Primitive camping options near Dennard, Arkansas feature river access points along the Buffalo National River surrounded by the rugged terrain of the Ozarks. These tent camping locations offer outdoor recreation with limited amenities, most notably vault toilets but rarely shower facilities. During heavy rain periods, low water crossings frequently flood, making campsite access challenging.
What to do
Explore riverside waterfalls: At Haw Creek Falls Camping, visitors can enjoy swimming holes adjacent to campsites. "Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking! Something really important to note though is that there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!" warns camper Samantha W.
Hike nearby trails: The Ozark Highlands Trail runs through several campgrounds in the region, providing access to day hiking options. "Plenty of hiking trails in the area to explore. If you like getting back to nature, this place is for you," notes Steven W. about camping opportunities near Haw Creek Falls.
Canoe the Buffalo River: Gilbert Gravel Bar serves as a starting point for river trips. "You can find Gilbert Gravel Bar off 65 just south of the city of St Joe's. Go through the city of Gilbert and you will find parking at the end of the road leading to a fairly large beach/gravel area. You can tent hear in preparation for a canoe trip or as a stop over along the Buffalo River," explains Arkansas F.
What campers like
Historic stone structures: Bayou Bluff Point of Interest offers unique camping features. "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy," shares valerie. Another camper notes, "There are personal pavilions and a larger pavilion for big groups. There is a hiking trail directly from the camp ground."
Remote location with limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal to non-existent at most sites, creating true disconnection. "No cell service on ATT - it showed only 'SOS' but the town of Hector is nearby if you need to check your phone in a pinch. I have a WeBoost and that still would not get a signal," reports a camper at Bayou Bluff.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Tent camping Dennard, Arkansas provides chances to spot local fauna. "Great recreational area along the Illinois Bayou. The river is gorgeous and made us with we had brought a few poles!" notes samantha S. about fishing opportunities at Bayou Bluff.
What you should know
Road conditions can be challenging: Access to several campgrounds requires careful driving on steep, gravel roads. At Kyles Landing Campground, "Speaking of the 'hill', its a steep road down into the campground. Other reviewers will probably say you need a truck/suv to get into it. I got my compact car down just fine. Go slow in a lower gear."
Seasonal considerations: Spring flooding can block access to sites. "Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground," advises Lacee G. about Haw Creek Falls.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Dennard are primitive with minimal amenities. "This campground was not kept up while we visited. The sites were filled with leaves. The bathrooms were closed, but that could have been due to COVID 19. None of the sites were near the water," reports Lacee G. about Mill Creek.
Water requirements: "Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!" This practical advice applies to most primitive camping areas near Dennard, as drinking water is rarely available at sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with swimming areas: Spring Creek Campground offers water access that children enjoy. "This primitive campground was perfect for me and my dog. We stayed three nights in October 2020. It's right on a put-in spot on the Buffalo River so there were a couple of buses and shuttles but for the most part it was very quiet," shares Lisa B.
Lookout for group facilities: Some campgrounds offer larger sites for family gatherings. "We very much enjoyed our time spent at bayou bluff. It has fire pits, tables, covered sites, trash cans and bathrooms. Not to mention, alot to explore!!!" explains Samantha K.
Consider timing for crowd management: Weekdays and off-season visits mean fewer people. "I grew up camping here several times a year. There is a creek to swim or fish in, there are personal pavilions and a larger pavilion for big groups. There are 3 sites total, no reservations. But you never have trouble getting a spot unless it's a holiday weekend," advises Tanda P. about Bayou Bluff.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for vehicles: Most sites around Dennard accommodate smaller camping setups only. At Rush Campground, "This is primitive camping at its best. They have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot. Right on the beautiful buffalo river," explains Paul P., noting the basic facilities designed primarily for tent camping near Dennard.
Consider alternative vehicle options: For primitive sites with difficult access, some campers recommend smaller vehicles. "This isn't exactly remote, but it's well developed without being overdone, with spacious plots. I think this would be a great area for families," notes David S. about Haw Creek Falls, though adding that the area closes during heavy rain due to flooding.
Campsite spacing considerations: Most campgrounds offer some site separation. "The campsites are a good distance apart, they have plenty of room and have fire rings and picnic tables," notes Lisa B. about Spring Creek Campground, highlighting the comfortable spacing that can accommodate smaller RVs at some locations.
