Chock-full of scenic natural beauty and breathtaking geological diversity, camping in Arkansas is an experience hard to forget. Campgrounds can be found on top of magnificent mountain ranges, sparkling lakeshores, and nearly anywhere in between. Known as  “The Natural State,” Arkansas boasts two mountain ranges, three national forests, 600,000 acres of lakes, and 9,000 miles of streams and rivers. In addition to numerous camping and backpacking opportunities, Arkansas is long famous for its hunting and fishing scene. So lace up your boots and get ready for an unparalleled getaway camping in Arkansas!


Take an extraordinary escape to the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas in Eureka Springs. The entire city is on the National Register of Historic Places with its carefully preserved Victorian Buildings and unique architecture built around the city’s natural springs. Numerous campgrounds near Eureka Springs offer campers an opportunity to get up close with nature while staying within reach of the city’s curvy hills and winding streets free of traffic lights.


Just south of Eureka Springs lies the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, dedicating 459 acres to exotic cats. The sanctuary is home to tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. Animal lovers can enjoy guided habitat tours and open discovery areas daily.


Just over an hour from Little Rock, AR, sits the largest lake in Arkansas. Renowned for its scenic beauty and clear waters, Lake Ouachita is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Lake Ouachita provides campers with ample water sports opportunities, including swimming, scuba diving, and angling. The Lake Ouachita State Park also offers scenic trails, two swimming areas, and a marina with boat rentals and fishing supplies.


Embark on a gorgeous trip through The Natural State. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best camping in Arkansas along the way.

Arkansas

The Best Camping in Arkansas | 100+ AR Campgrounds

Are you in need of a campground near Dardanelle, AR? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arkansas camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Dardanelle, AR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Dardanelle

The Best Camping Near Dardanelle, Arkansas

This is a small .62 acre lot in a forested area with privacy and seclusion. Located .1 miles from Museum of Automobiles and 1.5 miles from Petit Jean State Park.

The circle drive allows Class B motorhomes or small trailers to access camping area near unnamed intermittent creek. Recently completed horseshoe court and both North and South walk in tent pads provide two new options for tent placement.

Petit Jean SP is Arkansas' first state park and is the second most visited park in Arkansas. Fabulous day hiking or overnight backpacking in and around the park. Also, nearby is a petting zoo, horseback riding and farmers market.



Camp 62 on Petit Jean Mountain

## Overview

Download an Old Post park map [HERE](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2021/07/14/18/08/232662_6c56e271-f446-432c-9b37-28a80ebe3417.pdf)

Old Post Road is a camping hotspot at Dardanelle Lake, with numerous opportunities for boating, biking, hiking and birding.  
  
The river valley is a favorite winter destination for bald eagles.

## Recreation

Boating and fishing are the top activities, and a boat ramp is provided for convenient lake access.   
  
Soccer and baseball fields and tennis courts offer additional recreation opportunities, and a biking trail also starts at the campground. 

## Facilities

The 37 reservable campsites offer have water and electric hookups. A playground and multiple picnic areas make the park perfect for families and parties.

## Natural Features

Perched between the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests, Dardanelle Lake creates an excellent setting for nature lovers. The lake, sourced by the Arkansas River, spans 40,000 acres and boasts 315 miles of shoreline. A variety of hardwoods surround the lake shore. 

## Nearby Attractions

The nearby Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge offers excellent wildlife viewing and photography.

Old Post Road

This park is located in two areas on Lake Dardanelle, a 34,300-acre reservoir on the Arkansas River. The main site is in Russellville where you’ll find the Sport Fishing Weigh-in Pavilion, a fishing pier, swimming beach, boardwalk, trail, and visitor center with five aquariums, and the Lakeview Room meeting facility. Park interpreters lead a variety of programs and lake tours. There are 57 campsites in the Russellville area of the park (16 Class AAA, 14 Class AA, and 27 Class B) with 18 Class B sites in the Dardanelle area of the park.


Lake Dardanelle State Park

Ivy's Cove RV Retreat

Mount Nebo State Park

## Overview

Download a Piney Bay park map [HERE](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2021/07/14/18/09/232672_6812eed1-6def-4a17-8f6d-83e1848c32f6.pdf)

Piney Bay Campground sits along Dardanelle Lake in western Arkansas. Campers come here to get a break from the city and take advantage of the ample swimming, boating and fishing opportunities.

## Recreation

Picnicking, boating and fishing are favorite pastimes. The lake is brimming with white bass, largemouth bass, bream, crappie and large catfish. 

## Facilities

Piney Bay offers 68 reservable campsites, all equipped with electric hookups, along with a large group picnic shelter and over 20 walk-in campsites. Campers enjoy hot showers, two boat ramps, a playground and a swim beach.

## Natural Features

Situated between the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests, Dardanelle Lake creates an excellent setting for nature lovers. The lake stems from the Arkansas River and spans 40,000 acres. Wooded area and hills surround the lake.   
  
The region is a favorite destination for bald eagles in wintertime. 

## Nearby Attractions

Bona Dea Trails and Sanctuary, with nearly 86 acres of wetlands and low woods, provide an ideal habitat for native wildlife. Visitors can explore the area on the six-mile trail system.

Piney Bay

This recreation area is part of Dardanelle Lake

Russellville Campground

## Overview

River Road Campground sits along the shores of Fourche LaFave River and Nimrod Dam, cradled between Arkansas' Ouachita and Ozark Mountains. Visitors are greeted with shaded campsites, beautiful scenery and many outdoor recreation opportunities. Nimrod Lake provides the ideal spot to get away from it all, relax and enjoy yourself. 

