Best Camping near Chester, AR
Searching for the best camping near Chester, AR? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Chester. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Camping Sites Near Chester, AR (181)
1. Devil's Den State Park Campground
Winslow, Arkansas82 Reviews•428 Photos•522 SavesDevil’s Den includes 17 cabins with kitchens and fireplaces and 6 camper cabins. The park also offers 135 campsites (44 Class AAA, 4 Class B, 13 Class C, 24 Class D [no hookups], eight hike-in [tent only], and 42 sites with hookups in the horse camp that includes a bathhouse and access to the horse trails). The park’s cafe is open seasonally. The pool is open in summer only. Also on-site is a group camp, standard pavilion, playground, store, and meeting room.
Join park interpreters on hikes along trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail and for a variety of programs and special events year-round, like the Ozark Mountain Bike Festival held annually in the spring.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$20 / night
2. Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Chester, Arkansas22 Reviews•103 Photos•164 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$23 - $163 / night
3. White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
Combs, Arkansas25 Reviews•125 Photos•303 SavesOverview
Experience nature and adventure at historic White Rock Mountain! This National Forest Recreation Area features three unique and rustic natural stone cabins and a large natural stone lodge built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Each features a stone fireplace new, antique, and original wood furniture handcrafted by the CCC. Wind, rain and natural elements had caused the deterioration of the buildings over the years. In 1987 a volunteer group, Friends of White Rock, began a project to renovate the historic structures. With a lot of commitment and hard work, the lodge and cabins were restored to their original state in 1991. White Rock Mountain also offers nine primitive family camping sites. These easily accessible shaded campsites include tents pads, fire rings, grills, picnic tables and access to restrooms and water. Small RVs or pop-up campers can be accommodated at a few sites.
Recreation
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
Natural Features
White Rock Mountain is 2,309 feet above sea level and received its name from the appearance of the lichen on the sheer bluffs that appear white from a distance. Guests at White Rock can enjoy incredible scenic views from the lodge, cabins, campground and bluffs. The forest is home to a large variety of wildlife including deer, bear, bald eagles, turkey and more. In the fall season White Rock Mountain offers unrivaled opportunities for taking in the bright red, orange and yellow autumn foliage that sweeps across the Ozark National Forest. The forest around White Rock is also a waterfall hunter's paradise featuring several great falls located in the surrounding area.
Contact Info
This location is staffed. Please call (479) 369-4128 to speak with local staff.
Nearby Attractions
Ozark Highlands Trail, Shores Lake Recreation Area, National Scenic Mulberry River, Mill Creek and other ATV Trails, Waterfalls, Scenic Drives, Mountain Biking, Wineries (Altus, AR) and more.
Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$125 / night
4. Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures
Mulberry, Arkansas23 Reviews•93 Photos•229 SavesWelcome to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures! We are all about getting outside! We have Full Service RV Hookups as well as tent sites.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$15 - $35 / night
5. Springhill
Barling, Arkansas19 Reviews•43 Photos•59 SavesOverview
Download a Springhill park map HERE Springhill Park sits along John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake in the lush, rolling hills of Arkansas. Campers come here for boating, birding and relaxing.Avid mountain bikers enjoy the Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail, a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently. The trail is also a designated National Recreation Trail.
Recreation
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
Natural Features
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake is on the James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River. Some campsites line the river while others sit between the lake and Massard Creek. Bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs and open agricultural fields create the scenery.
Nearby Attractions
The Fort Smith Museum of History is located about 20 minutes away.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$50 - $75 / night
6. Aux Arc
Ozark, Arkansas17 Reviews•65 Photos•62 SavesOverview
Download a park map HERE Aux Arc Campground sits on the shores of Ozark Lake in the picturesque Arkansas River Valley. "Aux Arc" is a name that originated with French explorers when they mapped the territory. The term means "the big bend," describing the bend in the Arkansas River. Over time, the name was simplified to "Ozark," thus the name for Ozark Lake.
Recreation
Boating, hiking and picnicking are favorites with locals and visitors alike. Anglers find success with both boat and bank fishing, and popular fish species include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. Public land surrounding the lake yields deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits, dove, wild turkey, ducks and geese for hunting season.
Natural Features
Ozark Lake extends 36 miles along the Arkansas River. The shoreline of the lake varies from steep bluffs and tree-lined banks to open farm lands and level fields.
