Camping options near Powhatan, Arkansas offer access to a mix of Spring River fishing spots, forest camping, and lake-based recreation in the Ozark foothills. Elevations in the area range from 250-350 feet above sea level, creating rolling terrain with distinctive limestone formations. Summer highs regularly reach the 90s with humidity levels above 70%, making water-based activities particularly popular from May through September.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Frierson: The 335-acre lake provides excellent fishing opportunities with minimal crowds. "This is a great fishing hole with a small campground! The sites are nice and have great views of the lake," notes a visitor to Lake Frierson State Park Campground.
Pedal boating: Rental boats are available at several parks for affordable water exploration. "Paddle boating, fishing, and trails to explore!" reports one camper about Davidsonville Historic State Park Campground.
Swimming at Crowley's Ridge: The dedicated swimming area includes unique features for families. "The lake area is beautiful with a small spring fed waterfall, a swim beach area and even a slide into the water," explains a visitor to Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground.
Hiking varied terrain: The region offers trails through diverse ecosystems and historic areas. "The trails had interesting bridges and a suspension bridge. Moderate to strenuous. There is a swimming area next to a historic CCC building and bridge."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer premium spots directly on the water. "We stayed in site 1, which was a pull through with full hook ups. Each site has a designated tent pad as well as a lantern hook. Sites on the outside of the loop back up to the woods."
Historic exploration: The area features preserved structures and interpretive displays. "Beautiful, peaceful, smaller campground with a small lake, a river, hiking trails and historic sites with interpretive signage," notes a visitor to Davidsonville Historic State Park Campground.
Urban convenience: Some camping options provide easy access to town amenities. "This campground is in the outskirts of Jonesboro, Arkansas. This is a great place to stay and then go to the mall to shop. There are many nice restaurants and fast food places so no need to pack your refrigerator!" explains a camper at Craighead Forest Park.
Small crowds: Even during peak times, many campgrounds remain relatively uncrowded. "The primitive area which is first come first served. We were the only people there on a busy weekend so we had our pick of sites."
What you should know
Limited services in rural areas: Many campgrounds require advance preparation. "Located near a very tiny town, so bring everything you need with you because a quick trip to the store will take you at least 30 min," advises a visitor to Lake Charles State Park Campground.
Insect preparation essential: Biting insects are common throughout the camping season. "It's in Arkansas so don't forget your mosquito spray after dark." Another camper notes, "The biting flies + mosquitos were ROUGH in the morning. You'll need your bug spray."
Dry county regulations: Alcohol availability is restricted in some areas. "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. Keep that in mind if you stay here, make sure to be prepared or you will be hungry."
Vault toilets at some locations: Facility types vary significantly between parks. "The drawback for me is that this campground only has vault toilets and no showers. You have to drive to Crowleys Ridge State Park to use their dump station (10 minute drive)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature extensive play areas for children. "Great park to visit. Has paddle boats, lake to fish, boat ramp to Black River, newly updated campgrounds with all the hookups, playground for the kiddos, plenty of trails," reports a visitor to Davidsonville Historic State Park.
Splash pad activities: Water features provide cooling options during hot days. At Pocahontas City Park, "Kids had fun on the playground! Places to eat and shop nearby!" while another park offers "Splash pad, multiple playgrounds for all ages of kids."
Tent pad considerations: For families camping in tents, look for sites with designated pads. "Each site has a designated tent pad as well as a lantern hook. Sites on the outside of the loop back up to the woods, sites on the inside of the loop are more exposed to other campsites."
Multiple activity options: Plan for varied weather with diverse recreation choices. "A very pretty little historic park with a small man-made pond. Fishing looked good and the kids loved the Pedal Boats."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Very unleveled and rocky terrain would be only downside." Another camper notes, "Not all of the sites are level, so consider that if you're in an RV."
Limited large rig access: Roads in the region can present challenges. "The roads into this area are narrow, winding and have no shoulder. Not the best for an old Class A, but worth the trip."
Premium full-hookup options: Some parks offer complete services for longer stays. "We stayed in site #2, which allowed us a lovely view of the lake. It would be easier to back rigs into the sites if they didn't have the wooden signs at the entrance to each site with the site#, but we got in with lots of back and forthing."
Sewer availability varies: Plan dumping schedules based on park facilities. At Spring River Oaks, one camper notes, "Just wish they had sewer sites available. Staff was great and very friendly."
