Tent camping near Harrison, Arkansas offers several designated sites with varied terrain and amenities. Temperatures range from winter lows in the 20s to summer highs in the 90s, with the Ozark Mountain environment providing dense tree coverage at most sites. Most Buffalo River campgrounds are situated in valleys surrounded by limestone bluffs that create distinctive microclimates with morning fog that burns off by mid-day.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Lost Valley trail near Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging provides an accessible 2.1-mile round trip path to waterfalls and caves. "Waterfall was awesome!" notes a camper who found the natural features worth the trek.
Rock climbing: For climbers, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers established routes across sandstone formations about 30 minutes from Harrison. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit," explains a regular visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers report successful catches at several Buffalo River access points. "Caught 18 inch small mouth bass! Biggest small mouth I have ever seen!" reports a fisher who stayed at Carver Campground, demonstrating the potential for trophy catches.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: Without light pollution, the night skies above Harrison campgrounds provide excellent stargazing. One camper at Steel Creek Campground chose "site #16 which was out in the open and provided us the best seats for the nighttime sky."
Morning views: Limestone bluffs create dramatic backdrops for morning coffee. "Clear running water (river) great views," notes a camper at Steel Creek who appreciated the landscape. Another mentions the "gorgeous towering bluff" visible from their campsite.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report seeing native wildlife. "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over," writes a visitor to Steel Creek Campground, highlighting the regular animal sightings that occur during quiet mornings and evenings.
What you should know
Site drainage varies: Tent surfaces at Harrison area campgrounds handle rain differently. Steel Creek Campground visitor notes that "the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm."
Camping permits: Some areas require specific permits. A visitor to Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area explains: "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish."
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating difficult access roads. "The road is steeply inclined and bumpy," notes a camper about Kyles Landing Campground. Another visitor recommends: "Go slow in a lower gear."
Cellular connectivity: Cell service is highly variable throughout the Harrison camping areas. At Kyles Landing, a camper reports: "Absolutely no cell service. No one in our group with varying cell service providers had service."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: Several campgrounds offer safe water access points. A parent at Hasty Takeout reports: "Kayaking, swimming, and fishing were awesome! The water was clear with a small pebble beach!"
Spacing considerations: Groups with children should consider campground layouts. At Steel Creek, a family noted: "Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. The bathrooms were well maintained and there is drinking water available."
Educational opportunities: Several locations offer natural learning experiences. A visitor to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch reported that children enjoyed seeing "roaming goats and horses around the property" which provides spontaneous wildlife interactions.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most Buffalo River campgrounds have limited spaces for larger vehicles. A Kyles Landing visitor cautions: "Not for Car Camping or RVing. Strictly a FCFS use area so come early."
Road clearance: The steep terrain requires appropriate vehicles. An RV owner at Drury-Mincy Conservation Area warns: "The short 'road' from the street to the campground is pretty steep and graveled and several cars have struggled to make it up though I haven't seen any fail yet."
Hookup availability: Most tent camping near Harrison lacks RV amenities. As one Kyles Landing visitor noted: "Water access available but no hookups. Very low cost too. Picnic tables, lantern post, and fire rings at each site."
