RV camping options near Chester, Arkansas center around the Ozark National Forest and Arkansas River Valley areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,200 feet with hardwood forests and limestone bluffs creating varied camping terrain. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer brings heat and humidity that can affect RV air conditioning efficiency.
What to do
Fishing access points: Turner Bend provides direct access to the Mulberry River with excellent smallmouth bass fishing. "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," notes Sam W.
Wine tasting tours: The Altus wine region is minutes from RV sites. "It is on the wine trail and there are vineyards across the road," explains Zachary C. from Grape Country RV Park, which offers "clean, level gravel" sites with "great hook ups."
Mountain biking trails: The area has extensive trail networks accessible from several campgrounds. "We took the bike trail that is super close and saw some beautiful scenery," reports Krystal T. about their experience at Southgate RV Park of Fayetteville, noting it's "perfect for a break" from driving.
What campers like
Level sites with full hookups: Many campgrounds feature well-maintained, level sites. "We love the well-kept grounds and spacious back in RV sites," mentions Vien W. about Turner Bend's 16 RV sites with mountain views of Black Mountain.
Clean facilities: Riverfront RV Resort earns praise for its upkeep. "Beautifully maintained, sits right on the Arkansas river. Pool is cold but clean and well maintained," reports Julie B. about this newer Riverfront RV Resort facility.
Quiet locations: Several campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from highway noise. "Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manicured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids," notes Jessica P. about Grape Country RV Park, adding "Great wines right up the road."
What you should know
Size limitations on mountain roads: Some campgrounds require navigating narrow, winding roads. Twin Creeks RV Park is accessible but doesn't accommodate larger rigs, making it better suited for "motorcycle camping trips" according to Daniel D. from Twin Creeks RV Park.
Site spacing varies significantly: RV site spacing differs between parks. Riverfront RV Resort offers concrete pads with adequate spacing, while other parks place units closer together. "There is a walking trail along the river so if your campsite faces it, there is plenty of people walking along that trail," notes Angela C.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons (March-November), campsites fill quickly. "We had booked a different campground and did not like it. A quick search brought us to this great little spot," mentions Cerise S. about Grape Country RV Park, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Our kids enjoyed the playground, outdoor gym, and pickleball - it was too cold to swim," says Angela C. about Riverfront RV Resort, which includes these amenities within walking distance of campsites.
Dog-friendly areas: Most campgrounds welcome pets with designated walking areas. "Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manicured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids," shares Jessica P. from Grape Country RV Park.
Security considerations: Some campgrounds offer enhanced security features. "This was a great little park and stay at while we were in Fort Smith. The price was right and operated by a family and the whole family chips in to run the park. The hosts were very accommodating and the military police patrolled the park," notes Leslie D. about William O. Darby RV Community.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "We were not prepared for below-freezing conditions so we had to gear up to keep the water lines from freezing," warns Brian C. about camping at The Creeks Golf & RV Resort.
Shade availability: Summer heat affects comfort at many RV parks. Chris A. notes that Hog Valley RV & Treehouse Resort has "Flat Sites, Clean, Nice Amenities, Nice Staff, Little Exposed in heat to Sun. Best shades sites rented in advance. (Site 24-27)."
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies between parks. "WiFi is spotty during peak times," reports TJ W. about The Creeks Golf & RV Resort, which offers discounts on golf and has sites that "are all paved and have full hookups."