Arkansas River - Pool 5 camping sites extend across several environmental zones, from dense wooded areas to open waterfront locations. The river system experiences seasonal flood cycles that typically peak between March and June, with water levels fluctuating by 8-15 feet during high water events. Most campgrounds remain operational year-round but maintain flood contingency plans that can affect availability with minimal notice.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Arkansas River offers abundant catfish and bass fishing directly from shoreline sites at Willow Beach. "I would definitely stay again but next time I'm bringing a fishing pole," notes Nicole F., who observed the popular fishing spots along the shoreline.
Barge watching: Campers can observe commercial river traffic from waterfront sites. "We could watch the tug boats with their barges go by. Not many campers here right now so it's quiet," according to Angela G., who stayed at Tar Camp.
Walking trails: Lake Catherine State Park Campground provides hiking options within minutes of camp. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," says Alison C.
Urban exploration: Camping near Little Rock provides access to city attractions via pedestrian bridges. "There is a pedestrian bridge accessed through a security gate that crosses the river and arrives at the Clinton Library and park. It was so nice to stroll through after a day of driving," reports Pam R. from Downtown Riverside RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Maumelle Park receives high marks for generous camping areas. "Spacious sites and beautiful area! Tried to get a water site but they were full. But after arriving we realized that there really aren't any bad sites. We stayed in B14 and had lots of room," according to Brenda L.
Concrete pads: Many campsites feature level concrete pads for easy setup. "The sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!" reports Jo E. from Willow Beach.
Affordable fees: Several Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer significant discounts with appropriate passes. "Large sites, Not piled in on each other like RV parks. It's a clean campground outside the city, can't beat it for the price. Waterfront. Covered picnic benches. 50amp + water," notes Justin M., who paid "$9 a night with America the beautiful pass" at Willow Beach.
River views: Direct water access remains highly valued by campers. "We got lucky with our spot, only 1 direct neighbor. Beautiful view of the Arkansas River," says Ursula at Maumelle Park.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Corps of Engineers campgrounds implement strict evacuation protocols during high water periods. "They evacuated the park due to high water while we were there and we never receive the phone call or a text. The only way we knew is I got a notification from the bank when they refunded our money back," explains Christopher T., who experienced this at Tar Camp.
Wildlife encounters: Snake activity increases during warmer months at riverside sites. "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 in the grass," cautions Jennifer C. from Downtown Riverside RV Park.
Facility maintenance: Bathroom conditions vary significantly across locations. "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. about Willow Beach.
Security measures: Some campgrounds implement nightly gate closures. "They lock a gate every night at the entrance to the campground, however they do give you the code to the padlock," notes Jennifer C. about overnight access procedures.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Little Rock North KOA provides child-friendly facilities. "Nice campground. Typical KOA, which was what we needed! Friendly, clean, helpful!" writes Tashi K.
Water hyacinth blooms: Time visits to coincide with seasonal wildflowers. "The water hyacinths were in full bloom while we were here and are beautiful!! I will be coming back next year!" enthuses Jo E. about the late spring displays at Willow Beach.
Biking opportunities: Several campgrounds feature safe biking areas for children. "It's a very well maintained, quiet and family friendly. Lots of kids riding bikes and being outdoors," observes Jason W. about Maumelle Park.
Hammock spots: Trees at riverside sites provide hammock opportunities. "We had plenty of room to hang our hammocks and play yard games. There is an additional tent pad available if needed," notes Alison C. about Lake Catherine State Park.
Tips from RVers
Long driveways: Saracen Trace RV Park offers spacious back-in sites. "It is a lovely, well-kept park. Lots of wildlife-squirrels everywhere. It's $20 per night. Water and electricity available but no sewer although there is a dump station," according to Steve S.
Covered picnic tables: Many sites include sheltered outdoor dining areas. "Covered picnic table and tall fire ring. Spacious camps. Flat pad," notes Shiloh M. about the amenities at Willow Beach.
Gate code access: RVers should note security procedures at campgrounds with locked entrances. "It's a gated RV park with easy access to downtown Little Rock AR," explains Beth R. about Downtown Riverside RV Park.
Pull-through availability: Several sites accommodate RVs without unhooking towed vehicles. "We have a cyclone 4270 (44' triple axel 5th wheel) which is pushing it for most KOA's. We landed a pull through just behind the office and on way out of curve in road so we slide right in," reports Daniel about Little Rock North KOA.
