RV camping options near Gillham Lake include sites ranging from basic water-electric hookups to full-service parks with concrete pads. The lake sits at approximately 960 feet elevation in southwestern Arkansas with camping season typically running March through November. Temperatures average 92°F in summer months and 30°F in winter, affecting campground operations and water availability.
What to do
Fishing access: Cossatot Reefs Campground provides direct river fishing opportunities below Gillham Lake's spillway. "The fishing is excellent. The park is quiet and very clean," notes a visitor at Cossatot Reefs - Gillham Lake.
River activities: Canoe and kayak rentals available near multiple RV sites within 30 minutes of Gillham Lake. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," explains a camper who stayed at Caddo River Access.
Hiking options: Trails accessible from several camping areas surrounding Gillham Lake. "There's easy access to hiking trails," mentions a reviewer at Cossatot Reefs, though other visitors note "You have to travel if you plan to hike any trails" from some campgrounds.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Many RV parks near Gillham Lake offer peaceful settings away from crowded areas. "Great campground. Excellent bath house. Our spot had very weak Verizon service. Pretty busy campground but night's were quiet," reports a camper at Cossatot Reefs.
Shade coverage: Tree cover provides relief during hot summer months at several rv sites near Gillham Lake. "Lots of trees for shade. Full hookups and fire ring," notes a visitor at Secluded Acres Cabin Rentals, which offers amenities for RV campers.
Riverside locations: Multiple camping options positioned directly on waterways flowing into or out of Gillham Lake. "The River was crisp and clear and was just a few strides away. You can hear the tiny rapids over the rocks at night," shares a visitor about their experience at Cossatot Reefs Campground.
What you should know
Variable water connections: Water hookup placement varies significantly between campsites. "The water faucet at the site was so far from the RV pad we had to go into town and buy additional hose," reports a camper at Cossatot Reefs, highlighting a practical consideration for RVers.
Highway noise factors: Some RV parks experience road noise due to proximity to highways. "Highway noise is a little loud but it does die down at night so no problem sleeping," mentions a reviewer at Creekside RV Park, located within driving distance of Gillham Lake.
Insect considerations: Bug activity can be significant during warmer months. "You're so overwhelmed with bugs, it's hard to enjoy. 2 of my family members got ticks while staying there," cautions a visitor about their experience at Cossatot Reefs.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational facilities: Campgrounds offering amenities beyond RV hookups provide additional entertainment options. "Basketball goals, horseshoe pits, and a playground are available," explains a reviewer at Cossatot Reefs Campground about facilities below the spillway.
Spacing between sites: Site separation varies significantly between campgrounds. "Plenty of space between us and others to the right and woods to the left," notes a camper about Murfeesboro RV Park, while others report more cramped conditions at different locations.
Alternative accommodations: Several parks offer cabin options for those without RVs. "Very convenient place to stay only 2 min from town and just a short drive to any location you might want to visit," shares a visitor at South Fork Rv and camping, which offers both RV sites and alternative lodging options.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Terrain quality varies between campgrounds in the Gillham Lake region. "Fairly level. At least 8 of the 15 sites have permanent residents. Only one pull through with W/E only," reports an RVer about Broken Bow Inn & RV Park.
Maneuverability challenges: Some sites require experience to navigate. "Not well leveled," notes a reviewer about Shadow Mountain Campground, while another camper at Cossatot Reefs mentions their specific site was "tight to back into for first timers but it was so worth it."
Seasonal considerations: Operational schedules and weather affect camping experiences throughout the year. "We liked our week long visit here. It was off the beaten path. Very quiet and peaceful," shares a visitor at Cossatot River RV Park during their stay near Gillham Lake.
