Primitive tent camping near Ashdown, Arkansas centers around several small lakes and river systems in the southwest corner of the state. The area sits within the West Gulf Coastal Plain at approximately 350 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures average 30-50°F with occasional freezing nights.
What to do
Water activities on Millwood Lake: The 29,000-acre lake provides fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake features numerous coves and inlets suitable for kayaking and canoeing, with several designated swimming areas during summer months.
Hiking near Cossatot River: The park contains moderate hiking trails along the river corridor. As one visitor noted at Cossatot Falls Campsites: "We parked at the visitor center and hiked the 5-6 miles to the state park. Beautiful moderate hike. If you go right after some heavy rain, all the falls along the trail will be flowing at full blast!"
Rock exploration at river areas: The Cossatot River features large boulder formations that create natural pools and rapids. According to a camper: "It's not for the faint or heart or people avoiding physical activity because trekking the huge river boulders is not easy. But the beauty is worth it. The water is crystal clear and you can watch fish swim by."
What campers like
Large tent pads: Many campgrounds feature spacious tent sites that accommodate larger family tents. At Cossatot Falls, one camper reported: "We typically don't camp in regular campgrounds, we prefer more separation. We also have a large 20' tent that makes it difficult to fit into regular square pad tent sites. These pads were huge and fit our tent."
Freshly maintained grounds: At Thomas Lake Park, campers appreciate the well-kept grounds: "Site and road to it are both well-maintained. Absolutely gorgeous views of the water. We got the best sleep we've ever had camping with the soft grass and our sleeping pad."
Natural soundscapes: The quiet atmosphere away from urban noise allows campers to enjoy natural sounds. A visitor at Thomas Lake Park commented: "Very quiet area with plenty of space to set up camp. Grass was freshly mowed when I showed up. Campground overlooks a good sized lake, as well as has a boat ramp."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many camping areas require travel on unpaved roads that may deteriorate in wet conditions. At River Run West, a camper noted: "This is a very small campground with just 4 tent sites but is a beautiful space. Well maintained but it really is only for tents where you will find shade provided by the nice mature trees."
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit some waterways in the region, particularly Millwood Lake. A camper at River Run West advised: "Beware of alligator."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most tent sites lack running water and electricity. A visitor to Cossatot Falls reported: "There are 6 very large pads right by the river with 2 pit toilets. There's NO water except what you bring with you or if you pull some from the river. The 'bathroom' is your basic (pit) out-house."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety precautions: Children should be supervised near all water areas due to currents and wildlife. At Cossatot River State Park, a family camper shared: "Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river. The park rangers were very nice and informative."
Tent site selection: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for better sleep quality. A camper noted that at Cossatot River State Park, "the middle row of the Sandbar campground would be tight if there had been a lot of people."
Pack sufficient water: No running water exists at most primitive sites, requiring families to bring all drinking and washing water. According to one visitor: "No potable water. Vault toilets. Great swimming and kayaking opportunities."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Ashdown offer few or no RV hookups. At River Run East, a camper reported: "No hook ups. Site: 8 gravel, no hook up."
Generator restrictions: Some campgrounds limit generator use to specific hours. One camper at Cossatot River State Park noted: "They did allow generators which is unfortunate because the river is so close. Part of what we love about camping is being in nature and hearing the sounds around us but one person's generator use ruined the quiet..all day every day (they have quiet hours from 10pm to sunrise...but that was the only quiet we got)."
Space constraints for larger vehicles: Most sites accommodate smaller RVs only. A visitor to River Run East described it as "a very small campground that is actually perfect because it is small. There are 6 sites with sheltered picnic table, fire ring, fish cleaning station, trash, NO WATER."
