Camping spots near Berryville, Arkansas provide access to diverse waterfront experiences with many locations offering direct lake or river proximity. The region typically experiences moderate spring and fall temperatures ranging from 50-75°F, making these seasons ideal for outdoor recreation. Campsites in this area often feature significant elevation changes, with some locations positioned on bluffs or ridges overlooking water features.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Dam Site River Campground on Beaver Lake offers exceptional White River fishing opportunities. "The access to the river was fantastic. Quiet except for the dam siren for water level warnings before dawn and in the evening," reports Jody D., noting the proximity to prime fishing spots.
Kayaking and paddling: Mill Creek provides numerous waterfront sites for easy boat access. "Most sites are right on the water. It is well maintained and clean. It can be hard to get in, but worth the effort!!!" explains Sue M., highlighting the direct lake access from most sites.
Hiking trail exploration: Withrow Springs State Park Campground features several well-maintained trails suitable for all skill levels. "All of the trails are very nice to hike, even for our little ones," notes Matthew G., emphasizing their family-friendly nature despite the park's natural terrain.
Swimming opportunities: Lake Leatherwood City Park offers a refreshing alternative to larger lakes. "The lake is nice and quiet, allowing kayak, canoe, and SUP," reports Jess C., highlighting the calm waters perfect for cooling off during summer months.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Old Highway 86 Table Rock Lake provides waterfront camping without crowds. "Old Highway 86 is a very nice campground conveniently located to Branson. All of the lots are nicely paved and level along with many waterfront sites! Kick back, relax and watch the boats go by!" explains reviewer b K.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms across multiple campgrounds. "The bathhouse was closed, but looked fairly new or at least well maintained," notes Annie C. about Dam Site Lake Campground, representing a common theme throughout area facilities.
Wildlife viewing: Roaring River State Park offers unique wildlife observation opportunities. "The local deer greet you at breakfast from across the street," shares Stephen R., describing the natural encounters possible when staying at regional parks.
Night sky viewing: Remote locations allow excellent stargazing. "Our site had unobstructed views of the lake and was easy to level," reports Kathy P. from Old Highway 86, emphasizing the clear sightlines that benefit both daytime and nighttime views.
What you should know
Reservation planning: Popular campgrounds near Berryville fill quickly during peak seasons. "It usually takes some planning because it fills up fast!" warns Natalie C. about Old Highway 86, a common situation throughout the region's more desirable locations.
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have significant variations between sites. "They stuck us in the most narrow, difficult spot they could have... and if our friends had walked out the back door where their room is they would have surely been injured," cautions Cheryl L. from Wanderlust RV Park, highlighting the importance of researching specific site characteristics.
Seasonal water levels: Beaver Lake campgrounds experience fluctuating water levels. "High water" is mentioned by multiple reviewers, with Annie C. noting at Dam Site Lake Campground that "some sites were very much under water" during her visit, indicating the need to check conditions.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. "Starlink worked well at our site (9), but it wouldn't at most of the sites," reports Jody D., while Matthew G. notes "there is no AT&T signal at the campsite" at Withrow Springs State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Roaring River State Park Campground offers child-friendly amenities. "We spent a weekend in early May in campground 1 backing right up to one of the creeks. The sound of running water alone would have me back. Electric only and not very level site but loved it! Lots to do and see at the hatchery and play in the river," shares Jennifer O.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with minimal boat traffic. "The park was terrific and very clean. Loop 2 has a brand new restroom/shower house," explains Gary P. about facilities important for family comfort.
Educational opportunities: Fish hatchery visits provide learning experiences. "You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river," explains Wendy M., describing a popular activity for children at Roaring River.
Budget considerations: Camping costs vary significantly between locations. "We were priced out" mentions Tom K. about RV sites at some parks, while others note reasonable tent camping rates around $12 per night.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Table Rock State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven sites. "Spot 114. Electric 30/50. Community water 1 site over. Very tight - we're in a pop-up and took some maneuvering but we got it in there," advises Angie N., suggesting bringing leveling blocks.
Hookup limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full service connections. "Would give it 5 stars if it had full hookups," notes John R. about Mill Creek, a common limitation at Corps of Engineers parks throughout the region.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful planning to access. "Not the easiest drive to get here but worth the effort!" explains John F. about Dam Site Lake Campground, with several reviewers mentioning road conditions requiring attention.
Dump station availability: Most parks without sewer connections provide dump stations. "Easy/Nice dump station on way out," mentions Trish R., highlighting the convenience factor important for extended stays.
