The Ouachita Mountains surrounding Bismarck, Arkansas provide a varied terrain for RV camping with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,700 feet. Located about 85 miles southwest of Little Rock, this area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and mild winters where overnight freezes aren't uncommon from December through February.
What to do
Crystal mining excursions: Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine offers direct access to crystal digging opportunities. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," notes Justin M. from Crystal Ridge.
Lake activities: Spend time on Lake Hamilton where Treasure Isle R.V. Park provides waterfront access. "Private campground on the lake with cable," explains Mark B., making it convenient for visitors who want to fish or boat.
River floating: The Caddo River offers water recreation opportunities near Caddo River Access RV Park. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," explains Jessica D.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds prioritize cleanliness in their facilities. At Leisure Landing, "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly," reports Nicole C.
Friendly service: Staff hospitality stands out at several RV campgrounds near Bismarck. At Arkadelphia Campground & RV Park, one camper noted, "The staff went out of their way to assist me with getting a spot, helping me with onsite facilities, and they even made phone calls to assist me with local road closings for my next days route."
Waterfront sites: Campers appreciate spots along rivers and lakes. At J and J RV Park, Josh F. mentions, "Sites along the stream have a great view and a great place to sit and enjoy nature. About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs."
What you should know
Varying site sizes: Site dimensions and spacing vary significantly between parks. At Leisure Landing, "You're next door neighbor is about 12 to 15 ft from your door. So the sites are a little bit tight," explains Ron R.
Cell service fluctuations: Mobile coverage varies by location and carrier. "Both ATT and Verizon have full bars" at Cloud Nine RV Park, according to Sarah J., though this isn't universal across all campgrounds in the region.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. Cloud Nine RV Park sits "along a highway, it's quite a ways up a hill and through the woods," Derek N. reports, adding "Be careful on the road in. It's a little bumpy but it is evident they do try to maintain it. It also has two turns that you want to take wide."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Look for campgrounds with swimming facilities. Arkadelphia Campground offers a pool that "did look nice and several kids made use of it while I was there," according to Tommy S.
River recreation: The Caddo River provides family-friendly water activities. Jessica D. notes at Caddo River Access that "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages!" making it suitable for family outings.
Dog-friendly spaces: Leisure Landing RV Park accommodates pets with "a small dog park near the lake," as mentioned by Ron R., giving families traveling with pets a dedicated space.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Book well in advance during peak seasons. "We loved our weekend stay at this park. There are a lot of long term people and a few that seem to rotate," notes Katie B. about Leisure Landing.
Water pressure management: Be prepared for strong water pressure at some parks. At J and J RV Park, Josh F. advises, "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure."
Payment options: Different parks have varying payment systems. At Hot Springs Arkansas Finish Line RV Park, Stacey L. mentions, "I called and got one of their specials. I paid $50 for the night and ended up staying 2 more!" showing that calling ahead may secure better rates.
