Matthew E.
Scout
ScoutOuachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area
This is my favorite spot to camp
With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma
Equestrian Camping near Clayton, OK
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground in the Ouachita National Forest features designated campsites suitable for horse owners 35 miles southeast of Clayton, Oklahoma. The campground provides electric and water hookups at most sites with ample room for both camping equipment and horse trailers. Campsites accommodate tents, RVs, and feature picnic tables and fire rings. Though no dedicated horse corrals are listed in the facilities, the campground is specifically designed for equestrian use with appropriately sized parking pads. The showers and toilets remain well-maintained throughout the camping season. Visitors have access to sanitary dump stations and trash collection. The campground maintains a reputation for cleanliness with consistently high ratings from equestrian campers. Both alcohol and fires are permitted within designated areas.
The extensive trail system directly accessible from Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground allows riders to explore the scenic Ouachita National Forest terrain. Trails wind through varied landscapes including wooded areas and alongside Cedar Lake itself, offering diverse riding experiences for all skill levels. The campground operates year-round, making it suitable for seasonal riding preferences. Most sites can be reserved in advance, which is recommended during peak periods. For non-riding activities, the adjacent Cedar Lake provides fishing opportunities. The nearby Potato Hills Central Campground offers an alternative camping location with similar amenities though it lacks dedicated equestrian facilities. Trail conditions remain well-maintained during regular seasons, allowing for comfortable riding experiences. Horse owners should bring their own containment systems as corral facilities are not listed among the standard amenities.
Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Clayton (11)
1. Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
"Stayed in the Equestrian campground with access to miles and miles of trails. It was wonderful and some of the best hiking I have done in quite a while. The hikes along the lake edges were great."
"Campground was alongside the highway, however the highway divides the state park, sites up the hill are farther away from the highway."
from $32 / night
Check Availability2. Potato Hills Central Campground
from $20 - $150 / night
Check Availability3. Cedar Lake (Oklahoma)
"If you want to hike, there are more hiking trails and equestrian trails than you could actually accomplish even in fourteen days. The GPS points are all over the map."
"We completed this campout with another family and this is our favorite campout in Oklahoma. The large pines, the facilities and the hiking is wonderful. Cedar lake is beautiful."
from $15 - $40 / night
Check Availability4. Billy Creek
"The ATV trails are around camp and the noise from the machines buzzing by can be a lot, but it wasn’t a busy weekend so not too bad."
"This was such a cool place and a perfect distance away from everything. There were plenty of options for camping spots but also plenty of people there that you don’t feel completely alone."
5. Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground
"This was mine and my mom's favorite place to camp in Oklahoma. The campground is heavily forested with pine trees and there are some sites right off the lake."
"I’ve lived in OK for 30+ years and didn’t know of Cedar Lake in the Quachita mountains near Heavener, OK. It’s incredible!! Clean site, right in the national forest."
from $10 - $23 / night
Check Availability6. COE Hugo Lake Kiamichi Park
"Every so often my family and I will venture into Oklahoma to do some camping and hiking. About 5 years ago we came to Kiamichi Park and enjoyed our time there."
"Can walk down the hill from J9 to get to the shore. Shore is limestone, full of fossils. Very clean and mowed. Bath house is quite a way away from these sites but in good shape."
from $14 - $100 / night
Check Availability7. Ouachita National Forest Cedar Lake Recreation Area
"With so many trails that you can access just by walking out of the camp site. This is my favorite spot to camp in Oklahoma"
8. Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground
"Super close to the Talimena Scenic Drive and Horse Thief Spring and plenty of ATV/UTV trails. The park hosts were amazing and came to check on us throughout our stay."
9. Boondockers Landing
"This is as near perfect as you can get!"
from $30 / night
10. Long Lake Resort
"Buffalo, horses and awesome amounts of fish! We stayed here in a duplex cabin and could just fish right out our back door. They have hiking trails and 2 private lakes."
from $35 - $40 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 1 hr 31 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 1 hr 46 min from Sherman, TX
- 2 hrs 15 min from Tulsa, OK
- 2 hrs 33 min from Texarkana, TX
Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Clayton, OK
2 Photos of 11 Clayton Campgrounds
Equestrian Camping Reviews near Clayton, OK
98 Reviews of 11 Clayton Campgrounds
Kelly Z.
