The Buffalo National River area near Cotter, Arkansas offers tent camping options within 20-40 miles of town. This region sits at elevations between 600-1,200 feet with typical Ozark terrain featuring limestone bluffs, dense forests, and clear flowing waters. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F during day and 65-75°F at night, while spring and fall camping seasons bring milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: The Buffalo River Trail system connects multiple campgrounds with over 100 miles of maintained paths. At Steel Creek Campground, visitors can access trails directly from their site. "Foot paths to the river and access to hiking trails right there at the camp ground. Pretty much empty during the week but was over flowing with people on Memorial Day weekend," notes one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer the best chance to spot deer, elk, and occasionally black bears. "Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears. Very quiet and every site has a picnic table," reports a camper at Steel Creek. Some campers at Rush Campground report seeing armadillos after dark.
Swimming holes: The Buffalo River maintains water temperatures between 70-75°F during summer months. "You can walk to the river from the campground which is very convenient," mentions a visitor at Kyles Landing Campground. "We went on a weekend in mid-October and there were probably about 5 to 8 other sites being used with plenty of vacancy still."
What campers like
Natural solitude: Some campsites provide separation from neighbors and quiet environments. At Spring Creek Campground, "The campsites are a good distance apart, they have plenty of room and have fire rings and picnic tables," according to one visitor who stayed three nights in October.
River access: Many sites allow direct water entry for paddling or swimming. At Gilbert Gravel Bar, "You can tent hear in preparation for a canoe trip or as a stop over along the Buffalo River. We usually drop part of our crew, camping gear, and canoes and then park most of our vehicles at South Maumelle or Buffalo Point."
Scenic surroundings: Most camping areas feature notable views of bluffs or water features. "You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away, and are greeted by the breathtaking view of the bluffs you are surrounded by," describes a Steel Creek visitor who recommends it for beginners.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating steep, unpaved roads. A camper at Shine Eye Gravel Bar explains, "This is just a gravel bar along The Buffalo National River but it is beautiful! There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites offer basic amenities with few modern conveniences. At Kyles Landing, "There is a private outfitter at the top of the hill that offers pay showers. Speaking of the 'hill', its a steep road down into the campground."
Seasonal considerations: Spring typically brings higher water levels but potential flooding, while summer weekends see increased crowds. "The road is steeply inclined and bumpy," notes a Steel Creek visitor. Another camper advises, "Four wheel drive is highly recommended. The road is steep, has sharp, blind curves and is very narrow."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose locations with natural boundaries or shade features. At Dillards Ferry, "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp."
Safety precautions: Monitor water conditions before allowing children to swim. "The water was high when we went we ended up camping right on the water on the sand bank and cooked dinner over the fire," shares a Kyles Landing visitor who noted the challenging conditions.
Activity planning: Schedule morning hikes before afternoon heat peaks at 2-4pm. "We visited Hemmed-In Hollow and Whitaker Point while camping here. Both are great, but keep safety in mind, especially at Whitaker Point," advises a Steel Creek camper.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most Buffalo River campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs under 25 feet due to road constraints. At Steel Creek, the sites are "all in a big grassy field which I love. There are trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole! There are flush toilets and vault toilets in the campground."
Alternative locations: RV campers seeking full hookups should consider private campgrounds within 10-15 miles of Buffalo River access points. Kyles Landing can accommodate some RVs despite primitive facilities, with a camper noting "all sites are walk in for 12.00$ but are first come first serve with two bathrooms that are kept clean."
Terrain preparation: Bring leveling blocks for uneven parking areas. A visitor to Steel Creek suggests, "Make sure your car has pretty good handling and brakes— as the drive up to the entrance and down to the campsite is steep and curvy (it is paved, though)!"
