Camping sites along the Arkansas River near Terry Lock and Dam operate at elevations around 250 feet above sea level. The river creates a humid subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging 90°F and winter lows around 30°F. Most riverfront campgrounds feature concrete pads for stability during occasional heavy rains that can affect water levels at Terry Lock and Dam.
What to do
Fishing access at dawn and dusk: At Willow Beach, the Arkansas River provides fishing opportunities with the lock system creating varied catch zones. "It's a pretty quiet campground with only 21 spots ran by the Corps of Engineers. I would definitely stay again but next time I'm bringing a fishing pole," notes Nicole F.
Watch river traffic: The Arkansas River serves as a commercial waterway with barges regularly passing through the lock system. At Tar Camp, visitors can observe river operations up close. "So happy to find a site right on the river. We could watch the tug boats with their barges go by," explains Angela G.
Urban exploration via pedestrian bridge: Located near downtown Little Rock, some campgrounds offer direct access to city amenities. "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," shares Pam R.
What campers like
Spacious riverfront sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites along the river. At Maumelle Park, "Spacious sites and beautiful area! We stayed in B14 and had lots of room and the area was great," according to Brenda L.
Value for amenities: Corps of Engineers parks near Terry Lock and Dam offer affordable camping with quality facilities. "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," writes Justin M.
Natural wildlife viewing: The riverfront location attracts diverse wildlife. "Beautiful campground with huge trees for shade. The water hyacinths were in full bloom while we were here and are beautiful!" shares Jo E. at Willow Beach.
What you should know
Gate access considerations: Security measures at Corps of Engineers parks include nightly gate closures. At Toad Suck, "They lock a gate every night at the entrance to the campground, however they do give you the code to the padlock," explains Jennifer C.
Seasonal flooding impacts: River levels can affect campground availability. "The park is low and will be soggy after rain," notes Rod A. about site conditions at Willow Beach.
Variable bathroom facilities: Restroom quality differs between campgrounds. "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," reports Kelly E.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground access: Families appreciate campgrounds with recreation areas. At Toad Suck, "The kids enjoy the playgrounds x 3, walking, plenty of open space, and watching the barges coming down the river. Area real close to town," shares Lona T.
Wildlife awareness: Parents should monitor children in grassy areas. "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.
Consider pet swimming restrictions: Most campgrounds near Terry Lock and Dam require pets to stay leashed near water. At Downtown Riverside RV Park, pet-friendly policies exist but swimming access may be limited. "It's a clean and pleasant place to stay in town along the river. It was quiet and there were loads of things to do," notes William M.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: RV owners appreciate the concrete pads found at many Terry Lock and Dam area campgrounds. "Sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!" reports Jo E. from Willow Beach.
Campground security features: At Little Rock North KOA, security measures help protect vehicles and equipment. "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 Daniel.
Extended stay amenities: For longer visits with pets, seek campgrounds with full hookups. "Pros: Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP), Concrete, level pads, Overlooks the Arkansas River, Large Pavilion, Gated RV park, Easy access to downtown Little Rock AR," lists Beth R.
