Greers Ferry Lake dominates the camping landscape near McRae, Arkansas, with Corps of Engineers campgrounds offering water access across its 40,000 acres. Most glamping sites in the area remain open from early spring through mid-fall, with a seasonal closure from late October through March. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F with high humidity, making shaded sites particularly valuable during peak season.
What to do
Fishing access points: Little Rock North KOA provides a convenient base for anglers with one reviewer noting, "Nice KOA, we have a cyclone 4270 (44' triple axel 5th wheel) which is pushing it for most KOAs. We landed a pull through just behind the office and on way out of curve in road so we slide right in." The campground serves as a strategic location for day trips to various fishing spots within 30 minutes.
Wildlife viewing: Greers Ferry Lake - COE/Cherokee Rec Area offers excellent opportunities to spot native birds and deer. "Very rural setting," mentions one camper, highlighting the seclusion that attracts wildlife. Morning hours between 6-8am provide optimal viewing conditions along the shoreline.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds maintain direct lake access with boat ramps and swimming areas. A visitor to Dam Site Campground shared, "This is such a beautiful campground with great fishing and floating nearby. The campground sits on the tail waters of Beaver Lake and is gorgeous!" The water remains swimmable from May through September with typical summer temperatures around 80°F.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the site sizing at Choctaw where one reviewer experienced "Tall trees, a lake, and nicely spaced out sites." Another noted, "Every campsite is shaded. Perfectly spaced trees for the hammock lovers." Sites typically offer 30-50 feet between neighbors.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviews highlight facility maintenance as a strong point. At Dam Site Campground, a camper mentioned, "Clean bathrooms, warm showers and plenty of TP!" though another noted maintenance can vary: "Current staff isn't attentive (facilities were filthy) and camp hosts were unapologetic."
Seasonal flexibility: Many appreciate the varying experiences throughout the year. A visitor to Dam Site noted, "I don't enjoy camping here during summer way overcrowded but is wonderful this time of year!!! Enjoyed our weekend!!" Fall camping (September-October) offers less crowded conditions while maintaining warm enough temperatures for water activities.
What you should know
Campground density variations: Little Rock North KOA receives mixed reviews about site spacing, with one camper noting, "The sites are definitely tight and amenities are very basic." Another mentioned, "Neighbors are close but nice as was the staff." Sites are typically 20-25 feet apart, considerably closer than at Corps of Engineers campgrounds.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds near interstates experience road noise. One KOA visitor remarked, "There's a little bit of road noise from the freeway but not bad. I wouldn't stay for an extended period but for a one night stop it was fine."
Seasonal closures: While some glamping near McRae remains available year-round, many facilities reduce services in winter. Cherokee Recreation Area operates seasonally from "May 13 to September 12," according to their official schedule, with all water systems winterized outside these dates.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Little Rock AFB FamCamp offers family-friendly amenities including play areas. A visitor described, "Pretty pond with a nicely shaded children's play area." The playground equipment is suitable for ages 4-12.
Lake swimming safety: Designated swimming areas provide safer options for children with gradual depth increases. These areas typically have marked buoys and sand or pebble bottoms rather than mud. No lifeguards are present at most Corps of Engineers facilities.
Off-season advantages: Families often find better experiences during shoulder seasons. As one Dam Site camper explained, "We stayed 3 nights over a weekend in early September. We had a pull through site in loop N that was perfect for our 41' fifth wheel...plenty big, clean, and level." September visits offer reduced crowds while maintaining warm enough temperatures for water activities.
Tips from RVers
Levelness considerations: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. At Camp Robinson RV Park, a visitor observed, "Many trailers looked as if they have been there for sometime. Sites are wooded and there was a picturesque pond with several waterfowl."
Hookup limitations: Not all glamping sites near McRae, Arkansas offer full hookups. A Cherokee camper explained the facility includes "17 Site with electric, 16 Non electric sites" and a dump station but lacks sewer connections at individual sites. Plan water usage accordingly for stays longer than 3-4 days.
Pull-through availability: Larger rigs should reserve specific sites. At Dam Site Campground, one RVer advised, "We had a pull through site in loop N that was perfect for our 41' fifth wheel...The other loops were more wooded, but wouldn't be good for big rigs."
