Equestrian camping opportunities near Pomona, Missouri offer access to scenic Ozark terrain with elevations ranging from 800-1,500 feet. The 11 Point River and surrounding forest provide year-round trail riding options with spring-fed waterways maintaining consistent flow even during dry periods. Numerous campgrounds accommodate horses with dedicated facilities located within 30-45 minutes of Pomona.
What to do
Trail riding access points: Echo Bluff State Park features extensive trail systems connecting to the broader Ozark region. "This place is pretty new and they didn't spare any expense. Lodge and campgrounds were great. Camp host at RV park was awesome and helped us a couple times," notes Keaton K. about Echo Bluff State Park.
Fishing from horseback: The shallow river crossings at Boze Mill Float Camp allow riders to access fishing spots unreachable by foot. A camper shares: "Backwoods River camping. This is a float camp along Eleven Points river. This one is accessible by 2 miles of gravel road. Several dedicated camp sites that each have fire ring, shepherds hook, picnic table." Boze Mill Float Camp provides unique fishing access.
Cave exploration: After riding, explore Greer Spring just down the road from several horse camping areas. "Greer spring is right down the road and is wrll worth the hike!" says Clayton R. The spring creates ideal watering spots for horses with consistent cool water flow.
What campers like
Water access for horses: The shallow river at Greer Crossing Recreation Area creates safe entry points for horses to drink and cool off. "We have our family reunion here and it is beautiful, has a great boat dock and swimming area and for the brave of heart at times you can jump off the bridge," notes Glen T. about Greer Crossing.
Natural shade cover: Paddy Creek Recreation Area offers shaded campsites that provide relief for horses during summer months. "Most sites are well shaded and spacious. Good privacy between sites. Parking pads are short and lined with huge boulders," reports Cheryl M. about Paddy Creek Recreation Area.
River crossing practice: The fordable sections of several rivers create natural training grounds for horses new to water crossings. "The eleven point river is a Hidden Gem. I love the campsite and the cleanliness of the bathrooms. I love the shaded tent campsites and easy access to firewood, boat dock and open area perfect for large family gatherings," says Ashley W.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring flooding can impact trail and campsite availability at horse campgrounds near Pomona. "Reservations only and if there has been a lot of rain some sites could be under water," warns N I. about conditions at Bidwell Point Park.
Limited cellular service: Many equestrian camping areas have minimal or no cell reception. "We absolutely love it here. We love being able to have an escape from the world and forced to not have our electrons since there is no service," mentions Lyric O. about the isolation at Paddy Creek.
Water access planning: Not all horse campsites have direct water hookups. "Didn't see any water faucets near our site," notes Josh C., so bring containers to transport water from central locations to your horse area.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly horse trails: Choose Harveys Circle B Campground for families new to horse camping. "Nice and family friendly. Super clean campground. Great swim area. Shower house is basic. We stayed in our RV on a spot with river view," recommends Laura about Harveys Circle B Campground.
Child-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with shallow water areas where children can safely interact with horses. "It is wonderful! Right on the water! One thing I was impressed with how cle[an]. We stayed here for a week! We loved it!" shares Valerie D.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programs where children can learn about local wildlife alongside equestrian activities. "This place literally has everything you can want from walk in tent sites to an entire lodge with all the amenities," notes J K. about Echo Bluff State Park's diverse offerings.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking clearance: Not all RV sites accommodate attached horse trailers. "You have to back down a hill quite a ways. This really is a beautiful well taken care of campground!" warns Brent M. about navigating larger rigs with trailers.
Electric hookup availability: For those needing to power electric fencing or water heaters for horses, choose sites with appropriate amperage. "We stayed in our RV on a site with water view. Was really nice! Site 148 has standing water when it rains, but that was the only wet spot in the RV areas," advises Laura.
Manure management: Most equestrian campgrounds near Pomona require proper manure disposal. "I spent the weekend here mid September. It was a nice place. Quiet and secluded. On the creek side, every campsite has trails leading to the creek," shares Gregory about Paddy Creek Recreation Area, which offers organized disposal areas.
