Best Campgrounds near Helena-West Helena, AR
Campgrounds near Helena-West Helena, Arkansas feature a mix of primitive and developed sites along rivers, lakes, and forested areas. Mississippi River State Park serves as a primary destination with several distinct camping areas including Beech Point, Lone Pine, and Storm Creek Lake campgrounds. Sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities. Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area provides full hookup sites with water views, while Delta Heritage Trail State Park offers primitive tent sites in a more secluded setting. Pat Kelley RV Park in West Helena provides basic full hookup concrete pads primarily serving RVers.
Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations during peak seasons, particularly for sites with water access. Storm Creek Lake Campground operates primarily from April through September, while many sites at Mississippi River State Park remain open year-round. The region experiences hot, humid summers with mosquitoes commonly mentioned in reviews. Campers should be prepared for varying levels of amenities and accessibility. Vault toilets are standard at primitive sites, while developed campgrounds offer shower facilities and electric hookups. "We saw 11 turkeys on the way. Wildlife and the beauty of nature is incomparable. We had no idea that this part of the state was so beautiful," noted a camper about the drive to Storm Creek Lake.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout the region's campgrounds. Several visitors highlighted lakeside sites as standout features. "Our site came with a bench to view the lake and tent pad is in the perfect spot. It was peaceful and provided the perfect place to recharge our batteries," wrote one camper about Beech Point. The campgrounds vary in size, with Beech Point offering just 14 full-hookup sites that frequently book well in advance. Some primitive campgrounds like Lone Pine provide more solitude with larger sites along the water but fewer amenities. Campers report that Beech Point and Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area consistently receive high ratings for cleanliness, lake views, and well-maintained facilities, making them popular choices despite their limited number of sites.
