Nearby campgrounds and RV parks in Arkadelphia, Arkansas offer options ranging from lakeside sites to full-service facilities with easy interstate access. The area sits at approximately 250 feet elevation in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, with cypress-lined lakes and forested terrain creating natural boundaries between camping areas. Seasonal flooding sometimes affects waterfront sites during spring rains, requiring advance planning during wet months.
What to do
Canoeing and kayaking on the Caddo River: Visitors at Caddo River Access RV Park enjoy direct river access for water activities. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," notes Jessica D. The outfitter has quality boats available for rental, and campsites are strategically positioned near the drop spot.
Fishing at nearby lakes: The region offers multiple fishing opportunities with ample shoreline access. Knights Landing RV Resort features three stocked ponds for anglers. "Knights Landing is very well kept. It is surrounded by three ponds full of catfish that the owners allowed us to fish in," shares Darrell C. Access to boat ramps is available at several locations within 30 minutes of Arkadelphia.
Crystal mining day trips: Located about an hour from Arkadelphia, Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine provides a unique opportunity for treasure hunters. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals... we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," reports Justin M. Some campers have even found crystals within their campsites around fire pits.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the region prioritize cleanliness. At Leisure Landing RV Park, "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly. They have a dogpark!" writes Nicole C. Several campgrounds feature recently renovated bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Friendly management: Personal attention from staff enhances the camping experience throughout the region. "Owners are super nice people that seem willing to work with us on anything. Even offered us popsicles after biking here!" shares Jacob W. about his stay at Arkadelphia Campground. Similarly, J and J RV Park visitors frequently mention the owner's helpfulness and friendliness.
Convenient locations: J and J RV Park offers both natural beauty and practical accessibility. "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," reports Josh F. Many campgrounds feature similar strategic locations near attractions.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds near interstates experience traffic noise. "Be warned that the campsite is right off a highway bridge so a decent amount of traffic through at all times," notes Suzsan M. about Caddo River Access RV Park. Travelers seeking quieter experiences should request sites furthest from highways or choose more secluded campgrounds.
Limited availability during race season: Hot Springs area RV parks fill quickly during horse racing events at Oaklawn. "The campground was decent, but my wife and I went to the area to dig for crystals which we found," explains Don N. about prioritizing specific activities when choosing campgrounds. Making reservations well in advance is particularly important during spring racing season.
Internet connectivity varies: Internet access differs significantly between campgrounds. "The internet connection is the best we have experienced. All the equipment was new," shares Darrell C. about Knights Landing RV Resort. Other campgrounds report more limited connectivity: "WiFi was terrible. People are kind," notes Stacy W. about one Hot Springs area park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek-side camping spots: Treasure Isle R.V. Park and similar waterfront locations offer natural entertainment for children. "Very nice and clean park. Nice and quite, right on the Ouachita River / lake Hamilton. Very friendly and helpful staff," writes Bob R. Children can safely explore shallow creek areas while remaining visible from campsites.
Consider cabin options for mixed groups: Many RV parks offer cabin rentals for non-RV families. "My kids rented a cabin and it was great," reports Steve S. about Treasure Isle R.V. Park. Cabins provide comfortable accommodations for family members who prefer not to tent camp, while still allowing everyone to stay together.
Check pool availability seasonally: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools during warmer months. "They have a pool and very clean bathhouse and laundry facility!" Jacob W. mentions about Arkadelphia Campground. Pool availability typically runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with specific hours posted at each facility.
Tips from RVers
Level sites with adequate space: Hot Springs Arkansas Finish Line RV Park receives high marks for site quality. "Everything is awesome. Sites are in pristine condition. Managers are so friendly and helpful. Located in Hot Spring proper. Easy access to everything," shares Erich H. Level sites with concrete or compacted gravel pads reduce setup time and enhance stability.
Utility connections and pressure: Water pressure variations occur at some rv parks near Arkadelphia, Arkansas. "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure," advises Josh F. Experienced RVers suggest bringing pressure regulators and surge protectors for all equipment connections.
Big rig navigation considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Be careful on the road in. It's a little bumpy but it evident they do try to maintain it. It also has two turns that you want to take wide," warns Sarah J. about Cloud Nine RV Park. Larger rigs should call ahead to confirm accessibility and turning radius requirements.
