Camping in Arkansas

Chock-full of scenic natural beauty and breathtaking geological diversity, camping in Arkansas is an experience hard to forget. Campgrounds can be found on top of magnificent mountain ranges, sparkling lakeshores, and nearly anywhere in between. Known as “The Natural State,” Arkansas boasts two mountain ranges, three national forests, 600,000 acres of lakes, and 9,000 miles of streams and rivers. In addition to numerous camping and backpacking opportunities, Arkansas is long famous for its hunting and fishing scene. So lace up your boots and get ready for an unparalleled getaway camping in Arkansas!

Take an extraordinary escape to the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas in Eureka Springs. The entire city is on the National Register of Historic Places with its carefully preserved Victorian Buildings and unique architecture built around the city’s natural springs. Numerous campgrounds near Eureka Springs offer campers an opportunity to get up close with nature while staying within reach of the city’s curvy hills and winding streets free of traffic lights.

Just south of Eureka Springs lies the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, dedicating 459 acres to exotic cats. The sanctuary is home to tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. Animal lovers can enjoy guided habitat tours and open discovery areas daily.

Just over an hour from Little Rock, AR, sits the largest lake in Arkansas. Renowned for its scenic beauty and clear waters, Lake Ouachita is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita provides campers with ample water sports opportunities, including swimming, scuba diving, and angling. The Lake Ouachita State Park also offers scenic trails, two swimming areas, and a marina with boat rentals and fishing supplies.

Embark on a gorgeous trip through The Natural State. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Arkansas along the way.

Best Camping Sites in Arkansas (718)

    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    1. Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    102 Reviews
    609 Photos
    625 Saves
    Adona, Arkansas

    The campgrounds feature a total of 125 campsites (including 26 pull-through sites). Thirty-five of the sites—the Class AAA sites—have 30 and 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. The 90 Class B sites offer 30 amp electrical and water hookups. All sites are reservable. Campsites are divided into four campground areas. Each includes a modern bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets. Area "A" is near Lake Bailey and include sites along the lakeshore. Areas "B," "C," and "D" are located on the south side of Ark. 154 in wooded settings.

    Other campsite choices in the main camping area include a 44-unit Rally-style Area with 20 amp electrical service available for camping clubs.

    A trailer dump station is centrally located near the Rally-style camping area.

    Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den State Park Campground

    2. Devil's Den State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    428 Photos
    519 Saves
    Winslow, Arkansas

    Devil’s Den includes 17 cabins with kitchens and fireplaces and 6 camper cabins. The park also offers 135 campsites (44 Class AAA, 4 Class B, 13 Class C, 24 Class D [no hookups], eight hike-in [tent only], and 42 sites with hookups in the horse camp that includes a bathhouse and access to the horse trails). The park’s cafe is open seasonally. The pool is open in summer only. Also on-site is a group camp, standard pavilion, playground, store, and meeting room.

    Join park interpreters on hikes along trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail and for a variety of programs and special events year-round, like the Ozark Mountain Bike Festival held annually in the spring.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    3. Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    280 Photos
    389 Saves
    Jones Mill, Arkansas

    This peaceful park makes great camping near Little Rock and is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The only full-service marina on the lake is here at the park and open in the summertime for bait, snacks/drinks, and fuel. Boat rentals are available year-round. The park also includes a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, and a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall.

    The park has 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. There are also many native stone and wood buildings on-site. The history of these structures dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round. Guided horseback rides are offered seasonally.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    4. Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    72 Reviews
    200 Photos
    413 Saves
    Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

    Overview

    Gulpha Gorge campground is a tree lined retreat nestled on Gulpha Creek just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row. Open all year, the campground features 44 campsites all suitable for RVs and tents. This popular spot is the ideal base camp for all of your Hot Springs adventures and tends to fill up quickly, even in the fall and winter. Reservations are recommended.

    Recreation

    Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row. The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.

    Natural Features

    Sit back and relax to the sounds of adjacent Gulpha Gorge Creek under the canopy of towering trees while being serenaded by the local winged inhabitants and you just may forget you are so close to downtown Hot Springs National Park. Enjoy a stunning hike to Bathhouse Row with mountain-top views along the way. Dip your toes in Gulpha Gorge Creek or stretch out on the cool grass to enjoy the breeze while planning a visit to one of the stunning spas on historic Bathhouse Row.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (501) 620-6715.

