Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground is situated in the Ouachita Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma, with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,600 feet throughout the surrounding forest. The campground sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in a region dominated by shortleaf pine and hardwood forests. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-75°F, while summer can reach 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Trout fishing at Robbers Cave State Park: The park offers year-round trout fishing opportunities in streams just steps from campsites. "Trout fishing just steps away from camp and we had the whole campground to ourselves for the night," notes Neil T. from Robbers Cave State Park.
Horseback riding at Cedar Lake: Riders can access trails directly from the equestrian campground, with options for both beginners and experienced equestrians. "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," mentions Kent B. about the equestrian facilities.
Lake activities at Long Lake Resort: The resort features two private lakes for fishing and water recreation. According to Cynthia H. from 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."
Hiking the lake loop at Cedar Lake: A 3-mile trail circles the entire lake with mostly flat terrain. Jennifer O. notes, "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."
What campers like
Private campsite layouts: Many campsites offer natural separation with vegetation. Ashley W. from Cedar Lake shares, "The campsite spots themselves are pretty big in size and are separated by trees and bushes. Feels very private."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. According to Patrick G. from Cedar Lake North Shore, "Clean site, right in the national forest. At the time we went they had a camp host that met you, took you to your site, and checked in on us several times during our three night stay."
Off-the-grid peace: The remote location offers quiet camping away from crowds. "We always have Cedar Lake on our list of places to visit in Spring and Fall. The sites are well spaced and even on busy weekends you aren't really ever bothering anyone," says Tom K.
Diverse trail systems: Trails range from easy lake loops to challenging mountain terrain. Danielle L. explains, "The trail around the lake is flat and easy but other more difficult trails aren't far away."
What you should know
Limited supplies and services: The nearest stores are 45 minutes away from most campgrounds. Kristi B. from Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp advises, "The closest store/town is about 45 minutes so be sure to bring everything you need with you."
Trail conditions vary seasonally: Trails can become overgrown in late summer and fall. Tom K. cautions, "Be warned however that the trails can be overgrown in the late Summer/Fall as a recent fire cleared some of the trees on the trail."
Campground closures for maintenance: Cedar Lake periodically closes for repairs. Susan F. notes, "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!"
Wildlife awareness: Campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters including snakes. "Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports Amelia S.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple camping options: Families can choose from tents, RVs, or cabins based on comfort needs. Matt B. from Boondockers Landing shares, "Good place for family camping. Plenty of room and peaceful area. Our family had a enjoyable time."
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer special amenities for children. According to Kyle H., "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."
Educational ranger programs: Check for scheduled events that combine learning with outdoor fun. Kyle H. also notes, "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."
Wheelchair accessibility concerns: Not all facilities accommodate mobility needs equally. Cheryl T. advises, "This campground is nice but not really wheelchair friendly. The road was really large rock that is very bumpy and uncomfortable to wheel over."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete utilities for RVs. Jennifer O. notes, "Asphalt and gravel sites. Clean bathrooms. Water and electric only."
Trailer parking considerations: Equestrian campers need adequate space for rigs and horse trailers. Kent B. recommends, "This is such a great park, one of the best I have ever been to for equine camping."
Road conditions: Access roads may be challenging for larger RVs. Craig E. from Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA explains, "We didn't know what to expect. This place has absolutely everything you could need. Full Hookups, level sites (mostly gravel but level), shop with souvenirs and RV gadgets."
Site spacing: RV sites at some campgrounds may be close together. Craig E. also mentions, "My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact. Plenty of room for your RV but so close that you can hear and smell your neighbors."
