Camping opportunities near Fort Smith span from river recreation areas to forested sites within a 45-mile radius. The region features elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters suitable for year-round camping. Several campgrounds offer disability access features including concrete pads and paved trails connecting facilities.
What to Do
Fishing access points: Springhill Park provides multiple locations for bank fishing along the Arkansas River. "I have been camping out here for years but never took advantage of the A side. A12-14 are premian spots to camp. I tent camp and the view is amazing. It's in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can launch a boat or you can go kayaking in Massard creek. There's Cat fish, Perch and, Bass," notes a camper at Springhill.
Mountain biking trails: The region contains extensive trail systems suitable for various skill levels. At John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground, "There are great trails on site for mountain biking or hiking. I saw deer, a snake, and what looked like a coyote on the trail." One trail system includes a 10-mile "fast" track frequented by experienced riders.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple waterfall hikes exist within driving distance. At Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures, campers report scenic hiking options: "This weekend we went chasing waterfalls and hiked through caves it was BEAUTIFUL!!"
What Campers Like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated campsites. At Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures, reviewers appreciate the exclusivity: "This campground is great! It reminds of a more exclusive campground with limited spaces so it's just a treat to camp somewhere that's not crowded."
River-adjacent camping: Direct water access from campsites ranks as a top feature. "Beautiful park- right on the river. Wooded lots in most cases, large lots with great space between sites. Drop Kayak, SUP right off the back of your site," notes a visitor to Springhill Park.
Clean facilities: Campground infrastructure receives consistently positive reviews. At Devil's Den State Park Campground, campers find well-maintained amenities: "Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great."
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures: Some parks close temporarily for maintenance or weather conditions. A recent Devil's Den visitor warns: "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!"
Site levelness issues: Many campgrounds contain sites that may challenge larger RVs. At John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground, "One major downside of this park is that only about half the sites (in Loop B) were not flat enough for us to get level without having the wheels off the ground."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely across campgrounds. Devil's Den State Park has "no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Riverfront RV Resort, "Our kids enjoyed the playground, outdoor gym, and pickleball - it was too cold to swim."
Swimming options: Natural water features provide cooling recreation during hot months. A visitor to Devil's Den notes: "Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!"
Cave exploration opportunities: Several sites offer accessible cave systems appropriate for children. One Devil's Den camper shares: "The large rock 'mountain' it leads you too are so much fun to play on. They have tiny caves and are incredibly easy to craw around on. P.S make sure and bring lots of bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Navigation advice: Larger rigs require careful route planning. For Devil's Den, experts advise: "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)."
Site selection strategies: Some campgrounds have preferred areas for RVs. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, "Our site was perfect in we faced the pond and playground and didn't have any other campers in direct site when lounging outside our camper."
Pet-friendly amenities: For those seeking pet friendly camping near Fort Smith, Arkansas, designated exercise areas exist. William O. Darby RV Community provides dedicated spaces for dogs, while Riverfront RV Resort allows pets with appropriate restrictions throughout the property, making it ideal for animal-friendly camping options around Fort Smith.
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