Top Tent Camping near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam, AR (9)

    Camper-submitted photo from Brookwood Village
    Camper-submitted photo from Brookwood Village
    Camper-submitted photo from Brookwood Village
    Camper-submitted photo from Brookwood Village
    Camper-submitted photo from Brookwood Village
    Camper-submitted photo from Brookwood Village

    1.

    Brookwood Village

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    4 Saves
    Sherwood, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Freeze Wattensaw  WMA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Freeze Wattensaw  WMA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Freeze Wattensaw  WMA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Freeze Wattensaw  WMA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Freeze Wattensaw  WMA
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Freeze Wattensaw  WMA

    3.

    Mike Freeze Wattensaw WMA

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    61 Saves
    McRae, Arkansas

    There are 38 primitive campsites maintained by area personnel.

    There are approximately 270 acres of old beaver ponds that provide valuable habitat for furbearers and waterfowl. There are 2024 acres of old fields managed on a rotational basis by control burning, bush hogging, disking and planting. There is 14,419 acres of timber, primarily oak and hickory; 96 acres in streams and 113 acres in ponds and lakes. The main streams include; Wattensaw Bayou, Hurricane Creek, Miller Creek, Clark Creek, Barkley Branch and Bell Branch. There are numerous small ponds, 9 ponds created by removing dirt for I-40 construction and Webb and Mooreês lake which are oxbow lakes off the White River on the east side of the area

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ste Marie Park

    4.

    Ste Marie Park

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    3 Saves
    Pine Bluff, Arkansas

    Overview

    Sainte Marie Park sits on the banks of Lake Langhofer and the Arkansas River by Pool 3 Lock and Dam. Whether boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking or hosting a group event, Sainte Marie has facilities to accommodate a range of activities.

    Recreation

    The campground is popular among fishermen. There is excellent catfish fishing in the tail-waters of Joe Hardin Lock and Dam as well as Emmitt Sanders Lock and Dam at the upstream end of Pool 3. Anglers often catch bass, crappie and bream. Hunting is available in nearby forests, and there is duck hunting on the waterways. On shore, families enjoy picnicking and using the playground.

    Facilities

    Sainte Marie offers two reservable group picnic shelters that can each accommodate up to 75 people. There are no electric hookups, but drinking water is provided. Additional amenities include grills, a courtesy dock and fishing dock.

    Natural Features

    The park is in a forested area along the riverfront, close to the rolling fields of cotton farms. It is 193 feet above sea level; winters are generally mild and summer temperatures reach the upper 90s with high humidity. Red fox are frequently seen in the park, and numerous species of waterfowl live in the water and along the shores.

    Nearby Attractions

    The City of Pine Bluff is the home for the Arkansas Railroad Museum, Pine Bluff Regional Park, the Martha Mitchell Home and other points of interest, as well as shopping and groceries.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Beagle Club Road Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Beagle Club Road Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Beagle Club Road Pull-Off

    5.

    Beagle Club Road Pull-Off

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    7 Saves
    McRae, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite

    6.

    Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    11 Photos
    70 Saves
    Paron, Arkansas

    If you are one of those folks who prefers a different, more rugged camp experience, primitive camping is allowed almost anywhere in the Ouachita National Forest unless there is a sign stating otherwise, or it is a wildlife food plot. Located throughout the Forests are areas that have been campsites for many years. These are located along roadsides, trails, mountain tops, or near streams. Camping at dispersed locations have additional responsibilities: "Leave No Trace" so others can have a similar backcountry experience, pack out any trash or litter, scatter campfire ash around so it doesn't pile up, and leave the area better than you found it.

    Please filter water before drinking! Beware of stream crossings after heavy rains. Please read the Dispersed Camping guidelines before heading out. https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ouachita/recreation/?cid=fseprd727994

    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Erwin Estate High Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Erwin Estate High Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Erwin Estate High Point

    7.

    Erwin Estate High Point

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    23 Saves
    Jones Mill, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $80 - $100 / night

  • 8.

    Shirewood

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    1 Save
    Morrilton, Arkansas

    🌟 Welcome to the Ultimate Solar Eclipse Camping Experience! 🌒

    Get ready for an astronomical adventure at our exclusive hillside campsite with 100 spacious tent spots, offering the perfect front-row seat to the breathtaking April solar eclipse! 🏕️

    Imagine waking up to the sun dipping behind the moon, casting a mesmerizing glow over our hillside retreat. Your eclipse-viewing spot is secured, but that's just the beginning! Enjoy the convenience of porta-potties, unwind in our cozy hammocks, and connect with fellow campers in our vibrant communal areas.

