Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground

For those of us in Oklahoma with a deep love for horses and the great outdoors, Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground in Hodgen is truly a dream come true. Located at Cedar Lake Rd, within the sprawling beauty of the Ouachita National Forest, this campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a dedicated haven for equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Imagine waking up to the crisp morning air, saddling your horse, and heading out onto miles of well-maintained trails that wind through picturesque forests and along a serene lake. As one long-time visitor fondly shared, "I've been going here since I was a kid. Purposed to the love of my life here. And hope to continue the Tradition." This sentiment perfectly captures the enduring appeal and cherished memories created at Cedar Lake.

Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground is renowned for being one of the largest and most accommodating equestrian campgrounds in the Southern Region. It's designed with both horse and rider in mind, offering specialized amenities that make it a truly unique destination. Another happy camper specifically noted, "This is a great place to ride your horse and camp and ride the trails. The camp grounds are well kept as well as the trails." This highlights the commitment to providing a top-tier experience, not just for camping but for the entire equestrian adventure. The combination of well-kept facilities and extensive trail systems sets Cedar Lake apart.

Beyond horseback riding, the broader Cedar Lake Recreation Area, where the campground is situated, offers a wide array of other outdoor activities. Cedar Lake itself, an 86-acre body of water, invites visitors to enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The surrounding pine and oak-covered hills provide a beautiful backdrop for hiking, with a popular three-mile trail circling the lake, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including wild turkeys. This versatility ensures that even non-riders in your group will find plenty to enjoy, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination for families and friends.

The campground's setting within the Ouachita National Forest provides an immersive wilderness experience. This vast forest, covering 1.8 million acres in central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma, is known for its rugged beauty, diverse ecosystems, and extensive trail networks. Being part of this natural wonderland means campers at Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground are truly surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The spacious sites, often with natural separation provided by trees and bushes, contribute to a sense of privacy and tranquility.

For Oklahomans, who cherish our state's natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground represents an ideal blend of specialized facilities and broad outdoor appeal. It's a testament to the fact that exceptional outdoor adventures are available right here in our home state, beckoning us to explore, relax, and make lasting memories.

Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground is located at Cedar Lake Rd, Hodgen, OK 74939, USA. This address places it deep within the scenic Ouachita National Forest, in southeastern Oklahoma. For us Oklahomans, reaching Hodgen typically involves a pleasant drive into the mountainous and heavily forested region of the state, often via US-270/US-59, which runs nearby.

The campground is approximately 12 miles south of Heavener, Oklahoma, a well-known gateway town to this part of the national forest. While the setting is undeniably rustic and immersed in nature, the roads leading to Cedar Lake are generally well-maintained, allowing for relatively easy access for vehicles towing horse trailers and RVs. However, as some visitors have noted, certain access roads within the recreation area can be narrow, requiring caution, particularly for larger rigs. This minor consideration is a small trade-off for the serene environment that awaits.

The location within the Ouachita National Forest means that the campground benefits from the forest's established infrastructure for recreation, including marked trails and consistent management. This ensures that the extensive equestrian trails are well-kept, as confirmed by visitor reviews, enhancing the overall riding experience. While it's certainly a destination designed for getting away from it all, the relative proximity to communities like Heavener provides access to essential supplies and services if needed, striking a balance between wilderness immersion and practical convenience.

The tranquil environment, characterized by tall pines, rolling hills, and the shimmering Cedar Lake, is a direct result of its secluded yet accessible location. For those seeking to escape the noise and embrace the peace of the Oklahoma wilderness, the journey to Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground is well worth it, leading you to a truly special place.