RangerCedar Lake Equestrian Campground
Great campground
This was mine and my mom's favorite place to camp in Oklahoma. The campground is heavily forested with pine trees and there are some sites right off the lake. It has a very nice bathroom facility with showers. Normally when we would go (in the fall and spring) it was not very crowded. Lots of great hiking trails nearby and the scenic Talimena scenic drive is beautiful, especially in the fall.
Teresa T.
LegendRobbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
I stayed for almost 10 days
Stayed in the Equestrian campground with access to miles and miles of trails. It was wonderful and some of the best hiking I have done in quite a while. The hikes along the lake edges were great. There are horse trails id have loved to have done but it was time to move on. Of all the campgrounds, and there are many in the park, the Equestrian is the best if you want to hike.
- Vanessa M.Legend
Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
Pleasant
Campground was alongside the highway, however the highway divides the state park, sites up the hill are farther away from the highway. We stayed on a site that was basically parallel with the main highway, however the trees offer privacy and noise reduction. There is water access and many trails that are available. Some campgrounds are closer to the state park's main geological feature which are the caves that infamous bank robbers used. This state park offered what I would consider typical of Oklahoma state park trails. They are poorly marked, more challenging than advertised, and not appropriate for certain types of activities. Generally when in Oklahoma I prepare for the worst to avoid a negative experience, and it works well for me. Horses do access some of the trails so horse flies are prevalent in those areas, I recommend bug spray.
We do intend to return to this area to camp again in the future.
Melanie W.LegendRobbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
Summertime fun
Robbers Cave State Park is located in the scenic, hilly woodlands of the Sans Bois Mountains of southeast Oklahoma. It is located 5 miles north of Wilburton, Oklahoma, on State Highway 2. Park amenities include camping areas modern to primitive, beautiful lodge, cabins, swimming pool with splash pad, 4 small lakes, streams, a nature center, picnic areas and miles of hiking, cave and equestrian camping andtrails. The office is also a store that sells camping supplies, worms, beer, ice, charcoal, candy, pop, ice cream etc. You can rent kayaks, canoes, bikes and Golf carts for running around by the hour or a golf cart for a whole day for $40. They have fun things to do for all ages such as walking tours, canoe tours, making fishing poles out of cane and then fishing with it. The hay ride is fun. It stops to let you off to see the oldest living pine tree in Oklahoma and stops at artesian water free flowing spout to get a cold drink of sweet water. The hay ride cost $4. There's camping up by the office, down by the lake and stream or primitive camping off hiking trails in the mountains. It gets very hot in the day but the nights are great. So if your hiking be sure and take plenty water. There is all kinds of hiking easy to hard. The lake was not as clean as it was the last time I was there. They have a huge flock of geese that have made Lake Carlton there home this summer. I saw a pair of Bald Eagles and deer. I saw adorable twin fawns. The heat was a little too much for me this trip so I stayed in the lodge. It's is very nice with the most beautiful view of the mountains. Star gazing is awesome. The people that work at the park are very nice. The town of Wilburton is only 5 miles away.
Kyle H.
GuideRobbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
Our First Camping Voyage into Oklahoma
Our first Oklahoma camping trip lead us to Robbers Cave State Park in the southeastern portion of Oklahoma. It is located on more than 8,000 acres in the San Bois Mountains. The parks claim to fame is outlaws such as Belle Starr, the Dalton Gang, and Jesse James used it as a hideout from the law. This was going to be our first full week of vacation spent in the popup, and our first camping trip outside of Missouri. We selected Robbers Cave State Park for two reasons it’s distance was a little over 4 hours away, and the number of amenities it offered for our 4 year old on our extended outing.
