Tent camping near Dierks Lake offers access to the rugged terrain of southwestern Arkansas's Ouachita Mountains, where elevations range between 600-2,700 feet. The region receives approximately 54 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions and numerous water features. Spring and fall camping seasons typically experience 50-75°F temperatures, while summer months can reach 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Swimming in natural pools: At Cossatot Falls Campsites, visitors enjoy multiple water activities. "Beautiful moderate hike. If you go right after some heavy rain, all the falls along the trail will be flowing at full blast! Great swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some boulder hopping possibilities," notes Nicki M.
Fishing for trout: The eastern section of Eagle Rock Loop near Long Creek Campsite offers productive fishing spots. "Perhaps 100 feet up river from our campsite I found a nice fishing hole and caught and released 7 trout and 1 sunfish within about 1 hour," reports Troy W.
Stargazing: Clear night skies reward campers with celestial views, particularly at Bennett Cove in Bluegill Hill. "Bennett Cove was perfect for star-gazing... You get a wide view of the sky, and if you're lucky like we were, you'll see meteor fireball shoot completely across the sky," shares LaRee S.
What campers like
Large tent pads: The Falls campground features unusually spacious sites. "We typically don't camp in regular campgrounds, we prefer more separation. We also have a large 20' tent that makes it difficult to fit into regular square pad tent sites. These pads were huge and fit our tent," reports Summer H.
Wildlife encounters: At Sandbar Area Campsites, the natural setting provides opportunities for animal sightings. "The camping area is just a short walk to the sandbar where you can enjoy the cool floating water. There is an abundance of wild life, keep an eye for snakes and thicks," warns Ana A.
Swimming holes: Many campsites offer access to water features. "Hiking trails, kayaking, swimming, fishing. The park rangers are very friendly and helpful. I would say it was sort of busy during the day because it is just across from the falls," notes Chris about the Falls campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating rough forest roads. "The road in starts in pretty good shape but breaks down and if it has rained then it will not be pretty. We tried to reach another campground and had to turn back," reports N I. about Buckhorn.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds have changed from first-come to reservation systems. "These sites are now reservable, not first come. You can luck out, but I would recommend reservations. Fantastic large camp sites," advises phil B.
Water access considerations: Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access points. "Luckily it hadn't rained in a while. The trails to get to this rec area are for the 4wd's and off-road vehicles. Great point to camp with great access to water," explains Walt S. about Pikeville Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Explore islands: Some campsites offer water-based exploration opportunities. "There are two little islands you can swim or kayak to from Kitty Cove," mentions LaRee S. about Bluegill Hill.
Bring child-friendly water gear: The shallow river areas provide safe play zones. "Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river. The park rangers were very nice and informative," says Lindsey P.
Check site separation: Some areas offer better family privacy than others. "We camped at #20 with a short walk from the parking area but a little bit too close to #21, 18 and 19 seem to be the ones with more privacy," suggests Ana A. about her stay at Sandbar Area.
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicles only: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "I do recommend it to anyone that has a high clearance vehicle and if you are towing that your trailer be one of high clearance too," advises N I. about camping at Buckhorn.
Tent-only restrictions: Several areas near Dierks Lake limit RV access. "Sandbar is one of my favorite camping spots along the Cossatot. It is tents only..which I kinda like if you are a 'non-glamper,'" explains Deb B.
Generator considerations: At Straight Creek Campsite, noise restrictions protect the natural setting. "They did allow generators which is unfortunate because the river is so close. Part of what we love about camping is being in nature and hearing the sounds around us," notes Summer H. about her experience.