    Nearby Attractions

    Gulpha Gorge campground is just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row.

    Charges & Cancellations

    __Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 72 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Tom Sawyer's RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tom Sawyer's RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tom Sawyer's RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tom Sawyer's RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tom Sawyer's RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Tom Sawyer's RV Park

    5. Tom Sawyer's RV Park

    55 Reviews
    150 Photos
    200 Saves
    West Memphis, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground

    6. Lake Ouachita State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    230 Photos
    396 Saves
    Mountain Pine, Arkansas

    This recreation area is part of Ouachita Lake

    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park

    7. Maumelle Park

    45 Reviews
    137 Photos
    182 Saves
    Maumelle, Arkansas

    Overview

    Maumelle Park Map Customer Comment Card Special Event Application HERE All Sites in the UAMS Medical Loop MUST have Approval from a Park Ranger and a Physician Prior to Making Reservations.

    Recreation

    The Nuttall Trail runs through the park, offering visitors hiking opportunities. Anglers will find a selection of crappie, bream, hybrid bass, white bass and more. A boat ramp is provided for campers to enjoy the river.

    Natural Features

    The campground is set on the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, a series of navigation pools used to help ships navigate upstream toward Oklahoma. The Arkansas River is one of the Mississippi's largest tributaries, flowing 1,450 miles from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, through to Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Wintering eagles can be seen in large numbers along the Arkansas River. Most of these eagles migrate from Canada and the U.S. Great Lakes region.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Pinnacle Mountain State Park is just two miles from the campground. The 13 mountain trails here range from easy to strenuous, and each one promises captivating scenery. They also have several new mountain biking trails. See Pinnacle Mountain State Park for more information. Two Rivers Park is a city park that is also two miles form the campground. This park hase numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as, a bridge that connect the trails to the vast Arkansas River Trail. See Two Rivers Park and Arkansas River Trail

    Charges & Cancellations

    Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center For specific information about fees and cancellations/Changes please visit: Rules and Regulations

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Village Creek State Park Campground

    8. Village Creek State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    196 Photos
    178 Saves
    Colt, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    9. COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    43 Reviews
    53 Photos
    50 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Overview

    Crystal Springs Campground, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape.Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Facilities

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres.

    Nearby Attractions

    Part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs just north of the lake. Here, hikers and mountain bikers can explore an array of breathtaking views in the Ouachita Mountains.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Roaring River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roaring River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roaring River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roaring River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roaring River State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Roaring River State Park Campground

    10. Roaring River State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    96 Photos
    233 Saves
    Eagle Rock, Missouri

    Roaring River State Park is unique on so many levels! With a deep, narrow valley surrounded by a striking and rugged landscape, Roaring River State Park is one of Missouri’s most popular state parks. Located in the southwest Ozark hills, Roaring River State Park is one of three state parks stocked with rainbow trout and is a great place for camping near Bentonville. Eager anglers flock to the park year round to try and catch their lunker trout. The scenic setting makes everything more fun. The park has seven hiking trails, a swimming pool for cooling off, picnic tables for a leisurely lunch and a nature center to learn about the park. For those wanting to spend the night, the park has many options. The campground has basic, electric and sewer/electric/water site. Rustic cabins are scattered throughout the park or guests may choose a modern room at the Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center. The center also boasts a full-service restaurant.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 718 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping in Arkansas

Recent Reviews in Arkansas

3165 Reviews of 718 Arkansas Campgrounds


  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Springhill
    Nov. 20, 2024

    Springhill

    Disappointed

    Site is still charging campers full price for extended camping(14days) was told showers and restrooms available then suddenly they closed the facilities without notice. Was helping disabled person and his family who is currently homeless with the campsite and he now needing to look for somewhere else to go because there is nowhere for them to shower or use the restroom when needed.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Creek Campground
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Twin Creek Campground

    Nice stay for one night

    We decided to stay here for an overnight after being in Hot Springs area.
    There was only one other camper. The fee is $14 a night, not the $12 listed on sign. There is a pay kiosk that takes cards The campground was very clean and had many many trash cans.
    Bathrooms clean and had running water and flush toilets. Cell signal was poor with Verizon. Found an opening and Starlink worked great.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from J and J RV Park
    Nov. 18, 2024

