Camping sites near Barling, Arkansas cluster around U.S. Army Corps of Engineers properties that provide access to the Arkansas River and Ozark Lake. The terrain features low ridges with elevations ranging from 400-600 feet, creating varied camping experiences between waterfront and wooded settings. Most campgrounds operate during the peak season from March through October, though some offer year-round access with reduced amenities during winter.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Springhill Park offers multiple fishing spots along both the Arkansas River and Massard Creek. "I tent camp and the view is amazing. It's in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can launch a boat or you can go kayaking in Massard creek. There's Cat fish, Perch and, Bass," notes a camper who frequents the area.
Mountain biking trails: The 10-mile trail system at Springhill is popular with experienced riders. The trails connect directly to the campground, allowing for easy access without needing to drive to trailheads. Many campers mention how convenient it is to set up camp and immediately access the trail system.
Water activities: Lake Fort Smith State Park provides numerous water recreation options beyond simple bank fishing. "There is a marina where you can rent boats and an awesome pool with a waterslide for the kids to play," reports one visitor. The marina rents various watercraft including "canoes, party barges, fishing boats, kayaks" for those who don't bring their own equipment.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Riverside sites at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures provide direct water access. One reviewer described their experience: "We had a great time here, just a day trip. Water was clean & refreshing. Hearing the water flow was relaxing. We're looking forward to going back & doing a weekend camp!"
Privacy between sites: Clear Creek Recreation Area offers sites with natural separation. "Fish this place often and also camp. They keep this place clean and have never had issues with other campers. Stays quiet," reports a regular visitor. Sites #1-3 provide more privacy than sites #4-9, which are described as "basically a parking spot with a picnic area."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathhouses and shower facilities at state parks in the region. "The bathhouse was clean and fully functioning," notes one visitor to Lake Fort Smith State Park, while others appreciate the investment Arkansas makes in maintaining its park infrastructure.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Coverage is generally good throughout the region but varies by provider. At John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground, "Cell service was excellent with AT&T and Verizon," according to a recent visitor. However, signal strength diminishes in more remote campgrounds outside the Fort Smith area.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment, particularly for larger RVs. One camper noted about John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake campground: "One major downside of this park is that only about half the sites (in Loop B) were not flat enough for us to get level without having the wheels off the ground."
Seasonal closures: While some campgrounds maintain year-round operations, facilities may be reduced during winter months. Bathhouses and showers sometimes close without notice, as one camper at Springhill experienced: "Site is still charging campers full price for extended camping (14 days) was told showers and restrooms available then suddenly they closed the facilities without notice."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Devil's Den State Park provides family-friendly amenities including playground equipment. "Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" reports one parent who visited with children. The combination of natural features and built facilities helps keep younger campers engaged.
Swimming options: During summer months, several campgrounds offer swimming facilities as alternatives to the Arkansas River, which can have unpredictable currents. Lake Fort Smith State Park maintains "a pool at the park" and a splash pad that operates during warmer months, providing safer water recreation for younger visitors.
Cave exploration: Devil's Den features small caves that children can safely explore with adult supervision. "We stayed at Devils Den and the camping was great but the scenery was awesome. The large rock 'mountain' it leads you too are so much fun to play on. They have tiny caves and are incredibly easy to crawl around on," notes a family that visited from out of state.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, specific site locations affect the camping experience. "Our site was perfect in we faced the pond and playground and didn't have any other campers in direct site when lounging outside our camper," notes one RV traveler. The park's layout features alternating pull-through sites that affect privacy and views.
Water quality: RVers mention the exceptional water quality at some campgrounds in the region. A visitor to Springhill remarked on the "30 Amp hook up with some of the best water I have ever had. Only 35 ppm on my zero water tester. Bottled water has had more than 75 ppm."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads for larger rigs. Lake Fort Smith visitors note the park is "not really a place for a quick overnight, the road in is steep and crooked." Planning arrival during daylight hours helps navigate these access challenges more safely.
