Tent camping in Harriet, Arkansas concentrates around the Buffalo National River area, where elevation varies between 800-1,800 feet across multiple camping zones. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F while winter nights frequently drop below freezing. Primitive camping sites along gravel bars require visitors to pack extra water during dry summer months when natural water sources can become unreliable.
What to do
Canoe the Buffalo River: Rush Campground serves as the final stop before entering the wilderness area of the Buffalo. "This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low. This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing," notes Matt S. from Rush Campground.
Fishing opportunities: During spring and early summer, fishing is particularly productive at multiple riverside camping locations. Gilbert Gravel Bar provides excellent access points. "You can find Gilbert Gravel Bar off 65 just south of the city of St Joe's. Go through the city of Gilbert and you will find parking at the end of the road leading to a fairly large beach/gravel area. You can tent hear in preparation for a canoe trip or as a stop over along the Buffalo River," explains Arkansas F.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer optimal viewing times for local wildlife. At Shine Eye Gravel Bar, campers report regular sightings of deer and occasional armadillos. "This is just a gravel bar along The Buffalo National River but it is beautiful! There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot," shares Lindsey P.
Mountain biking: The Syllamo trail system offers multiple technical routes about 30 miles from Harriet. "This is a series of trails with multiple trail heads. Each trail head has a course gravel parking area and a very nice pit toilet. Bring lots of drinking water. Good for both Mountain Biking and hiking, but hikers need to make way for bikers," recommends Arkansas F.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many tent camping sites near Harriet provide substantial seclusion. At Spring Creek Campground, Lisa B. found "This primitive campground was perfect for me and my dog. We stayed three nights in October 2020. It's right on a put-in spot on the Buffalo River so there were a couple of buses and shuttles but for the most part it was very quiet. The campsites are a good distance apart."
Clear swimming holes: The Buffalo River offers numerous spots for swimming near camping areas. "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp. It isn't my favorite camp site but it is my favorite swim spot," shares Kristen G. about Dillards Ferry.
Off-grid experience: Most Buffalo River camping locations have limited or no cell service. At Spring Creek, campers note there is "no drinking water and I didn't get phone service (yay!). There is a vault toilet that wasn't too bad."
Night sky viewing: Several open-field campsites provide excellent star-gazing opportunities without light pollution. Steel Creek Campground offers "Really beautiful views of the bluffs and easy access to the river for swimming. Only drawback was the fact that all the sites are in a large open field with picnic tables denoting specific sites, so just not a ton of privacy," explains Samantha W.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating difficult roads. For Kyles Landing Campground, Luke B. warns "This campground is quite and beautiful. A real bob Ross of a campground, however the drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Permit requirements: Wildlife Management Areas have specific regulations. "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish. WMA Regulations are very easy to find on the AGFC website," notes Poopy B. regarding Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area.
Crowding patterns: Weekends and holidays see significant visitor increases. Steel Creek Campground is "Pretty much empty during the week but was over flowing with people on Memorial Day weekend, as were all of the nearby outdoor activity spots."
Water availability: Many camping areas lack drinking water. At Spring Creek Campground, visitors should note there is "no drinking water" available on site, requiring campers to bring all needed water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly spots: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with easier access and facilities. Paul P. recommends Rush Landing: "This is primitive camping at its best. They have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot. Right on the beautiful buffalo river. The sites were patrolled by rangers on a regular basis."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds vary in noise levels depending on location and season. Jeyd A. observed Rush Campground is a "beautiful campground for the entire family. Fairly quiet at night after 11pm. Very busy during the day and evening time."
Safety precautions: River access points require supervision for younger children. At Steel Creek Campground, Joey C. notes "Campground sits next to the Buffalo River and Roark Bluff background. Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears. Very quiet and every site has a picnic table."
Best beginner locations: Some sites offer more amenities for first-time tent camping near Harriet. Miranda D. suggests Steel Creek as "a great campsite if you're wanting to get outdoors, but aren't quite adventurous to go full-out. You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most Buffalo River camping areas accommodate tents rather than RVs. Robert B. explains at Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area: "Stayed the night in Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area. Spoke with Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission Ranger. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites."
Access challenges: RV owners should research road conditions carefully before attempting visits. Joshua H. notes about Kyles Landing: "It is recommended that you use a high clerance vehicle and 4x4 but I saw during sunny weather all types make it to the sights to include minivans. However with a good down pour the road out can be a little slick as it is a very steep dirt road."
Better alternatives: When tent camping near Harriet isn't suitable for RVs, nearby options exist. Arkansas F. recommends: "If your coming from Mountain View you actually pass a nice Campground in Allison; Syllamore Creek Campground."
