Willow Beach offers primitive camping sites near Adona, Arkansas, situated along the Arkansas River with access to fishing docks and boat ramps. Located about 35 miles southeast of Adona, this Army Corps of Engineers facility maintains year-round camping with 12 spacious sites spread out to avoid crowding. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing at multiple locations: The Willow Beach campground provides river access with several fishing spots. "Campground located on the river with beautiful scenic views. Covered picnic table and tall fire ring. Spacious camps. Flat pad," notes Shiloh M., though they caution about limitations: "No clean space to get down a fish from the bank."
Crystal digging excursions: Drive approximately 45 minutes south from Adona to Crystal Ridge RV Park for a unique adventure. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," shares Justin M. Some visitors even find crystals within the campground: "We took the spot up top the hill [upper left corner] and found crystals in our campsite around the fire pit."
Downtown exploration: The close proximity to Little Rock makes camping a convenient base for urban exploration. "Right on the river, this city owned rv park is close to everything. And you can walk across the bridge to the Clinton Library," explains Troy about Downtown Riverside RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many RV sites near Adona, Arkansas feature water access. "Peaceful and quite. Not only is it right on the lake with multiple fishing docks plus a boat ramp, but there is a private fishing pond in the middle of the park as well," explains Bradley B. about Adventure RV.
Level camping spots: Campers frequently mention the quality of site preparation. "This is a pretty campground with huge trees for shade. The sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!" shares Jo E. about Willow Beach. Similarly, at Gold Creek Landing RV Park, sites include "electric, water, and sewer. Not far at all from interstate. Located on Lake Conway."
Nature sounds: Willow Beach creates a natural soundtrack for campers. "The water hyacinths were in full bloom while we were here and are beautiful!!" writes Jo E. Another camper, Jeff R., notes it's "small, remote, and quiet. Situated between the Arkansas River and Willow Lake, every site is waterfront." However, he warns: "Mosquitos are very bad."
What you should know
Varying bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance varies significantly between campgrounds. "Beautiful campsite along the Arkansas River... The only downside is the bathroom/shower rooms. There are four individual ones and they all feel like the heat is on in them when it is 100° here today. The toilet paper is out or almost out in all of them and there is no soap in any of the dispensers," reports Kelly E.
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience highway noise that may affect light sleepers. Morrilton RV Park received this feedback from Steve S.: "We drove through looking for a place to stay. It was a very nice park with full hook-ups, cabins, very clean and well kept... Looked really great except it is right next to I40. LOTS of noise so we decided to move on."
Wildlife encounters: J and J RV Park offers natural settings with associated wildlife. "This park was very peaceful and quiet. You can hear the bullfrogs at night... It is right on a little creek, and there are turkeys somewhere nearby," writes Lynn G. At Willow Beach, Jennifer C. cautions: "We encountered lots of snakes. I shooed a few off the road and they disappeared as soon as they slithered into the grass, so to me it's pretty risky walking around or letting kids play."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation areas: Several camping facilities offer dedicated play spaces. "Willow Beach is small, remote, and quiet. Situated between the Arkansas River and Willow Lake, every site is waterfront. Showers and bathrooms were clean and in good condition. Sites were close but in good repair. Playgrounds were present but closed thanks to Covid," notes Jeff R.
Security considerations: Downtown Riverside RV Park provides added security features. "Gated RV park. Easy access to downtown Little Rock AR," mentions Beth R., making it suitable for families wanting security while camping near urban amenities.
Water activities: Goose Pond Road Camp offers natural swimming opportunities. "Secluded, not hard to find. Gorgeous. Had a great time fishing, enjoying our peace and nature's finest. Rolling hills and beautiful pond and views," shares Michele D., highlighting activities that appeal to families.
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifics: Travelers with RVs looking for sites near Adona, Arkansas should note specific electrical details. At Ivy's Cove RV Retreat, Katherine N. reports: "We lived at this RV park for 5 months while we were house hunting. Great owners. Clean, large showers. Game/exercise room. 5 minutes to anything you need, but still feels secluded."
Water pressure management: J and J RV Park has strong water pressure that requires equipment. "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," writes Josh F., adding an important caution: "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure."
Satellite internet access: Consider site location if you need reliable connectivity. "If you're after satellite internet, be sure to get a spot on the west side of the camp," advises Cultivating Fire L. about J and J RV Park, information particularly valuable for remote workers staying in RVs.
