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Limited horse camping options exist near Watts, Oklahoma, though several solid equestrian campgrounds are within reach for riders with trailers. Devil's Den State Park Campground in West Fork, Arkansas, located about 30 miles from Watts, permits horses in designated areas with basic facilities. The campground includes a horse camp section separated from standard camping loops, providing space for trailers and horses. Trail riders can access multiple hiking trails within the park, though not all are designated for equestrian use.
The surrounding region offers additional equestrian camping at Rivers Edge RV and Stables in Arkansas. Direct trail access is available from most horse camping areas to woodland paths suitable for riding. Some campgrounds require advanced reservations for equestrian sites, particularly during peak seasons. The facilities are generally clean and well-maintained with suitable parking for horse trailers. Water sources for horses are available at most established sites, though riders should confirm availability when making reservations as seasonal restrictions may apply.
"I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A."
"There's easy access to Lee Creek and trails that lead from the campground around to the dam, pool and gift shop. They also have a horse camp, tent camping, cabins and camper cabins."
from $20 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $14 - $28 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $14 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $25 - $75 / night
Check Availability"It is close to Hwy 51 but you really can’t tell. Gate keepers were wonderful and very helpful I saw some old oyster mushrooms all over the place possibly some lions mane 💓 I had a great time."
"We could hear the noise from the highway across the lake."
"Store outside gate. Gates going in locked at 10:00 p.m. and open at 6:00 a.m."
"We had a great spot located 200 yards from the lake. Also had the boat dock just on the other side of us. Great place to stay, friendly staff!"
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availability"They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond. My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact."
"Also hiking trails. Also some tent sites. There is a whole new section for Class A and large 5th wheel campers now."
"Plenty of drive thru lots for big rigs. Higher end RV park, spacious lots, all utilities included. Beautiful new bathhouse kept very clean. Highly recommended!!!"
"Easy access to Rocky Branch boat launch ramps"
"Nice and close to beaver lake. They had kayakes to rent and jet skies. Fishing is good as well. Also lots of wild life! Owls, lizards, tons of birds, deer, and foxes. I would definitaly come back!"
LegendI had heard so many great things about this park but I was not that impressed. The sites are fairly close together. There’s no signs warning that if you are in a large RV you shouldn’t come in on a certain highway. They do have equestrian trails and a campground to accommodate campers with horses. They have a lot of hiking trails. There are cabins and a pool.
LegendThis is a gorgeous park, even on a rainy weekend. I stayed in Campground E, one of 5 campgrounds in the park, not including the equestrian campground or the walk in tent sites off of Campground A. E was a large campground, with mixed tent and RV camping, with some sites along Lee Creek. Each site was well equipped with paved parking pads, nice flat sites for tents (some gravel pads, some just grassy areas), and many of the spots had electic and water. All had campfire rings, picnic tables, and grills. There were two nice hiking trails leading out of this particular campground, and some of the other campgrounds (A in particular) also had good trails. The bathhouses were really nice and modern and very clean. What I liked about this park, besides the great hiking trails, were all of the historic CCC buildings. There is a really neat scenic overlook that was built by the CCC near the Yellow Rock trailhead, and if you step in the visitor's center, you are actually in the old CCC motor pool. There is a really nice statue and plaque commemorating the work of the CCC in building the park near the lake and cafe.
TravelerWe bought our first camper this year and have loved staying at Devil's Den. We made 4 trips there and enjoyed each one. The RV sites have full hookups and most are well shaded. There's easy access to Lee Creek and trails that lead from the campground around to the dam, pool and gift shop.
They also have a horse camp, tent camping, cabins and camper cabins. Whether you're looking to relax or explore one of the many hiking trails, there's something for everyone!
GuideWe only had three days and it rained all day for the first day but I still really enjoyed this park. The trails are great and our campsite had a path right down to the river. The water hookup was a bit tricky, it leaks all over the place until you turn it all the way. We were not used to this setup so we thought it was broken. We were on site 53. I don’t like the placement of the fire pits, they are off at the road side of the site which makes it feel too close to other campers, rather than tucked into your own site. The bathrooms are probably the nicest I’ve experienced at a state park.