    J and J RV Park

    Great small campground along a stream

    Great value for the price, $48 cash/$53 card. No online reservations. Owner is really nice and helpful. Clean facilities. Quiet.  Sites along the stream have a great view and a great place to sit and enjoy nature. About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs. Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shores Lake
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Shores Lake

    Quiet stay in a hardwood forest

    Camped in site #10 in mid-November 2024. Site 10 is non-electric; paid $7.50/night with senior pass. Overall clean campground, well maintained and managed, in pretty hardwood forest. Not busy during my stay. Sites have picnic tables, tent pads and clean metal fire rings. Site 10 was level. The campground includes a clean restroom/shower house, one clean vault toilet at the far end of the campground, trash dumpsters and drinking water; all of these facilities and services were available during my stay in November. Campground can accommodate tents, camper vans, car camping and RVs. Some sites are electric. There are no water and sewer hookups. Campground road is paved as well as Highway 215 from I-40 accessing the campground. Sites are mostly shaded, but there is no privacy between sites. Shores Lake trailhead is located in a parking area in the campground. Day use area nearby with good fishing in Shores Lake. Campground hosts Donna and Eddie were wonderful. I really liked this campground.

  • Logan R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest

    Overland site

    First off the coordinates are 34.80858, -93.07552 This campsite has amazing 360 sunsets and sunrises. A bit rocky for tent campers but should have no trouble finding a spot for a 4 man tent. There is also limited level ground but not bad. This site has room for 2-3 rigs. If ya needed to squeeze 4 you definitely could. There is a good breeze as it is on the top of the ridge which would be great in summer but can get a bit nippy in the colder seasons so keep that in mind. Nice sound of the breeze in the trees to put you right to sleep and extremely rare traffic so minimal reminders of society!!! I’ve rambled a bit but this site genuinely ticked all the boxes for me. Made for a beautiful evening.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Beaver RV Park and Campground
    Nov. 11, 2024

    Beaver RV Park and Campground

    $2 for 5 min shower!!!

    The good: Beautiful location. Limited access due to 11’ 6” bridge to enter location. Not near Passion Play as indicated on Apple Maps. Double check location before you book!

    The Bad: $2 for 5 min shower?! Campsite price, $40, doesn’t include shower.  No sewer hookups. Also serves as public boat ramp. Random people coming and going. Women’s toilet is a pit toilet, (outhouse)!

  • Forest K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cox Creek Lake Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Cox Creek Lake Campground

    Quite little campground

    Nice little campgrounds, quiet, and peaceful. You'll enjoy the lake on your kayak while you fish and watch the sunset or sunrise. Not all campsites are level, only about 4 of them, but the other won't take much to level out your camper. There are 4 pavilions, and most sites have picnic tables. Clean bath and showers area, also handicap accessible.

  • Forest K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckville - Lake Ouachita
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Buckville - Lake Ouachita

    Nice boon-docking area

    Our family has camp here the last 4 years, sometimes twice a year. We like it for the family and grandkids because of the swimming area and pit toilets, which allows us to stay for about 3-4 days at time, you need to bring your own toilet paper and water. There used to be a store a couple of miles up the road from here, but the last time we camp, it was closed due to the spouse passing away. If you like boon docking, Kayaking, and fishing in a quite area, this is the place for you. Bring your Kayak and go Island hoping!

  • Twyana S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Craighead Forest Park
    Oct. 30, 2024

    Craighead Forest Park

    Beautiful park with lots of extras

    Camping area has concrete parking pads with electric and water hook ups. Bath house in the camping area includes showers and laundry. Very clean and well kept.

    The park has: A concert walking/ running/ biking path with workout stations located along the path. Two baseball fields and a basketball ball court. A discussion golf course. Three play grounds for children.

    Everything is well kept and clean.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Springhill
    Oct. 30, 2024

    Springhill

    Great for the weekend!

    Fantastic park to bring the kids and ride the bike trails or fish. Several pavilions and playgrounds. Clean campground. NO SEWER at campsites which is the only reason for the 4 stars. We stayed 7 days and had to move to pump out twice during our stay, so it was slightly inconvenient. Other than that, we loved it and will be back for shorter visits!

