RV sites near Gateway, Arkansas serve both short-term travelers and seasonal campers, with most parks operating within specific months of the year. The region sits within the Ozark Mountains at elevations between 1,200-1,700 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, affecting water systems at several campgrounds that remain open year-round.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Blowing Springs RV Park connects directly to popular trail systems. "This is your basic parking lot campground. Your site is all cement with full hook ups and a picnic table. No green areas to call your own, BUT you have incredible instant access to the trailhead of many singletrack bike and hiking trails," notes Brian S.
Visit the arboretum: Walk through the plant collection located within Blowing Springs Park. "There is also a arbortrarium in the park towards the back, a couple caves, and a creek," writes Wendy M., highlighting additional natural features beyond the campground.
Passion Play property exploration: Located near Wanderlust RV Park, this area offers extensive trail systems. "We like to mountain bike and this location is only a couple of blocks away from the Passion Play property which has close to 29 miles of amazing trails to ride plus the amazing property to explore with the Jesus's of the ozark statue," explains Allen S.
What campers like
Roomy sites: Many campers appreciate adequate space between camping spots. "Sites had plenty of room between each one and plenty of parking for your tow vehicle," notes a review of Kettle Campground, where the layout provides more privacy than some neighboring facilities.
Clean shower facilities: "The bathrooms/showers and nice gravel pads," comments Christina P. about Green Tree Campground, which maintains well-kept facilities despite seasonal operations.
Connectivity options: Internet access varies by location but remains important to many visitors. "The Wi-Fi signal was strong and fast; there is also good cell service for T-mobile and Verizon for anyone who wants to stay connected," reports Rosemary S. about Green Tree Campground.
What you should know
Water access considerations: Some parks offer direct lake or river frontage. "A few sites on the water had direct access to the water, so you could kayak right up to your tent/RV," explains Annie C. about Beaver RV Park and Campground, which sits on waterfront property.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Gateway area close during winter months. "We have a smaller pull behind camper and picked one of the ridge sites with 30 amp full hookup," notes Allen S. about his summer stay at Wanderlust RV Park, which operates from March through mid-November.
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted access based on vehicle size. "Limited access due to 11' 6" bridge to enter location," warns Steve D. about Beaver RV Park, highlighting an important consideration for larger RVs and fifth wheels.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "There was a big playground in the middle for kids," notes Annie C. about her experience at Beaver RV Park and Campground, providing a recreation option beyond hiking and water activities.
Trolley transportation: Several campgrounds connect to local transportation systems. "The site is only a few minutes from downtown Eureka Springs and is one of the stops on the free trolley line in case you don't like driving or trying to find parking downtown," explains Rosemary S., highlighting this family-friendly transportation option.
Proximity to conveniences: Quick access to supplies can be important with children. "If you are in need of snacks etc it's a quick 2 minute drive to the grocery store / sonic/ Pizza Hut," mentions Wendy M. about the amenities near Blowing Springs.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request specific sites based on your RV configuration. "They had to move us because our rig didn't fit in the spot they booked for us, you can't choose your spot," cautions Adrienne N. about The Creeks Golf & RV Resort, underscoring the importance of communicating your RV dimensions when booking.
Age restrictions: Some parks maintain standards regarding RV condition and age. "They have a 10-year rule for RVs that can be waived if your rig is in good condition," explains TJ W. about The Creeks Golf & RV Resort, which caters to newer RVs.
Site surface variations: RV pads range from gravel to concrete throughout the region. "The sites are all paved and have full hookups, no tent camping or motorhomes under 25'," notes Paul F. about The Creeks Golf & RV Resort, which maintains higher-end facilities than some neighboring parks.
