Best Campgrounds near Gentry, AR
The rolling Ozark landscape surrounding Gentry, Arkansas features a mix of established campgrounds and more rustic options within a short drive. Rustic Ridge, located directly in Gentry, offers 27 RV sites with full hookups, while Natural Falls State Park Campground sits just 20 minutes away across the Oklahoma border in Colcord. This state park combines RV and tent camping with yurt accommodations and separate camping loops for different styles of outdoor stays. The broader region includes Corps of Engineers campgrounds along Beaver Lake, dispersed camping areas like Lookout Tower Road, and several state parks within an hour's drive including Devil's Den State Park, known for its distinctive rock formations and hiking trails.
Reservations are essential during summer months at most established campgrounds, with many sites booking weeks in advance for peak season. As one camper noted, "If traveling during the summer I would recommend reservations, and if you have a particular site you would prefer, reserve as soon as possible." Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with some campgrounds accessible via paved roads while others require navigating winding, narrow routes. Cell service can be spotty, particularly in more remote areas and state parks. According to a visitor to Devil's Den, "There's 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 for food and services."
Waterfront camping opportunities abound in the region, particularly at Corps of Engineers sites around Beaver Lake. These campgrounds typically feature electric hookups but may require campers to bring their own water. "Sites have electric but not water, so fill your tank before you come," advised one visitor to Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area. Privacy between campsites varies considerably across the region. Some campers report that Natural Falls State Park has "campsites very close together with no privacy," while others praise the "quiet and good spacing between sites" at Corps of Engineers campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities are common, with deer frequently spotted at lakeside campgrounds. The region experiences hot, humid summers with occasional severe storms, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures ideal for hiking and outdoor recreation.
