Top Tent Camping near Cotter, AR
Looking for an adventure where you can explore Cotter and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best tent camping sites near Cotter. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Cotter, AR (26)
1.
Rush Campground — Buffalo National River
Cozahome, Arkansas4 Reviews21 Photos41 SavesRush Campground is a first come, first serve campground in the lower district of the park. Rush has 12 tent only sites with no electrical amenities and no flush restrooms. Drinking water is available when fees are collected March 15 - November 14. It is free to camp at Rush in the winter. All sites are limited to 6 people per site and each site is $16 per night. This is a pack in/pack out facility, trash collection is not available.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
2.
Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Ponca, Arkansas24 Reviews117 Photos1 SaveOverview
Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in tent sites and another section of the campground offers 14 sites for those camping with horses. Half of the sites in the campground are available for reservations. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just off Highway 74.
Recreation
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
Facilities
Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.______
Natural Features
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
Nearby Attractions
The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking or overnight backcountry opportunities.__ Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for more information..
Charges & Cancellations
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
$20 / night
3.
Spring Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Harriet, Arkansas2 Reviews3 Photos2 SavesSpring Creek Campground is a first come, first serve campground near Harriet, AR. Spring Creek has 12 tent only sites with no electrical amenities, no flush restrooms, and no water.
- Tents
- Toilets
4.
Dillards Ferry — Buffalo National River
Cozahome, Arkansas1 Review3 Photos37 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
6.
Drury-Mincy Conservation Area
Kirbyville, Missouri6 Reviews15 Photos63 SavesDrury-Mincy Conservation Area is in southern Taney County, southeast of Branson, off of Route J. The area, located in the heart of the White River glade region, was the Conservation Department's first deer refuge. The area is named for early landowner Frank Drury and the settlement of Mincy. The Commission leased the land in 1939, then purchased it in 1987. At present, the area is comprised of 5,599 acres which includes a portion of Bull Shoals Lake managed lands. By the turn of the century, deer numbers had dwindled to the point that Missouri could claim only 14 herds. One of these lived in the Drury-Mincy area. The area was purchased by a private landowner in 1929, who worked with the Department to increase deer numbers. From 1939 through 1959, Drury-Mincy deer were successfully used to restore populations statewide. The Drury-Mincy area, one of three areas that supported flocks of native wild turkeys, provided 300 turkeys for statewide restoration projects during the 1960s. Bluestem glades and post oak woodlands dominated the rolling hills. Mincy, Fox, and Bee creeks meander through stands of wild cane on their way to Bull Shoals Lake. Purple beardtongue, fringetree, and Ashe juniper are among the unusual plants found on the area.
Primitive camping is permitted in designated camping area only. Campers are limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. Groups of more than 10 campers are required to obtain a special use permit.
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Picnic Table
7.
Gilbert Gravel Bar — Buffalo National River
Buffalo National River, Arkansas1 Review2 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Trash
8.
Aufderklamm Farm
Greeson Lake, Arkansas1 Review4 Photos15 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
$25 - $45 / night
9.
Carver Campground — Buffalo National River
Vendor, Arkansas3 Reviews34 Photos32 SavesCarver is a first come, first serve campground in the upper district of the park. It has 8 tent only sites with potable water, but no electrical amenities. A vault restroom is available. This is a pack in/pack out facility with no trash service.
- Phone Service
- Tents
10.
Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
Ponca, Arkansas9 Reviews27 Photos90 Saves- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$5 - $245 / night
Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Cotter
528 Reviews of 26 Cotter Campgrounds
Ozarks RV Resort on Table Rock Lake
It is okay
I have not really been able to use it just checking it out
Blue Heron Campground
Blue Heron
This is our 5-6 year to stay here. Over the years, we have seen so many b improvements to this area.. it’s always a great time. Michael, the host, is just an all around great guy. We are looking forward to our next stay
Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River
Peaceful Fall Trip
Camping Review: A Slice of Paradise
If you're looking for the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I can't recommend this camping spot highly enough. Nestled in a remote area, far from the chaos of civilization, this campsite offers a rejuvenating experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene sounds of nature—the rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle flow of the Buffalo River nearby. With no cell service, it was liberating to disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in the beauty around me.
The campsite itself was impeccably maintained, with spacious sites that allowed for privacy and a true sense of seclusion. Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure.
During my stay, I hiked along the winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that took my breath away. The evenings were spent gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars that seemed to shine brighter than ever.
The lack of modern distractions was refreshing, allowing me to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of life—like the crackling fire and the warmth of good company. Whether you're an experienced camper or a beginner, this remote getaway is perfect for anyone looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
In summary, if you're seeking a peaceful retreat where you can truly escape the world, this camping spot is the best of the best. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in nature's embrace!
Theodosia Park Campground
Unknown gem.
Very small park. Restaurant and store are Nextdoor. Spots are large. We were the only campers in the park.
Branson Shenanigans RV Park
Clean and great
We have stayed with them twice. Spots are strategically placed and surrounded by woods. The owner is very kind and informative guiding you to your spot and helping you park. He will also give his favorite local recommendations for restaurants and attractions. He’s a veteran. Never had any issues with anything.
