Camping near Vandervoort, Arkansas sits within the oak-pine forests of the Ouachita Mountains, where elevations range from 600 to 2,600 feet. Average summer temperatures reach the mid-90s with night temperatures dropping to the mid-60s, while winter daytime temperatures hover around 50°F. Primitive campsites dominate the region, with most requiring self-sufficient camping supplies including water purification equipment and proper food storage containers.
What to Do
Kayaking and swimming at Cossatot Falls: The falls area offers multiple water activities when conditions permit. "We parked at the visitor center and hiked the 5-6 miles to the state park. Beautiful moderate hike. If you go right after some heavy rain, all the falls along the trail will be flowing at full blast!" shares a Cossatot Falls Campsites visitor.
Rock exploration and climbing: The river boulder formations provide natural climbing opportunities. "It's not for the faint of heart or people avoiding physical activity because trekking the huge river boulders is not easy. But the beauty is worth it. The water is crystal clear and you can watch fish swim by," notes a camper at Cossatot Falls.
Hiking at multiple skill levels: Trails range from easy walks to more challenging treks. At Shady Lake Campground, visitors mention, "We go often for the hiking, the views, and the ability to disconnect with it all."
What Campers Like
Spacious camping areas: Many sites offer ample room between neighbors. Summer H. from Cossatot Falls Campsites notes, "These pads were huge and fit our tent, which was super nice because our original plans fell through. The sites had decent separation."
River proximity and sound: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at several sites. "We camped at #20 with a short walk from the parking area... the camping area is just a short walk to the sandbar where you can enjoy the cool floating water," explains a visitor at Sandbar Area Campsites.
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the isolation. At Shady Lake Campground, Brian writes, "We spent 3 nights in a campground on loop C and loved it. There is a picturesque babbling creek that runs by most of the campsites, and we could have spent at least a couple days just exploring up and down the creek."
What You Should Know
Access road conditions: Many campsites require travel on unpaved roads. One camper at Cossatot Falls warns, "It will test your suspension!! There are only 6 'pull up to' camp sites, and a couple 'hike' to. The campsites are gravel and good luck putting your tent spikes in!"
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack modern amenities. "It is tents only..which I kinda like if you are a 'non-glamper'. Only compost toilets and no showers…but if you can brave the cold river water to bathe in…GO FOR IT," explains a visitor to Sandbar Area.
Seasonal considerations: Weather changes dramatically by season, affecting water levels and activities. At Cossatot Reefs - Gillham Lake, Ron P. notes, "Great campground. Excellent bath house. Our spot had very weak Verizon service. Pretty busy campground but night's were nice and quiet. Fun fishing."
Tips for Camping with Families
Child-friendly water areas: Look for sites with gentle water access. A visitor at Pioneer Campgrounds shared: "This place has something special every time we visit. There's a peaceful creek, a two-mile trail for walking or biking, volleyball and basketball courts, ping pong, and a fire pit for those perfect evening hangouts. The kids have room to run and explore."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer built facilities for children. At Cossatot Reefs, a reviewer noted, "It's easy to ride your bike there since everything is paved with black asphalt," though they added, "The playground is closed currently due to C19, so there wasn't much to do."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot various animals in natural habitats. "We love shady lake. Is quiet, the sites are huge," says a visitor at Shady Lake, while another adds, "You can hear the Owls and Coyotes at night."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Several RV campers note variable pad conditions. At CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, Jason L. mentions, "I drive truck, always have a hard time getting in/out of places with a semi... The main pavilion in the center of the grounds is HUGE! There's INSTANT hot water, no waiting for 10 minutes for luke warm water."
Water and electric access limitations: Hook-up availability varies widely between campgrounds. At Cossatot River RV Park, a reviewer notes, "The park is clean, has standard RV hookups, and the highway isn't full of noisy traffic."
Campsite spacing: Some RV sites offer more privacy than others. At Iron Mountain, a reviewer mentioned, "The few people we encountered were super cool and eager to see if we needed help or had questions," though they noted, "4 stars because there's no lake."
