The Arkansas River at Terry Lock and Dam offers a central location for camping between Hot Springs and Little Rock. Situated at approximately 250 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers with average July temperatures reaching 93°F. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full amenity cabins and yurts with most facilities requiring advance booking during peak season (April-October).
What to do
Hiking trails with waterfalls: Lake Catherine State Park Campground features several hiking trails with natural water features. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," shares one visitor at Lake Catherine State Park Campground.
Kayaking on calm waters: Rent kayaks directly at the lake for exploring the waterways. "It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," notes a camper about their experience at Lake Catherine State Park.
Military history exploration: Visit the Arkansas National Guard Museum near Little Rock for a unique educational experience. "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 reviewer of the area.
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Campers appreciate sites with water views and enough space for outdoor activities. "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. There were trees to hang our hammocks," notes a visitor at Lake Catherine State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "Shower house was always clean. Loved the dog park! We are just starting to travel with our 2 boxers and was so nice to have an area for them to run a bit," mentions a camper who stayed at Hot Springs National Park KOA.
Level campsites: RVers particularly appreciate the even terrain for easy setup. "Good spot, close to bath rooms/shower house/cafe. Pretty level - just 1 leveling block was all we needed for our pop-up," shares a Hot Springs KOA camper.
What you should know
Proximity to interstates: Some campgrounds offer convenient access for overnight stays. "This was a nice little KOA with lots of travelers near I-40," notes a traveler, while another mentions, "Far enough away from highway to to be peaceful but not so far that you are going out of your way," about Little Rock North KOA.
Variable site privacy: Site spacing and privacy differs significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are very close, no privacy. Each spot has a very bright 'porch' light that is on until Midnight," warns one camper about a local KOA.
Yurt camping near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam: For those interested in yurt accommodations, advance reservations are essential, especially during summer months. "We arrived late at night, so didn't get to see much. Very easy to navigate the park. The staff was EXTREMELY friendly and kind!" shares a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. "Lots of amenities- cafe, fishing pond, small general store, playground and off leash dog area," points out a visitor at Hot Springs National Park KOA.
Kid-friendly hiking options: Choose trails rated for families with children. "We took my nieces on a weekend trip in our camper to Lake Catherine State Park... We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old)," recommends a family camper.
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, seek out campgrounds with water access. "We enjoyed the hiking trails and rented a few kayaks. It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm," shares a visitor at Lake Catherine State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many campsites require minimal leveling equipment. "Nice level, cement, pull through spots," notes a camper about Little Rock North KOA.
Check pull-through accessibility: Some sites have challenging angles for larger rigs. "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," shares an RVer at Little Rock North KOA.
Late arrival protocols: Many campgrounds offer convenient check-in procedures for after-hours arrivals. "We entered after hours and paid in the morning. We stayed at spot 17 and paid around $53. All hookups and showers for free and very very clean," reports a visitor at Hot Springs National Park KOA.
