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!
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