Nearby Attractions
Two of the largest wineries in the state are located in the nearby town of Altus. Here, large grape vineyards reminiscent of the European Rhineland dot the countryside.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$50 - $75 / night
7. Byrd's Adventure Center
St. Paul, Arkansas15 Reviews•40 Photos•112 SavesExperience the best tent and RV camping in Arkansas at Byrd’s Adventure Center. Right on the Mulberry River, Byrd’s offers a host of activities not found at any other Ozark campground.
Enjoy our comfortable RV and tent campsites as you relax in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Byrd’s Adventure Center offers spacious camping in a beautiful setting along the Mulberry River.
A variety of grassy and wooded campsites are available. Some sites have small shelters with picnic tables and campfire rings. In addition to our new Riverfront Restaurant (open weekly Friday-Sunday), we have more amenities than you’ll find in other Ozark campgrounds. These include a large heated shower house, a convenient on-site store with deli, stages, pavilions, an extensive trail network, two backcountry airstrips, rental cabins, plus floating and fishing on the pristine Mulberry River. All of this is located on our private 800-acre ORV park surrounded by the Ozark National Forest.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$10 - $22 / night
8. Fort Smith-Alma RV Park
Alma, Arkansas8 Reviews•22 Photos•21 SavesFort Smith-Alma RV Park has been operational since 1969. We offer water, electric, and sewer pull through sites up to 100' long with both 30 and 50 amp service. We also have 3 dry cabins for rent. We have several amenities and supplies available, including picnic tables, grills, laundromat and general store, catch and release fishing, restrooms/showers, patios, playground, and much more! Our site also sells propane.
We have friendly staff with over 20 years experience. We are the perfect place to stay during your vacation or visit, and we are always ready to give a great recommendation for surrounding activities and restaurants in the area. Give us a call today to book your stay! We look forward to serving you!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
9. Redding Campground
St. Paul, Arkansas12 Reviews•42 Photos•191 SavesOverview
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
10. Natural Falls State Park Campground
Colcord, Oklahoma46 Reviews•233 Photos•246 SavesMaking for great camping near Tulsa, Natural Falls State Park gets its name due to the unique water feature found inside the park’s Dripping Springs. Soaring 77 feet above the flat lands of the nearby Oklahoma/Arkansas border, one of the largest waterfalls in the region cascades down into the depths of the grassland valley below. Thanks to a railed viewing platform that overlooks the waterfall, visitors from all over come to enjoy the serene atmosphere and picturesque splendor created by this natural wonder.
Natural Falls State Park is most famously known for its cameo in the 1974 movie “Where the Red Fern Grows” which was filmed here. While you may not be interested in raising coonhounds, you might be pleased to find that dogs are allowed here so long as they’re on leash and cleaned up after. Additionally, the park offers a 44 RV sites, with 7 of them offering hookups. Furthermore, 17 tent sites are available for reservation if you aren’t one to travel via RV or Van. Nightly pricing ranges from $14 for a standard tent site, to $30 for a premium RV site with hookups.
Those looking for a more convenient camping solution will enjoy the variety of Yurts available for reservation here. Each Yurt can house between 4-6 people, and will more than appeal to even the pickiest of travelers thanks to the well-equipped furnishings found within. Each comes with a fridge, microwave, lighting, electric outlets, Vinyl covered mattresses, heating, and more. Not only that, but bathrooms and showers are just a short walk away. And don’t worry about your four-legged friends; with an additional fee they’ll be able to cozy up with your family inside. Nightly rates for Yurt reservations start at $100, with an additional $15 fee for pets. If you don’t have your own bedding available, the park will lend a complete set for $25.
When it comes to recreation, there’s tons to do! Hiking and fishing are very accessible here, with marked trails and designated fishing areas throughout. Furthermore, if you bring a pair of binoculars the park is full places perfect for checking out the local wildlife. Additionally, the park is jammed pack with local flora and fauna, such as Dogwood and Sassafrass. Moreover, onsite volleyball, disc-golf, horseshoes, a basketball court, and other recreation are found throughout the park.
People may visit here due to the fame, but they stay for the beauty within. Natural Falls State Park is a treasure of Oklahoma, and is worth checking out for anyone who needs a break away from the stress of everyday life.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
Pet-friendly camping near Chester
Devil's Den State Park Campground
522 Saves
Devil’s Den includes 17 cabins with kitchens and fireplaces and 6 camper cabins. The park also offers 135 campsites (44 Class AAA, 4 Class B, 13 Class C, 24 Class D [no hookups], eight hike-in [tent only], and 42 sites with hookups in the horse camp that includes a bathhouse and access to the horse trails). The park’s cafe is open seasonally. The pool is open in summer only. Also on-site is a group camp, standard pavilion, playground, store, and meeting room.
