100 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
McRae, Arkansas is surrounded by several established campgrounds that accommodate tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals. Indian Lakes Resort stands out with waterfront camping and lake access just 15 miles west of McRae, offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin options. Sweet Escape RV Resort in Austin provides full hookups with amenities like laundry facilities and fishing ponds within a 10-mile radius of McRae. The region includes both private resorts with developed facilities and more rustic state park options within a 30-minute drive.
Public land access and camping regulations vary throughout the area, with several wildlife management areas requiring permits for overnight stays. "This site is normally used for hunting and fishing. There is a shooting range on the road before you get to the site," notes one camper about Henry Gray Hurricane Lake Wildlife Management Area. Summer humidity and mosquitoes can be challenging in low-lying areas, while higher elevations provide some relief from the heat. Most developed campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though seasonal amenities may be limited during winter months. Cell service can be inconsistent outside established campgrounds, particularly in wildlife management areas.
Many visitors highlight the water recreation opportunities as primary attractions when camping in this region. Several reviewers praised the fishing at Indian Lakes Resort, with one camper noting it offers "beautiful area with great fishing, swimming (water slides and diving boards in the middle of the lake) and fun for the whole family." Woolly Hollow State Park, located about 25 miles northwest of McRae, receives consistently positive ratings for its combination of developed camping and water access. For RV travelers, concrete pads and reliable hookups are commonly mentioned benefits at the private resorts near McRae, though visitors seeking more privacy may prefer the state park options with more natural separation between sites. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly in the less developed areas.
"Sweet Escape RV Resort in Austin, Arkansas, offers a peaceful and welcoming experience for RV travelers."
"We were able to pick blackberries, walking trails are so well maintained."
from $45 / night
Check Availability"Nice clean, small RV park at Highway 67/167 and CW Road in Judsonia, one exit north of the Searcy Race Street exit. 30 spaces total with 3 pull through sites."
from $20 - $25 / night
Check Availability"We had a nice primitive spot we were able to drive up to. They also have spots that you can park at and walk to. Electric spots as well. There’s fishing and a boat ramp as well."
"Traveled down about 1.4K miles to take in the surrounding areas in AR since my family is looking for our forever home and spent four days here… We must say that, with the excellent views and service provided"
from $25 - $35 / night
Check Availability"There are lots of trails, bike paths, water activities and BEAUTIFUL scenery. Very photogenic. Arkansas State Parks are always enjoyable. Staff was excellent and friendly."
"I tent camped at Site #3, right beside the lake. Put my hammock up and watched the sun set and the fireflies start dancing. A few ducks played on the edge of the water and walked on shore for a bit."
"Very nice little campground just off Arkansas Hwy 25 by Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Springs, Arkansas. Actually, many of the campsites are along the beginning of the Little Red River."
"Without a lot fan fair since you have no clue, from the highway, that there is a campground at this location. Not far off the road but you do not hear the traffic. "
from $22 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Stayed 6 nights at Maumelle COE campground next to Arkansas River. Nice and quiet especially after the weekend crowd left. Nice walking trails and still close to major conveniences."
"Beautiful panorama view of the Arkansas river. Amenities are great. Friendly staff and clean park. Close to restaurants, shopping and services. Full year round so make a reservation!"
from $28 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Situated between the Arkansas River and Willow Lake, every site is waterfront. Showers and bathrooms were clean and in good condition. Sites were close but in good repair."
"This is a great RV campground right on the Arkansas river. The sites are large and mostly level."
from $26 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Close to Interstate, Love’s station at exit. There is no facility for tents; this RV/Trailers only because no facilities. Has full hookup 50/30Amp, water and sewer . Gravel pads and well maintained"
"It's in the country and close to 40 but you don't get the traffic noise."
from $10 - $35 / night
Check Availability"The location is truly excellent with easy access to the Arkansas River Trail, the Clinton library, restaurants and other attractions."
"Not a resort but right next to the foot bridge that accesses parks on the other side of the Arkansas River. Traffic noise is minimal."
TravelerWe were there for 14 nights. We were in a very shady site. So shady, Starlink was sketchy service. We had no cell service at our site without going off Starlink. No sewer in area D. Im not sure about the other areas. We had water and electric. Campground was clean and quiet. Will definitely go again.
ScoutStayed on site E4 level site with 50 amp hookup water and no sewer. Camp staff was friendly and helpful. No problems with bugs or mosquitos. Bath house very clean. Grocery store and restraunts within 10 minute drive.
TravelerA couple of miles on a gravel road. It's in pretty good shape. Easy road for our 23 ft Mini Lite. We grabbed the first spot with a "camping spot" sign. Leveling was easy. Really good for an overnight stop. Some Verizon signal.
GuideGreat spot right on the river. Clean and well maintained.
ScoutGreat new park with full hookups, perfect location for a trip to Greers Ferry Lake.
ScoutPeaceful and wooded. Paved parking. Enjoying our stay. Bathrooms and showers nice enough.
