Ebenezer Park offers equestrian camping facilities within the Sabine National Forest system near Brookeland, Texas. The park features approximately 10-15 tent sites alongside dedicated equestrian camping areas. The region receives annual rainfall of around 48 inches, creating lush woodland conditions that support diverse wildlife populations and verdant trail systems. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F, while summer months can reach 90-100°F with high humidity.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Horse enthusiasts can access miles of wide, well-maintained trails throughout the forest system. As one visitor notes about Sexton Pond Dispersed, "If looking to be near a campground but still out on your own then this is the place. I got lucky enough had the place to myself for almost 2 weeks."
Swimming access: While water activities require some navigation, they provide welcome relief during hot weather. One camper at Brookeland Lake Sam Rayburn KOA reports, "If you want to escape the hot summer in Texas, I would recommend coming to Brookeland Campground because there is a beautiful lake nearby... We enjoyed hiking in the morning, and then playing in the lake mid morning-afternoon."
Wildlife observation: The national forest setting provides habitat for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Set up near forest edges during early morning or evening hours for best viewing opportunities. Trails through the equestrian areas offer prime wildlife spotting locations.
What campers like
Natural setting: Horse campgrounds near Brookeland provide significant spacing between sites, allowing for privacy. One camper at Ebenezer Park observed, "The park seems very well designed for equestrian, but also good for tent camping. The trails are nice and wide. Tent spots are spacious, although most sites do require a decent walk from the car."
Lake recreation: The proximity to Lake Sam Rayburn creates diverse recreation options for when riders want time off their horses. A visitor mentioned, "There were tons of people swimming, boating, tubing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. It was a blast, and perfect for the hot weather."
Forest accessibility: The trail networks connecting equestrian facilities provide direct access to extensive forest riding. As noted by a camper at Boles Field Campground, the equestrian campsites serve as excellent base camps for riders wanting to explore the surrounding national forest trail systems.
What you should know
Limited facilities: While equestrian sites provide basic needs, additional amenities may be limited. One camper reported about Ebenezer Park: "There aren't many sites for basic tent camping here, maybe 10-15 tent sites, and the rest are equestrian. It's a pretty tidy looking campground. There is a park host that is usually hanging around if you need something."
Seasonal popularity: Certain times see higher use of equestrian facilities. "Probably won't come back unless in off season. But it's good enough," noted one visitor, suggesting spring and fall might offer less crowded conditions for horse camping.
Road conditions: Access roads to some equestrian camping areas require attention. A visitor to Sexton Pond noted, "Down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major. Nice spot in the trees. There are a few fire pits spread out."
Weather preparation: Summer heat and insects require planning. Pack appropriate supplies as one camper warned, "Definitely bring bug spray because there were so many mosquitos near the campground. I left with a few pretty big welts."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation planning: Families visiting horse campgrounds should plan for water activities during hot months. According to one camper, "We enjoyed hiking in the morning, and then playing in the lake mid morning-afternoon. There were tons of people swimming, boating, tubing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding."
Facility knowledge: Understanding available resources helps manage expectations. A visitor to Ebenezer Park noted, "Swimming area is designated but kind of hard to get to," suggesting families should research access points before arriving.
Spacing considerations: The layout of equestrian sites provides good separation for families seeking privacy. One camper observed, "Tent spots are spacious," which benefits families needing room to spread out gear and create safe spaces for children around horses.
Restroom planning: Bathroom facilities may be limited or rustic. Pack supplies accordingly as one camper warned about a nearby facility, "Thankfully we came prepared and brought our own toilet paper, because by the 2nd night we were there, there was no toilet paper in the bathroom."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers with horse trailers should research specific equestrian-friendly campgrounds. One RVer at Brookeland KOA noted, "This place is not parking lot camping," indicating more natural settings with adequate space for larger rigs.
Utility connections: Some equestrian sites offer hookups, but verify availability. "We stayed at a site with raised concrete pads," mentioned one RVer, suggesting various surface types exist throughout the area's horse campgrounds.
Access considerations: RVers should assess road conditions and turning radiuses. "This KOA has trails leading to a river which empties into Lake Rayburn. You do not have direct access to the lake itself," noted a visitor, indicating potential limitations for larger vehicles.
