Camping options near Big Flat, Arkansas range from riverside sites along the Buffalo River to mountain settings in the Ozark National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 700-1500 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between river valleys and higher forest locations. Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, with spring typically offering higher water for floating while late summer brings clearer, lower conditions.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Rush Campground provides access to some of the best fishing spots along the Buffalo River. "This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low. This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing," reports one visitor at Rush Campground.
Cave exploration and swimming holes: The area features numerous natural attractions including caverns. At Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, visitors can explore underground wonders. "The standard cave tour is great, plus there is a more extreme tour where you can crawl and squeeze through trails in the caves! Also lots of folk music festivals so check the calendar," one camper notes. Another adds, "It's the clearest spring I've ever seen. There's a bluff in the camping area that's amazing for swimming and small jumping."
Creek wading and water play: Sylamore Creek offers clear water perfect for cooling off during hot months. "Loved being able to camp so close to the creek! The campsites weren't anything special, but it is perfect for a weekend getaway," reports a visitor. Many campers highlight the water clarity and accessibility from sites.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Gunner Pool Recreation Area features scenic swimming opportunities. "Absolutely stunning in the fall. Great swimming hole. Lot's of waterfall hiking nearby," says one camper. Another visitor shares their experience: "If you hike through the rec pool area it will lead you to the lake for some private skinny dipping. I look forward to being back there. In the off season for more privacy of course."
Wildlife viewing: The White Buffalo Resort area offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. Located at the confluence of the White and Buffalo rivers, campers report diverse bird watching including eagles. "We rented a boat and explored the Buffalo River - it was very relaxing & amazing views," one visitor notes about their experience.
Disconnecting from technology: Many campgrounds in the area have limited or no cell service, which appeals to those wanting to unplug. "Nice, clean and beautiful! No cell service and that was perfect!" reports a camper at Gunner Pool Recreation Area. Several campgrounds throughout the region offer this digital detox experience naturally.
What you should know
Water level variations: Dam releases affect water levels and fishing conditions throughout the region. At Dam - Quarry, a camper notes, "Beautiful waterfront camping! The water is clear and freezing cold, and the breeze off the water feels amazing! The sounds from the dam releasing water is so peaceful!" Water levels can change rapidly based on dam schedules.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require traveling on unpaved roads. For Gunner Pool, one visitor reports: "While traveling through this portion of Arkansas I stumbled upon a small roadside for Gunner Pool Recreation Area just a short distance past Blanchard Springs. 3 miles down a gravel, but well maintained roadway, the campground sat nestled between to sections of the water way."
Reservation limitations: Not all campgrounds accept reservations. "We were apprehensive about planning to stay at this campground as the nearby one in Blanchard Springs was closed, we could not make reservations, five of the 27 sites were closed due to potential flooding from Hurricane Laura, and access is via a three-mile winding dirt road," reported a Gunner Pool camper who found plenty of available sites despite concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Buffalo Point offers recreation options beyond water activities. "Good campground to get away for a night or two! Had my 2 little boy cousins and my dog with us and we all had a good time walking down to the river to play. Great place to chill out and cool off," shares one camper.
Check shower facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Buffalo Point, one visitor noted, "The showers and restrooms are a bit, um, rustic." Families should research facility conditions before booking extended stays.
Pack for temperature swings: Weather in the region can change rapidly, especially in spring and fall. "We stayed 4 nights (Thu-Mon) in June and went on a canoe trip on Saturday... The water was absolutely beautiful Thursday-Saturday, but the area got a lot of rain Saturday starting around 2 am," reported a Buffalo Point visitor who experienced significant weather changes during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Consider site placement carefully: At Bull Shoals-White River State Park, site locations matter for river views. "Beware: The sites along the River are very close together and many of them have the picnic tables on the wrong side. Kinda strange if you are next to someone with their table on the correct side!" notes one RVer.
Check site dimensions before booking: Size restrictions vary between campgrounds. "Not really big rig friendly although there was a bus in site 16, probably the best site in the campground," reported a camper at Blanchard Springs, highlighting the importance of verifying size accommodations.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise. Regarding Blue Heron Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Everything was absolutely perfect except the road noise....which in all fairness we knew about. LOTS of noise. It died down after 8pm and before 8am and we couldn't hear it in our camper so it's was ok."