ScoutThis is a great place to camp or hike. It has a great trail that you can explore, with lots of large boulders and some caves that you can get real close to. I think you can go in them at some times too but when I was there it was closed due to something with the bats. There is also a pretty dam and lake that is right there for fishing or kayaking. When you think of a campsite that has it all, this one is it. It's got your water source, trails, big boulders to climb, caves. There is also a state park center to visit and get info. There are plenty of campsites and several cabins to rent. There is a horse trail and other things for horse but I haven't explored it. They do have a pool that is open for the summer. I have just been there to hike but saw these other amenities. Hope this helps.
LegendWe have been to DD many many times and always love staying here. Lee creek provides a great place to play on a hot day and the park has many great hiking opportunities for all ages. Biking and equestrian opportunities are also available. The bathrooms are updated and clean. You must make reservations in advance during the summer.
LegendThis is a spectacular example of a State Park. Beautiful setting with miles of hiking and trails .. scenery is amazing. Camp Sites are spacious with full hookups in most areas, horse ranch camp sites are available as well. Close to UTV trails and miles of back roads that can fill your entire day.
LegendPeak Season April 01, 2021- September 30, 2021
First-come, First-served October 01, 2021- November 30, 2021
All campsites are equipped with electric hookups, and the group shelters have electricity, too.
flush toilets, hot showers, water hydrants, a swim beach, playground, dump station and a boat ramp complex playground
Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. It's waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats. In some areas of the lake divers can see the remains of homesteads. The underwater terrain ranges from gently sloping hills to rocky cliffs. The water ranges in depth up to 165 feet.
Tenkiller Ferry Lake is often referred to as "Oklahoma's clear water paradise." The 12,500 acre lake is fed by the Illinois River and the Baron Fork . It is nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in the northeastern part of the state. This area, known as Green Country, is surrounded by dense oak-hickory forests, tall bluffs, and rolling hills. The lake has 130 miles of shoreline with plenty of wildlife such as deer and turkey. It serves as one of the flyways of migratory birds, including bald eagles, common loons, and white pelicans.
Water skiing, boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming and even sailing. Scuba divers enjoy the lake's high visibility and the beautiful clear waters. Fish for black bass, white bass, striped bass, crappie and catfish. The trout stream below the dam is one of only two year-round trout fisheries in Oklahoma, and is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. Hunting is also permitted in parts of the lake area, in accordance with federal and state laws.
Latitude 35° 40' 54.0001" N Longitude 94° 57' 46.0001" W
Directions: From Gore, Oklahoma, go 17.5 miles northeast on Highway 100, take the turn left and go 1.5 miles northwest on the paved access road. Follow signs into the campground.
Check-out time: 3:00 pm. Check-in time: 6:00 pm. Quiet hours: 10:00 pm- 6:00 am.
Entrance gate will be closed during this time.
Grey water and sewage must be properly disposed of in the provided dump station receptacle.
Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site.
Group shelters are for day use only. Fireworks are prohibited. Fishing and hunting are regulated by federal and state laws.
LegendSo the camp store, swimming pool and café are closed Memorial Day but the visitors center is open year round. I stayed on Loop A which has very nice and clean restrooms and spacious showers with hot water. There is Lee Creek on one side and access to three trailheads from Loop A. The new Devil’s Racetrack Monument multiuse trail was completed in the last two years and is all sorts of fun whether you are hiking it or biking it. The addition of this trail does not show on some maps so please get careful instructions on how to hike it. I recommend going up Yellowrock to see the overlook (tip: go straight at the four way intersection with unmarked Devil’s Racetrack). On the way down turn left and hug the cliffs. There is one place where there is a Y intersection. Go straight (not right which goes back down to the Outlaw Trailhead in Campground Loop A) or you will miss the good stuff. Devil’s Racetrack eventually crosses the very wide and straight Outlaw Trail and if you go sharp left you will also end up back at Loop A. This hike is one of my top two favorites in the park, Devil’s Den being the other.
There is a backcountry loop called the Butterfield Trail which is a strenuous 15 miles and extends outside the park. Both hiking and backcountry camping on this trail require a free permit that must be obtained and turned in at the visitor’s center. There is no backcountry camping in the park but there are three sites along the trail outside of the park. Be mindful of hunting season and wear bright orange on any trail exiting the park system!!!!
