Tent camping near Everton, Arkansas offers rugged natural settings with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,400 feet in the Ozark Mountain region. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F during peak camping months (June-August) and pleasant spring and fall temperatures in the 60-75°F range. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing at night, even when daytime temperatures seem mild.
What to do
Hiking the Goat Trail: Access this challenging trail from Steel Creek Campground for spectacular views. "The Goat trail was the one we were looking for as it had been described as a difficult trail with a breathtaking view. Please refer to the pictures I have posted to see how narrow this trail is along the face of the bluffs with a sharp drop down the mountain," notes one Steel Creek Campground visitor.
Rock climbing: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers extensive climbing opportunities for all skill levels. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit, you won't be disappointed to check it out!" says a Horseshoe Canyon Ranch reviewer.
Swimming holes: Find excellent swimming spots along the Buffalo River. "Right on the beautiful buffalo river... I can't wait to go back," shares a camper at Rush Campground, noting the clear water and accessible swimming areas.
What campers like
Easy river access: Many campsites offer direct paths to the Buffalo River. At Kyles Landing Campground, "The camp sites have tables and fire pits and are all next to the river. This camp sees heavy traffic during the day due to being the take out for paddle trips down from the town of Ponca."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and occasionally black bears. "Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears. Very quiet and every site has a picnic table," reports a camper at Steel Creek Campground.
Off-grid experience: Many sites lack cell service, creating a true disconnection. A Kyles Landing visitor mentions, "Absolutely no cell service. No one in our group with varying cell service providers had service."
What you should know
Vehicle access challenges: Several campgrounds have steep access roads. "The road is steeply inclined and bumpy. While 4x4 isn't required, I definitely wouldn't take any larger vehicles or tiny cars this way," cautions a Kyles Landing reviewer.
Permit requirements: Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area requires specific permits. "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish. WMA Regulations are very easy to find on the AGFC website," explains a Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area camper.
Weekend crowds: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly. "Great spot to camp, fills up fast on fridays!" warns a Kyles Landing visitor. Plan to arrive early, especially during summer months and holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campsites: Look for sites with gentle river access. "Babys first camping trip! Beautiful campground! Loved camping by the river! Had great trees to hammock on! I was happy to have a table and a fire pit. I was happy to have the bathrooms close to our camp site," shares a Kyles Landing visitor.
Easy swimming spots: Find calm water areas for children. "The sand may be a pain, but the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm," notes a Steel Creek camper, highlighting the practical benefits of certain sites for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Engage children with animal watching. "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over," mentions a visitor to Steel Creek.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: Most Buffalo River sites lack RV hookups. "This isn't the national forest, you can't just pull off and camp anywhere you please," cautions a Rush Campground visitor, emphasizing the primitive nature of most sites in the area.
Road condition awareness: Access roads to many sites can be challenging. "The road in is dirt and gravel. I'd still love to go try it car camping though," mentions a Horseshoe Canyon Ranch reviewer, indicating potential difficulties for larger vehicles.
Dispersed camping regulations: Know where you can and cannot camp. "There is only a handful of sites spread throughout the WMA and you can only camp in those designated by the game and fish," explains a Gene Rush WMA visitor about the strict regulations in that area.
