Glamping in Bradley, Arkansas offers direct access to Wright Patman Lake and surrounding pine forests. The region maintains a humid subtropical climate with average summer temperatures reaching 93°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 30°F. The elevation ranges from 210-310 feet above sea level, creating gentle slopes ideal for lakefront camping sites.
What to do
Kayaking through cypress trees: Buffalo Bayou RV Park connects directly to Big Cypress Bayou via a boat trail approximately 100 yards long. "There's 3 trails close to the park. Trails took 1-2 hours depending on which one you take and how fast you paddle," notes one visitor who organized a kayak camp out.
Lake fishing opportunities: Atlanta State Park Campground provides multiple access points to Wright Patman Lake. "Wright Patman Lake is a decent lake, but does have a fair amount of stumps along the edges- watch for the bouyees. Fishing is good, water can get very warm in the summer which is nice for swimming," advises a frequent visitor.
Wildlife observation: State parks in the region maintain natural habitats for local species. At Caddo Lake State Park, guests can encounter distinctive ecosystems. "The lake itself was fantastic and otherworldly. Absolutely beautiful in early November," shares one camper who visited during fall.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Clear Spring campground offers premium lakeside camping. "We stayed for a quick night en route north. Site B14 was a pull through with an actual deck looking out on the lake. It was beautiful and easy to set up in the dark, fit our RPod and a truck easily," reports a traveler.
Bathroom facilities: Lake Claiborne State Park maintains clean shower buildings. "Bath houses are new, clean and climate controlled. Plenty of sites to choose from when I stayed though all of the waterfront sites were taken. Family friendly, not rowdy," notes a business traveler who camped there.
Privacy between sites: Caddo Lake State Park Campground offers campsites with natural separation. "I have taken my son camping here several times. Great small park. The big attraction here is the lake, which looks like something straight out of a Louisiana swamp movie," explains a repeat visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some parks restrict camping types during certain periods. "Called to inquire on tent/dispersed camping on 1.14.21 and was told the park is currently closed except for 'certified' RV spots," reports a camper trying to book at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
Security measures: Texarkana RV Park & Event Center implements controlled entry for guest safety. "They have a gated entrance for extra security. The park has nice amenities such as pool, playground, laundry, restrooms, dog run, and park-like setting with duck pond," explains a visitor.
Wildlife precautions: Buffalo Bayou RV Park requires safety acknowledgments due to natural conditions. "The campground requires you to sign a waiver because of the water moccasins from the bayou and because of the potential of falling tree limbs," explains a recent guest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Shreveport Bossier City KOA provides designated play areas for children. "The campground was clean and they had a pool and playground. Full hook up, no issues. The staff was friendly," notes a visitor passing through the area.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain designated beach areas for safe water access. At Lake Claiborne State Park, "there's a nice little beach where the kids can play and a playground area as well. The bathrooms are clean and warm (welcome in the winter and spring)," shares a family camper.
Educational opportunities: Atlanta State Park Campground offers nature exploration activities. "Beautiful area, with tall pines, beach area, dock, boat launch. Beautiful park!" explains a visitor rating the park highly for families.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: At Buffalo Bayou RV Park, "the campground is pretty sandy so leveling may be problematic for big rigs," warns a recent visitor who needed to carefully position their vehicle.
Site selection for larger vehicles: At Clear Spring, experienced RVers recommend specific locations. "Because of recent storms, there was a detour. A little confusing but when I called for help, attendant was great," shares a camper who needed assistance navigating to their site.
