Camping near Combs, Arkansas provides access to the Ozark National Forest's rugged terrain at elevations between 1,200 and 2,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with fall temperatures averaging 60-70°F during day and 40-50°F at night. Most campgrounds in this area maintain availability year-round, though water systems may be winterized from November through March.
What to do
Hiking at White Rock Mountain: The White Rock Mountain Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels. "The Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season," notes Matt B., who adds that wildlife sightings are possible: "I saw a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock. Only time in 40+ years I've seen a bear in the wild in Arkansas."
Boating and fishing: Lake Fort Smith State Park provides boat rentals for water recreation. "Marina rents canoes, party barges, fishing boats, kayaks, etc. The entire place is beautiful and a great place for family outdoor activities," according to Steve S. The park's proximity to the lake makes it convenient for anglers seeking bass and crappie.
ATV adventures: Byrd's Adventure Center maintains dedicated off-road areas for motorized recreation. "They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road," writes Eric L. The center owns 800 acres with "a ton of off-road trails for all," adds Desiree Y.
What campers like
River access: Primitive campsites along the Mulberry River offer direct water access. At Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures, "It's right on the river where there is a natural pool," according to John F. Sheila H. confirms: "River view from our campsite, easy access to the river. The owners were awesome!"
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Peaceful spot, every star is visible. All of them," writes Steve J. about White Rock Mountain. At Riverfield Acreage, campers "saw more stars than I have seen, ever," according to Lacey T., who appreciated the absence of WiFi or service that allowed them to "completely relax and enjoy nature."
Clean facilities: Devil's Den State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and campsites. One camper describes it as having "one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great." Another notes that "the tent/camper/RV sites are new. The shower house looks new... Everything about this park is clean and attractive."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires caution on unpaved roads. The road to White Rock Mountain "is a minimally maintained one in a half lane dirt road full of rocks, erosion, bumps and a lot of up and down switch backs," warns Matt S., who suggests "an all wheel or four wheel drive vehicle with plenty of clearance."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. At Devil's Den State Park Campground, "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park," notes Gonzo A. At Riverfield Acreage, there is "no WiFi or service," which some campers appreciate.
Seasonal considerations: Campground conditions vary throughout the year. "Spring or fall is the ideal time to visit," advises Lisa H. about White Rock Mountain. Devil's Den occasionally closes "for maintenance and flooding," as one reviewer warned in April, recommending to "call before you go!"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many locations provide water recreation for children. At Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures, "the river is beautiful and the kids loved floating and playing in it," according to a visitor named Rose. Lake Fort Smith offers a "pool at the park" and "marina rents canoes, party barges, fishing boats, kayaks, etc."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include dedicated play areas. Lake Fort Smith features a "recreational area with a playground that is updated," though Ryan S. notes that "the playground requires that you drive to it which is inconvenient." For families with small children, he suggests considering site selection carefully as "many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings."
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential, especially during summer months. "Make sure and bring lots of bug spray," advises Cj C. about Devil's Den. At White Rock Mountain cabins, Matt B. recommends "bringing cleaning supplies" as cabins can attract "spiders, rodents, etc." during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campsites based on terrain and access needs. At Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground, "If you need sewer service, I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park," advises Donna H. At Devil's Den, "If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space."
Access routes for larger vehicles: Consider approach routes for RVs and large trailers. At Devil's Den, "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)," recommends Gonzo A. Several dog friendly campgrounds near Combs have access limitations, with John F. noting that Byrd's Adventure Center has "not a very convenient layout for trailers."
Supply planning: Stock necessary items before arrival due to limited nearby services. A Devil's Den visitor advises to "bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out." At pet-friendly campgrounds in the Ozarks, plan for extended stays by bringing sufficient pet supplies as rural stores may have limited selection.
