Tent camping near Henderson, Arkansas presents opportunities within the Mark Twain National Forest and Buffalo National River areas. The region features elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet with limestone bluffs and dense hardwood forests. Primitive campsites throughout the area often require visitors to pack in their own water, especially during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Buffalo National River area offers numerous hiking opportunities with trails ranging from easy to challenging. At Spring Creek Campground, campers can access river trails directly from their sites. "This primitive campground was perfect for me and my dog. We stayed three nights in October 2020. It's right on a put-in spot on the Buffalo River," notes a visitor.
Fishing spots: Many campers enjoy fishing in the crystal-clear waters. Rippee Conservation Area provides direct access to Bryant Creek. A camper reports, "Has great fishing, nice and peaceful and not well known not many campsites, I believe only four but it does have firepits and grills."
Mountain biking: The area features extensive trail systems designed for various skill levels. The Syllamo trail system offers multiple trailheads. "This is a series of trails with multiple trail heads. Each trail head has a course gravel parking area and a very nice pit toilet. Good for both Mountain Biking and hiking, but hikers need to make way for bikers," mentions one visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for a more secluded experience. Spring Creek Campground provides ample separation between campers. "The campsites are a good distance apart, they have plenty of room and have fire rings and picnic tables," shares a reviewer who appreciated the layout.
Riverside camping: Direct access to water is a major draw for many tent campers. At Shine Eye Gravel Bar, visitors can camp right along the water. A camper describes, "This is just a gravel bar along The Buffalo National River but it is beautiful! There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. Campers regularly report seeing deer, foxes, and numerous bird species throughout the camping areas, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
What you should know
Limited water sources: Potable water is scarce at most primitive sites. "Bring lots of drinking water," advises a Syllamo visitor, highlighting a common necessity throughout the region's campgrounds.
Road conditions: Access roads to several campsites can be problematic in adverse weather. A visitor to Spring Creek notes, "Campsite had a rather janky gravel and dirt road leading to it. In the rain, the road would be extremely difficult. Very steep."
Quiet regulations: Rush Campground maintains tranquility with regular ranger patrols. "The sites were patrolled by rangers on a regular basis. However, the rangers were great and knew a lot about area," reports one camper.
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have no cellular connectivity. A Spring Creek camper confirms this isolation, noting, "I didn't get phone service (yay!)," suggesting some visitors appreciate this disconnection.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly paddling: The Buffalo River provides excellent opportunities for novice canoeists. A Rush Campground visitor explains, "This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing. Very few fast running water."
Quieter weekday visits: For families seeking a peaceful experience, weekdays offer significantly reduced crowds compared to weekends, particularly at popular river access points.
Family-friendly sites: Dillards Ferry offers accessible camping with amenities suitable for children. "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp," shares a visitor who found the location ideal.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most sites near Henderson primarily accommodate tent camping with few RV-friendly options. Rippee Conservation Area does allow RVs but with minimal hookups.
Parking considerations: Larger vehicles may struggle with access roads to primitive sites. Several campgrounds have designated parking areas requiring a walk to tent sites, particularly at river-access locations.
Off-grid preparation: RVers should prepare for self-contained camping as most sites lack hookups or dump stations. Be prepared with sufficient water and power for your entire stay.
