Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest in southeast Oklahoma lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp. This captivating campground, situated on the tranquil shores of Cedar Lake, offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this pristine forested haven.
A Lakefront Paradise
Cedar Lake, an 86-acre jewel, glistens amid the rugged landscape of pine and oak-covered hills. Surrounded by the breathtaking Ouachita Mountains, this picturesque lake beckons outdoor enthusiasts with promises of boating, fishing, hiking, and, of course, horseback riding. Whether you're an experienced rider or a novice adventurer, Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp has something extraordinary to offer.
A Campground for All Tastes
The campground at Cedar Lake caters to a wide range of preferences, ensuring a perfect stay for everyone. With 90 campsites spread across four distinct loops—Equestrian, Sandy Beach, Shady Lane, and Northshores—this campsite boasts a variety of amenities.
From primitive campsites that immerse you in the raw beauty of nature to campsites equipped with electric, water, and sewer connections, Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp has it all. Day-use facilities are conveniently located at Sandy Beach and Northshore, providing easy access to the stunning surroundings.
A Forest of Endless Wonder
Cedar Lake is more than just a pristine natural setting; it's your gateway to the vast wonders of the Ouachita National Forest. This sprawling forest, encompassing 1.8 million acres in central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma, offers an astonishing array of outdoor adventures. With 700 miles of trails, 43 awe-inspiring vistas, six pristine wilderness areas, and elevations that rival the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Rockies, this forest is a playground for nature enthusiasts.
Camping at its Finest
The Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp offers a diverse range of campsites to meet every camper's needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of electric hookups or the simplicity of a primitive site, you'll find your ideal spot. Shady Lane (SHRV) sites come complete with electric, sewer, and water hookups. Sandy Beach sites offer electric hookups, while North Shore family sites provide a back-to-basics camping experience without hookups. Most equestrian sites are equipped with electric hookups, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, grills, campfire rings, and lantern posts. Modern conveniences like flush toilets, warm showers, and drinking water are readily available. Picnic pavilions provide the perfect spot for a meal in the great outdoors, and within the equestrian area, you'll discover horse corrals and even a pay phone.
Discover Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp
Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp is not just a campground; it's a gateway to an extraordinary natural wonderland. Whether you're exploring the lush forests, embarking on a horseback adventure, or simply savoring the serene beauty of Cedar Lake, this campsite promises an unforgettable experience.
So, pack your bags, gather your riding gear, and set your compass for Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp. The majestic Ouachita National Forest and the tranquil shores of Cedar Lake await your arrival, ready to whisk you away on a journey of exploration and discovery in the great outdoors.
Directions:
From Poteau, OK, take U.S. Highway 59 south approximately 22 miles to Holson Valley Road (10 miles south of Heavener). Turn right (west) onto Holson Valley Road and travel approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right (north) onto Cedar Lake Road and travel 1 mile to the camp boundary.
From Talihina, OK, take U.S. Highway 271 east toward Poteau for 11 miles. Turn right (east) onto Holson Valley Road and travel 19 miles to Cedar Lake Road. Turn left onto Cedar Lake Road.
Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Equestrian sites
- Group and family sites
- Shady Lane (SHRV) sites have electric, sewer, and water hookups
- Sandy Beach sites have electric hookups only
- North Shore family sites are primitive without hookups
- Equestrian sites with electric hookups.
- Picnic tables
- Grills
- Campfire rings
- Flush toilets
- Warm showers
- Drinking water
- Picnic pavilions
- Horse corrals
- Payphone
- Horse trails
- Dump stations
- Horse Hitching Post
The trailhead provides a camp specifically for equestrians and 21 miles of scenic riding. The horse camp has ten sites provided at the campground, each with a 45' long by 15' wide parking space. Two sites are fully accessible for people with disabilities. Each site has a covered paddock, fire pit, and tent pad.
This trailhead is part of the Stone Church Horseback Riding Trail System.
Cost Details:
- Shady Lane Electric W Sewer $25.00
- Equestrian Electric $20.00
- Equestrian Electric Double Site $40.00
- Equestrian Nonelectric $15.00
- Group Standard Area Electric $35.00
- Group Standard Area Nonelectric $35.00
- Standard Electric $20.00
- Standard Nonelectric $15.00
Notes:
- Reservations can be made by visiting Recreation.gov.
- Open all year, except for the Northshore Day Use Area which is closed for the season, and will reopen in Spring 2023.
- No motors larger than 7 1/2 horsepower are allowed.
- Campers with horses must reserve sites in the equestrian loops only (HCLE and HCMR) All horses must have proof of current Coggins test maximum outboard allowed on the lake is 7.5 horsepower
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
OUACHITA NATIONAL FOREST - Winding Stair Equestrian Trail
OUACHITA NATIONAL FOREST - Winding Stair Equestrian Trails Loop
OUACHITA NATIONAL FOREST – Horse Thief Spring Trail
Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp for more information.