    Bring your furry friends along because pets are more than welcome to join in the celestial celebration! And what's camping without a crackling campfire? Roast marshmallows, create the perfect s'mores, and revel in the magic of the cosmic display above.

    Seize this opportunity to make memories under the stars and witness the solar eclipse like never before. Book your spot now for an out-of-this-world camping experience! 🌌✨

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $125 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR

    9.

    Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    61 Saves
    Jessieville, Arkansas

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services; such as trash removal, and little or no facilities; such as tables and fire pits, are provided. Some popular dispersed camping areas may have toilets.

    There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It is your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, or trailheads. Many people drive out on Forest Service roads into the woods and find a clearing or a spot near a stream or with a view of the mountains. Do not drive on meadows to access your camping site. Drive on existing roads to prevent resource damage. To prevent resource damage please keep your campsite within 150 feet from a roadway.

    How to Pick a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that has been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites so using existing ones will minimize your impact in the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow Leave No Trace guidelines.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed

Recent Tent Reviews In Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam

337 Reviews of 9 Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    August 20, 2024

    Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite

    Nice weekend

    Didn’t have to drive too far down the road found a spot on the left. Nice stone camp fire circle, good flat spot for my tent, which is a four person. Bring a chair if you want a comfortable seat, also hard to find decent wood to burn, had to walk a bit to find. Not many cars drive down the road, saw some people hiking, also Sunday morning there were hunters out, so hearing gunshot pretty close to camp. All in all though it is good to be with nature and I’d go back to this spot or find another one on the road. I didn’t go very far down the road have more to explore!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    August 18, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Great State Park!!

    Very beautiful place to stay!! Our site on the lake was very beautiful and every site on the water has a small dock you can fish off. Bugs were not bad at all. Would recommend this place to anyone.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    July 29, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Resort / Country Club

    This is a fantastic spot with tons of amenities (including a great pool) & many activities. Also, guests and campers were extremely nice! Clean and a well planned resort! Stay if you have a chance.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Toad Suck
    July 14, 2024

    Toad Suck

    good

    Excellent job on this post! Your analysis is thorough and very helpful blob opera. I appreciate the effort you put into sharing this valuable information. Thanks for contributing!

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 23, 2024

    FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Convenient Dispersed Camping 2 Miles from Lake Sylvia

    Large dispersed campsite located 2 miles west of Lake Sylvia State Park, where Forest Road 152 meets Forest Road 132. Clean site with one rock fire ring. Can fit a couple of vehicles. Because of the position of the trees on the site, maneuvering a truck camper into the site may be a challenge; don't recommend anything larger. Tent camping is possible. This is a level dirt site with some embedded rocks jutting up. Nice wooded area around site to stroll through. Seasonal track FR132C is adjacent to the site; this track is hikeable. Since the site is at the intersection of popular forest roads, there will be vehicles driving by. The site is set back enough that dust may not be a concern. No T-Mobile cell service. This is convenient, pretty campsite.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 22, 2024

    FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Overnight Dispersed Site

    Coordinates: 34.85431, -92.88115. Small dispersed campsite in the woods just off of Forest Road 132. Close to the forest road; easy access. There is a clean rock fire ring. Good campsite for a quick overnight stay. The surface of the site is dirt with a little bit of pea gravel. This site is only big enough for one rig, truck camper and smaller size. Pitching a tent is possible in a small clearing to the left of the rock fire ring. Slight downward slope but not bad. Shaded in summer. Nice wooded area. No T-Mobile cell service. There are no hiking trails nearby or remarkable natural features here, but the forest at this site is pretty. This is a nice site in the autumn.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Wilderness Boundary Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 20, 2024

    FR132 Wilderness Boundary Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Easy Access to Ouachita Trail