Join park interpreters on hikes along trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail and for a variety of programs and special events year-round, like the Ozark Mountain Bike Festival held annually in the spring.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$20 / night
Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
164 Saves
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$23 - $163 / night
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
303 Saves
Overview
Experience nature and adventure at historic White Rock Mountain! This National Forest Recreation Area features three unique and rustic natural stone cabins and a large natural stone lodge built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Each features a stone fireplace new, antique, and original wood furniture handcrafted by the CCC. Wind, rain and natural elements had caused the deterioration of the buildings over the years. In 1987 a volunteer group, Friends of White Rock, began a project to renovate the historic structures. With a lot of commitment and hard work, the lodge and cabins were restored to their original state in 1991. White Rock Mountain also offers nine primitive family camping sites. These easily accessible shaded campsites include tents pads, fire rings, grills, picnic tables and access to restrooms and water. Small RVs or pop-up campers can be accommodated at a few sites.
Recreation
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
Natural Features
White Rock Mountain is 2,309 feet above sea level and received its name from the appearance of the lichen on the sheer bluffs that appear white from a distance. Guests at White Rock can enjoy incredible scenic views from the lodge, cabins, campground and bluffs. The forest is home to a large variety of wildlife including deer, bear, bald eagles, turkey and more. In the fall season White Rock Mountain offers unrivaled opportunities for taking in the bright red, orange and yellow autumn foliage that sweeps across the Ozark National Forest. The forest around White Rock is also a waterfall hunter's paradise featuring several great falls located in the surrounding area.
Contact Info
This location is staffed. Please call (479) 369-4128 to speak with local staff.
Nearby Attractions
Ozark Highlands Trail, Shores Lake Recreation Area, National Scenic Mulberry River, Mill Creek and other ATV Trails, Waterfalls, Scenic Drives, Mountain Biking, Wineries (Altus, AR) and more.
Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$125 / night
Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures
229 Saves
Welcome to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures! We are all about getting outside! We have Full Service RV Hookups as well as tent sites.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$15 - $35 / night
Springhill
59 Saves
Overview
Download a Springhill park map HERE Springhill Park sits along John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake in the lush, rolling hills of Arkansas. Campers come here for boating, birding and relaxing.Avid mountain bikers enjoy the Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail, a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently. The trail is also a designated National Recreation Trail.
Recreation
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
Natural Features
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake is on the James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River. Some campsites line the river while others sit between the lake and Massard Creek. Bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs and open agricultural fields create the scenery.
Nearby Attractions
The Fort Smith Museum of History is located about 20 minutes away.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$50 - $75 / night
Aux Arc
62 Saves
Overview
Download a park map HERE Aux Arc Campground sits on the shores of Ozark Lake in the picturesque Arkansas River Valley. "Aux Arc" is a name that originated with French explorers when they mapped the territory. The term means "the big bend," describing the bend in the Arkansas River. Over time, the name was simplified to "Ozark," thus the name for Ozark Lake.
Recreation
Boating, hiking and picnicking are favorites with locals and visitors alike. Anglers find success with both boat and bank fishing, and popular fish species include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. Public land surrounding the lake yields deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits, dove, wild turkey, ducks and geese for hunting season.
Natural Features
Ozark Lake extends 36 miles along the Arkansas River. The shoreline of the lake varies from steep bluffs and tree-lined banks to open farm lands and level fields.
Nearby Attractions
Two of the largest wineries in the state are located in the nearby town of Altus. Here, large grape vineyards reminiscent of the European Rhineland dot the countryside.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
$50 - $75 / night
Recent Reviews in Chester
739 Reviews of 181 Chester Campgrounds
- O
Ollie P.
Scout
Buffalo Creek Trail
Approach from Cavern Mountain Rd 5, not Madison/404
Approach from Cavern Mountain Rd 5, not Madison/404. The final half mile of Madison/404 was too steep and rough to proceed. Cavern Mountain Rd 5 was good. Additionally, Google routed us a bunch of dirt roads to get here. I’d recommend driving around on the highways.
- BButch K.
Ranger
Love's RV Hookup-Vian OK 120
perfect for what it does
full hookups, very easy access from I-40 to your site and back. Extremely pricey for the bare necessities even with a few bucks off for being a senior. The gate closes behind you after enter the code from your e-mail confirmation. So you are safe from traffic, but nothing would keep pedestrians from marching right up to you door. WiFi was great. Only because I had the whole place to myself did I not feel gouged.