  • Twyana S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pocahontas City Park
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Pocahontas City Park

    Beautiful park & fishing

    This park is in the city of Pocahontas, Arkansas. It has 7 full service concrete parking pads. A very nice boat launch & plenty of parking for trucks with boat trailers. Park has a bath house, but it's very old and not too clean. Bath house needs to be replaced. Park also has a nice basketball court & playground. It has a very peaceful vibe.

  • Steven A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Landing RV Park
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Leisure Landing RV Park

    Don't Bother

    Gravel parking lot with painted stripes, a patch of grass growing under the picnic table, and full hookups. Be sure to back in centered, others are complaining about hitting their slide outs. Watch your step. One of the long-term residents isn't picking up their dog waste. The nicest spot in the whole place is the little fenced-in dog spot overlooking the canal that makes its way out to the lake you can't see from here.

  • Jeff P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    Our new favorite camping grounds

    This state park is one of the hardest to book a camping site for a last-minute camping trip. After we finally secure our spot, it’s easy to see why it’s so hard to secure at a moment's notice.

    Please be sure to visit the Petite Jean Coffeehouse which is located before the entrance to the park.

  • Twyana S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Bear Creek

    Primitive beauty

    This park is a wooded area beside a lake. Campsites have a picnic table & grill. No electricity or water. No concrete parking pads. However almost all sites have a view of the lake. Beautiful views. Two pit toilets were clean & smelled ok.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pecan Grove RV Park
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Pecan Grove RV Park

    Disappointing

    Can’t see the lake. Right on the highway so there is lots of noise. Mostly a long-term park where many of the rigs are not in very good shape.

  • David B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Edge RV Park
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Rivers Edge RV Park

    Hwy’s Edge RV Park

    This Was An Ok, basic Spot To Overnight; pretty expensive at $60/night, but they did give either Sr discount or veteran discount of 10%. This is certainly not a resort, and is at least a quarter mile from White River, feeding Beaver Lake. Pretty Large RV PK, With Many Permanent Residents. No sign at entrance, and we passed it by winding around a neighborhood of houses that was between the RV Park and the true water’s Edge.

    Verizon signal was good at 3 jiggers; and stronger than their wifi. We were about 100 yds from nice new looking bathhouse which had wifi antenna with good reception at bathhouse but weak at our camper. Supposedly there are repeaters to amplify the WiFi signal, but they were not operational. We got by streaming YouTube TV through our Verizon Hotspot on our phones. We had to buy an extra sewer hose to connect to sewer, as it was placed so far toward entrance of the site, rather than toward rear of site where electric and water were appropriately placed. Nice courteous staff. We were on a level, narrow concrete pad; ~half of sites were gravel; no picnic table.

  • april W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Rock North KOA
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Little Rock North KOA

    It works for a pinch

    Arrived in town looking for somewhere to tent camp, found here. It works for a night Pros: Clean bathrooms Friendly evening staff and wife is friendly Has a small store with basics Wifi Laundry area Cons: Quite noisy with city noise Camp store is expensive ( 2 Gatorade, a pack of. Hot dogs, buns and ketchup came up to 13 dollars...and. Mustard was almost 6 dollars.... Tent area is more of a storage area We had it to ourselves, which was nice, but, felt as if we were the unwanted guest in the park. At $38 dollars a night, we felt it's not really worth what they ask.

  • Devin R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cane Creek Recreation Area
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Cane Creek Recreation Area

    Beautiful Sunset

    Be sure to catch the sunset here. This has a beautiful setting even though it has been basically abandoned by the COE. The people who stay here must really care about the place because my site was very clean. Do not. I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you’ll be fine. There seemed to be some long-timers camped there together and their dogs barked quite often during the day, but they must have taken them in at night or my van did well with blocking out the noise. My site wasn’t 100% flat but I just slept with my feet going on the downhill slope. Also, be aware if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Greeson Self Creek Jim Wylie Recreation Area and Campground
    Oct. 21, 2024

    COE Lake Greeson Self Creek Jim Wylie Recreation Area and Campground

    Wooded With View of Lake

    This site was difficult to find. It is listed on the highway with a sign but on GPS it wasn't listed. The proper address is 4101 US-70, Kirby, AR 71950.

