Best Tent Camping near Alma, AR

The Ozark National Forest and surrounding public lands near Alma, Arkansas offer diverse tent camping options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Kings River Falls Campground, located north of Alma, provides five tent-only sites with basic amenities in a natural riverside setting. Natural Dam, approximately 30 minutes north of Alma, offers free tent camping beside a scenic waterfall with minimal facilities. The John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground in Barling provides walk-in tent sites with more developed amenities including showers and drinking water.

Most tent campsites in the region feature dirt or gravel pads with varying levels of site preparation. Natural Dam provides primitive tent camping with no drinking water or hookups, though it does offer basic toilet facilities. Kings River Falls requires reservations through their website and provides toilets and picnic tables for tent campers. Campers should bring sufficient water supplies for primitive tent camping locations. Fire rings are available at most established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage at developed campgrounds and limited or no service at backcountry tent sites.

In early spring and fall, tent campers experience fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures at most sites. One visitor to Natural Dam noted that "the waterfall provides good noise cover for the road nearby," making it a peaceful overnight option despite its accessibility. At Kings River Falls Campground, campers reported spacious sites where "you are close enough to see your neighbor campers but couldn't hear them at all." Wildlife sightings are common throughout the area, with deer, various bird species, and occasional snakes observed by tent campers. The region's tent-only and walk-in sites typically offer more seclusion than mixed-use campgrounds. Riverfield Acreage on the White River provides tent campers with exceptional stargazing opportunities, with one visitor reporting they "saw more stars than ever before" due to minimal light pollution.

Best Tent Sites Near Alma, Arkansas (17)

    1. COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground

    4 Reviews
    Barling, AR
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 452-4598

    "The campground is set among tall trees adjacent to the John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake and James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River."

    "Sites are large with flat paved parking pad. I saw a variety of all sizes of rigs and some tents. There are lots of trees, it’s close to the river and very peaceful."

    2. Natural Dam

    5 Reviews
    Natural Dam, AR
    15 miles
    Website

    "We found this quiet spot with a small waterfall on Mountain Fork Creek that has a fairly large (semi-level) gravel parking lot right next to the natural waterfall which gives good noise cover for the road"

    "A little road noise off in the distance but the waterfall all but drowned it out."

    3. Riverfield Acreage- White River

    2 Reviews
    Combs, AR
    32 miles
    +1 (417) 291-3200

    $30 - $100 / night

    "Amazing secluded location. Kids loved having the rock bed and river right beside us. Perfect float trip back to our camp ground (free of charge to have them drop us off at a put in location."

    4. Miracle Mountain Homestead

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    Winslow, AR
    23 miles
    +1 (479) 435-5900

    $50 - $60 / night

    5. Jack Creek Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Blue Mountain, AR
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (501) 321-5202

    "No bathrooms or water but there is a trail that goes directly to the day use area. There are changing rooms, no shower or running water. There was a trash can."

    "It’s primitive but bathrooms are available. It’s small and very popular with the locals. Off season it’s relatively quiet."

    6. Kings River Falls Campground

    4 Reviews
    Pettigrew, AR
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 789-0415

    $27 - $30 / night

    "You are close enough to see your neighbor campers but we couldn’t hear them at all. We had 2 dogs that loved the space too. Not much water right now on the river but will be back in the spring!"

    "Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas."

    7. Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area

    3 Reviews
    Park Hill, OK
    45 miles

    "He knows me well enough to know if I want to turn around and since he is so nice he turned around. I couldn’t find any information regarding the campsite but needed to check it out."

    "There are still signs up showing tent camping, but they are apparently inaccurate. We had a great time and he welcomed us to stick around and hang out for the day, but no more camping."

    8. Eagles Point — Tenkiller State Park

    3 Reviews
    Monroe Lake, OK
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 776-8180

    "The plus to that is despite busy holiday weekends, spring flooding or special event weekends, you can always find a place to pitch a tent.

    The park rangers are friendly."

    "The sites are well spaced and the lake is fantastic. The facility is clean and there is plenty of hiking opportunities. I come back over and over again."

    9. Hickory Flats — Tenkiller State Park

    2 Reviews
    Monroe Lake, OK
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 776-8180

    "Rented a tent site day before through the state website with no trouble, quiet as there weren’t many campers there that night where we were. Beautiful view of the lake in the morning."

    10. Camping Kings

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    Combs, AR
    31 miles

    $20 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Alma, AR

561 Reviews of 17 Alma Campgrounds



Guide to Alma

Tent camping near Alma, Arkansas offers a blend of serene natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tips for tent camping near Alma

  • For a peaceful experience, consider visiting Natural Dam, where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of a nearby waterfall while camping in a quiet, secluded area.
  • If you're looking for a more private setting, Camping Kings provides a secluded spot in the Ozark National Forest, ideal for those wanting to unwind in nature.
  • Be prepared for a primitive experience at Jack Creek Recreation Area, which offers beautiful scenery but limited amenities, making it perfect for those who appreciate a back-to-basics camping trip.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

  • Camping at Natural Dam is free, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers looking for a scenic getaway.
  • At Riverfield Acreage- White River, expect to pay a small fee for a reservable spot, which includes access to a beautiful river setting.
  • For a unique experience, Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area offers free camping along the Illinois River, perfect for those who enjoy fishing and kayaking.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Natural Dam features toilets and showers, providing essential facilities for a comfortable camping experience.
  • At Riverfield Acreage- White River, campers can enjoy picnic tables and firewood, making it easy to cook and relax by the fire.
  • Jack Creek Recreation Area allows campfires and has toilets available, ensuring a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Alma, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Alma, AR is COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Alma, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Alma, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.