Best Campgrounds near Harrison, AR
Harrison, Arkansas serves as a gateway to diverse camping environments throughout the Ozark Mountains and Buffalo National River areas. The region includes established campgrounds like Shady Oaks Campground & RV Park and Harrison RV Park & Campground within city limits, along with more rustic options at Buffalo National River sites such as Kyles Landing, Steel Creek, and Ozark Campground. Mixed-use campgrounds predominate in this area, with many facilities accommodating both tent and RV camping, while some like Shady Oaks also offer cabin rentals. Several public lands around Harrison provide access to the natural beauty of the Buffalo River valley, with elevations and terrain creating distinct camping environments.
Road access to many campgrounds varies significantly, particularly for sites along the Buffalo National River. Gravel roads leading to areas like Kyles Landing can present challenges for low-clearance vehicles. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. Summer brings higher visitation, especially at waterfront sites and swimming areas. The Buffalo National River campgrounds typically offer more primitive experiences with vault toilets and limited drinking water, while private RV parks provide full hookups and modern facilities. Cell phone coverage can be spotty or nonexistent in river valleys and more remote camping areas. As one camper noted, "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."
Campers consistently highlight the Buffalo River as a primary attraction, with multiple review mentions of the peaceful water access and opportunities for paddling, swimming, and fishing. The proximity to hiking trails represents another valued feature, with paths connecting many camping areas to scenic overlooks and natural features. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with several campgrounds situated in quieter, less developed sections of the national river corridor. Developed campgrounds closer to Harrison generally receive praise for their spacious sites and shade coverage. A visitor to Ozark Campground described it as a "star gazing park, meaning park does not light up during night," highlighting the dark skies experience available at less developed campground options in the region.
