Best Campgrounds near Ethel, AR

Ethel, AR is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Ethel is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ethel. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Ethel, Arkansas (37)

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Recent Reviews near Ethel, AR

103 Reviews of 37 Ethel Campgrounds


  • e
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Mississippi River State Park Campground

    Beautiful and quiet

    This small campground is beautiful and kept very clean. Sites are full hookup. The bath house is very clean. There are four private toilet/shower rooms. All handicapped accessible. My favorite sites are 12, 13, and 14. My least favorite were 9, 10, and 11, but they are pull through sites.

  • chris L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    H&G RV campground

    Total hookups close to I40

    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. Stayed 2 nights , lucky that my Tmobile hotspot allowed me to work, stream, Zoom on my rest day.

  • Mark C.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    H&G RV park

    Nice off interstate

    Nice small campground about a mile off interstate 40. Very quiet 2 pull thru site and about 8 or10 back ins. Lots of room for boondockers.

  • Dawn G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Dagmar Wildlife Management Area Campsites

    Awesome and Free!!

    You definitely could hear the interstate but was still very secluded, clean, a little swampy (only in the water), but I place for us to stay the night. Bug spray was needed, but what do you expect it's the woods. I'm pretty sure Bigfoot might hang out, lol.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2025

    Dagmar Wildlife Management Area Campsites

    A Free, Buggy Spot

    We got in late and just needed a place to rest. There was a whole lot of standing water and lots of mosquitoes! On the map, it looks like it is right off the highway, but there is no direct route - it is about 10 miles or so off the exit.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2025

    H&G RV campground

    Great Over Night Spot

    Traveling across country on I-40, found this camp ground on the DYRT app. 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

  • Cyrene A.
    May. 24, 2025

    Dub’l R RV Park

    Owner so sweet

    Accommodating owner, very simple but easy and cheap!

  • Tanguy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 20, 2025

    Wilbur D. Mills

    Calme

    Calme, espacé, eau, électricité lac, attention aux moustiques


Guide to Ethel

Camping near Ethel, Arkansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Pendleton Bend, are located near water, making them perfect for fishing and boating. One camper mentioned, "We had fun sitting on a dock and watching the cargo boats."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Cane Creek State Park Campground where you can find "a few concreted walking trails" that are great for family hikes.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Rising Star enjoyed the wildlife, saying, "Plenty of wildlife to be seen!" This makes it a great spot for nature lovers.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. One review for Rising Star stated, "I HAVE NEVER SEEN A CLEANER BATHROOM!!!"
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer large sites. A visitor at Cane Creek State Park Campground noted, "Sites are large to accommodate any size rig & truck."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of places like Mississippi River State Park Campground, where one reviewer said, "This was such a nice relaxing place to stay."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, such as Pendleton Bend, have little to no cell phone signal. A camper advised, "There is absolutely no cell phone signal and no WiFi, so have physical directions on you."
  • Primitive Camping Options: If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Mike Freeze Wattensaw WMA offers primitive camping. One camper mentioned, "Great IF you have the time to find it," highlighting the need for patience in navigating the area.
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Cane Creek State Park Campground noted, "The only bad part of the weekend was the bugs were really bad after dark."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Rising Star, which has "shady sites or sunny, whatever you prefer," making it easy to find a comfortable spot for kids.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. One family at Cane Creek State Park Campground enjoyed the "nice little getaway" and found plenty to do together.
  • Pack Bug Spray: Given the mosquito situation, it’s wise to have bug spray handy. A camper at Cane Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The mosquitoes take over the campsite."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to confirm if your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at H&G RV Campground appreciated the "50 amp hookups" available.
  • Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book in advance. A camper at Mississippi River State Park Campground suggested, "I would recommend advanced reservations."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some RV sites can be snug. A review for Rising Star mentioned, "It is tight getting into and it is very close to site 6."

Camping near Ethel, Arkansas, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Ethel, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, Ethel, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 37 campgrounds and RV parks near Ethel, AR and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Ethel, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ethel, AR is Merrisach Lake with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ethel, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Ethel, AR.

What parks are near Ethel, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Ethel, AR that allow camping, notably Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool and Arkansas River - Pool 3.