Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground provides dedicated facilities for horseback riders 35 miles southeast of Clayton, Oklahoma. Located in the Ouachita National Forest at an elevation of approximately 800 feet, the area features pine forest terrain with interconnected trail systems. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer highs often reach the 90s with high humidity.
What to do
Trail riding beyond Cedar Lake: The equestrian trails connect to the larger Ouachita National Forest system. At Robbers Cave State Park, "This is such a great park, one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping. Horses are very happy here, just remember to bring your coggins paperwork," notes Kent B.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Cedar Lake offers year-round fishing opportunities with species including bass and catfish. At Hugo Lake Kiamichi Park, visitors reported "People were fishing in the lake as well, and kayaking too. The kayaking looked like a blast. We looked for places nearby to rent, but couldn't find any."
Hiking the lake perimeter: The trail around Cedar Lake provides an accessible option for non-riders. A camper at Cedar Lake North Shore explains, "There is a really fun trail that runs right around the entire lake, and it's a little over two miles. Nearly all natural terrain throughout the hike which makes it especially nice."
What campers like
Pine forest environment: The tall pines create a distinctive camping atmosphere compared to other Oklahoma landscapes. At Cedar Lake, one camper shared, "The setting is absolutely beautiful with tall pines, rolling hills and a gorgeous lake. Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes."
Spacious campsite layouts: Sites accommodate both camping equipment and horse trailers. According to a Cedar Lake visitor, "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private."
Well-maintained facilities: Regular upkeep keeps amenities functional. A recent visitor noted, "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!"
What you should know
Limited amenities nearby: The remote location means bringing all supplies. A visitor to Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp advises, "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you."
Varying bathroom conditions: Facilities maintenance can be inconsistent. One camper observed, "While they do have bathroom and shower facilities our section of camps were down along with several others do to septic tank system issues that they were waiting on parts to arrive to fix."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local fauna including snakes. A visitor reported, "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for isolation: Limited cell service and distance from towns requires preparation. A camper suggests, "Don't forget the ice, there's nothing close."
Consider equestrian camps even without horses: The spacious sites work well for families needing room. At Robbers Cave State Park, a family noted "Lots of history at Robbers Cave State Park! Belle Starr famous Lady Outlaw! Jesse James Gang! Beautiful lakes and numerous hiking trails!"
Pack extra activities: The lake offers swimming but bringing additional entertainment helps. One family mentioned, "Every so often my family and I will venture into Oklahoma to do some camping and hiking... There is a lot of grass area which was nice because we love to play KOOB and throw the freesbie for our dog."
Tips from RVers
Book specific sites: Not all sites offer the same amenities or views. At Boondockers Landing, an RVer praised, "Roomy, with large shade trees, cement pads and all services. This is as near perfect as you can get!"
Full hookup availability: Many sites offer complete RV services. A visitor noted, "The RV area looked new because all of the power boxes had 50/30 and 120 outlets and breakers which is super cool. All of the sites had sewer and water connections too."
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have better leveling than others. A visitor to Hugo Lake reported, "Level concrete pads, electric and water with water views."
