favorites. We stay in the duplex cabins on site and my wifes family stays next door. We fly fish for trout and have a blast!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Branson, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Branson, MO is Roaring River State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 44 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Branson, MO?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near Branson, MO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