Charles H.
Traveler
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
Flying High
The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain. The entrance and welcome center is grand and very accepting of anything from small vehicles to large diesel pushers. The camping spaces are large and accommodating, most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in. The amenities were clean and - while dated - all in good working conditions. The various trails are well marked and offer several levels of technical expertise. At the top you can camp or stay at The Lodge - which offers a myriad of services from food to catered events.
But the views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!
kcki M.
Guide
Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Nice and quiet
Nice, quiet place. Great hiking! Not really a place for a quick overnight, the road in is steep and crooked.
Fred S.
Legend
Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed
Large dispersed with a view
Coordinates: 35.69300,-93.76803. Large dispersed site with a view, especially in the winter, of the mountains to the west. Located along Morgan Mountain Road, Forest Road 1504, a little over a mile north of AR Hwy 215. The trailhead to Spy Rock is about a mile north of this site. Altough eroded in spots due to recent heavy rains, Morgan Mountain Road was in good condition - no obstacles. A 2wd passenger car can carefully make it over the eroded areas. Except for one small spot, the site is not level - slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot. Access into the site from the forest road is easy. There is a clean rock fire ring. Tenting camping is possible. Hammock camping may be possible using nearby trees. The site is mostly shaded. The forest surrounding this campsite is beautiful. I received no T-Mobile service during my visit. I decided not to camp here during my visit due to a brisk, cold north-northwest wind blowing through the campsite.
- Fred S.Legend
Redding Campground
Some recent flood damage, but still good
Camped in site #6 on Nov 20, 2024. The Mulberry River had some serious flooding a few weeks ago which caused this campground to close. The campground is now open, and work is being done to restore the campground and its campsites back to its previous clean state. During my stay, grading was being done on the campground loop road. Some of the campsites were flooded leaving behind some debris and eroded site driveways. The sites away from the river were in good condition. The tent pads look level. Water was available; toilets and showers were functional. The restoom/shower house can use some cleaning, but not too bad. Trash service was available. Despite the flood damage, this is a good campground in a pretty area. I look forward to returning.
- CCarmen V.Scout
Springhill
Disappointed
Site is still charging campers full price for extended camping(14days) was told showers and restrooms available then suddenly they closed the facilities without notice. Was helping disabled person and his family who is currently homeless with the campsite and he now needing to look for somewhere else to go because there is nowhere for them to shower or use the restroom when needed.
- Fred S.Legend
Shores Lake
Quiet stay in a hardwood forest
Camped in site #10 in mid-November 2024. Site 10 is non-electric; paid $7.50/night with senior pass. Overall clean campground, well maintained and managed, in pretty hardwood forest. Not busy during my stay. Sites have picnic tables, tent pads and clean metal fire rings. Site 10 was level. The campground includes a clean restroom/shower house, one clean vault toilet at the far end of the campground, trash dumpsters and drinking water; all of these facilities and services were available during my stay in November. Campground can accommodate tents, camper vans, car camping and RVs. Some sites are electric. There are no water and sewer hookups. Campground road is paved as well as Highway 215 from I-40 accessing the campground. Sites are mostly shaded, but there is no privacy between sites. Shores Lake trailhead is located in a parking area in the campground. Day use area nearby with good fishing in Shores Lake. Campground hosts Donna and Eddie were wonderful. I really liked this campground.
George B.Scout
Snake Creek
Great place to stay.
We really enjoyed this campground. Lots of room to roam, Plenty of access to the water for boats (multiple ramps) or wading/swimming. Plenty of sites to choose from some shaded, some by the water. A few full hookups but not many. Most spots are just electric and water. Clean restrooms/showers. One newer area of the campground has new private shower rooms. We have been back a couple of times with all the kids and grandkids. Overall a nice corp of engineers park.
Andrew R.Scout
Applegate Cove Campground
Tucked away spot that's almost heaven
I sort of threw darts at a board to where I would be camping next, and Applegate Cove was my destination this time. The campground is fairly small, but each lot is well maintained. The ground was a bit hard to drive tent stakes into, but I'm attributing that to the weather and season until I visit again and disprove that. There's a small walking loop down to the Arkansas river which left me a gorgeous view of the sunset, unfortunately I also visited during a fishing competition which brought quite a few people, making it a bit of a noisy area during the day as they were using the campground boat slip and dock to cast off from. You can also hear river barges during all hours, though personally I slept through all of the supposed noise. My only real complaint was that one of the bathrooms was in considerably worse condition than the other and you could smell it up to twenty feet away, which after learning I took the extra minute to walk to the nicer one. The shower was good and hot, no complaints there. All in all, I'm pretty happy with how my stay went, and there's very little I disliked about the campgrounds.
