Camping opportunities around Dover, Arkansas provide access to the scenic Arkansas River Valley and Ozark foothills at elevations ranging from 330 to 1,700 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with highs in the 70-80°F range. Most campgrounds in the area maintain similar seasonal patterns, with peak visitation occurring from April through October.
What to do
Hiking local trails: Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area offers free primitive camping with access to several hiking trails. "The Cedar Falls hike is beautiful and a quick fun adventure. I recommend going to the Petit Jean Grave. The view is vast!" notes Sondra M. about Petit Jean State Park.
Waterfall exploration: Several waterfalls are accessible from campgrounds in the region. "The video is of the roaring falls. There is not typically so much flow. We were lucky! We spent most of our days hiking the many trails the park is known for," shares Jill B. who camped during peak spring flow at Petit Jean.
River activities: Camping near the Arkansas River provides opportunities for boating and fishing. "The lock and dam was a neat site to look at along with the view of Dardanelle Rock across the river," reports Aaron D.G. about his experience at Old Post Road.
Mountain biking: The region offers trails suitable for mountain biking near several campgrounds. "Plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails. Sand volleyball courts. Level sites. Easy back-ins. Beautiful view of the Arkansas River," writes George L. about COE Dardanelle Lake.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campgrounds offer varying degrees of seclusion. "We stayed in Loop C and I felt a little too secluded. The sites in C & D appeared to be a little smaller," explains Shana D. about her experience at Petit Jean State Park.
Swimming opportunities: Natural swimming areas provide relief during hot months. "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!!" advises Samantha W. about Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained amenities. "The bathhouse was very clean (they were cleaned early in the morning) but you do need to bring your own soap and towel. The shower was hot with great water flow. The showers had plenty of hooks, a bench, and a shelf," notes Lee D. about Piney Bay.
Covered structures: Some campgrounds feature unique amenities. "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," explains valerie about Bayou Bluff Point of Interest.
What you should know
Water supply considerations: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. "The notice that says that it is closed for the season is incorrect. The upper loop is closed, but not the sites with the stone buildings. There is 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," shares valerie about Bayou Bluff.
Site selection strategies: Research campsite features before booking. "pay attention when you book your site to campsite photos," advises Ryan S., noting that at Petit Jean State Park "many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level" and "some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper."
Nuclear plant visibility: Some campgrounds have views of the Arkansas Nuclear One plant. "This campground would be five stars if there was not a nuclear power plant in view from my camp site," notes Matt S. about Lake Dardanelle State Park. "This park has everything you would want, a beautiful visitor's center a gorgeous lake. Top of the line facilities, beautiful campsites, fun for the whole family... and a nuclear power plant in view."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some areas experience periodic closures due to high water. "Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground," warns Lacee G. about Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Consider loop selection: Different camping loops offer varying experiences. "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove, easy access to the paved CCC trail, 30/50 amp service, water, picnic table, fire ring and trash hook, clean and accommodating bath house, enough space between sites for plenty of privacy," explains Ryan S. from Petit Jean State Park.
Explore visitor centers: Educational opportunities enhance family trips. "Great welcome center with aquarium displays that are quite informative. The location is close to many of the region's other recreation areas, trails, and Russellville is close enough to ensure you are well stocked," shares Michael B. about his stay at Lake Dardanelle State Park.
Prepare for bugs: Insects can be prevalent in warmer months. "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!!!" notes Samantha K., while other reviewers frequently mention the need for bug spray during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Research site dimensions: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "Roads are narrow as are spots. The spots also say they're 'big/long enough' for a 42' rig but in reality it's super tight," warns Emily R. about her experience at Piney Bay. "Folks with BOATS should park in this lot so others with campers are able to get into their sites."
Consider hookup requirements: Availability varies between campgrounds and loops. "A Loop pros: it's new, it's laid out ideally, full hook up sites with sewer, and plenty of gravel and concrete to keep from dealing with too much dirt, mud, sand," notes Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park's A loop, while mentioning "NO SEWER (EXCEPT FOR SITES 47 & 48)" in B loop.
Verify cellular coverage: Service can be limited in some locations. "Received good AT&T 5G cell service, but little to no T-Mobile 2G service. Areas C and D are in the woods. Most of the sites in these areas are on the small size but should easily accommodate a truck camper and smaller," advises Fred S. about dog friendly campgrounds near Dover at Petit Jean State Park.
