Tent campsites near Damascus, Arkansas are primarily found within national forest lands and state parks in the region. Most sites require travel of at least 35-50 miles from Damascus, with options spreading across both Arkansas and neighboring Louisiana. Camping areas typically experience high humidity during summer months, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F between June and September.
What to do
Fishing access: Ivan Lake in Cotton Valley offers shoreline fishing opportunities for catfish, bass, and bream. One visitor noted, "We camp here while hunting..love this camp site no worries or problems, all nice red blooded Americans loving Gods outdoor country."
Bird watching: Turkey Trot Complex provides habitat for diverse woodland and wetland bird species. The surrounding area is known for migratory waterfowl during spring and fall seasons, with peak viewing times occurring from November through February.
Water activities: Corney Lake North Shore Primitive Campground provides access to the lake for swimming and non-motorized watercraft. The north shore location offers calmer waters compared to the main lake area, with natural clay banks for easy water entry.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Wenks Landing Recreation Area provides a secluded camping experience with minimal crowds. A camper reported, "I didn't see a single soul while I was there. Flush toilets, running water, and a spigot to fill up are provided. There is a boat ramp right by site 1."
Flat terrain: Several primitive sites at Wenks Landing offer level ground suitable for tents. According to a visitor, "If you want to tent camp or sleep in your car, only book sites 1-5. The others don't seem to have flat spots for much of anything. Perhaps hammocking would work!"
Wildlife viewing: Teague Lake Primitive campers report regular sightings of deer, turkey, and small mammals. Morning hours provide optimal viewing opportunities, with one camper stating, "Most excellent for the day and I have a lot of people to tell."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most primitive campsites in the area operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, Wenks Landing requires advance booking through Recreation.gov at $12 per night. A camper clarified, "I thought I'd stay here because it said it was free on the app: IT IS NOT FREE. It's cheap though! $12/night and you can book on the recreation.gov app."
Limited facilities: Highway 157 Primitive and similar sites offer no running water, restrooms, or trash disposal. Campers must pack in all water and pack out all waste, with the nearest supply points often 10+ miles away in towns like Springhill.
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent from April through October. One Wenks Landing camper advised, "It was quite buggy even in early April, but I managed to keep moving and make a fire so the smoke would help the bugs stay away."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Logoly State Park Campground offers interpretive programs during summer months. A visitor shared, "There is a nature house nearby that is open to the public for free during operating hours. It houses various small animals such as a crocodile, snakes, spiders, and lizards. Logoly is good for kids who need a tame introduction to nature."
Safety considerations: Many primitive tent camping areas near Damascus lack cell reception and emergency services. Families should carry basic first aid supplies and inform others of camping plans before departure.
Accessibility factors: Most tent camping locations require moderate hiking from parking areas to reach sites. Parents should prepare to carry camping equipment 100-300 yards at locations like Bucktail Camp Complex.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Old Lock and Dam 8 provides the closest tent camping to Damascus that can accommodate small camper vans, though no hookups are available. Access roads are unpaved and can become difficult after rainfall.
Site selection: When using smaller RVs at primitive sites, position vehicles to create natural windbreaks for tents. At Wenks Landing, "site 1, which is the best for car sleeping and in my opinion the best site at the campground. It is set off from the others and has a large flat grassy area."
Water considerations: No dumping stations exist at primitive tent campsites near Damascus. RVers must plan for water conservation with the nearest dump stations located in larger towns 30+ miles away.