GuideSecond time staying there. Even better than the first time. The dog park is fabulous, enough room for 2 German Shepherds to run. We were able to pick blackberries, walking trails are so well maintained.
TravelerA quiet, beautiful campground with lots of riverside spots. Bathrooms and showers are just fine but be aware that the F loop is a bit of a hike to the nearest one.
GuideThis was our second time at this campground. The sites are very large and spacious. Trees for shade. It has a nice playground and also a boat ramp. The bathrooms are ok, but what I really like about them, is you get the complete room. Shower, sink, toilet. Not a little hot stall. Water on both sides of the campground for fishing. And the water hyacinths are beautiful!!
Camping near McRae, Arkansas includes diverse options across both private and public land, with elevations ranging from 200-300 feet in the river bottoms to 400-650 feet in nearby rolling hills. The region experiences average summer temperatures of 90-95°F during peak camping season (June-August), with cooler spring and fall periods that attract campers seeking more moderate conditions. Winter camping remains viable with typical lows rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods.
Trout fishing: Little Red River: At John F Kennedy campground below Greers Ferry Dam, anglers access premium trout waters. "Great spot for the heat of summer. Shady and a nice cool breeze off the cold little red!" notes one visitor, highlighting the temperature advantage of camping near the tailwaters.
Mountain biking: Pinnacle Mountain trails: From Maumelle Park, mountain bikers can directly access the Pinnacle Mountain trail system. According to a recent visitor: "The Pinnacle Mountain Trail system was a shaded easy trail system that can be accessed right from this campground."
Swimming and water recreation: Woolly Hollow State Park offers organized water activities for campers throughout summer. One family noted: "The state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition," highlighting activities beyond standard swimming options.
Educational programming: The guided nature walks at Woolly Hollow State Park receive consistent praise from educational-minded campers. "They put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed as well as answered every question she had. As a homeschool family we are always looking for learning opportunities," shared one visitor.
Clean facilities and quiet atmosphere: Searcy RV Resort (previously Little Creek RV Park) receives high marks for its maintained grounds. A camper noted: "Small park with new concrete pads. Details unavailable online, but no toilets or showers, but has RV waste/water/power hookups," emphasizing the clean but basic amenities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Mike Freeze Wattensaw WMA offers secluded wildlife observation areas. "I woke up to birds singing, and trees rustling. It was very beautiful and peaceful," reports one camper about this free camping option located approximately 30 minutes from McRae.
Site identification challenges: Many camping areas around McRae have poorly marked sites. At Indian Lakes Resort, a camper mentioned: "The only Con was lack of signs for campsites," while at Wattensaw WMA, another advised: "Start looking for very small signs that say 'designated camping area'."
Water levels fluctuate seasonally: River-based camping requires attention to water releases. At John F Kennedy campground, a reviewer cautions: "When the dam releases water, the river rises a lot. I'm talking a good 5 feet. Which can make it difficult to fish or enjoy the river."
Seasonal bathroom maintenance varies: Even at well-maintained locations like Willow Beach, campers report inconsistent bathroom conditions: "The toilet paper is out or almost out in all of them and there is no soap in any of the dispensers. Other than that they all appeared clean."
Water slides and swimming areas: Indian Lakes Resort features unique water recreation structures. A visitor described: "Beautiful area with great fishing, swimming (water slides & diving boards in the middle of the lake) and fun for the whole family."
Kid-friendly sites with shade: For families camping in summer months, shade availability matters. At Woolly Hollow State Park, one camper shared: "There is a large playground for the children. The trails are easy to walk and the nature is awesome here."
Hot weather preparation: When camping with children during summer, prepare for high temperatures. For John F Kennedy campground, a visitor advised: "I have camped here for years with my dad. The tent sites are always maintained well and the bathroom facilities are cleaned everyday! It's very close to the Little Red River."
Convenient overnight stops: For RVers passing through the McRae area on I-40, H&G RV Campground offers straightforward accommodations. "Gary met me as I arrived in the park, guided me to my spot and even helped connect the water while I hooked up electric and waste," mentions one reviewer.
Hookup variations: Sweet Escape RV Resort includes comprehensive services for longer stays. "Sweet Escape RV Resort offers a peaceful and welcoming experience for RV travelers. Conveniently located near Highway 167, it provides easy access to nearby cities like Cabot and Little Rock," reports one camper.
Gravel road conditions: Several camping areas near McRae feature challenging access roads. At Wattensaw WMA, one RVer cautioned: "The road access is gravel, but LARGE gravel that we are surprised didn't ruin our tires," highlighting the need for careful driving on approach roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near McRae, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, McRae, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 100 campgrounds and RV parks near McRae, AR and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near McRae, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near McRae, AR is Sweet Escape RV Resort with a 5-star rating from 4 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near McRae, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near McRae, AR.
What parks are near McRae, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 parks near McRae, AR that allow camping, notably Arkansas River - Terry Lock and Dam and Greers Ferry Lake.
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