• Campsites with Electric and Water Hookups: Many sites offer the convenience of electrical and water connections, catering to both RV and tent campers seeking modern amenities.
• Basic Campsites: Primitive tent sites are also available for those who prefer a more rustic camping experience without hookups.
• Corrals at Campsites: Specifically designed for equestrian campers, many sites include corrals for safely housing horses, accommodating typically up to two horses per site.
• Curbside Manure Removal: A key amenity for an equestrian campground, simplifying the clean-up process for horse owners.
• Horse Washing Racks: Facilities are available for washing horses after a day on the trails.
• Flush Toilets and Showers: Clean restroom and shower facilities are provided, though hot water availability in showers can sometimes be inconsistent based on reviews.
• Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, and Grills: Each campsite typically includes these standard amenities for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• Dump Station: A convenient facility for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Drinking Water: Accessible drinking water sources are available throughout the campground.

• Extensive Equestrian Trails: Direct access to over 70 miles of marked horseback riding trails within the Winding Stair Mountain system, making it a premier destination for riders.
• Largest Equestrian Campground in the Southern Region: Boasts significant capacity and amenities tailored specifically for horse campers.
• Beautiful Lake Access: Situated on an 86-acre lake perfect for fishing (bass, crappie, catfish), swimming, canoeing, and kayaking, with a boat ramp and fishing piers available.
• Stunning Natural Scenery: Surrounded by tall pines, rolling hills, and the picturesque landscape of the Ouachita National Forest, offering a truly immersive nature experience.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Consistently praised by visitors for its serenity and the ample space between campsites, fostering a sense of seclusion.
• Hiking Opportunities: A beautiful 3-mile perimeter trail around Cedar Lake offers scenic views and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including wild turkeys.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Includes playgrounds and a volleyball court, ensuring entertainment for companions of equestrian campers.
• Well-Maintained Grounds and Trails: Reviews frequently commend the upkeep of both the campsites and the extensive trail system.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is generally open year-round, allowing for seasonal variations in outdoor activities.

Address: Cedar Lake Rd, Hodgen, OK 74939, USA

Phone: (580) 494-6402 (Oklahoma Ranger District, Ouachita National Forest, which operates Cedar Lake)

Mobile Phone: +1 580-494-6402

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, campsite availability, trail conditions, fees, and specific regulations (including Coggins test requirements for horses), it is highly recommended to contact the Ouachita National Forest's Oklahoma Ranger District, which oversees Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground.

Reservations for sites within the Ouachita National Forest are typically made through Recreation.gov, where you can search for "Cedar Lake Recreation Area." It is advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons, given the popularity of this unique destination.

For us Oklahomans who cherish our equestrian traditions and love for the great outdoors, Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground in Hodgen is an unparalleled gem right in our backyard. Its setting within the majestic Ouachita National Forest provides not just a place to camp, but a sprawling playground designed specifically for horseback riding enthusiasts. This isn't just a basic campsite; it's a dedicated facility that understands the needs of riders, offering everything from corrals at your site to convenient manure removal. It's a place where lifelong memories are made, as evidenced by a local who proposed to their love here and hopes to continue the tradition.

What truly makes Cedar Lake suitable for locals is its seamless integration of specialized equestrian facilities with broader recreational opportunities. We appreciate a place where we can bring our horses and explore "well kept" trails for miles, truly immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of southeastern Oklahoma. Yet, it also caters to the whole family, with Cedar Lake itself offering fantastic fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The beautiful 3-mile hiking trail around the lake provides stunning views for those who prefer to explore on foot, ensuring there's something for everyone in your group.

The peaceful and quiet atmosphere, a consistent highlight from visitors, resonates deeply with our desire to escape the noise and find serenity in nature. The spacious, shaded sites offer a genuine sense of privacy, allowing for true relaxation after a day of adventure. For an authentic, well-equipped, and deeply cherished outdoor experience that caters specifically to the equestrian community while offering broad appeal, Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground is undoubtedly a premier destination for any Oklahoman seeking to embrace our state's rich outdoor heritage.

If you're interested in seeing the trails and scenery, you can watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76pWBuR1YCk). This video provides a good visual overview of what makes the Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp so appealing for horse riding enthusiasts.

Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground

Cedar Lake Rd, Hodgen, OK 74939, USA