Greers Ferry Lake and the surrounding Ozark Mountains create a diverse camping environment near Batesville, Arkansas, with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,200 feet. Water temperatures in the area's creeks and lakes fluctuate significantly between seasons, with summer creek temperatures reaching the mid-70s while the lake's tailwaters remain a constant 50°F year-round. The region's limestone geology contributes to exceptionally clear water conditions in both the creeks and lakes.
What to do
Trout fishing along the Little Red River: Dam Site Campground offers prime access to Greers Ferry Lake and the Little Red River tailwaters. "Dam Site is a nice campground on Greers Ferry Lake. The location is perfect for enjoying the lake, the Little Red River and all the other outdoor adventures that Heber Springs has to offer," notes Shana D.
Swimming in clear mountain creeks: Riverbend provides natural swimming areas with varied depths. "Great for floating in tubes canoeing or kayak," says Glen T., highlighting the gentle current that makes it suitable for families with different swimming abilities.
Wildlife observation year-round: Lake Charles State Park Campground maintains hiking and biking trails through diverse habitats. "Well maintained state park with a swimming beach, walking/biking trails, playgrounds. We used this as a stopping point for a longer journey and enjoyed the warm water in the showers and the lake views," shares Nathaniel B.
Kayaking on multiple waterways: The area offers both still-water paddling on lakes and moving-water experiences on creeks. As Robert L. notes about Lake Charles, "Clean area. Good spot for fishing. It is a dry county have to drive 30 or so minutes to get to a decent store for food."
What campers like
Private waterfront camping: Visitors seeking glamping in Batesville, Arkansas area appreciate waterfront sites. At Sylamore Creek Camp, Sandy R. explains, "We love having direct access to creek. It is kayak, family, pet friendly. The only thing it is lacking is internet connection, which for us is a plus for disconnecting. All sites are reasonably level."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and reliable amenities matter to campers. "Clean bathrooms, warm showers and plenty of TP!" notes Charlene A. about Dam Site Campground, indicating the maintenance standards campers can expect.
Multi-generational appeal: Holiday Mountain Resort provides activities for all ages. "Creek is full of smallmouth bass, great swimming holes for the kids, and some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs or find crawfish. Owners are great people and very helpful," reports Ethan W.
Quiet atmosphere for relaxation: Many campgrounds maintain noise restrictions. Leslie D. shares about Sylamore Creek Camp: "It is safe family friendly and quiet. The owners do not put up with loud music or loud parties. It is a great place for a family."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have spotty connectivity. Sandy R. notes about Sylamore Creek Camp: "The only thing it is lacking is internet connection, which for us is a plus for disconnecting."
Seasonal crowds impact experience: Several campgrounds become crowded during peak seasons. "I don't enjoy camping here during summer way overcrowded but is wonderful this time of year!!! Enjoyed our weekend!!" shares Lori H. about Dam Site Campground.
Dry county restrictions: Several campgrounds are located in dry counties. As Robert L. cautions about Lake Charles State Park, "It is a dry county have to drive 30 or so minutes to get to a decent store for food. Keep that in mind if you stay here, make sure to be prepared or you will be hungry."
Weather-related flooding concerns: Some campgrounds have sites vulnerable to rain events. Joshua D. advises about Sylamore Creek Camp: "Very nice family friendly campground. Just don't camp on lower sites when raining."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom accessibility: Consider campground layouts when traveling with children. Shana D. notes about Sylamore Creek: "The lower campground does not have a bathroom, have to walk to the hill. The bathrooms were clean, but the shower house is basically like taking an outdoor shower."
Kid-friendly water areas: Jordan Campground offers varied water recreation. "Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" reports Donna M.
Insect preparation essential: Mosquitoes can be particularly intense in wooded areas near water. Nathaniel B. mentions about Lake Charles: "Mosquitoes were a bit of a nuisance in the evening, but that is to be expected for the area."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Mandy J. shares about Lake Charles State Park: "Really lovely lake with a great area for swimming. We had kind neighbors and felt very safe."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "We had a pull through site in loop N that was perfect for our 41' fifth wheel...plenty big, clean, and level. It was a little sunny, but other than that no complaints," advises Caitlin B. about Dam Site Campground.
Limited full hookup availability: Dam - Quarry offers varying levels of hookups. "Average space between sites. Level paved sites with gravel picnic area including picnic table, fire ring, lantern hanger. Some sites had covered picnic area," reports Renee H.
Dump station locations: Some campgrounds have inconveniently placed dump stations. Renee H. also notes about Dam-Quarry: "There is a dump station and potable fill station. No store or food for purchase on site."
Seasonal site differences: Site quality can vary throughout the year. Arkansas F. observes about Lake Charles: "This is a pretty park with a man-made pond and surrounded by pretty natural setting. The roads into this area are narrow, winding and have no shoulder. Not the best for an old Class A, but worth the trip."
