Tent camping near Cleveland, Arkansas provides direct access to the Ozark National Forest with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,500 feet. Seasonal temperature variations can be extreme, with summer highs often exceeding 90°F and winter nights dipping below freezing. The region's sandstone bluffs and numerous creek crossings create natural boundaries between camping areas, with most sites requiring 15-30 minute drives on unpaved forest roads to reach.
What to do
Swimming access: At Haw Creek Falls Camping, campers can cool off in the clear swimming hole. "Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking!" notes Samantha W., who also mentions there's "NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!"
Hiking trails: Several established paths connect to Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI) campground. According to Tanda P., "There is a hiking trail directly from the camp ground. Down the road you can bushwack to Penhook falls." Amy W. adds that "The area is close to many great hiking trails and dirt roads to explore around Hector."
Fishing opportunities: Creekside camping allows for convenient fishing access. At Delaware Park, water access is a standout feature despite minimal maintenance. As Matt S. notes, "The campsites on the water were beautiful," making it ideal for anglers. The Illinois Bayou near Bayou Bluff provides additional fishing spots accessible via short trails from camp.
What campers like
Stone shelters: Unique to Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI), these structures provide partial weather protection. Kristina K. describes "an awesome covered, but open walls, rock building with a really cool fireplace," while valerie mentions they "have functional fireplaces" that are "nice to set up somewhat out of the weather."
Secluded campsites: Privacy levels vary across campgrounds. Stephanie M. notes that Bayou Bluff sites "are pretty shaded all day" and "it's rarely crowded which is why we like it." At Haw Creek Falls, Lacee G. observes "There is a decent amount of space between the sites. Most have fire rings and a great view of Haw Creek Falls."
Off-grid accessibility: Many sites balance remoteness with vehicle access. At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, Rylie R. calls it a "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out." Julie A. adds that "The road back to it is well maintained and we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum."
What you should know
Reservation policies: Most campgrounds operate first-come, first-served. Amy W. explains that at Bayou Bluff, "This area is not on many people's radar so it's possible that you may only see a local or two while you're here," while Fred S. confirms "there are only 4 campsites, including a group site... these sites are free, first come, first serve."
Water availability: Drinking water access varies significantly. At Haw Creek Falls, Samantha W. warns that "there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!" Similarly, Fred S. notes Bayou Bluff has "no water available, but there may water in the group site."
Trash policies: Many sites now require pack-in, pack-out practices. Fred S. reports that at Bayou Bluff, "Trash services are managed by visitors as 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out,' and Leave No Trace ethics are posted on information kiosks." Ken H. noted at Camp Robinson that he "Picked up a med bag of trash; cans, bottles, and paper. Looks better now."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with appropriate amenities. David S. calls Haw Creek Falls "a great area for families" noting it's "well developed without being overdone, with spacious plots." Fred S. recommends Bayou Bluff for family tent camping, stating "Sites appear to be too small for RVs & trailers."
Weather considerations: Flash flooding affects several campgrounds. David S. warns that Haw Creek Falls "is closed during times of intense rain, due to frequent flooding." Kris J. adds that "you might get flooded out or stranded until the water goes down."
Animal encounters: Prepare for local wildlife interactions. Layla B. reports that at Haw Creek Falls they saw "Lots of snakes and saw a feral cat but so pretty." At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, campers report hearing coyotes at night, particularly when camping near farms or rural areas.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent campgrounds have restricted RV access. At Delaware Park, despite having "plenty to choose from since no one was in the entire park," Olivia M. noted that sites are "Mostly flat by the water with a fire pit and a picnic bench," but access roads may be challenging for larger vehicles.
Electric hookups: Few tent-focused sites offer electrical connections. Mill Creek is one exception, with electric hookups available despite other maintenance issues. Lacee G. observed that "The sites were filled with leaves. The bathrooms were closed, but that could have been due to COVID 19. None of the sites were near the water."