    Coordinates: 34.84128, -92.96055. This is basically a pull-in parking space along Forest Road 132. The forest road is in good condition. The dispersed site is small and close to road; the forest road may be busy at times, possibly kicking up dust. Easy pull-in from the forest road. The site is right on the Flatside Wilderness Area boundary. An old track at the back of the site leads you into the wilderness area and to the Ouachita Trail. It is a level site with a rock fire ring. The parking spot is large enough for a truck camper; plenty of room for my camper van. Spotty T-Mobile cell service. This is not an attractive dispersed site, but it offers easy access into the beautiful wilderness area and to the Ouachita Trail.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132-Grindstone Rd Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 19, 2024

    FR132-Grindstone Rd Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Nice semi-private dispersed campsite near Ouachita Trail

    Coordinates: 34.84175, -92.97123.  Good dispersed site set back from Forest Road 132. The site is located at the corner of FR132 and Grindstone Rd (Y47A). Grindstone Rd is closed to all vehicles at this time, but it is hikeable. The Flatside Wilderness Area is accross FR132 from this dispersed site; easy access to the Ouachita Trail. The site has room for one rig. Access into the site from the forest road is a little eroded; non-high clearence vehicles may scrape. Access into the site beside the rock fire ring is tight. Best for rigs smaller than truck camper. The site is not quite level; some leveling may be required. Clean site with a clean rock fire ring. The area surrounding the site is wooded; plenty of shade in summer. Surrounded by beautiful forest; easy to explore. Tent camping is possible; the surface is not too rocky. I had sporadic T-Mobile cell service. I am looking forward to retrurning here, especially in the fall, early spring and winter.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    June 19, 2024

    Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Pull-thru dispersed site near the Ouachita Trail

    This is an update to my Feb 2022 review. This dispersed camp site has a level pull-thru driveway which can accomodate about 2 or 3 vehicles. I believe this driveway can accomodate a truck camper. Parking is not next to the rock fire ring; the fire ring is a very short walk away into the woods. The site is pretty much surrounded by forest - easy to stroll around in. Despite the site's elevation, there is no view of distant hills. Included some summer time images with this review. I like this spot, especially with the easy access to the Ouachita Trail nearby.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Camp Robinson Dispersed Site
    June 18, 2024

    Camp Robinson Dispersed Site

    Free camp in the trees by drained part of lake

    Thank goodness there is a slight breeze. 90 degrees. Summer swampy area. Picked up a med bag of trash; cans, bottles, and paper. Looks better now. I definitely put on bug spray right away. Nice place to sleep and get back on 40East in the morning. Doing a cross country from San Francisco to Pennsylvania.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Willow Beach
    June 1, 2024

    Willow Beach

    Great Stop to see Little Rock

    Willow beach is a very pleasant campground on the river. Though close to Little Rock, it felt remote. The site we had was level with a view to the river. The bathrooms and grounds were "military" clean and maintained. My only issue was the lack of staff. The place runs itself, apparently. There was no staff on site, not even the camp hosts. A bad storm rolled through and was upsetting enough that we left a day early with the potential for even worse the next day. Otherwise, it was a great campground.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Beagle Club Road Pull-Off
    June 1, 2024

    Beagle Club Road Pull-Off

    Small, super primitive. Says permit required doubt anyone is checking .

    Not much too it. Basically just two relatively small parking lots in the woods, past some houses off the highway. Would only be good for a super quick over night.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Camp Robinson Dispersed Site
    May 21, 2024

    Camp Robinson Dispersed Site

    Great place to overnight

    The lake has been partially drained to allow work to be done on stumps. The road back to it is well maintained and we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum. The sunset was beautiful. Peaceful and quiet. The birds and frogs sang all evening.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Ouachitas FR179 Dispersed Site
    May 18, 2024

    Ouachitas FR179 Dispersed Site

    Creekside dispersed camping in the Ouachita National Forest

    Camped here on Dec 13, 2023. Along well maintained gravel forest road, FR 179 in the Ouachita National Forest, Saline County, Arkansas. Really nice large site with a creek that flows into the North Fork of the Saline River was behind the site. Site appears to be large enough for 2 rigs no large than a truck camper. Multiple tents can be set up here. Did not have a problem parking our camper van on a level spot. The dirt surface is level. The site has a rock fire ring. Only a few vehicles drove by the site on FR179. Lots of trees surrounding the site with an open sky above for star gazing. Fishing is possible in the North Fork of the Saline River a short walk south of the site. No hiking trails nearby. No T-Mobile or AT&T cell service.  Love this spot!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Maumelle Park
    April 28, 2024

    Maumelle Park

    Great stay

    First time visiting little rock & this campground was perfect. Water & power hookup for each lot. Beautiful view as we were winding down for the night. Lots of geese wandering around & still chatty late at night- but kinda cute to hear. The campsites are pretty spacious for Tents with their own fire rings too. Definitely would stay again !

