Tent campsites near Combs, Arkansas connect visitors to the Ozark Mountains region, characterized by elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet and karst topography with limestone formations. During summer months, temperatures range 75-90°F with humidity levels reaching 80%, while spring brings significant rainfall that affects river levels and trail conditions. Fall camping offers temperatures 50-70°F with reduced humidity and colorful foliage displays.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 1-mile hike from Kings River Falls Campground leads to multiple swimming holes. "Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas. This is a remote and rugged campground with caves, bluffs, swimming holes and river a plenty," notes camper Rhonda L.
Rock climbing: Various skill levels available at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch with over 400 routes ranging from beginner to advanced. A visitor mentioned, "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit, you won't be disappointed to check it out!"
Paddling: 8-10 mile routes accessible from most riverfront campgrounds. At Riverfield Acreage on the White River, camper Lacey T. appreciated "having them drop us off at a put in location" for a "float trip back to our camp ground (free of charge)."
What campers like
Digital disconnection: No cell coverage at most riverfront camping areas creates true isolation. "An excellent place to put your phone away and get back to nature!" reports a Kings River Falls camper. Another visitor at Kyles Landing Campground confirms "Absolutely no cell service. No one in our group with varying cell service providers had service."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn/dusk opportunities for spotting native species. "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over," reports a visitor about Steel Creek, while another camper at Riverfield Acreage enjoyed "Amazing secluded location" where they "Saw more stars than I have seen, ever."
Swimming holes: Natural rock formations create ideal spots for cooling off. A visitor at Haw Creek Falls Camping mentioned, "Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking!" Another noted, "eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in arkansas."
What you should know
Road conditions: High-clearance vehicles recommended for several campgrounds after rainfall. As one camper at Kyles Landing warns, "the road out can be a little slick as it is a very steep dirt road." Another visitor cautions, "The drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Water availability: Seasonal constraints affect drinking water access. Haw Creek Falls requires self-sufficiency as a visitor notes, "there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!"
Reservation requirements: Many private campgrounds require advance booking through websites. At Natural Dam, a camper arrived "late on a Thursday night and was the only person there," but more popular spots fill quickly. A Kings River Falls visitor clarifies: "You have to book your stay at this private campground through their website. They will then give you very detailed directions to their private property."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow areas provide safe play spaces. At Riverfield Acreage, a parent reported "Kids loved having the rock bed and river right beside us," making it easy to supervise water play while at camp.
Space for activities: Some campgrounds offer large open areas. Steel Creek features "a big grassy field which I love," according to a camper, with "trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole!" Another visitor mentions the campground is "Good for groups - you can book multiple spots next to each other."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning animal sightings create educational experiences. One camper at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch describes "roaming goats and horses around the property," while another noted the ranch "also has cabins and horseback rides."
Tips from RVers
Site terrain: Level parking considerations affect larger vehicles. A camper at Natural Dam found "a fairly large (semi-level) gravel parking lot right next to the natural waterfall which gives good noise cover for the road nearby," making it suitable for overnight RV stays.
Amenity limitations: Most riverside campgrounds lack hookups. At Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging, RVers can find more services with "showers, allows pets, and is family owned" plus "LVC store has groceries, even organic, supplies, and friendly folks."
Access restrictions: Road grades and surfaces limit RV types at certain campgrounds. A Horseshoe Canyon Ranch visitor cautions "The road in is dirt and gravel" making it "probably not a good place for motorcycles to get in and out," though they'd "still love to go try it car camping."