Buffalo outdoor center
Terrible Experience and Lack of Customer Service at Buffalo Outdoor Center
I am extremely disappointed with our recent stay at Buffalo Outdoor Center RV Park in Ponca, Arkansas. After a 7.5-hour drive, we arrived on June 29, 2024, eager to enjoy a week-long stay. Unfortunately, our visit turned into a nightmare within just one hour of our arrival. While setting up our 5th wheel trailer, there was a loud pop followed by smoke pouring out of our TV. Thankfully, my husband was able to unplug it before our trailer caught fire. To our dismay, none of the outlets on one side of our trailer were working, and our TV, microwave, and fan were all fried and non-functional. We immediately contacted an employee who came to our site, inspected the outside meter post by looking at it, not testing it, and nonchalantly stated that since there was no smoke coming from it, the problem must be on our end. When my husband asked for immediate assistance, the employee told us we would have to wait two days, until Monday, and go to a nearby town to find someone to help us. This response was unacceptable and showed a complete lack of concern for our safety. Moreover, the employee had the audacity to shame us by asking if we had a GFI power surge protector plugged into the meter. None of the other RV sites had this, and in our 23+ years of camping, we have never encountered such an issue. Feeling unsafe and unsupported, we decided to pack up and drive the 7.5 hours back home, after being at the site for just one hour. The lack of assistance and options provided by the Buffalo Outdoor Center was disheartening, especially considering we were in a completely different state with no information on what we could do. Upon arriving home, we hooked up our camper at our local campground, and everything worked fine. We also went on another camping trip to a local RV campground, and again, everything worked perfectly. This clearly indicated that the surge was on Buffalo Outdoor Center's end. When we requested a refund, they refunded all but one day. This is unacceptable considering the distress, inconvenience, and financial loss we endured, including having to purchase a new TV, microwave, and fan. Our experience at Buffalo Outdoor Center RV Park was nothing short of a disaster. The lack of customer service, concern for our safety, and willingness to provide immediate assistance was appalling. We will not be returning and cannot recommend this RV park to anyone.
COE Table Rock Lake Old Highway 86 Park
Tranquil Lakeside Retreat
Old Highway 86 Campground is situated on a picturesque peninsula on Table Rock Lake, offering stunning morning views. The park is family-friendly, quiet, and meticulously maintained, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. It features a great swimming area that is both safe and enjoyable. The serene environment and cleanliness make it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
Buffalo Point — Buffalo National River
LOTS to do!
This is our go to get away! If you like canoeing and kayaking… it’s here. Like hiking… plenty of trails. Want to just site by one of the cleanest rivers around and enjoy the Ozarks… this is it. We’ve tent camped and trailered here for more than 15 years.
The camp grounds are well maintained by the NPS. The showers and restrooms are a bit, um, rustic. Sites can be hit and miss depending on the time of the year. Be sure and view the campsite online and consider the direction of the site. Some get full sun in the morning but most are shaded in the evening due to the mountain. Also, sites on the river side are frequented by raccoons at night and mosquitos depending on the weather.
I would still pick Buffalo Point as a definite place to stay.
Blue Heron Campground
Excellent!
We stay at Blue Heron 3-4 times a year and love it! Excellent concrete pads with easy back-in markings for RVs. Great cement patio so there is no mud in case of rain. Each site has its own fire pit and 2 chairs. All the sites are great, but the river sites provide a nice cool breeze off the water!
White River Campgrounds
Wors Campgrounds.. the camp manager is the worst I have ever seen
Even though their website says they have tent camping they DO NOT
Branson Shenanigans RV Park
Love this campground
Love the location and quiet comfort of this park. It's close enough to all of the action but feels like you are light years away.
It's a perfect campground to have a fun family camp trip and enjoy the sights of Branson. The owners are also wonderful!
Definitely a great place to visit!
Turkey Creek RV Village
Out dated and run down, unfriendly full time campers
We thought we would change up from always going to Table Rock State Park. Boy were we wrong!!!!!! The RV lots are gravel/grass- no WIFI or cable. Most of the RV'ers are full timers, and they have the attitude that it's their park. And, if you encounter an incident with one of them- they all turn against your presents. Gray haired adolescence is what my wife calls them. Most sites have some tree cover but walnut trees will totally sap up your RV, not to mention the nuts when they fall. I would only recommend this place if your wallet is very tight. Table Rock Park is hands down better then this out dated and unfriendly rude group of full time campers.
Sylamore Creek Camp
Beautiful Creek
Loved being able to camp so close to the creek! The campsites weren’t anything special, but it is perfect for a weekend getaway. The lower campground does not have a bathroom, have to walk to the hill. The bathrooms were clean, but the shower house is basically like taking an outdoor shower. They do sell wood, ice and have a small selection of items inside the office. The location is great and the river is gorgeous making this a place would would definitely return to.
