Tent and RV sites abound throughout the Greers Ferry Lake area, with approximately 116 campsites available at Old Highway 25 Campground alone and over 100 sites at Dam Site Campground. The region features limestone bluffs and rocky shorelines typical of Arkansas's northern lakes, with camping elevations averaging 450 feet above sea level. Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting site availability particularly in G loop at Shiloh Park.
What to do
Trout fishing below the dam: John F Kennedy Campground sits directly on the Little Red River, known for excellent trout fishing. "Great campsite with close proximity to trout fishing and a beautiful lake," notes Rachel P. The fishing conditions are particularly good during summer months as "Shady and a nice cool breeze off the cold little red!" according to Hillary W.
Kayaking to Sugar Loaf Mountain: From Sugar Loaf Campground, paddlers can reach the island mountain for hiking. "Bring your kayak and paddle to Sugar Loaf then hike to the top!" recommends Lacee G. The mountain trail offers expansive views, as one camper shares: "Sugar Loaf is a solid spot for you to visit. Plenty to do and see within a 10-15 mile radius that can keep you busy for several days."
Swimming at sandy beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with imported sand improving the naturally rocky shoreline. At Devil's Fork, "A good amount of sand is dumped near the swim beaches, improving on the natural and concrete poured banks," reports one visitor. The swimming areas feature clear water conditions and are typically less crowded on weekdays.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Old Highway 25 Campground offers prime waterfront sites. "This last time we were able to camp right on the water and park our boat at the site," says John M. The park provides a mixture of wooded and open sites, with some offering direct boat access: "There are even some site where people dock their boats."
Consistent maintenance: Woolly Hollow State Park receives praise for upkeep. "It is very clean and quiet. There is lots of shade and several sites on the water," reports Kathy E. The facilities receive regular attention: "The sites are all asphalted and the bathhouse is located in the center of all of the sites so access is easy," notes Brian G.
Quieter shoulder seasons: While summer brings crowds, spring and fall offer more peaceful experiences. "Fall camping at its best. We had all of A campground to ourselves. Big mature cedar and hardwoods. Great Lake view," shares John C. about Old Highway 25. Weekday camping typically means easier site selection and less competition for lake access points.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Many campgrounds lack shower facilities or have limited shower access. At Devil's Fork Campground, "most sites are a long walk away from the bathhouse with showers. The toilets that do not have a shower smell strongly of human waste by evening hours, so avoid campsites directly by them." Site selection should account for bathroom proximity if this is important.
Site leveling challenges: The natural terrain creates uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Make sure you check in on the length of your trailer and the site before you arrive if possible. Some sites call out they can hold your camper but may odd shaped sites that are not conducive to a large camper," advises Clayton W.
Alcohol regulations differ: While many Corps of Engineer sites permit alcohol, some prohibit it entirely. "Friend got a ticket for having a beer in the swimming area, stay at your spot if you are drinking," warns Hillary W. about Old Highway 25. Check specific campground rules upon arrival to avoid citations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Dam Site Campground features play areas for children near the water. The campground provides "drinking water, dump station, marina, restrooms with flush toilets, showers, day use picnic area playground" according to reviews. Several other campgrounds include modern playground equipment within walking distance of camping areas.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs run regularly at certain parks. At Woolly Hollow, one parent noted: "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. They put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds around Greers Ferry Lake offer regular wildlife sightings. "Wildlife spotting from your campsite is normal," reports a camper at Old Highway 25. For dog friendly campgrounds near Heber Springs, keeping pets leashed is especially important due to these frequent wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Shiloh Campground and others around Greers Ferry Lake require careful planning for bigger RVs. "Be aware that many of the sites might be hard to back into or hard to level your rig. The area is thickly wooded and that might make it difficult," warns one RVer. Check site specifications carefully as "the sites are generally smaller than you will find in a private campground."
Full hookup alternatives: While many public campgrounds offer electric and water only, Red River Trout Dock provides sewer connections. "RV sites are full hook up 50 amp. RV sites are spacious and nightly rate is a great value," notes Lee J. This private alternative complements the pet-friendly campgrounds near Heber Springs for those requiring complete services.
Amperage considerations: Several campgrounds offer 50-amp service without 30-amp options. "They do not have 30 amp service, only 50, so bring an adapter," advises Jared A. Carrying appropriate adapters ensures compatibility with available electrical connections throughout the region.
