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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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.
