Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park accommodates both horses and riders on secluded land in the Ozark Mountains near St. Paul, Arkansas. The ranch features primitive camping areas with ample space for horse trailers and extended trail access. Camping areas provide direct access to miles of riding trails through buffalo territory, with options for tent and RV camping in open fields. While the ranch lacks formal horse corrals, riders typically set up temporary pens or use highlines for their horses. The property maintains numerous ATV and single-track trails that double as excellent riding routes through the natural landscape. Campers consistently note the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views across the expansive property.
Trail riders access extensive riding opportunities directly from their campsites, with routes leading through creeks, past waterfalls, and around buffalo grazing areas. The trail system connects to wider Ozark National Forest riding paths, offering multi-day excursion possibilities. No drinking water is available on-site, so visitors must bring sufficient water for themselves and their horses. The primitive nature of the facilities requires self-sufficiency, with no electric hookups, showers, or formal toilets available. Campers typically bring portable corrals or electric fencing for overnight horse containment. The ranch owners maintain the property with a focus on natural experiences rather than developed amenities. Most equestrians bring high-clearance vehicles, as access roads can become challenging during wet weather conditions, especially when towing horse trailers.
$10 - $22 / night
"Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area."
"This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly"
$20 / night
"General: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground"
"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."
$20 / night
"The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us."
"You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away, and are greeted by the breathtaking view of the bluffs you are surrounded by!"
$15 - $90 / night
"They continue to upgrade trails and add beautiful camping spots. This is a family room ranch and Donny and Lynn are wonderful hosts. I always come home feeling reconnected with myself and family"
$5 - $245 / night
"They have horse back riding and tons of world class rock climbing. Very safe and clean. Facilities were just fine."
"Car camp, hammock, tent camp, or rent one the cabins to enjoy the roaming goats and horses around the property. Infamously known in AR as one of the best climbing spots."
$35 / night
"The picnic table had a few steps up to it. This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot."
"There is an unofficial overflow campground with a well kept pit toilet that offers the best view from the campgrounds over the Arkansas valley."
"Located within a few miles of the horse camp , this site is Aimed more at group camping, there is not as much shade as I’d like to see."
"I explored each in detail and took a day to enjoy the trails around them. "
"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.
GuideWe rolled in at 8pm on a Friday night. The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us. The 26 sites are in two layers, one closer to the parking lot, one closer to the woods, river and bluffs. Rangers patrol regularly and are very helpful. There is a ranger station beyond the horse campground which is a pleasant walk or a quick drive. We stopped there to get our National Park stamp! Easy access to a trail directly from the lot, or walk beyond the horse camp to the Old River trail head. Centerpoint Trail is a 15 minute drive away and offers access to the Big Bluff/Goat Trail. Caution drivers: the road in to the campground is windy and steep. A sign warns against bringing RVs. However there were an enormous bus and tons of horse trailers and campers at the bottom of the hill - braver people than I:) Bathrooms are clean, dimly lit at night presumably to keep bugs out. Each site has a lantern pole, fire ring and picnic table. Lost Valley Trail and shelter are a 10-15 minute drive away. Since it was raining we cooked our dinner in the shelter. Overall a beautiful place with great access to multiple trails as well as river access. Sites are a little close, but if you're fine with having neighbors 20 or so feet away, we highly recommend:)
ScoutLocated within a few miles of the horse camp , this site is Aimed more at group camping, there is not as much shade as I’d like to see. It is immediately next to Erbie put in, with walking distance to both the Erbie Ford and the old community of Erbie, which includes several old homes that have been preserved, the old Erbie Church and Cherry Hill cemetery.
Both cecil Cove Trail and the main Buffalo River trail are right there. With bathrooms and a nice swimming hole, this is a local favorite. The water is seasonal, so ne aware of flash flood risks.
ScoutThis place is a true hidden gem. It is so close to the Buffalo River, Jasper, and Erbie Horse camp. We had such a great weekend with our family! Loved being away from all of the crowds in this secluded area.
LegendGeneral: Located in the Boston Mountains of northwest Arkansas, you can enjoy time off the grid (we had limited cell service when we were at the summit of the Yellow Rock Trail but none in the campground). Limited rainfall resulted in less dramatic (or non-existent) waterfalls that are otherwise boasted of during other times of the year but the scenery was still beautiful, especially in the fall.
