The Arkansas River - Pool 5 area offers a versatile camping experience on the Arkansas delta plains, with elevations ranging between 200-300 feet. Located in central Arkansas, this region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters, creating year-round camping opportunities. Primitive sites and yurt accommodations exist within a short drive of major highways.
What to do
Hiking waterfall trails: Falls Branch Trail at Lake Catherine State Park offers family-friendly hiking with rewarding views. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," notes one visitor who found the trail accessible for elementary-aged children.
Kayaking quiet waters: The calm waters near Arkansas River - Pool 5 provide ideal conditions for paddling, especially for beginners. "It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," reports a Lake Catherine camper who rented equipment on-site.
Bird watching: Early morning wildlife viewing rewards patient observers throughout the yurt camping areas near Arkansas River - Pool 5. "We were able to watch numerous birds (pileated woodpeckers) and even saw a swamp rat swimming in the lake (resembles a beaver with a skinny tail)," shares a camper from Cane Creek State Park.
What campers like
Level camping pads: "The camp sites are spaced for privacy and are level for both campers and tents. The facilities are updated and well maintained," explains a Lake Catherine State Park visitor who appreciated the thoughtful site design.
Waterfront access: Shoreline camping sites provide direct water views at select locations. "Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors," reports a family who enjoyed Lake Catherine's waterfront options.
Military history: Camp Robinson offers unique access to Arkansas's military heritage. "Camp Robinson is a training center and is home to the Arkansas National Guard Force along with other military teams. It is 32,000 acres and is in the heart of Little Rock Arkansas," explains a visitor who appreciated the historical significance while yurt camping near Arkansas River - Pool 5.
What you should know
Seasonal bug considerations: Insect activity varies dramatically by season in the Arkansas River basin. "We visited this park twice. The first time it was great. The second time it was unbearable because a hurricane had blown in trillions of 'love bugs'. Our visit was during the bugs' mating season," warns a Cane Creek visitor who recommends avoiding late summer trips.
Halloween popularity: "Halloween brings thousands of visitors each fall. The campsites all decorate for the holiday and everyone wants to see it!" notes a Little Rock AFB FamCamp camper, suggesting advance reservations during this seasonal peak.
Electrical capacity limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on high-draw appliances. "Our neighbors had issues with their electricity because they were trying to run an air fryer, and it kept throwing the breaker. We ran our box fan without any issues," shares a camper who stayed at Cane Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Hammock opportunities: Many sites include suitable trees for hammocks, adding sleeping options. "The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors. There were trees to hang our hammocks," mentions a visitor to Lake Catherine who enjoyed the flexible setup.
Playground access: Little Rock North KOA offers play areas within walking distance of most sites. "Very nice KOA with super friendly staff, lots of trees, little store with ice cream. The space itself is level and has a concrete pad for the picnic table," reports a satisfied family camper.
Water safety planning: Shoreline access varies by campground and site. "You have to walk through thick brush on a slope to reach the water. My husband mostly chose to walk down to the fishing pier and docks. It was about a two minute walk away from our site," notes a Cane Creek visitor, suggesting parents should scout water access before setting up camp.
Tips from RVers
Big rig considerations: While many Arkansas River - Pool 5 campgrounds advertise big rig access, site angles can be challenging. "Easy access for a KOA, 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," explains a JB's RV Park visitor who navigated their oversized rig successfully.
Site slope assessment: Some sites have uneven sections that affect leveling. "It was tight and sloped on the far back end, but was fine for us. Would've been an issue if we did need to unhook for an emergency," notes a Little Rock North KOA camper, suggesting RVers inspect sites thoroughly upon arrival.
City proximity advantages: "This site is ideal to visit Little Rock since it is in the heart of the city. It is located in a residential area and away from the interstate," explains a Camp Robinson RV Park visitor, highlighting the convenience for RVers wanting to explore urban attractions while maintaining a home base.