  • Camper-submitted photo from Toad Suck
    April 25, 2024

    Toad Suck

    Amazing.

    Your post has provided me with a wealth of fascinating insights, and I eagerly await your future updates, brimming with even more intriguing information. red ball

  • Camper-submitted photo from COE Toad Suck Ferry Toad Suck Ferry Park
    April 20, 2024

    COE Toad Suck Ferry Toad Suck Ferry Park

    Very Nice Treed Park

    This park and campground is less than an hour outside of Little Rock, and it is a quiet, peaceful overnight stay on our way to Oklahoma. It was a bit tricky to find after exciting US 60!

    The park was well maintained and the staff was very friendly. Our site was at the end of Loop D, far enough away from the noise of the highway, but it backed up to 2 drainage pipes, not the best view from our back window. It is level and surrounded by tall trees for plenty of shade. There is a concrete pad for a tent next to the metal picnic table.

    There are two bathouses, each with one woman's and one man's individual bathrooms with a toilet, sink, and shower. The bathhouses are located quite a distance from Loop D. The one I checked out was modern and clean.

    This is a very nice park to visit for a day or two.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Beagle Club Road Pull-Off
    April 15, 2024

    Beagle Club Road Pull-Off

    Fine for a night

    Spent just one night here. Easy to find and has a water spigot. Noticed a sign in the morning that said hunting, fishing, or camping permit required but no one came by to check. One other person here. A bit buggy but otherwise a quiet spot to get some sleep!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    April 12, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Nice stopping point

    12 mi off the Interstate. The office is only open until 5 PM. There are toilets next to the tent area, but the showers are over in the RV area. Nice swimming beach. A few hiking trails.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Sylvia Recreation Area
    April 10, 2024

    Lake Sylvia Recreation Area

    Beautiful State campground

    Very nice recreation area. Clean bathrooms and nice flat parking for RVs at campsites. Tent spots and electric and water hookups at some sites. One shower in each bathroom for men and women plus an additional ADA restroom. Nice trail nearby and lake for swimming. Very quiet when we were there.



Guide to Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam

Camping near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam, Arkansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Fishing: The Arkansas River is great for fishing. Campers at Toad Suck have enjoyed the fishing opportunities, with one reviewer noting, "Great place nice sites good fishing."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. Visitors at Willow Beach appreciated the walking trails, with one saying, "Nice walking trails and still close to major conveniences."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campers have spotted local wildlife. At Maumelle Park, a camper mentioned, "Lots of geese wandering around & still chatty late at night - but kinda cute to hear."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers at Willow Beach enjoyed the spacious lots, with one reviewer stating, "Well manicured, spacious lots."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Toad Suck Ferry Park remarked, "Very clean and staff is very kind and friendly."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. At H&G RV Campground, one reviewer said, "Gary was great, most helpful and it was a pleasure talking with him."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have fewer amenities. A camper at Little Rock North KOA noted, "Limited amenities... No picnic table or fire pit on site."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially near highways. A visitor at Downtown Riverside RV Park mentioned, "A lot of highway noise all day and night."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Tar Camp is open from March 1 to October 31.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with plenty of space for kids to play. Campers at Maumelle Park appreciated the spacious sites, saying, "The campsites are pretty spacious for tents with their own fire rings too."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor activities. A family at Indian Lakes Resort enjoyed the area, stating, "There is something for everyone here."
  • Check for Playground Facilities: Some campgrounds have playgrounds. A reviewer at Toad Suck Ferry Park mentioned, "Nice playgrounds. Clean restrooms."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Full Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. Campers at Downtown Riverside RV Park appreciated the full hookups, saying, "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP)."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some RV sites can be close together. A visitor at Little Rock North KOA noted, "Sites are easy access but tight, not much room between rigs."
  • Check for Dump Stations: Make sure there are dump stations available. Campers at H&G RV Campground found it convenient, stating, "There is a dump station if needed."

Camping near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam, Arkansas, provides a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, there's something for every camper to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam is Brookwood Village with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam?

    TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam, with real photos and reviews from campers.