Equestrian camping in Davy Crockett National Forest provides access to extensive trail systems through East Texas pine forests. The forest maintains several horse campgrounds near Alto, Texas, approximately 20-30 miles from the town. These primitive camping areas accommodate trailers and offer basic facilities with direct trail access.
What to do
Trail riding conditions: Most equestrian trails at Piney Creek Horse Camp connect to forest service roads, creating extensive riding options. A camper noted, "Quiet national forest hunting camp with vault toilet and water, but no amenities at the individual campsites. Great, well marked Trail system."
Swimming areas: Ratcliff Lake features designated swimming spots separate from the main waterways. According to a visitor at Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, "There is a small swim area that you should utilize because there are alligators in the lake so it's not safe to swim by the campground."
Historical exploration: The forest contains remnants of old industrial structures. One camper shared their experience: "Remnants of old sawmill is really cool, lots of wildlife and well maintained and marked trails to explore."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The forest supports diverse wildlife populations visible from trails and campsites. A visitor mentioned, "Good for horses or bikes. You can go for miles even to a dispersed camping lookout point."
Accessible trails: Davy Crockett National Forest maintains trails for various skill levels including accessible routes. As one camper noted, "Entertains many hike trails. One even for handicap person to follow thru."
Natural swimming: The designated swimming areas provide refreshment during hot months. A camper shared: "Good fishing, and swim area is very refreshing as well!"
Primitive experience: Horse camps maintain minimal facilities to preserve natural surroundings. A visitor described White Rock Horse Camp as having "Nice area for dispersed camping. Several level areas. Great hiking / horse riding trails around."
What you should know
Hunting season awareness: Several forest areas permit hunting during designated seasons. A camper advised, "Be careful during hunting season!" Another specifically cautioned, "Would not recommend this area during hunting season."
Water requirements: No potable water exists at most horse camps. Campers must bring sufficient water for themselves and their animals. One cyclist noted, "About a mile west of this camping area there is a pipe coming out of the ground on the north side of the road. Spewing cold potable water."
Trailer access: Most horse campgrounds can accommodate small to medium-sized horse trailers with limited turning space. A visitor at Alazan Bayou mentioned, "At least 14 sites with picnic tables on concrete slabs. Fire rings and Lantern poles. Very well kept and mowed. There is a loafing barn for horses."
Permit requirements: Some areas require Texas Parks Limited Use permits. A camper explained, "You need a Texas parks Limited use permit. It costs as little as $12 a year."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: Use only designated swimming areas due to potential wildlife hazards. A family camper recommended, "The swim area is very refreshing as well!"
Facility preparation: Most horse camps have vault toilets without running water. One camper advised, "They have bathrooms with a shower and plenty of toilet paper in case you forget to bring your own."
After-dark conditions: Limited lighting exists at most campgrounds. A camper at The Boulders at Lake Tyler noted, "It gets pretty dark at night because there are no lights except what you pack with you."
Tips from RVers
Generator requirements: Horse campgrounds require campers to bring generators for power. One RVer advised, "Bring your own generator and dry camp."
Leveling needs: Most sites require levelers. A camper mentioned, "Accessible via car, good roads, smaller trailers. If RVing, will need levelers."
Dump station access: No dump stations exist at horse camps. RVers must plan accordingly for waste management during extended stays.
