Equestrian camping opportunities abound in the region surrounding Eden, Texas. Numerous state parks and recreational facilities within a 70-mile radius accommodate horses and their riders with specialized camping areas. These horse campgrounds near Eden offer varying levels of amenities and trail access, catering to both overnight stays and extended visits for equestrian enthusiasts.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Bald Eagle Creek in San Angelo State Park connects to an extensive network of riding trails. "If you cross the dry creek bed into the horse campground you can access the extensive network of hiking, biking, and horse riding trails. The trails are well marked," notes Laura F.
Wildlife observation: Flatrock provides natural settings where visitors frequently encounter local wildlife. Katie H. shares, "My partner and I travel full time in our toyota dolphin and this place was a gem. We stayed for three nights and the lake was beautiful, the swimming areas clean, the bathrooms tidy, and we had no neighbors."
Water recreation: Swimming holes and lakefront access create additional recreation options at select equestrian campgrounds. As Isabella H. explains about Flatrock, "We did a hike that lead us to a wonderful water hole that we were able to jump in and swing off a tree into the water. We had such a blast."
What campers like
Affordability: Several equestrian camping areas offer reasonable rates for the amenities provided. At one location, Katie H. mentions, "And with our access pass it was only $8 a night for electric and water hook ups! Totally recommend. Our pups loved it too!"
Wildlife encounters: The prevalence of deer provides a common highlight for visitors at Fort Mason City Park. Chelsea R. reports, "Beautiful little park with both back in & pull through spots, full hookups, and deer everywhere! Campground manager is very kind and helpful."
Spacious sites: Equestrian campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites. According to Darrin R. at Bald Eagle Creek, "The parking sites are great for either a tent or small RV. This was ideal for my setup which is a rooftop tent on my SUV. There were some nice large trees over many of the campsites and there were clean concrete picnic tables with a sun or rain cover above that."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation for temperature fluctuations. One camper at Red Arroyo Campground notes, "It was cold, 20 degrees. This place suffers from long term neglect. Peeling paint, broken trim. It's a beautiful place. Great views. Bison, long horn and tons of deer."
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds near Eden require permits or advance reservations. Many facilities have limited staff presence, especially during off-peak seasons.
Entrance procedures: Some facilities have specific entry protocols. Laura F. explains about Bald Eagle Creek, "The only downside is that to drive into the campground you have to get out and remove a pad lock and manually open the gate."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds include play areas for children. Andrea observed at Fort Mason City Park, "There's a small playground too and seems to be a good place to bring your horses!"
Bathroom proximity: Family camping with young children benefits from strategic site selection. Amie M. advises, "The bathrooms have 3 stalls and a couple showers. Very spacious considering. We camped during the winter and were the only tent campers."
Insect preparation: Bug activity can be significant in certain seasons. Isabella H. warns, "The bugs drove me nuts! Bring bug spray however i felt like that didnt really work for me!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RV campers recommend checking site specifications before arrival. Tracie from Red Arroyo Campground advises, "Signs directing you to the campsites were minimal (ex: instead of 'red arroyo campsites 1-11' it said 'trailer 1-11.' Otherwise it was a well maintained state park, clean bathrooms, flat sites, easy hook ups."
Hookup availability: Full service sites with multiple amenities exist at several locations. Shelley K. notes about Fort Mason City Park, "They have a couple dozen spots, all long and easy to pull an RV in to. There is a dump station in the center of the park too, in case you are just passing by and need that."
Connectivity considerations: Internet access varies by location. Shelley K. mentions about Fort Mason City Park, "Wi-fi is excellent, people are super friendly."
