Best Tent Camping near Gillett, AR
Tent campsites near Gillett, Arkansas include several established grounds with varying amenities. The White River National Wildlife Refuge's Hudsons Landing offers primitive tent camping, while Delta Heritage Trail State Park provides multiple tent camping locations including a campground near West Helena and trailhead sites at Arkansas City and Barton. Ste Marie Park in Pine Bluff, about 30 miles from Gillett, also accommodates tent campers with basic facilities.
Tent sites at Delta Heritage Trail State Park Campground feature tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings at each of its ten primitive sites. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis for $15 per night. Most sites offer shade coverage, which proves beneficial during hot Arkansas summers. Toilet facilities are available at the visitor center and at trailhead locations, though drinking water is limited to certain areas. The Arkansas City Trailhead provides flush toilets but features an open grassy camping area rather than designated sites.
Mosquitoes present a significant challenge for tent campers in this region, particularly during warmer months. A recent review noted, "bring bug spray ready because there is a ton of mosquitoes!" Despite this, the natural setting appeals to many outdoor enthusiasts. The tent campground at Delta Heritage Trail State Park offers complete shade coverage, making it cooler than exposed sites during summer heat. Walk-in tent sites are the standard at this state park, though one camper mentioned that "they let us drive them [motorcycles] to the campsite otherwise they are a walk-in it's a really short walk." Access to Ste Marie Park has reportedly been inconsistent, with some visitors noting gate closures limiting public entry. The Arkansas City Trailhead camping area provides a convenient location "right in the middle of town" and adjacency to the levee for additional recreational opportunities.
