Fairfield Bay sits at approximately 840 feet above sea level along the northern shores of Greers Ferry Lake in north-central Arkansas. This area experiences mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and hot, humid summers with average highs reaching 90°F in July and August. Camping opportunities near Fairfield Bay span from lakeside sites to woodland settings with elevation changes that provide natural drainage during frequent spring rainfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Choctaw Recreation Area, visitors can fish for various species in the quiet waters. "Fishing is a way of life for most lovers of the lake but you also have boating of all types," notes reviewer N I. about the Choctaw campground.
Trout fishing: The tailwaters below Greers Ferry Dam offer exceptional trout fishing year-round. "The water at the dam was crystal clear—so much so that you could see the fish swimming around you!" reports Yondering R. at Dam Site Campground.
Hiking trails: Several maintained trails connect with local campgrounds. At Sylamore Creek Camp, "Quick access to the Syllamore Trail, the creek, and nearby mountain biking trails" is available according to Arkansas F., who appreciates the recreational connectivity.
Swimming spots: Multiple designated swimming areas with varying depths accommodate different skill levels. "Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" explains Donna M. about Jordan Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate ample room between sites at certain campgrounds. At Petit Jean State Park, "The site was large and had trees around it offering a little bit of privacy. The site included a picnic table, tent pad, lantern pole, metal fire ring, and grill," according to Fred S.
Water access: Direct creek and lake frontage ranks highly in reviews. "We love having direct access to creek. It is kayak, family, pet friendly," explains Sandy R. about Sylamore Creek Camp, highlighting the convenience of waterfront camping.
Natural shade: Tree coverage provides relief during hot Arkansas summers. At Choctaw, reviewer Natalie E. notes, "This Campground is quiet, secluded jewel in Clinton, Arkansas. Tall trees everywhere you look. Every campsite is shaded. Perfectly spaced trees for the hammock lovers."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and amenities enhance the camping experience. "Clean bathrooms, warm showers and plenty of TP!" reports Charlene A. about Dam Site Campground, reflecting the importance of facility upkeep to overall satisfaction.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Several campgrounds near Fairfield Bay operate on limited schedules. "The Cherokee Recreation Area on Greers Ferry Lake is open from May 13 to September 12," which affects glamping close to Fairfield Bay, Arkansas during off-season months.
Site differences: The various loops within the same campground can offer drastically different experiences. At Dam Site Campground, "We had a pull through site in loop N that was perfect for our 41' fifth wheel...plenty big, clean, and level. The other loops were more wooded, but wouldn't be good for big rigs," explains Caitlin B.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds and even within the same property. "The bathrooms are a very nice size and very clean," writes N I. about Choctaw, while at another location, a reviewer notes less ideal conditions.
Weather impacts: Low-lying sites can flood during rainy periods. At Sylamore Creek Camp, Joshua D. advises, "Very nice family friendly campground. Just don't camp on lower sites when raining," highlighting the importance of site selection based on weather forecasts.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Multiple swimming areas with varying depths accommodate different ages. At Jordan Campground, "Kids had a blast here! Cliff jumping, great fishing, kayaking, swim beach, and even pizza from the marina!" according to Donna M.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature designated play areas for children. "The resort has cabins, full hookup sites, tent sites, pool and play area for the kids," explains Bill M. at White Buffalo Resort, making it suitable for glamping with families close to Fairfield Bay.
Educational opportunities: Visit nearby fish hatcheries for learning experiences. "Be sure to visit the hatchery across the street," suggests Shana D. regarding Dam Quarry campground, providing an educational activity during your stay.
Safe water areas: Look for shallow sections appropriate for younger children. "There are some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs or find crawfish," notes Ethan W. about Holiday Mountain Resort, identifying features particularly suitable for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Some campsites require significant adjustments for RVs. At Petit Jean State Park, Ryan S. advises, "many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," something RVers should prepare for when glamping near Fairfield Bay, Arkansas.
Hookup placements: Unusual utility configurations can cause inconvenience. "Some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper. It's purely inconvenient and I'm not sure why this is this way. Pay attention when you book your site to campsite photos," continues Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park.
Loop selection: Different camping loops offer varying experiences for RVs. "A Loop pros: it's new, it's laid out ideally, full hook up sites with sewer, and plenty of gravel and concrete to keep from dealing with too much dirt, mud, sand," explains Ryan S., contrasting with other loops that offer more shade but fewer amenities.
Off-season advantages: Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for better availability. "I don't enjoy camping here during summer way overcrowded but is wonderful this time of year!!! Enjoyed our weekend!!" shares Lori H. about Dam Site Campground, highlighting the benefits of timing your visit appropriately.
