Buffalo National River dominates the camping landscape near Harrison, Arkansas, with distinct camping environments ranging from riverside sites with bluff views to more developed campgrounds within city limits. Elevations vary from 800 to 1,500 feet, creating different camping microclimates throughout the region. Spring water levels are typically higher with occasional flooding, while summer brings lower water levels that create more accessible swimming holes.
What to do
River activities near Buffalo River: Fishing, swimming, and kayaking are popular at Erbie Campground, where the campground is "located right by Erbie putin" with "walking distance to both the Erbie Ford and the old community of Erbie," according to Jane T. The river access points at most Buffalo River campgrounds provide opportunities for both casual wading and more serious paddling.
Hiking to historic sites: Several trails connect to abandoned homesteads and historic structures. At Erbie Campground, "You can hike from camp to an old homestead then to the river and back. It's probably a couple of miles but a relatively flat hike," notes Wendy M. The area also features numerous historic buildings like "the old Erbie Church and Cherry Hill cemetery."
Wildlife viewing: The Ozarks provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "Watch for Elk, you'll probably see an armadillo or two as well," advises Wendy M. about Erbie Campground. Campers at Steel Creek Campground report seeing "lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears," according to Joey C.
Stargazing: The Buffalo River area offers minimal light pollution. Many campgrounds maintain dark skies in the evenings, with campers noting excellent star visibility. At Steel Creek Campground, multiple visitors mention being able to see the night sky clearly from open field campsites.
What campers like
Easy river access: Many campgrounds provide direct paths to the Buffalo River. At Ozark Campground, "Every campsite has river access within a short few minutes walk," according to Matthew P. The proximity allows campers to easily cool off during hot summer days.
Spacious campsites: At Shady Oaks Campground & RV Park, campers appreciate that there's "plenty of room between sites" according to Kaylene M. The campground offers "a spacious dog park" and "shared spaces are always very clean" notes Melissa H.
Amenities for extended stays: Some campgrounds offer extras that make longer stays more comfortable. Shady Oaks has "a spacious dog park, which the dogs are currently playing at while I relax and take in nature," mentions Melissa H. The campground also hosts events as Mike B. notes: "Friday night had a 2 person local band. Saturday night had a band and barbecue plates for 10.00."
Community atmosphere: Several privately owned campgrounds create a welcoming environment. At Harrison RV Park & Campground, "The campground managers are super friendly and had lots of good information on the area. They took us to look at sites first to see which one we would like," according to Julie G.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many Buffalo River campgrounds require navigating steep gravel roads. At Kyles Landing Campground, the access road presents challenges as "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," according to Luke B. For Erbie Campground, "It's quite the trip down the dirt road to get here. Probably will take you 20/30 minutes of gravel road. Don't recommend bringing any type of trailer down here," notes Wendy M.
Limited cell service: Most Buffalo River campgrounds have poor or nonexistent cell coverage. When visiting Harrison RV Park, Allison N. noted it was "a gem about 40 minutes north of all the river activities," which provides connectivity while still being close to recreation areas.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate dramatically by season. At Ozark Campground, "The river rose pretty fast when we camped here in May this year after a three day storm, but our camp site drained pretty well," according to Leah H. Summer often brings lower water levels but more crowded conditions.
First-come, first-served restrictions: Many National River campgrounds don't accept reservations. At Steel Creek Campground, visitors recommend arriving early, especially during peak season. Private campgrounds like Shady Oaks and Harrison RV Park accept advance reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Shady Oaks Campground, Matt G. noted, "My wife and I and our 3 children had a great time at the campground. Large playground, short nature trails, clean showers, nice folks that run the place."
Field games: Several campgrounds feature open areas for activities. At Ozark Campground, "there is a huge grassy field in the middle of the campground which is great for families to play sports and other games," according to Ethan K. Similarly, Steel Creek Campground has a large field that "some people used to play ball, frisbee etc."
Swimming opportunities: Safe river access points make swimming a popular family activity. At Steel Creek Campground, there's "easy access to the river for swimming" and the campground is "right next to the Buffalo River along the gorgeous towering bluff," according to Jessica W.
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate family pets. Shady Oaks Campground is particularly accommodating as "Camp hosts are amazing. They make you feel like you're family and they will even walk your dog for you if you need them to," according to Kaylene M.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup options are limited near the Buffalo River. Harrison RV Park offers "pull thru sites with full hookups" and "offers wifi and free cable," according to Mike B. Sites at this campground are "a little tight but they have it setup that you park opposite of each other."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Most riverside campgrounds have size restrictions. For larger RVs, Harrison RV Park accommodates big rigs with pull-through sites and full hookups, though spaces can be tight. The more developed campgrounds within Harrison city limits generally provide better options for larger RVs.
Road conditions: RVers should research road conditions carefully before choosing camping spots near Harrison, Arkansas. For many Buffalo River campgrounds, steep, winding roads with gravel surfaces can be challenging for larger vehicles and trailers.