- NNick & Allyssa S.Guide
Springhill
Great for the weekend!
Fantastic park to bring the kids and ride the bike trails or fish. Several pavilions and playgrounds. Clean campground. NO SEWER at campsites which is the only reason for the 4 stars. We stayed 7 days and had to move to pump out twice during our stay, so it was slightly inconvenient. Other than that, we loved it and will be back for shorter visits!
David B.Scout
Rivers Edge RV Park
Hwy’s Edge RV Park
This Was An Ok, basic Spot To Overnight; pretty expensive at $60/night, but they did give either Sr discount or veteran discount of 10%. This is certainly not a resort, and is at least a quarter mile from White River, feeding Beaver Lake. Pretty Large RV PK, With Many Permanent Residents. No sign at entrance, and we passed it by winding around a neighborhood of houses that was between the RV Park and the true water’s Edge.
Verizon signal was good at 3 jiggers; and stronger than their wifi. We were about 100 yds from nice new looking bathhouse which had wifi antenna with good reception at bathhouse but weak at our camper. Supposedly there are repeaters to amplify the WiFi signal, but they were not operational. We got by streaming YouTube TV through our Verizon Hotspot on our phones. We had to buy an extra sewer hose to connect to sewer, as it was placed so far toward entrance of the site, rather than toward rear of site where electric and water were appropriately placed. Nice courteous staff. We were on a level, narrow concrete pad; ~half of sites were gravel; no picnic table.
Devin R.Traveler
Cane Creek Recreation Area
Beautiful Sunset
Be sure to catch the sunset here. This has a beautiful setting even though it has been basically abandoned by the COE. The people who stay here must really care about the place because my site was very clean. Do not. I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you’ll be fine. There seemed to be some long-timers camped there together and their dogs barked quite often during the day, but they must have taken them in at night or my van did well with blocking out the noise. My site wasn’t 100% flat but I just slept with my feet going on the downhill slope. Also, be aware if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water
Todd R.Guide
Chicken Creek
Chicken Creek
Great camp ground, pleanty of shady spots. Would have given 5 stars, but they are limited on sites with 50amps. Showers were in rough shape as well
- Ricky T.Scout
Devil's Den State Park Campground
Undeniably Incredible!!
Absolutely beautiful from the Senic Overlook!! The trails are easy to traverse, and the nature here is breathtaking!!
- CClayton P.Guide
Natural Dam
Nice quiet spot not far from I-40
Easy to get to from I-40. Arrived late on a Thursday night and was the only person there. A little road noise off in the distance but the waterfall all but drowned it out.
Greg D.Guide
Cove Lake Complex
Quiet and wooded
Nice quiet campground with a nice lake, vault toilets, no electricity or water Wildlife in the area. We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade
Vien W.Guide
Round the Bend RV Campground
Round the Bend RV Camping
This RV Park is amazing! The view of Black Mountain at sunset is amazing! We love the well-kept grounds and spacious back in RV sites. They also have tent camping that you can book online. The location is convenient a quarter of mile off the Highway 23/The Pig Trail that motorcycle riders love. All the sites are generously space out with plenty of room for parking. The Turner Bend Camp Store is half mile down the road for gasoline, camping supplies, ice, fresh deli sandwiches and wraps, t-shirts, pins and patches.
We love the new bathroom and shower house. Don't miss this gem of a place. The owners are super nice
- JJessica P.Guide
Grape Country RV Park
Beautiful grounds, beautiful countryside
Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manacured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids. No additional amenities but not needed really with FHU. Owner came by and personally checked on us, booking was easy with a text! Great wines right up the road
Jeff P.Ranger
Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Hidden Gem
The campground is a hidden gem. The RV and primitive camping are clean and well-maintained. The bathroom/shower requires a passcode to enter and is always clean to use. It's a great escape for off-roading and overloading. Be sure to stop by the Oark Cafe in Oark, Arkansas, which is a 25-minute drive from the campground. They serve one of the best burgers in Arkansas (Wednesday-Sunday).
