Glamping and camping options near Ashdown, Arkansas range from rustic tent sites to luxury accommodations within the dense pine forests of southwestern Arkansas. The region sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Fall camping season typically runs from September through early November when temperatures cool to 60-75°F during the day, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Greeson: Located about an hour from Ashdown, COE Lake Greeson Parker Creek Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with clean facilities. "The sites were HUGE and there were very few other campers. We stayed in site 14 right across from the lake," reported one visitor.
Diamond hunting: Just over an hour from Ashdown, Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground offers a unique experience where visitors can search for real diamonds. "The best time to take a trip to the Arkansas diamond fields is after a heavy rainstorm, but keep in mind that you will get muddy during your visit," advises a camper.
Boating and water activities: Several campgrounds provide lake access for water recreation. At Beavers Bend State Park, a camper noted, "We were able to secure a campsite at the last minute. It was crowded but to be expected. The water was nice and we had a great time canoeing on the river."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Atlanta State Park Campground receives praise for its well-maintained sites. "Atlanta State Park is nestled pretty far off the beaten path deep in the pineywoods. It sits on the edge of Wright Patman Lake near the Texarkana region on the Texas side. Has plentiful campgrounds that are nearly maintained," one visitor shared.
Clean facilities: Daisy State Park Campground maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms according to regular visitors. "The bathrooms are very clean and we have observed the camp staff regularly checking and maintaining them. The office staff is very friendly," noted one camper.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Beavers Bend State Park Campground offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. "Deer were everywhere in the evening. Def will be back, beavers bend never disappoints!" reported one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Ashdown require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Daisy State Park Campground, a regular visitor advised, "It was not busy during our visit but I can see this park filling up in the spring and fall quickly, so reservations are recommended."
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense in this region. "Spring and Fall camping is pleasant with moderate temperatures. Summer camping temperatures are very hot. Make sure you have fans or some way of staying cool," a Daisy State Park visitor warned.
Site selection: Choose your site carefully based on your needs. At White Cliffs Park, a camper noted, "We were tent camping and had plenty of flat area for our tent and we were far enough away from neighbors that it was quiet. Only bad thing is that the water and power were across the pad."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Family-friendly swimming areas are available at several parks. At Daisy State Park, one visitor mentioned, "This park is huge! It has great spots for RVs and a wonderful walk in area for tents. We stayed in the walk in site by the lake and were treated to an amazing sunset every night!"
Playground access: Murfeesboro RV Park provides convenient access to diamond hunting while offering comfortable facilities. "20.00 a night for two people in tent camping. I'm in van and they allowed me to van camp. Tent sites have electric," noted one camper, making it budget-friendly for families.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs or unique learning experiences. At Crater of Diamonds State Park, visitors can learn about geology while searching for gemstones. "Other ways of searching are in the form of walking around and picking up anything that shines," explained one experienced visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: At White Cliffs Park, RVers should note the layout of utilities. "Site 14. Clean park, clean bathrooms, level pad, a little narrow, picnic table, bbq pit, and a large hook to hang stuff," reported one RVer.
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. At COE Lake Greeson Parker Creek Campground, a visitor pointed out, "There are two spots at the dump station and a clean water station as well."
Site sizing considerations: Check site dimensions before booking. One RVer at Crater of Diamonds State Park reported, "Most are level and plenty of room/parking length. This site 30 is cramped and has a passenger side tilt to it. I have a 26' (tip to tail) TT and a crew cab pickup… they will not fit in the campsite end to end."