There is an RV campground with hook up, a horse campground with manure bin, picnic areas galore and 20 miles of trails to explore!! Such a beautiful park!!!!!
Horse campgrounds near Watts, Oklahoma offer diverse riding options on both sides of the Oklahoma-Arkansas border. The region sits at around 950-1,100 feet elevation with rolling terrain transitioning between Ozark foothills and Oklahoma prairie. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F, while spring and fall provide milder riding conditions with occasional rainfall that can affect trail conditions.
Trail riding at Devil's Den State Park: Located about 30 miles from Watts, this park features multiple hiking trails with some designated for equestrian use. Riders can access woodland paths directly from the horse camp area. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" notes Melissa M. from Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Many campgrounds near Watts provide lake and river access for fishing enthusiasts. At Taylor Ferry Campground, "Our family has been coming here in rv's for years. It is a great spot to fish and hang out with acceptable bathrooms. Located right on the lake, my family would spend hours fishing while the kids would play," shares Tom K. from Taylor Ferry.
Lake activities: Tenkiller Lake offers water-based recreation including swimming, boating and diving. "Lake Tenkiller is an amazing location to scuba dive. It's waters are clear and cool from a distance of 8 to 28 feet. A diver will have the opportunity to investigate a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats," explains a reviewer from Chicken Creek Campground.
Secluded riding areas: Some campgrounds provide quieter alternatives to busier equestrian facilities. "I usually like a more secluded area to camp but when I'm camping alone I love devils den, it's super safe, gorgeous, plenty of room, great hiking trails!" says Darbydarby D. from Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate clean amenities, especially after trail riding. "This place has absolutely everything you could need. Full Hookups, level sites (mostly gravel but level), shop with souvenirs and RV gadgets," notes Craig E. from Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA.
Natural surroundings: The combination of water features and forested areas makes this region appealing. "Great place to camp and boat. Good fishing spots as well," reports Tyler H. about Taylor Ferry. Another camper mentions, "The campsite itself wasn't the best but the whole experience was amazing. The weather was beautiful, water was warm, and the sounds of the highway was soothing."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds close or have limited services in winter. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" warns Jo from Devil's Den State Park. Similarly, a Chicken Creek reviewer notes: "Peak Season April 01, 2021- September 30, 2021. First-come, First-served October 01, 2021- November 30, 2021."
Variable water levels: Lake levels can impact access to some equestrian trails and water features. "We were told that the lake would be low for the next two years for reconstruction of the dam. Because of the low water you can walk very far into the water from where we we're staying," explains Elizabeth B. from Taylor Ferry.
Connectivity issues: Cell service varies throughout the area. "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services," advises Gonzo A. about Devil's Den State Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Select campgrounds with activities beyond trail riding. "We love camping at Devils Den every spring! The trails are great and have beautiful views. The rangers and staff in the shop are very nice. Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," recommends Tiffany H.
Accessible water features: Locations with swimming areas provide cooling options after riding. At Chicken Creek Campground, all campsites are "equipped with electric hookups, and the group shelters have electricity, too. Flush toilets, hot showers, water hydrants, a swim beach, playground, dump station and a boat ramp complex playground" according to a reviewer.
Safety considerations: Some areas are more suitable for families with younger riders. "We had a great spot located 200 yards from the lake. Also had the boat dock just on the other side of us. Great place to stay, friendly staff! Had a picnic table, grill and a covered area to sit at as well," shares Ashley T. about Chicken Creek.
Hookup availability: RVers should note varying levels of services for horse trailers with living quarters. "The campground is great except no sewer connections. The boat ramp is fantastic, great views of the lake and plenty of trees most sites are shaded," notes Royce A. about Taylor Ferry.
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer premium spots for RVs with horse trailers. "Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space," advises Gonzo A. from Beaver Lake Hide A Way.
Access considerations: RV access varies across equestrian campgrounds. "It is clean and peaceful and quite and nice," says Linda D. about Taylor Ferry, while another camper at Beaver Lake Hide A Way notes, "Sites are good size and can handle large RV busses. There are plenty of small camper and tent sites."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Watts, OK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Watts, OK is Devil's Den State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 88 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Watts, OK?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Watts, OK, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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