Best Campgrounds near Bryant, AR
Central Arkansas camping options extend outward from Bryant, with several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Maumelle Park, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, sits along the Arkansas River northwest of Bryant and offers both tent and RV camping with electric hookups and water access. To the southwest, Lake Catherine State Park provides lakefront sites with various accommodation types including cabins and yurts. The region balances urban-adjacent camping at Downtown Riverside RV Park in North Little Rock with more remote options in the Ouachita National Forest, where dispersed camping is available along forest roads. Hot Springs National Park's Gulpha Gorge Campground, approximately 30 miles southwest of Bryant, serves as a convenient base for exploring the historic spa city.
Reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. As one camper noted, "Maumelle COE campground is nice and quiet especially after the weekend crowd left," highlighting the seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers. Cell service varies significantly across the region, with stronger coverage near Little Rock and spotty reception in forest areas. The climate supports year-round camping, though summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing. Mosquitoes are prevalent near water, especially at riverside locations like Willow Beach where one visitor warned they can be "very bad."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Lake Catherine State Park receives consistently high ratings for its lake access, with one visitor noting, "Most RV sites have close access to the water and there are small stationary docks to park your boat." Army Corps of Engineers sites on the Arkansas River provide scenic views and fishing opportunities, though amenities vary widely. Visitors to Catherine's Landing praise its "pristine Lake Catherine" setting and resort-like facilities including a pool and climbing course. For those seeking urban convenience, Downtown Riverside RV Park offers "easy access to the Arkansas River Trail, the Clinton library, restaurants and other attractions," though some note it lacks atmosphere compared to more natural settings.
