Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park offers camping platforms for tent campers located near the Current River. Sites are spaced apart for privacy with platforms providing a level sleeping surface even during wet conditions. The region surrounding Ellington has multiple water access points with clear spring-fed streams accessible from many campgrounds. Several camping areas in Shannon County cater specifically to equestrians with dedicated facilities.
What to do
River exploration: Access the Black River near Bearcat Getaway which offers river access right from the property. "They have live music and food every weekend, sometimes it can get a little loud so if quiet camping is what you prefer, some sites may not be for you. The float trips on the black river are amazing!" notes Melody B.
Trail riding: Explore backcountry paths near Shawnee Creek Backcountry Camping where equestrians can connect with multiple trail systems. "If you want to see the wild horses of Shannon County, this is the place to stay. Right on the Jack's Fork, so beautiful. New bathrooms, but everything else is primitive. Equestrian sites down the road in both directions," shares Delanie J.
Swimming: Cool off in natural water features at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park during summer months. "Our kids loved climbing all over the shut-ins. We have already planned to return in the summer to swim! Well maintained facilities and the store had everything you could need," writes Ashlee B. who visited in fall and planned a return trip.
What campers like
Spacious walk-in sites: Tent campers appreciate the separation between sites at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. "Beautiful site, each walk-in was spread apart from each other. We loved it and cannot wait to go back," explains Elizabeth W. The sites offer good spacing for privacy compared to other campgrounds in the region.
Riverfront access: Direct water access from Harveys Circle B Campground allows for easy recreation. "Super clean campground. Great swim area. Shower house is basic. We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice!" reports Laura, who also noted they offer floating equipment rentals.
Equestrian accommodations: Riders value having dedicated facilities for horses while camping. "The campground features horse stables for visitors bringing their own mounts, with $10 per night primitive sites that include basic facilities for horse owners," reports local equestrians who frequent the area.
What you should know
Reservation timing: The most popular campgrounds near Ellington require advance planning. At Echo Bluff State Park, "the only negative is that we have experienced are that you need to reserve your side months in advance because this campground is so popular," explains J K.
Facility conditions: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between locations. "Bathrooms were a little cramped but clean. Clean showers," reports Joshua Y. at Harveys Circle B Campground, while other campgrounds offer more basic accommodations.
Seasonal variations: Most equestrian camping areas operate primarily from April through October with limited winter availability. Many rivers experience higher water levels during spring, making some crossings challenging for horses and riders.
Weekend activities: Some campgrounds host organized events that change the atmosphere. "They have live music and food every weekend, sometimes it can get a little loud so if quiet camping is what you prefer, some sites may not be for you," warns a Bearcat Getaway visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Sam A. Baker State Park offers ranger programs for children. "This park usually has a lot of activities for the campers! We love Sam A. Baker!" shares Jenny H., highlighting the structured activities available.
Bring water toys: Clear streams provide safe swimming areas. "My kids go on an 'annual cousins camping trip' with my sister in law and her girls every summer. Johnson's Shut-Ins was perfect!" recommends Melissa M., who found the natural water features ideal for children.
Consider cabin options: For easier family camping, several parks offer cabin accommodations. "We stayed in a cabin with our dog nice and clean good prices. They offer trail rides on their horses. Dog friendly," reports Alicia B. about one campground that provides both lodging and activities.
Seek shaded sites: Summer temperatures can reach into the 90s. "Great place to camp! There is a beautiful bike trail connecting the campground to the rest of the park," shares Charlotte B. about a campground with good tree coverage.
Tips from RVers
Plan for limited hookups: Many equestrian-focused sites have basic services. "We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view. Was really nice! Site 148 has standing water when it rains, but that was the only wet spot in the RV areas," reports Laura about Circle B Campground.
Campsite selection: At Four Creeks Ranch Campground, equestrian sites have special considerations. "The tent site we did find was pretty washed out, and we ended up leaving and camping elsewhere. If you have an RV/trailer, ATV's, etc. this place is probably a hoot," suggests Dave, who found the facilities better suited to vehicles than tents.
Access challenges: Some roads leading to horse-friendly campgrounds may be difficult for larger rigs. The natural terrain requires planning when towing horse trailers, particularly after rainy periods when unpaved roads can become slippery.
Hookup options: "Great riverfront campground on the Jack's Fork River," notes Ken K. about a campground offering full service sites for RVers while maintaining good river access for watering horses.
