Camping options near Cozahome, Arkansas focus on both riverside and forested sites throughout the Ozark region. At elevations ranging from 600-1,500 feet, camping areas experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs often reaching 90°F and winter nights frequently dropping below freezing. Spring and fall typically offer mild temperatures but higher chances of rainfall that can affect accessibility to more remote camping locations.
What to do
Float the Buffalo River: Launch from Rush Campground, which serves as the last stop before entering the wilderness section of the Buffalo River. "This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low. This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing," notes one visitor to Rush Campground.
Explore caves and springs: The Blanchard Springs Recreation Area offers impressive cave tours and hiking. "Absolutely beautiful! You drive over the spring to camp so be sure the water is not up before you make the drive! It's the clearest spring I've ever seen. There's a bluff in the camping area that's amazing for swimming and small jumping," explains a camper at Blanchard Springs Recreation Area.
Trout fishing: Access prime fishing spots directly from waterfront campsites. "We loved our stay at Blue Heron. We had a riverfront spot and really just came to chill not fish but it's a fishing location. White river is trout paradise so if you're an angler this is where it's at," shares a visitor to Blue Heron Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful weekday camping: Weekday visits often provide a quieter experience at campsites near Cozahome. "During the week was super quiet and more my speed. Deer were everywhere and the Indian Rockhouse hike was really great. There is no service in the camp site at all," reports a visitor to Buffalo Point.
Swimming holes: Many campgrounds offer direct access to swimming areas with unique features. "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds. Limited sites, but it sits right by the water. If you hike through the rec pool area it will lead you to the lake for some private skinny dipping," notes a visitor to Gunner Pool Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: Camping areas provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "We were able to check in early since no one stayed in the spot the night before. There was an eagles nest on the other side of the river, so we got to Eagle watch all day as they circled the river hunting for their dinner. It was AMAZING!!" reports a camper at Bull Shoals-White River State Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigation on unpaved roads. "Campsite had a rather janky gravel and dirt road leading to it. In the rain, the road would be extremely difficult. Very steep," warns a visitor to Spring Creek Campground.
No cell service: Many camping areas lack connectivity. "Very primitive, nicely shaded, but no cell service. Swimming/wading in water next to several sites and main trail connects to 50+ mile trail network," notes a camper at Gunner Pool Recreation Area.
Bathroom facilities vary: Expect different levels of facilities at each campground. "The bath house was a little messy and it seemed that one toilet wouldn't flush. The bathrooms are on the smaller side, but the showers were clean," reports a visitor to Buffalo Point.
Tips for camping with families
Consider campground activities: Some areas offer structured activities for children. "We tent camped. The campsite was really nice and everyone was very friendly. The visitor center is awesome and the park had several activities available. We went to an owl talk and a bear talk that was very informative," shares a visitor to Bull Shoals-White River State Park.
Look for swimming beaches: Find spots with gradual river entry for safer water play. "It was a good campground to get away for a night or two! Had my 2 little boy cousins and my dog with us and we all had a good time walking down to the river to play. Great place to chill out and cool off!" notes a Buffalo Point visitor.
Bring noise buffers: Some campgrounds experience noise issues. "There were a few campers who had barking dogs that they didn't seem to correct, so we slept with our fan on to drown out the noise," advises a Bull Shoals-White River camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose your RV site carefully for the best experience. "We had a riverfront spot. Campground was SUPER clean. Best level pads and hookups we've ever seen. Firewood and ice for sale. Everything was absolutely perfect except the road noise," reports a visitor to Blue Heron Campground.
Consider hookup options: Full hookups are available at select campgrounds. "We've tent camped and trailered here for more than 15 years. The camp grounds are well maintained by the NPS. 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," advises a Buffalo Point camper.
Check site orientation: Sun exposure varies significantly by site. "The sites are great, but the river sites provide a nice cool breeze off the water! We stay at Blue Heron 3-4 times a year and love it! Excellent concrete pads with easy back-in markings for RVs," shares a Blue Heron visitor.
