Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground offers a well-equipped base for horseback riders exploring Ouachita National Forest trails. The Oklahoma campground sits in the Sans Bois Mountains at approximately 1,100 feet elevation, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. The horse-friendly facility operates year-round with specialized amenities for both riders and their mounts.
What to do
Trail riding from campsite: Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground provides direct access to multiple riding trails without trailering. "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," notes Patrick G. about Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground.
Fishing options: Most equestrian campgrounds offer fishing opportunities after trail rides. "The lake nearby is great. We brought our kayaks and had so much fun hitting the lake in the morning. It does get busy as the day goes on, especially in the summer on the weekends," shares Ashley W. from Cedar Lake.
Wildlife viewing: The forested setting provides opportunities to spot wildlife while riding. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports Amelia S. about her Cedar Lake stay.
What campers like
Natural separation between campsites: Pine forests provide privacy throughout horse campgrounds near Poteau. "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private," explains Ashley W. about her experience at Cedar Lake.
Affordable horse-friendly accommodations: Most equestrian sites maintain reasonable rates while providing specialized facilities. "This is one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping. Horses are very happy here, just remember to bring your coggins paperwork," advises Kent B. about Robbers Cave State Park.
Year-round accessibility: Unlike some seasonal facilities, Poteau area equestrian campgrounds remain open throughout the year. "In the middle of nowhere beautiful! Super close to the Talimena Scenic Drive and Horse Thief Spring and plenty of ATV/UTV trails," shares Kristi B. about her experience at Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Remote location requires planning: Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground sits approximately 45 minutes from major services. "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you," cautions Kristi B.
Maintenance schedules affect facilities: Bathroom and facility closures sometimes occur for repairs. "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!" advises Susan F. from Cedar Lake North Shore.
Water availability varies: Some equestrian areas have limited water access points. "There is running water and bathrooms which were relatively clean. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area," notes Amelia S.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Children enjoy both riding and water activities at equestrian campgrounds. "Beautiful and lush and QUIET. I love it. Asphalt and gravel sites. Clean bathrooms. Water and electric only. Gorgeous 3 mile hike around the lake," reports Jennifer O. from Cedar Lake.
Pack for variable temperatures: Mountain elevations create cooler evenings even in summer. "When we lived in Oklahoma we would camp out regularly in March, bring jackets and stuff to keep warm because it is still very chilly, but warm enough during the day for some nice hiking," suggests Megan P.
Plan group activities: Equestrian campgrounds accommodate youth groups effectively. "We took a group of Trail Life boys there and we had a good time. There are plenty of good trails near by and we used Cedar Lake as our basecamp," explains Daniel R.
Tips from RVers
Bring all supplies: Limited services near equestrian campgrounds require self-sufficiency. "We didn't get to use the playground area this visit as pool and hot tub were closed for the year. They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond," shares Craig E. from Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA, one of the nearest full-service RV parks to Poteau.
Reserve electric sites early: RV sites with power connections fill quickly during peak seasons. "This last minute, weekend trip was hands down my favorite camping trip that I have ever taken. I needed an electric hookup to charge the batteries on my boat every night and he was able to give us a site with hookups close to the boat ramp," explains Nate S.
Access considerations: Some horse campgrounds have specific entrance requirements. "The park hosts were amazing and came to check on us throughout our stay. The park was still under construction for upgrades and repairs to their septic systems and equipment but didn't bother us," notes Kristi B.
