Camping options near Harrisburg, Arkansas center around Lake Poinsett and the surrounding flatlands of northeast Arkansas where the terrain typically sits at 230-260 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round with spring and fall offering the most moderate camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Poinsett: Lake Poinsett has been refilled after dam repairs and offers catch-and-release fishing for most species. "The lake has finally been repaired and they have begun the refill process after it has been dry for several years," notes one visitor at Lake Poinsett State Park Campground. Fishing is catch and release only "except for Catfish and Brim due to recently reopening the lake."
Hiking trails: Craighead Forest Park offers multiple trail options around its lake. "There are several very cool playgrounds, a paved trail that encompasses the park as well as a dirt trail around the outside," according to one camper. The park features "mtb & and walking trails better than most places."
Water activities: When water levels permit, several parks offer swimming and boating opportunities. Jacksonport State Park Campground provides "a very nice beach/swimming area as well as a boat launch." The park sits on the White River with sites that "back up to the river."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance of park facilities. At Lake Poinsett State Park Campground, visitors note "the campground is small, but the sites are nice. Arkansas has some of the best bathhouses as well!" Another camper adds that "sites were very spacious" and the "shower house was new with 4 separate rooms."
Open recreation areas: Parks in the region offer ample space for outdoor activities. Jacksonport State Park provides "quite large and level" sites with "lots of grass, trees and open areas." At Craighead Forest Park, guests appreciate the "large playground for the kids" and "splash pad, multiple playgrounds for all ages of kids."
Wildlife viewing: The waterfront locations offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Tom Sawyer's RV Park along the Mississippi River, campers enjoy watching "tugboats pushed barges against the current" and observing as "trees with root balls intact floated downstream." One visitor mentions that "watching the tug boats moving up and down the river all day and night was relaxing."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences severe weather patterns that affect camping conditions. At Delta Ridge RV Park, visitors note it's "great for a pass through campground" but that it has "no frills, nice pull through sight for our 43' 5th wheel. No cable, picnic table or bath house."
Cell service and connectivity: Mobile reception varies significantly between parks. At Lake Poinsett, campers report "No Cell service for ATT" and mention "WiFi at the bathhouse, but was very sketchy due to the busy weekend." For those needing reliable connectivity, Delta Ridge offers "amazing campground for a pass through campground... WiFi-✔️▫️Streaming- from phone Cell Service AT&T Verizon- both had good service."
Limited amenities at some parks: Several RV parks offer basics without extras. At Lucky Camper & RV (formerly Perkins RV Park), visitors find "nice quiet RV Park with tall shade trees and in a good location. Full hook-ups. Level sites. Nice owner. Good prices." However, amenities beyond the basics may be limited.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer dedicated children's areas. Craighead Forest Park provides "several different playgrounds and walking trails! Great fishing and even a splash pad for the kids to enjoy!" Another visitor notes it's "great for family's" with a lake that's "nice for fishing and feeding the ducks."
Educational opportunities: T.O. Fuller State Park Campground near Memphis offers cultural and historical learning experiences. One visitor recommends the "native American history Museum (Chulissa) that is very popular" and notes "if you are a person that collects patches, stickers, or clothing of the state park you visit, TO Fuller's visitors center has everything you could need."
Swimming options: Seasonal swimming facilities provide relief during hot months. Tom Sawyer's RV Park has "a nice little beach/swimming area" though one camper notes the "beach was spacious but very rocky and the water was freezing even in the 105 degree heat."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have navigational challenges. Lake Poinsett visitors note "the single lane campground road extremely tight. If campsites across from ours wasn't empty, it would of been extremely difficult to get our 28ft backed-in."
Utility hookups: RV sites typically offer water and electric but not always sewer. At Lakeview RV Resort, "the asphalt camp sites are extremely long but narrow" and "free laundry is available along with a bathhouse and restrooms." While closer to Jonesboro than Harrisburg, this park offers "a good place to hook up for a night or two" though campers should "expect noise from the interstate."
Dump station logistics: Most parks provide dump stations rather than sewer hookups. At Lake Poinsett, RVers mention a "one-lane dump station" which can create delays during busy periods. For those requiring full hookups, Lakeview RV Resort has "49 sites with monthly rates from less than $500 per month. Different rates for 50 and 30 amp service."