    You book through recreation.gov but it is actually listed under Self Creek campgrounds. When booking just lok for sites listed on LOOP JW.

    This is a good site for tents, campervans, and smaller rvs. There are sites for larger rvs but not many. It may be difficult to find a level spot if you're in a larger vehicle. There is only one site directly on the water. The remainder are on the wooded hill but still have a beautiful view of the lake.

    The bathhouse has flush toilets and showers but is very old. They maintain it well and it is cleaned regularly. The toilets are perfectly fine but the showers are just old and a bit icky. I would suggest for showers going to the Daisy State Park. They have newer and nicer showers.

  • Jonathan P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylamore Creek Camp
    Oct. 21, 2024

    Sylamore Creek Camp

    The ABSOLUTE WORST STAFF ON THE PLANET

    While it was pretty last year (the reason it was my first pick this year) the owner uses Marissa, Jamie and Serena as his own personal shield to avoid taking responsibility for his business, and all of them are rude as all get out. Marissa promised multiple times that the owner would call me, and kept changing when exactly that would be. Two days later, I have NEVER heard from him, despite him being fully aware he needed to contact me. I ended up having the credit card company cancel the charge.

    And omg, the shower house. Bring a space heater. It's an open air shed with exposed pvc and no drain. I can't imagine how it operates in the winter.

    If you come in October, expect loud screaming, gun shots and chainsaws for THREE HOURS at night from one of their events your probably won't be told about til you arrive. Greg deserves to have this place fail.

  • Twyana S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Self Creek
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Self Creek

    Lots of Choices

    Large campground with lots of different areas to camp. They have sites in the woods, next to the water, and out in the open.

    The bathrooms were clean and well maintained.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Daisy State Park Campground

    Very Nice but Busy

    They have a lot of campgrounds but most are very close. Not a bad thing for those social butterflies but a little tighter than I like. Their bathrooms and showers are really nice. Clean and spacious.

    It's definitely worth a visit but make sure to book well in advance. They sell out quick.



Guide to Arkansas

Camping in Arkansas offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With stunning landscapes, serene lakes, and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, solo adventurers, and RV enthusiasts alike.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the trails at places like Mount Nebo State Park. One reviewer said, “The trails were nicely kept and the waterfall we hiked to on Lizard Trail was so picturesque!”
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Ouachita State Park, you can fish right from your campsite. A visitor mentioned, “The water is crystal clear and we could swim right from our campsites!”
  • Cavern Tours: Don’t miss the chance to visit Blanchard Springs Caverns. A camper shared, “The cavern tour is a must-see; it’s one of the best around.”

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One person said about Petit Jean State Park, “I found everything to be absolutely amazing! Beautiful, stunning, and can’t wait to visit again!”
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A review for Gulpha Gorge Campground noted, “Cleanest shower house I've ever seen.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the room to spread out. One visitor at Lake Catherine State Park mentioned, “The spaces are so far apart you can enjoy your own spot without interruption.”

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Petit Jean State Park noted, “Just no signal. Also a little expensive for me but others may not think so!”
  • Seasonal Crowds: Some parks can get busy during peak seasons. A visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park warned, “This place is really popular in summer time, so expect to book a year in advance.”
  • Amenities Vary: Not all campgrounds have the same facilities. A review for Gulpha Gorge Campground mentioned, “Clean restrooms, no showers.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One family at Catherine's Landing said, “Plenty of room for the kids to ride bicycles and a direct, private access at the campground to Lake Catherine for a little family kayaking.”
  • Pack for Activities: Bring gear for fishing, hiking, and swimming. A camper at Lake Catherine State Park mentioned, “Our site on the lake was very beautiful and every site on the water has a small dock you can fish off.”
  • Plan for Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at dusk. One camper at Willow Beach warned, “Locals warned us to beware of mosquitoes at sunset.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A review for Lake Ouachita State Park noted, “The sites are all sitting on a serene lake. The spaces are so far apart you can enjoy your own spot without interruption.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A visitor at John F Kennedy Campground mentioned, “73 sites with electric, 13 sites with water and electric.”
  • Be Ready for Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have showers or sewer hookups. A camper at Gulpha Gorge Campground said, “No showers, but clean restrooms.”

Camping in Arkansas is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for everyone. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, there's something for you in this beautiful state.

Frequently Asked Questions