Camping options near Alma, Arkansas include established campgrounds within the Ozark National Forest and along the Arkansas River. Sites range from 1,800 feet elevation at lakeside facilities to 2,309 feet at White Rock Mountain. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F while summer brings 70-90°F averages with higher humidity levels. Most areas see significant seasonal variation in rainfall, affecting water levels in the Mulberry River and other waterways.
What to do
Water recreation on Mulberry River: At Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures, campers can enjoy various water activities. "We stayed here for a few nights in the spring time. It's right on the river where there is a natural pool," notes one visitor. The site offers equipment rentals for river activities: "You can rent tubes and float the river, fish or rent a buggy to off-road," according to another camper.
Mountain biking trails: COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground offers dedicated trails for cyclists. "There are great trails on site for mountain biking or hiking. I saw deer, a snake, and what looked like a coyote on the trail," writes one reviewer. Mountain biking is particularly popular with a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently.
Fishing access: Several campsites provide river or lake fishing opportunities. At Aux Arc, you can fish directly from your campsite. "Nice boat launch. Large spaces. Plenty of room to fish," notes one reviewer. The campground provides access to Lake Dardanelle, where "Many fishermen out on Lake Dardanelle" during peak seasons.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground receives high marks for site spacing. "Sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery," writes one camper. Another notes that "All sites were level for both campers and tents. Each site had a good table, fire pit and lantern pole."
Less crowded camping options: Some campers prefer the quieter alternatives to popular parks. "The mulberry river is a hidden gem that runs through the Ozarks. It's just a quiet beautiful place to camp...This campground is great! It reminds of a more exclusive campground with limited spaces so it's just a treat to camp somewhere that's not crowded," reports a Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures visitor.
Clean facilities: Many campers note the maintenance standards. "The bathhouse was clean and fully functioning," writes a Lake Fort Smith visitor. At Springhill Campground, a reviewer mentioned "Nice area with many spots that back up to an outlet of the Arkansas River. Great bank fishing! Friendly staff."
What you should know
Road conditions for remote sites: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area requires careful driving. "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that the last hour of the drive is only 20 miles. Make sure to stop for gas! It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other," warns one visitor. Another adds that "Whenever you feel comfortable going over 15 MPH there will be a heavily rutted 180° hairpin turn."
Seasonal closures and conditions: Weather impacts accessibility at several sites. One camper noted at Devil's Den: "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" Another visitor warned about summer conditions at Clear Creek: "The bugs were out of control."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly. At Devil's Den, "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park." Conversely, Springhill Campground offers reliable connections: "Cell service was excellent with AT&T and Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Since direct lake swimming isn't always permitted, families should plan accordingly. At Devil's Den, "Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" Aux Arc Campground doesn't permit swimming, but "bluff hole is 15 minutes away and awesome."
Playground access: Devil's Den State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "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," notes one visitor. Another family mentioned "The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great."
Stock up in advance: Limited supplies are available at most sites. "Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," advises a Devil's Den camper. Most campgrounds have small stores with basics, but selection is limited.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RVers note the terrain can require adjustments. At Springhill Campground, "only about half the sites (in Loop B) were not flat enough for us to get level without having the wheels off the ground." At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, "it was somewhat tight getting a big rig in and out. And the parking spots are pretty close to each other."
Utilities and hook-ups: Full-service sites are limited. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, "We pulled in at midnight. Difficult to see how to pull through some of the spaces." At Lake Fort Smith, a camper advised, "If you need sewer service, I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park."