The first thing this park did was challenge my perceptions on what the Oklahoma landscape is. This is a park is located in an old growth pine forest, located in the rocky terrain of the Sans Bois Mountains. The park is split in half by Hwy 2 with the east side of the park consisting of the RV campgrounds, cabins, and Belle Starr Lodge. The west side of the park includes Lake Carlton, the equestrian camps, swimming pool, miniature golf, and nature center. This layout was negative in the fact that we could not walk between two sides with my son because of the distance and elevation change, you could rent golf carts if you would like. The positive was that it kept traffic down in the campground from the day use visitors of the park. We booked site 23 in the Old Circle Campground, when booking on the Oklahoma state park website there are no photos of the sites, only short descriptions…sometimes. I will let you know there is a youtube video that someone made driving around the old circle campground. I used this to take a look at our site after booking it. Site 23 was a pull through site with full hookups located only about 5 feet off the main campground road. This could be a problem if the park was busy and there is a lot of traffic. Lucky for us we were camping through the week and this was not an issue. The site then on the opposite side held our own little secluded spot surrounded by pine trees down a slight slope from camper. We had a fire circle, picnic table, grill, and lantern post. We loved this site for this very reason. I will post pictures of both sides of our site below so you can get a visual. The bathroom and shower house is located in the middle of the old circle loop. The structure is very old and very dated stone structure, where you might find frogs sitting on shower curtains, spiders, and lizards (Those are just the ones that I witnessed). There is a newer shower house located outside of the Whispering Pines campground, next to the campground office and store. If you go to the newer one to take a shower make sure you have some quarters, or some dollar bills, because the showers cost money. Four quarters will get you 6 minutes worth of shower time.
When we were not at camp we spent most of our time exploring the west side of the park. We spent two afternoons swimming in Lake Carlton. The designated swim area has a very rocky drop-off for an entrance, but once out it was very nice swimming. There is a concrete pier that is located along the swim ropes that you can climb up and jump off of. Besides swimming you could rent peddle boats, canoes, and paddle boards to go exploring. There was a pool with two water slides and a splash zone, it is $5 dollars to enter for the entire day. My son also got to play miniature for the first time at the course located next to the pool. One word of warning the golf course is very dated with carpet ripped or completely missing in spots. This did not slow us down at all, it just needs a little work. They also sell shaved ice at the miniature gold building.
The Oklahoma Park staff were very knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to answer any of my questions. Also when you get to camp they will give you a schedule of all the events that are going on throughout the week you are staying. We did a hayride that lead us through the park to the stables where there is a petting zoo, we saw the second largest pine tree in Oklahoma, and drank water from anartesian well. They also had a campfire with stories and smores one night, a cane pole fishing class, and even a tour of Lake Carlton by canoe. Just make sure you have cash because each item does cost money.
The last thing we did before leaving Robbers Cave State Park after our three night stay was to go and search for the outlaws in the cave ourselves. I will give you a spoiler alert, the hiking trail to the cave is steep and rocky with big drop-offs, so be careful with small children. It is a ¾ of a mile trail that my son absolutely loved. He was trying to find the robber that was hiding out. The hike was worth every hair raising nervous parent moment.
It is a consensus with my family that we will need to return to this park again. It has so much to offer, and we did not even touch on the many miles worth of trails to hike or go for a horseback ride on. We look forward to our return to continue the exploring and searching for the elusive robbers.
- Teresa T.Legend
Cedar Lake (Oklahoma)
Fabulous
This place genuinely is amazing. If you want to hike, there are more hiking trails and equestrian trails than you could actually accomplish even in fourteen days. The GPS points are all over the map. Essentially, come down to Cedar Lake. And there are two group campgrounds, a spot called shady lane equestrian, campground, and then the campground right on the water, they're all terrific. Most nights there wasn't anybody here. I spent four nights in the equestrian, campground and two nights in shady lane absolutely terrific.
- Neil T.Legend
Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
2nd Visit - will again given the chance
Our first visit was in November and the fall color was stunning.
Early March for this visit and definitely winter scapes...but still beautiful.
Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night.
The afternoon hours did have some rambunctious local teens, but they kept to themselves. Can’t blame them - I’d have hung out here in my teens too if I lived close.
Just up the road on the main lake they are building a new restaurant overlooking the lake. They are getting a new office and other upgrades too.
Kayak rentals and horse rides nearby. Plus lots of hiking.
Jennifer D.RangerRobbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park
Beautiful place to get away
I love Robbers Cave. It’s one of my most favorite places to camp. There are over 40 miles of hiking trails and the views are incredible! I prefer to camp away from people and toilets don’t matter, I tent camp around Lake Wayne Wallace or Eagles Nest. Watch the trails bc you could end up on the horse trails and be very sad lol.
Guide to Clayton
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian
campsite near Clayton, OK?
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Clayton, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Clayton, OK is Robbers Cave State Park — Robbers Cave State Resort Park with a 4.2-star rating from 62 reviews.
What is the best site to find
equestrian camping near
Clayton, OK?
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Clayton, OK?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 equestrian camping locations near Clayton, OK, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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