Camping near Gillett, Arkansas centers around U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites along the Arkansas River delta at approximately 165 feet of elevation. The region features extensive wetland ecosystems where the White and Arkansas Rivers converge, creating distinctive wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter camping brings opportunities to see migrating pelicans while summer months require serious mosquito preparation.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities: Cane Creek State Park offers rental equipment for exploring their unique water trail system. "Kayaking among the trees and flowers" is highlighted by visitors, with special events like "moonlit full moon kayak" trips available seasonally.
Wildlife observation: The White River National Wildlife Refuge adjacent to Merrisach Lake attracts diverse species. One camper noted seeing "pelicans hanging around" during winter months, while others report spotting armadillos, eagles, and swamp rats "resembling a beaver with a skinny tail."
River watching: Sites along the Arkansas River provide views of commercial vessels. The Arkansas River forms part of the McClellan-Kerr navigation system where "approximately 11 million tons of cargo is shipped from the Mississippi River to Tulsa every year."
What campers like
Spacious, shaded sites: Pendleton Bend offers "big sights quiet and no problem with bugs" according to visitors. Sites throughout the area tend to be generously sized, with one camper noting "the sites are spacious. For example, the water hookups are half way between the sites to be shared, and my 50ft hose just barely could reach."
Fishing access: COE Arkansas River Wilbur D Mills Campground provides excellent angling opportunities with "plenty of wildlife" around. A reviewer described it as a "sportsman's paradise. Everything to hunt and fish for in the Southeast."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance at certain locations. At Rising Star, visitors noted "I HAVE NEVER SEEN A CLEANER BATHROOM!!! BATHROOM/SHOWER COMBO FOR 1 PERSON OR FAMILY!!!" This isn't universal across all campgrounds, however.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Complete disconnection is common at some sites. At Pendleton Bend, "there is absolutely no cell phone signal and no WiFi, so have physical directions on you" when traveling to the campground.
Varied bathroom facilities: Quality differs dramatically between locations. Some campgrounds have "great hosts! Super friendly" who maintain "immaculate" restrooms, while others have more basic offerings described as "only slightly better than a hole in the ground with a seat."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds near Gillett close during winter months. The COE sites typically operate "March 1 to October 31," though some like Merrisach Lake remain accessible year-round. Winter visits may find limited facilities but also "4 campers there great time to stay pelicans hanging around, very peaceful."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. COE Arkansas River Merrisach Lake Park provides "family friendly" facilities with "great fishing" opportunities to keep kids engaged.
Halloween camping: Cane Creek State Park hosts a popular Halloween event. "Halloween brings thousands of visitors each fall. The campsites all decorate for the holiday and everyone wants to see it!"
Wildlife education: The visitor centers provide learning opportunities. "The visitors center offers fun activities for the kids" at Cane Creek State Park, making it educational as well as recreational.
Tips from RVers
Power limitations: Be aware of electrical capacities at sites. At one campground, campers "had issues with their electricity because they were trying to run an air fryer, and it kept throwing the breaker."
Site selection: Different campground areas offer varying experiences. At Merrisach Lake, "we were in E campground and it was not very well taken care of. The pads for the campers were starting to become covered up with grass and tree debris." Meanwhile, "other campgrounds seemed to be in better shape."
Dump station locations: Plan accordingly as some facilities require travel. At Merrisach Lake, "the dump station is probably a mile and a half from the campground so if you have a grey water tote tank that you pull behind the truck like me, expect a fairly long drive."
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