Best Tent Camping near Gamaliel, AR
Tent camping opportunities around Gamaliel, Arkansas include several established campgrounds along the Buffalo National River and nearby conservation areas. Rush Campground on the Buffalo National River provides primitive tent sites in a natural setting with minimal amenities, while nearby Drury-Mincy Conservation Area offers free tent camping with basic facilities. Spring Creek Campground and Dillards Ferry also provide primitive tent options along the Buffalo River corridor, giving campers direct water access.
Most tent sites in the Gamaliel area feature simple dirt or gravel surfaces with minimal development. Campgrounds like Rush Campground provide vault toilets and water spigots, but many others offer only pit toilets without drinking water. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, though campers should verify current fire restrictions before visiting. Access roads to several campgrounds, particularly Spring Creek, can be steep and challenging during wet weather. One camper noted that Spring Creek has "a rather janky gravel and dirt road leading to it. In the rain, the road would be extremely difficult."
Tent campers at Rush Campground can enjoy riverside camping with good spacing between sites. According to one visitor, "This is primitive camping at its best. They have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot. Right on the beautiful buffalo river." Drury-Mincy Conservation Area provides tent sites with more seclusion and elevation, featuring approximately 12 designated spots with fire pits. The campground sits atop a mountain offering expansive views, though facilities are basic. Spring Creek Campground offers privacy with sites spread apart, providing direct river access for paddlers. Most tent areas in the region have good tree cover for shade during summer months, and many serve as starting points for Buffalo River float trips.