## Recreation

Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake, with an abundance of crappie, largemouth bass, catfish and bream available. Boating, water skiing and tubing are also popular, with 11 boat ramps conveniently located around the lake, however, skiing and tubing are only allowed from the tip of Carden Point eastward toward the dam because areas west of there are too hazardous. Campers are likely to spot white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, rabbit, fox, mink, black bear, dove and waterfowl in the area. Seasonal hunting is also permitted throughout the forested area around the lake, except in or near recreation areas.

## Facilities

With 21 spacious and modern campsites (15 campsites in the River Road Loop and 6 campsites in the Project Point Loop) and one large day use group picnic shelter, River Road Campground has plenty of room for the family. A boat ramp into the river and playground are also provided.

## Natural Features

Nimrod Dam was completed in 1942 as part of a comprehensive plan for flood control and development of water resources in the Fourche LaFave River. Although recreation was not part of the initial mission of the dam project, the lake and surrounding 21,000 acres of pristine land have now become a recreational oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. 

## Nearby Attractions

Nimrod Lake is conveniently located adjacent to State Highway 7, a National Scenic Byway and other nearby points of interest like Petit Jean State Park, Mount Nebo State Park and Hot Springs National Park.

River Road

Outdoor Living Center RV Park

## Overview

Download a Shoal Bay park map [HERE](https://cdn.recreation.gov/public/2021/07/14/18/10/232704_fb23c8e1-ef27-40ba-85dd-44bc7085511a.pdf)

This shady campground sits on the scenic Shoal Bay arm of Lake Dardanelle, offering an excellent setting for boating, swimming and wildlife viewing.

## Recreation

The lake, a popular spot for anglers, is brimming with white bass, largemouth bass, bream, crappie and large catfish.   
  
The Bridge Rock Trail winds along a rugged slope overlooking the narrows of Shoal Creek, offering excellent hiking opportunities.   
  
Dardanelle's Visitor Center is noteworthy for its "Renaissance of a River" theme. Interpretive exhibits express the progression of river valley from the time of early Native Americans to its present day.

## Facilities

Shoal Bay offers 45 reservable campsites, most of which have electric hookups. Two large picnic shelters are also available. Amenities include a boat ramp, playground and hot showers.

## Natural Features

Dardanelle Lake, sourced by the Arkansas River, spans 40,000 acres and boasts 315 miles of shoreline. The lake sits in the river valley between the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests. 

## Nearby Attractions

Bona Dea Trails and Sanctuary, with nearly 86 acres of wetlands and low woods, provide an ideal habitat for native wildlife. Visitors can explore the area on the 6 mile trail system.

Shoal Bay

Looking for the best campgrounds near Little Rock, AR? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Little Rock campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Little Rock, AR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Little Rock

The Best Camping Near Little Rock, Arkansas

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Fort Smith, AR is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Fort Smith, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Fort Smith, reviewed by campers like you.

Fort Smith

The Best Camping Near Fort Smith, Arkansas

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Fayetteville. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Fayetteville is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Fayetteville camping trip.

Fayetteville

The Best Camping Near Fayetteville, Arkansas

Looking for the best campgrounds near Jonesboro, AR? Jonesboro is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Jonesboro, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Jonesboro

The Best Camping Near Jonesboro, Arkansas

Are you in need of a campground near Springdale, AR? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Springdale, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Springdale, AR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Springdale

The Best Camping Near Springdale, Arkansas

North Little Rock, AR is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. North Little Rock is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in North Little Rock, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

North Little Rock

The Best Camping Near North Little Rock, Arkansas

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Conway, AR is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Conway is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Conway, reviewed by campers like you.

Conway

The Best Camping Near Conway, Arkansas

Are you in need of a campground near Rogers, AR? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Rogers. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Rogers. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Rogers

The Best Camping Near Rogers, Arkansas

Looking for the best campgrounds near Pine Bluff, AR? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Pine Bluff is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Pine Bluff and user-submitted reviews.

Pine Bluff

The Best Camping Near Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Are you in need of a campground near Bentonville, AR? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arkansas camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arkansas camping adventure.

Bentonville

The Best Camping Near Bentonville, Arkansas

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, AR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

The Best Camping Near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas

Join the fun near Buffalo National River. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Buffalo National River is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Buffalo National River, reviewed by campers like you.

Buffalo National River

The Best Camping Near Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Looking for the best campgrounds near Greers Ferry Lake, AR? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Greers Ferry Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Greers Ferry Lake, AR. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Greers Ferry Lake

The Best Camping Near Greers Ferry Lake, Arkansas

Are you in need of a campground near Beaver Lake, AR? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Beaver Lake, AR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Beaver Lake

The Best Camping Near Beaver Lake, Arkansas

Nimrod Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Nimrod Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Nimrod Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Nimrod Lake

The Best Camping Near Nimrod Lake, Arkansas

Arkansas River - Pool 3, AR is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Arkansas River - Pool 3 campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Arkansas River - Pool 3

The Best Camping Near Arkansas River - Pool 3, Arkansas

Gillham Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Gillham Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Gillham Lake. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Gillham Lake

The Best Camping Near Gillham Lake, Arkansas

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Ouachita Lake, AR has a lot to offer. Ouachita Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Ouachita Lake camping trip.

Ouachita Lake

The Best Camping Near Ouachita Lake, Arkansas

Greeson Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Greeson Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Greeson Lake

The Best Camping Near Greeson Lake, Arkansas

New Melones Lake, AR is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near New Melones Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near New Melones Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

The Best Camping in Dardanelle

Top Campgrounds in Dardanelle (150)

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