Tent camping near Hope, Arkansas ranges from secluded forest sites to lakefront locations across southwest Arkansas. Primitive campgrounds sit along fingers of Lake Greeson and Millwood Lake, with many requiring high-clearance vehicles to navigate unpaved access roads. Camping fees typically range from $5-8 per night with 14-day stay limits at most locations.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Anglers visiting Pikeville Creek Campground can fish directly from their campsites. The campground provides "great access to water" according to Walt S., though access requires four-wheel drive vehicles as "the trails to get to this rec area are for the 4wd's and off-road vehicles."
Swimming during hot months: Campers at Ozan Point on DeGray Lake can cool off with a refreshing swim. Erik C. notes, "I found a site right on the water and went for a swim which was great given how hot it was." Swimming is particularly popular from June through September when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Island exploration: At Bluegill Hill, campers can access small islands via kayak or swimming. LaRee S. reports, "There are two little islands you can swim or kayak to from Kitty Cove," making this location ideal for adventurous water enthusiasts seeking exploration opportunities beyond standard lakefront camping.
Stargazing: Clear night skies provide excellent stargazing opportunities at several campgrounds. The Bennett Cove area at Bluegill Hill offers "a wide view of the sky," where lucky visitors might see meteor activity. Cultivating Fire L. notes Ozan Point is ideal for "hanging out away from city noise and light."
What campers like
Waterfront placement: Campsites directly on lake edges rank highest among reviews. At Buckhorn, N I. describes "totally amazing sites sitting right on a small finger of land that juts into the lake" with "wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and the lake."
Shade coverage: Several campgrounds feature mature forest canopy that keeps sites cool during summer months. Ozan Point offers "fully shaded" sites, though Cultivating Fire L. cautions this means "don't expect Solar charging or satellite if you work from a vehicle."
Low congestion: The remote nature of many Hope area campgrounds ensures minimal crowding. At River Run West, N I. appreciates that "this is a very small campground with just 4 tent sites but is a beautiful space," noting it's "totally worth the drive" despite difficult access roads.
Basic amenities: Most primitive tent sites provide essential facilities without excessive development. N I. reports River Run West offers "pit toilets, bank fishing, boat ramp, trash, lantern poles, picnic table" while maintaining a natural setting with "nice mature trees" providing shade.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds deteriorates significantly after rainfall. At Buckhorn, N I. warns "the road in starts in pretty good shape but breaks down and if it has rained then it will not be pretty," recommending "high clearance vehicles" and trailers with adequate clearance.
Limited cell service: Most tent camping areas have minimal connectivity. Buckhorn receives "Verizon 1 bar" according to reviewer reports, making these locations suited for disconnecting from technology but requiring preparation for limited communication.
Seasonal availability: Several campgrounds operate only part of the year. Ozan Point charges "$10 a night (March 1 - October 31)" according to Cultivating Fire L., while Buckhorn and Pikeville Creek close mid-November through February.
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can vary significantly throughout camping seasons. When visiting Buckhorn, N I. observed "the water levels were low," which can affect water access and shoreline conditions at lakeside campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Logoly State Park Campground offers nature-focused learning experiences. Brad C. notes the park "houses various small animals such as a crocodile, snakes, spiders, and lizards" and is "good for kids who need a tame introduction to nature."
Swimming spots: Look for campsites with gradual water entry points for safer swimming with children. Erik C. found "a site right on the water" at Ozan Point where the entire peninsula was empty, providing both privacy and swimming access.
Quiet environment: Less developed campgrounds offer peaceful settings for families. Brad C. describes Logoly as providing "an excellent location for a quiet and 'private' experience" where "traffic is very low."
Day trip potential: Several campgrounds serve as bases for exploring nearby natural areas. Logoly features trails that make it "a good place to take a day trip" according to Brad C., while still providing tent camping options.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive campgrounds near Hope accommodate smaller RVs only. River Run East has "8 gravel, no hook up" sites according to N I., who describes it as "a very small campground that is actually perfect because it is small."
Logging traffic: Be aware of industrial activity near some campgrounds. N I. reports River Run East remains "very quiet except for some timber trucks (they sound like a helicopter flying overhead) driving across the dam."
Amenities tracking: Document available facilities when planning RV trips. River Run West provides "pit toilets, bank fishing, boat ramp, trash, lantern poles, picnic table" but lacks hookups, making it primarily suitable for self-contained units.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds have wildlife present. N I. cautions River Run West visitors to "beware of alligator," highlighting the importance of proper food storage and wildlife safety protocols when camping in the region.
