Best Campgrounds near Fifty-Six, AR
The Ozark Mountains surrounding Fifty-Six, Arkansas feature diverse camping options within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. Gunner Pool Recreation Area, located directly in Fifty-Six, offers year-round camping with primitive sites along clear waterways. Just a short drive away, Blanchard Springs Recreation Area provides developed campsites with electric hookups, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails and cave systems. Mountain View, approximately 15 miles south, hosts several RV parks and resorts including Sylamore Creek Camp, which accommodates everything from tents to glamping setups. The Buffalo National River area, within 30 miles, adds additional camping opportunities with riverfront sites.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds accessible via gravel roads that may become challenging after heavy rainfall. As one camper noted, "Be prepared for limited or no cell service and miles of gravel roads - download or print your driving and hiking maps ahead of time." Most Forest Service campgrounds have vault toilets rather than full facilities, while private RV parks offer more amenities. Summer temperatures can be hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Spring brings high water levels that occasionally affect low-water crossings near Blanchard Springs. Many campers recommend bringing all supplies, as the closest major stores are 15-20 miles away in Mountain View.
Water access represents a major draw for campers in the area. Swimming holes and clear streams near Blanchard Springs receive consistent praise in visitor reviews. According to one frequent visitor, "Blanchard Springs has great camp sites, great hiking, multiple access to swim/wade into water, plus great caving opportunities!" The heavily wooded terrain provides ample shade but may present challenges for families with small children. Fishing opportunities abound in nearby creeks and rivers, with trout being particularly popular. During weekends, especially in summer, first-come-first-served sites fill quickly by mid-afternoon. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) history is evident in several campgrounds, with historic structures and information displays adding cultural interest to the natural surroundings.