Sylamore Creek Camp
Disappointed
We have stayed here 2 times, once in a RV a couple years ago and had a nice experience. The second just this week. Since we stayed here last the prices have increased per night and it has come under new ownership. We stayed in the “wren” cabin. Which is over looking campsites below and sylamore creek. Not horrible, but honestly if I’m paying for water views I want to see the water not campers. Overall fairly clean, other than the debris pictured in the shower. No problem, sometimes mistakes happen. Could have even fell from the ceiling when the door closed or something after it was cleaned. My biggest issue, we were here for 3 nights. Typically I like to shower a couple times a day as does my wife when it is hot out. We had a total of 2 bath towels and 2 wash cloths upon arrival. Rather than new ones being brought daily, you are required to take the used ones to the camp store and exchange them yourself. I’m on vacation, I don’t personally feel it should be my responsibility to secure my own towels on MY time. I mean, I’m here for 3 days, give me 6 towels and wash cloths and count them when I leave if your that worried about towel theft. I’ve travelled half way around the world and never had this issue before. But if I’m paying $140 a night for a room worth about $90 (at best) I’d at least like enough towels to get me through my stay or maybe send someone by with new ones. One more thing, note the front door pic needs painted at a minimum, I mean, it’s not just one thing, it’s attention to detail and upkeep. The bathroom door also rubbed the floor and the floor was uneven overall. I get around pretty good, but I can see this being a trip hazard for someone elderly. Point being, I did not get a good value for the stay I purchased. I did confront the towel issue and the response was “we’ve always done it that way”. Doesn’t sound like it will change soon, which means I won’t be back and wouldn’t encourage anyone else to stay here either. On a positive, it’s not a bad location. I will also mention the bed, it wasn’t bad, but could have lived without the sandpaper sheets.
Table Rock State Park Campground
Not the best in Branson
Crowded spots, though great facilities and prices. Much preferred the indian point campground over by SDC
Tyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
Fine but not amazing
Pretty basic campground, kind of just a bunch of spots in a field. About half are first come first serve, was there during the week and it was pretty empty. Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small.
The river is gorgeous, I was sad it was too cold to swim! Only one bathhouse in the car camping area so it’s gets pretty busy. Excellent cell service.
We had a nice time but weren’t particularly wowed, our only issues were lack of hookups, bad weather, and some people who decided to crowd us and run a loud generator despite the campground being mostly empty.
Dam - Quarry
Clean campground, nice location
Average space between sites. Level paved sites with gravel picnic area including picnic table, fire ring, lantern hanger. Some sites had covered picnic area. Limited shade, most sites don’t have trees. Good access to sites. Clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower. Garbage cans were outside of bathrooms, as well as dumpsters near the registration building. Friendly staff upon check in. Campground was patrolled regularly. No laundry or recycling. Nearby road with little road noise. Verizon cell signal was excellent. There is a dump station and potable fill station. No store or food for purchase on site. No hiking in campground, but multiple trails nearby. Boat ramp at campground and lots of wading fly fishing in river. Fish hatchery across from campground.
Buffalo Point — Buffalo National River
Very fun I was at the group camp site but it was far away from the river
I got to fish
Cricket Creek
Quiet and lots of space
Cricket Creek is a quiet campground with sufficient spacing between sites. Visited June 2023
COE Table Rock Lake Old Highway 86 Park
Quiet time at the lake
We enjoy visiting Branson off-season and our time at this campground made it even better! Our site had unobstructed views of the lake and was easy to level. The shower house was a bit far but right across the street was a compost toilet shed that was convenient and kept very clean. Working remotely was no issue as cell service was good. Will love to go back to that same site again, so peaceful!
Sycamore Loop Dispersed
Ok place
Ok place to camp, pretty secluded, old campground but most spots no longer seemed camp friendly, as new tree growth has taken over. Seems to be a guy living in a rv at the end of the road which is really close to the one camping friendly spot, kinda kills the dispersed camping vibe.
Table Rock State Park Campground
Great for solo camping beginners !
Just a few minutes drive from gas stations and grocery stores if needed, but otherwise in a fantastic location. Clean restroom facilities and super friendly staff. Sites 274-278 are some of the best waterfront spots.
Branson Musicland Kampground
Awesome referral
Our friends from CA have bragged on this camp ground for years....so here we come!
Blue Heron Campground
Great place to visit
We celebrated a birthday with family and friends at Blue Heron - we traveled from Texas. What a GREAT place. Beautiful views - so many amenities - they have everything you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Can’t wait to return and stay in one of the riverfront cabins. SO nice. Cheryl and Michael were so helpful and made sure our trip was one for the books.
Classic RV Park
Good overnight
Nice safe overnight spot cheap propane refills friendly staff
Blue Heron Campground
Great Place to Stay
We stayed in a riverfront site. It was perfect access to bank fishing and the boat ramp. The entire property including our site was very clean, well kept and attractive.
Michael was great to work with and very attentive to any need we had.
I would gladly recommend this property to anyone wanting to camp by a great trout stream in a beautiful setting.
Richland Creek Recreation Area
Great hike!
Went during opening weekend for hunting. But there was enough space it didn't feel crowded at all. We really enjoyed the hiking trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cotter, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cotter, AR is Rush Campground — Buffalo National River with a 4.8-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Cotter, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 26 tent camping locations near Cotter, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.