Sites/Facilities: Many different camping options (some loops have full hookups while others do not have hookups and there is a dump station near Loop E), a hike-in campground, a group campground, and an equestrian campground. There are also 17 rustic cabins (1-3 bedrooms with kitchens and a/c and heating plus nearby bathrooms). We camped in Loop E and there was reasonable separation between the sites. The pads were paved. Each site had a metal picnic table, lantern hook, and fire grate. Many of the sites provided shade from the many trees.
Bathhouse: Like some other Arkansas state parks, there are two bathhouses in some loops, and they were open on alternating days so that the other one may be cleaned and sanitized (Covid related policy). While the open one in Loop E was clean, the several soap dispensers were empty which does not make sense to me when hand washing is recommended. You also need to bring your own towel, which I have been doing regardless. There are showers but I did not use them so I cannot comment on how good they are.
Activities/Amenities: Hiking! I highly recommend the Yellow Rock Trail and the Devils Den Trail plus there are several others. During the summer, you can rent paddle boats and canoes. There are several areas with picnic tables throughout the park. There is also a swimming pool, although I did not see it when we were there in October(it would only be open in the summer). Firewood is available for sale.
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.
TravelerDevil'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. The facilities and amenities have been great. The sites are generally spacious. 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. There are several hiking trails within the park and other activities during warmer months (i.e. pool). If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow). 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.
LegendAmazing State Park with something for everyone
I have been to Devil's Den State Park twice now and this is my favorite state park in Arkansas. Devil's Den State park has something for every camper, no matter how you prefer to camp. Tent camping, hike in camping, RVs, cabins, they have it all. Want to bring your horse, you can do that as well. Devil's Den has some great hiking and mountain biking trails, from short to long. If you only do one trail be sure that is the Devil's Den Trail, you won't be disappointed on this 1.5 mile trail. If you want a longer trail there is the 15 mile Butterfield Hiking Trail. Devil's Den campground includes 135 campsites ranging from basic tent sites to full hookups for the RV crowed and horse sites. Campground are all paved with paved parking pads. Individual sites have tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings and a first for me, hooks for hanging your lantern. Flush toilets and showers are included. If you like to swim they even have a pool. Park has a store to provide your food needs. Sites all appeared to be well spaced. If you want complete privacy the word is get one of the walk in sites, you will have a bit of a walk but the reward is complete solitude. Lee Creek runs through the park and a 8-acre lake which allows fishing and boating with canoes and pedal boats. You need to reserve your site before hand or at the visitor center. One thing I do like is if you arrive to late to register at the visitor center, then you can just grab an empty site for the night, you just have to register the next day by 10am.
Ranger Review of Banner& Oaks Bull Tan Hat
Got the Bull Tan hat and have been wearing it for about a month now. Hat fits great, looks great. This is a very well made hat with quality materials and made in the U.S.A. It has held up amazing well in all weather conditions, sun, heat, rain and even snow and continues to hold its shape. I have a lot of hats and this one is one of my favorites.
LegendWe stayed here for some backwoods hiking in the Ozarks and it was about 40 minutes from the various hikes we had planned. There are some trails nearby, but the area and trails are really designed for ATVs.
It doesn’t offer a lot in terms of comfort—there are full hookups but no real fire rings, no trees or shade and it’s HOT in early June. It’s an all gravel path so not great for any elderly walkers or those in need of ADA. The showers are ROUGH, but they exist. They have hot water, but there’s a literal nail to operate the handles. Toilets are okay. No laundry. It has stables for horses and seems to really be built for ATVers.
No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around.
Nicest people in the world own it and work there. They have a shop and cafe on site that is open only on the weekends. The cafe is okay. It does have WiFi, but that does not extend to the camp/ RV sites. The real draw is the folks who work there, can’t state enough how wonderful and helpful they are.
Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive.
Very beautiful sites close by: falling water falls, big creek cave falls, glory hole falls, pedestal rocks and kings bluff trails, alum natural bridge—and so much more.
