Riverfront camping sites along the Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam provide water views with varying amenities. The river system features a series of locks and dams that maintain water levels for both recreation and navigation. Sites typically range from 15 to 80 feet in length with most campgrounds experiencing summer highs averaging 90-95°F and winter lows around 30-35°F.
What to do
Fishing access at the lock: Toad Suck Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities directly on the river. "Great access to water. Good boat ramp, picnic tables and RV sites. Very clean, bring your mosquito repellent," notes Jason W. about Toad Suck.
Wildlife observation: Watch for native birds and animals along the riverbanks. At Willow Beach, campers can spot various wildlife. "Water hyacinths were in full bloom while we were here and are beautiful!! I will be coming back next year!" shares Jo E.
River barge watching: Observe commercial traffic on the Arkansas River. "We could watch the tug boats with their barges go by. Not many campers here right now so it's quiet," mentions Angela G. about Tar Camp. Some sites offer unobstructed views of the lock operations.
What campers like
Spacious riverside campsites: Maumelle Park features large sites with good separation. "Our 34 ft class A FDDS opened right onto a silty patch that forced us to navigate our entry into our motorhome," reports Stevann H., indicating the terrain considerations at waterfront sites.
Well-maintained facilities: Recent renovations have improved several campgrounds. "Small campground with only 21 spots ran by the Corps of Engineers. It's very quiet. The campground is well maintained," shares Nicole F. about Willow Beach.
Level concrete pads: Downtown Riverside RV Park offers stable platforms for easy setup. "All the spots had large concrete pads," notes William M. The park also features "Concrete, level pads" and "Overlooks the Arkansas River," according to Beth R.
What you should know
Flooding potential: Low-lying areas may close during high water periods. "The park itself is beautiful other than the volunteer camps at the gate house. They evacuated the park due to high water while we were there," explains Christopher T. about Tar Camp.
Limited sewer connections: Most Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam campgrounds offer water and electric hookups but not full sewer at individual sites. "50 Amp electric, water no sewer hook up but dump station. Spaced spread out not crowded. Campground is low and will be soggy after rain," notes Rod A.
Insect considerations: Lake Catherine State Park and other waterfront areas require preparation for bugs. "Lots of bugs due to being near the river," warns Shiloh M. about Willow Beach, while Jennifer C. advises, "It is near water so there are a lot of mosquitos, so come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Many riverside parks include recreation areas. "The kids enjoy the playgrounds x 3, walking, plenty of open space, and watching the barges coming down the river," says Lona T. about Toad Suck.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for encounters with local fauna. "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.
Security features: Some parks implement additional safety measures. "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 Willow Beach campground security protocols.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Look for pull-through sites at Little Rock North KOA for larger rigs. "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," recommends Daniel.
Leveling challenges: Many riverfront sites require adjustment. "The sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!" exclaims Jo E. about Willow Beach, though experiences vary by specific site and campground.
Reservation timing: "Thanks to those who cancelled at the last minute! It was very kind of you to cancel the reservation to allow others a spot for the night!" shares Jennifer K., indicating the benefit of checking for late cancellations when sites appear fully booked.
