Dispersed camping near Higden, Arkansas centers on the shores of Greers Ferry Lake, a 31,500-acre reservoir nestled in the Ozark foothills. The area maintains relatively mild temperatures even in summer, with lake elevations averaging 461 feet above sea level and surrounding terrain rising to 1,200 feet. Winter camping options are limited from December through March, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing.
What to do
Trout fishing: Dam Site Campground offers exceptional access to rainbow trout. "The water at the dam was crystal clear—so much so that you could see the fish swimming around you!" notes one camper at Dam Site Campground.
Kayaking and floating: White Buffalo Resort sits at the junction of two major waterways. "Right on the White River and the Buffalo River, just yards away. The best of both rivers," writes one visitor. The resort offers boat rentals for exploring the White Buffalo Resort waterways.
Swimming and wading: Holiday Mountain Resort features creek areas suitable for different ages and activities. "Creek is full of smallmouth bass, great swimming holes for the kids, and some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs or find crawfish," reports a camper at Holiday Mountain Resort.
Hiking the Sylamore Trail: Located near Mountain View, the trail system offers well-maintained paths through the Ozark wilderness. "Quick access to the Syllamore Trail, the creek, and nearby mountain biking trails," notes a reviewer.
What campers like
Private water views: Campers appreciate waterfront sites with personal space. "We stayed in site 'E' which was huge and right on the water!" shares a visitor at Sylamore Creek Camp, which offers premium waterfront locations.
Modern bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds feature updated restroom amenities. "There is a newer private/suite style bathroom in the park. Much nicer than the old stall style," writes a camper at Dam Site Campground.
Fall and winter camping: The shoulder seasons offer a quieter experience. "I don't enjoy camping here during summer way overcrowded but is wonderful this time of year!!! Enjoyed our weekend!!" notes a visitor referring to autumn camping.
Off-season accessibility: Select campgrounds remain open year-round. "We like winter camping, but it appears that they close off most sections of the park during the colder months," a camper observes about seasonal availability.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many sites have limited operations. "Cherokee Park Road is open from May 13 to September 12," according to information about Greers Ferry Lake - COE/Cherokee Rec Area.
Site specifications matter: RV campers should research specific loop characteristics. "We had a pull through site in loop N that was perfect for our 41' fifth wheel...plenty big, clean, and level. The other loops were more wooded, but wouldn't be good for big rigs."
Rural location challenges: Some campgrounds are far from conveniences. "Rural rolling hill and a good road. The park is right off the rural road," writes a reviewer, adding "Area is covered with pine trees and I would want a broom to sweep off the site."
Shower facilities vary: Bathroom amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The shower house is basically like taking an outdoor shower," notes one camper, while another describes "Clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower."
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly water features: Look for graduated swimming areas. "Very kid friendly for swimming or walking or biking around in the campground," notes a visitor at Holiday Mountain Resort.
Consider proximity to attractions: Some sites offer convenient access to multiple activities. "Perfect location with lots to see and do very close by," shares a camper about their experience at Gilbert RV Park.
Look for yurt options near Higden: Yurt camping in Higden, Arkansas offers an alternative for families seeking structure with outdoor immersion. "This is a nice campground on lake Norfolk. Spaces are a little close together. Staff at Marina go above and beyond helping you out," writes a camper.
Research noise levels: Some campgrounds host events that may impact quiet time. "Wonderful COE park. Can be crowded in the summer but very quiet," notes a reviewer about one location's atmosphere.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling requirements: RV sites vary in preparation quality. "Check the details closely when making reservations. Some sites are more level than others," advises one camper.
Consider accessibility for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate big RVs. "The campground layout was kinda weird and the dump station was in an odd spot," notes a visitor at Dam - Quarry campground.
Prepare for limited services: Some remote locations have minimal amenities. "No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around," shares an RVer about their experience.
Verify full hookup availability: Hookup options vary by campground and loop. "We stayed both directly on the creek and on the upper full hookup sites," notes one RVer describing different options at the same location.
