Best Equestrian Camping near Ponca City, OK

Lake Carl Blackwell offers equestrian camping with designated horse trails and multi-use paths. The campground provides water and electric hookups while accommodating tent, RV, and cabin campers. Horses are permitted on the extensive trail system that covers a large area of the 3,350-acre property. Bathrooms and shower facilities are available to campers, though the shower setup offers minimal privacy. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for riders of various experience levels. Multiple dump stations are located throughout the camping areas for RV convenience.

The trail system connects riders to various parts of the lake property, with wildlife viewing opportunities including deer, beavers, and birds. Lake Carl Blackwell is located 8 miles west of Stillwater, providing easy access to provisions and emergency services when needed. The grounds are consistently well-maintained with mowed areas and clean facilities. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons when the campground can become crowded. While some campers report the atmosphere can be lively on weekends, weekdays offer a more peaceful experience for riders seeking quieter trail conditions. The store on property offers gas and camping supplies, including after-hours vending for essential items.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Ponca City, Oklahoma (4)

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Ponca City, OK

34 Reviews of 4 Ponca City Campgrounds


  • David D.
    May. 29, 2018

    Lake Carl Blackwell

    One of the very cleanest I have stayed at.

    The amenities were very clean, some being very new. Multiple new dump stations in each area. Bathrooms were very clean. Most all campsites are right on the water. Beautiful campground. Offers Equestrian trails, hiking trails, and bicycling trails. Our favorite in-state campground.

  • Jerry N.
    May. 16, 2022

    Lake Carl Blackwell

    Relaxing time

    We reserve two sites side by side in the beaver cove campground. The sites are on a slight decline but pull through and we were able to make them level with our blocks. The sides have enough room for the grandkids to roam around it besides for electric and water only but offered a view of the lake and we're close by a swim area. The trees at the sides provided adequate shade for the afternoon sun and the campground offered boat ramps couple of swim areas and on-site store for gas and supplies including and after hours vending machine with propane tanks and charcoal and s'mores supplies. The dump station provided slots for three RVs at one time and well thought out. The crap ground offers hiking bicycle and horse trails that cover a large area. Wildlife was abundant with plenty of deer and Canadian geese and squirrels. The campgrounds offer some annual sites for long-term visits but there is a waiting list to be on that.

  • Neil T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2020

    Lake Carl Blackwell

    Well kept, quirky, prairie lake

    The lake is owned and operated by Oklahoma State University. The grounds were well mowed, some of the structures are dated but well cared for. Super-friendly and helpful people at the permit office. The store was closed when we arrived.

    The quirky bit is the number of camping spaces that are by annual permit. That means a lot of of the shore line is taken up by permanent campers, weekend campers that leave their rigs, student living and even residents (in campers). The lake being close to Stillwater, it looks like a number of students and such commute from the lake.

    None of this was problematic for us, but the level of care each annual permit holder takes on their lot range from pristine to near dilapidated.

    We stayed in Beaver Cove and found it to be clean, well-maintained, friendly and quiet. No real privacy buffer between sites, but the spacing was comfortable. 

    The park ranger made several passes through, even though the campground was only about 1/4 occupied. 

    Lots of birds, including a resident blue heron the locals named Charlie. Wonderful views of the cove. We stayed in lot 31 and a few large elm trees gave our campsite evening shade.

    Nice fire rings and sturdy picnic tables.

    All in all, a good stay.

  • M
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Lake Carl Blackwell

    Beautiful lake and grounds

    Lakeside spots are spacious and well kept. Be prepared for flying bugs. Lake is great for swimming with shallow flat bottom.

  • Patrick B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2023

    Cowely county fishing lake

    Great spot for free camping

    Nice spot right next to the lake, very pretty and peaceful.

  • J
    Oct. 6, 2021

    Cowely county fishing lake

    Very nice campground on lake

    Very nice primitive campsite. Several spots beside The lake or built a little peninsulas surrounded by water on three sides.More spots higher up on the bluff overlooking the lake. Only a couple other campers on the weekday I was there, Very quiet but there was some trash look like there might be some partying on the weekends.

    I would definitely stay here again.

  • J
    Jun. 13, 2022

    Winfield City Lake

    Nice trip

    Very nice woodsy campground. You must reserve in advance. We were able to fit in more trailers than the reservation said. Fairly clean bathrooms that are very close to this site.

  • Kelly G.
    Dec. 16, 2020

    Lake Carl Blackwell

    Beautiful campsite

    I was practically surrounded by water. Deer, beavers, armadillo, birds! There are many different campground areas, I stayed in Pine Grove. Bathrooms were old but not too dirty. They were heated very well. Several dump stations. Friendly staff.


Guide to Ponca City

Horse camping in Oklahoma offers a unique experience for equestrian enthusiasts, combining beautiful landscapes with facilities that cater to both riders and their horses.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy scenic trails and fishing opportunities at Lake Carl Blackwell, where the spacious lakeside spots provide ample room for relaxation and exploration.

Equestrian campgrounds include ample amenities

  • Cowely County Fishing Lake features picnic tables and drinking water, making it a convenient choice for those traveling with horses.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • At Winfield City Lake, you’ll find electric hookups and sanitary dump facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ponca City, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ponca City, OK is Cowely county fishing lake with a 4.2-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ponca City, OK?

TheDyrt.com has all 4 equestrian camping locations near Ponca City, OK, with real photos and reviews from campers.