The St. Paul area of Arkansas sits in the Ozark highlands between 1,300 and 2,200 feet elevation, creating diverse terrain for equestrian camping with seasonal creek crossings and limestone features. Trail access varies significantly between summer and spring conditions, with many routes becoming challenging after rainfall. Water availability remains limited at most primitive sites regardless of season.
Climbing and bouldering: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers extensive rock climbing opportunities with over 300 established routes on sandstone formations. "Such an awesome place for just about everything! They have horse back riding and tons of world class rock climbing. Very safe and clean," notes Spenser S. The ranch attracts visitors specifically for its technical climbing routes across varying difficulty levels.
Kayaking seasonal creeks: Buffalo National River access points near Steel Creek Campground provide multiple paddling options with varying difficulty. "Great place for a family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" explains Melissa M. from Devil's Den State Park. Water levels fluctuate dramatically by season, requiring careful planning.
Off-road trail riding: Byrd's Adventure Center maintains a network of private and national forest trails for ATVs and dirt bikes. "They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road," according to Eric L. Trail difficulty ranges from beginner to advanced technical routes.
Privacy at primitive sites: Erbie Campground offers secluded camping spots set back from the Buffalo River. "Had Site #2, which was large, flat and shady. Not a lot of privacy, as could see #1 and #3 easily," notes Matt B. The campground features multiple separated camping areas with vault toilets but requires visitors bring all supplies.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch and Adventure Park provides camping among free-roaming buffalo herds. "Beautiful area. Gorgeous views and wildlife everywhere!" reports Stephen R. The ranch allows direct observation of buffalo in their natural habitat while maintaining safe distances for both animals and campers.
Expansive night skies: Devil's Den State Park campsites offer clear astronomical viewing away from city light pollution. "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!" explains Darbydarby D. The park's location in a valley surrounded by high ridges creates a natural dark sky environment.
Cell service limitations: Most equestrian camping areas near St. Paul have no reliable connectivity. "Great trip. Beautiful campground. Beautiful scenery," notes 870VERLAND at Erbie, adding "no signal" in their review title. Emergency communications require satellite devices or driving to higher elevation points.
Access road challenges: Steel Creek Campground requires navigating steep descent roads that become hazardous in wet conditions. "Be warned: four wheel drive is highly recommended. The road is steep, has sharp, blind curves and is very narrow. But SOOO worth it!" explains Leah H. Many horse trailer access routes require additional planning and appropriate vehicles.
Weather preparation requirements: Significant temperature variations occur in the Ozark highlands. "I went to Mt Magazine in the fall and it is truly a spectacular park. The temperature is literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below. One night we were there it got down to mid teens," reports Donny S. Equestrian campers need appropriate gear for both horses and humans across all seasons.
Kid-friendly water features: Byrd's Adventure Center offers shallow river access suitable for supervised swimming. "The river runs right through the property. There are a ton of trails to explore. They have a store and restaurant on site," shares Desiree Y. The center provides gradual water entry points with manageable current in designated areas.
Guided horse experiences: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers controlled riding options for beginners alongside camping. "This facility has everything you need. If you are a glamper there is a place for you, but if you like to primitive camping there is also a place for you," explains Dam J. from Devil's Den. Programs accommodate various experience levels from first-time riders to advanced equestrians.
Wildlife education opportunities: Multiple campgrounds feature interpretive programs about local species. "we had to deal with the Ranger a few times because of [the regulars]," mentions Taren S., highlighting the presence of park staff. Rangers often conduct scheduled educational sessions about Ozark wildlife during peak seasons.
Leveling requirements: Mount Magazine State Park campsites require proper equipment for stable parking. "Magazine Mountain is the highest peak in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. Mount Magazine SP sits at the top of Magazine Mountain. It has 18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer," explains Gary F. The mountainous terrain creates uneven surfaces requiring blocks and stabilizers.
Supply planning: Limited services near wilderness areas necessitate advance purchasing. "Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," advises tiffany H. from Devil's Den State Park. RV campers should arrive with full water tanks, propane, and adequate food supplies for their entire stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near St. Paul, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near St. Paul, AR is Byrd's Adventure Center with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near St. Paul, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 equestrian camping locations near St. Paul, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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