- Jeff P.Ranger
Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Mulberry Mountain Lodging and Campground
Very nice campground, mostly flat land for RV and primitive campground. The bathroom/shower house is very clean to use. This area is great for getaways, off-roading, or overloading.
- ppaulGuide
Springhill
2 Days Nice
A little older of an area. Stayed in site B10. Close to level. We have a 36' 5th wheel, tow vehicle, plus another vehicle. Easy entry into site and large enough for all vehicles. Asphalt with concrete patio. There is a picnic table and fire ring. 50/30/20A We can kind of see the river from this site. Very roomy sites in the woods with plenty of shade. Mostly dirt ground. Older but clean restrooms. We didn't use them. There are single person combined toilet and shower rooms at the front of park. There are mountain bike/hiking trails all over, even a little bike park with ramps and jumps. Playground and boat ramp. No sewer hookups, but there is a dump station. Lots of mosquitoes in the evening. Although some sites need maintenance and the restrooms are old, this is a nice park. We stayed 2 days and would definitely stay again.
Noel L.GuideApplegate Cove Campground
Nice campground
Older Park. Renovations are being done... Pads, 10 ft picnic tables, playground... Right off the lake with awesome scenery. Couple who manages the place is really nice and helpful. Would stop here again.
- SSam W.Scout
Turner Bend
Clean, spacious, beautiful view. Away from highway noise. Friendly staff.
Clean and spacious RV sites. We love the view of the mountain and the fact that we can ride our ATV to the Turner Bend Store to get gasoline and sandwiches. Mill Creek trailhead just 2 miles north from our campsite. The staff are friendly and very helpful. We got a physical ATV map. The Paradise Pizza Pub just 3 miles from our campsite!
- CChris A.Guide
Hog Valley RV & Treehouse Resort
Clean place next to good mountain biking and University of Arkansas
Flat Sites, Clean, Nice Amenities, Nice Staff, Little Exposed in heat to Sun. Best shades sites rented in advance. (Site 24-27)
Brian S.ScoutBarker Gap
Barker Gap Campground
Family friendly camping in nature.
Ferrason A.ScoutNatural Dam
beautiful scenery but not many amenities
The scenery here is really beautiful, Geometry Dash Breeze but it is so deserted that it is a bit scary at night.
Guide to Chester
Camping near Chester, Arkansas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails to explore. At Devil's Den State Park Campground, one visitor said, "The hikes are short and just amazing!!!!!" Another camper noted, "Hiking was fantastic, with each trail being dramatically different than the one before."
- Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds, like Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground, offer fishing opportunities. A reviewer mentioned, "You can’t swim or paddleboard but can kayak or fish here."
- Wildlife Watching: Campers at Redding Campground enjoyed spotting wildlife. One camper shared, "We saw deer, armadillos, and skunks," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
What campers like:
- Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the large, well-spaced sites at Devil's Den State Park Campground. One review highlighted, "LARGE, well spaced sites with two bath houses within 50 yards in either direction."
- Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the restrooms. A camper at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground said, "The facilities are super clean and well taken care of."
- Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures noted, "Owners are great and helpful."
What you should know:
- Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, have poor cell reception. One camper mentioned, "They did offer ViaSat WIFI for a fee, but I love to unplug when I get the chance."
- Reservations Required: Some sites, such as Springhill, require reservations in advance. A camper noted, "You have to reserve your site in advance via Recreation.gov."
- Seasonal Closures: Be aware that some campgrounds, like Lake Wedington, are temporarily closed, so check ahead before planning your trip.
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Nice large pool area with a water playground/splash pad."
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures enjoyed, "Camping, buggy riding, swimming, and fishing."
- Pack for Bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially in warmer months. A camper at Redding Campground warned about horseflies, saying, "They attacked me as soon as I got in the water."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Fort Smith-Alma RV Park mentioned, "Spaces are quite small but it has become the norm everywhere."
- Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures appreciated the "Full hookups, 50 amp to primitive camping right on the river."
- Be Mindful of Check-In Times: Some campgrounds have specific check-in times. A camper at Byrd's Adventure Center noted, "They called to check on our arrival and have our registration ready for us."
Camping sites Chester, AR, and the surrounding areas provide a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just relaxing, there's something for every camper to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Chester, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Chester, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 181 campgrounds and RV parks near Chester, AR and 16 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Chester, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chester, AR is Devil's Den State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 82 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chester, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots near Chester, AR.
What parks are near Chester, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 parks near Chester, AR that allow camping, notably Ozark Lake and John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake.