Camping areas near Mayflower, Arkansas range from basic dispersed sites to full-service campgrounds with modern amenities. The terrain consists primarily of rolling hills with elevations between 300-500 feet, surrounded by mixed hardwood forests and multiple waterways. Winter temperatures typically stay above freezing, allowing year-round camping, while summer humidity levels frequently exceed 80% during July and August.
What to do
Fishing from shore or boat: The Arkansas River offers excellent fishing opportunities at Maumelle Park, where anglers can catch bass and catfish. "It's a little close to the Little Rock metro area for me BUT it's very well maintained, quiet and family friendly. Sits on the bank of the Arkansas River so fishing and water sports are available from the bank or boat," notes Jason W.
Mountain biking on established trails: Near Petit Jean State Park, cyclists can access multiple trail systems. "The Pinnacle Mountain Trail system was a shaded easy trail system that can be accessed right from this campground," reports one visitor. Trails range from beginner-friendly loops to more technical routes.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Harris Brake Lake provide opportunities to spot waterfowl and small mammals. "I really enjoyed this site. I stopped on a weekday and I was the only one there. It was nice watching the sun set over the lake," writes Kyle C. Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
What campers like
Level, spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the well-designed sites at Toad Suck Ferry Park. "Brand new site. Lots of shade, easy back-in, and perfectly level. Great view of the river. Plenty of area for the kids to play," notes George L. Most sites include concrete pads large enough for both camping equipment and vehicles.
Clean, maintained facilities: Woolly Hollow State Park receives consistent praise for its upkeep. "Out of the Arkansas State Parks that we have already visited, Woolly Hollow has been the best!! The sites are all asphalted and the bathhouse is located in the center of all of the sites so access is easy," reports Brian G.
Evening river views: The Arkansas River creates memorable sunset views from riverside camping areas. At Sunsets on the Arkansas River Site, one camper shared, "Went out for our anniversary spur of the moment. Did same day booking and owner was responsive. Campsite is great, has a beautiful view of the AR River. Very secluded so no one should bother you."
What you should know
Flooding risks: Spring rainfall can impact low-lying camping areas, particularly at riverfront locations. Several campgrounds near Mayflower have experienced closures due to high water. "Toad Suck is temporarily closed. June 2019 flood deviated it and looks to remain closed thru 2020," reported a camper in 2020.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. At Petit Jean State Park, a visitor noted, "many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level."
Variable road conditions: Access to certain camping areas may require higher clearance vehicles. For Sunsets on the Arkansas River, a camper advised, "Make sure your car can handle the road going down to the site as it is a little rocky. Ours had no problem but some smaller cars might."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Downtown Riverside RV Park provides play areas for children of different ages. "The kids enjoy the playgrounds x 3, walking, plenty of open space, and watching the barges coming down the river," writes Lona T.
Educational ranger programs: State parks frequently offer structured activities for children. At Woolly Hollow State Park, one family shared, "The state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition. The best part was the guided hike with Master Naturalist group of AR."
Swimming options: Dedicated swimming areas provide safer water recreation for children. "There is a nice swimming area with a shop to order drinks/snacks. The park rangers and staff were super friendly and helpful," notes a visitor to Woolly Hollow State Park.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Many campgrounds near Mayflower offer pull-through options for easier setup. At Little Rock North KOA, a camper reported, "Easy access for a KOA, we have a cyclone 4270 (44' triple axel 5th wheel) which is pushing it for most KOA's. We landed a pull through just behind the office and on way out of curve in road so we slide right in."
Electrical capacity considerations: Different campsites offer varying electrical hookups. At Camp Robinson Dispersed Site, primitive conditions mean no electrical hookups at all, with one camper noting, "Great spot to pitch a tent by lake Conway. Isolated but not too far out."
Site selection for larger rigs: Size restrictions vary significantly between campgrounds. Regarding Petit Jean State Park, a visitor advised, "Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables." At Maumelle Park, sites are "real spaceship spots" according to one reviewer, making them suitable for larger RVs.
