Petit Jean State Park offers year-round camping options with numerous trails accessible directly from campsites. The park divides its camping areas into four distinct loops (A through D) with 125 total sites. Loop A features premium full-hookup sites with 50-amp service, while Loops B, C, and D provide 30-amp electrical and water hookups. Most sites include tent pads, fire rings, lantern poles, and picnic tables, though terrain varies between loops with some sites requiring significant leveling.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls and caves: Mount Nebo State Park has multiple trail systems ranging from easy to strenuous along the mountain rim. According to Amanda F., "Beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Nice trails and panoramic views." The park's elevation at 1,800 feet provides consistent breezes and cooler temperatures in summer.
Rock climbing: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers what climbers consider some of the best routes in the region. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit," reports Luke O. The ranch maintains well-developed sport climbing routes on clean, grippy sandstone.
Fishing and boating: Cove Lake Complex provides lake access with boat rentals available onsite. James N. notes, "Great place to camp, been coming here my entire life and it has changed very little in that time. Boating, fishing, swimming, cabins available, lots of trails to hike." The lake is stocked for fishing and offers canoe rentals directly at the campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: At Petit Jean State Park, Ryan S. describes the camping loops: "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove, easy access to the paved CCC trail, 30/50 amp service, water, picnic table, fire ring and trash hook, clean and accommodating bath house, enough space between sites for plenty of privacy."
Wildlife encounters: Campers at Mount Nebo State Park frequently mention deer that approach campers. According to Jackie F., "Deer allowed. Sites on the bluff. Deer. Sunset and Sunrise points." The mountain setting creates opportunities for wildlife viewing directly from campsites.
Offseason tranquility: Yurt camping near Jerusalem, Arkansas can be more enjoyable during less crowded periods. Lori H. from Dam Site Campground explains, "I don't enjoy camping here during summer way overcrowded but is wonderful this time of year!!! Enjoyed our weekend!!" Fall and spring offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Premium spots in Loop A at Petit Jean State Park book quickly. According to Ryan S., "A loop cons: 'Stays booked 93% of the year' -Park Office. It's really hard to get a reservation if you don't book at least a year out in A loop."
Mountain road challenges: Access to Mount Nebo involves steep, winding roads. Rebecca P. cautions, "The drive up the mountain is seriously windy though, so be cautious." Signs warn of 18% grades, and RVs over 24 feet are not permitted on the access road.
Yurt availability: Yurt camping in Jerusalem, Arkansas areas typically requires advance reservations, particularly at Mount Nebo and Petit Jean. These elevated structures provide more comfort than tent camping with amenities like electricity but retain the outdoor experience. Most yurts in the area accommodate 4-6 people with basic furnishings.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites strategically: At Mount Magazine State Park, Jeremy C. advises, "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice. Camping spots are spaced out pretty well." The park's elevation provides cooler temperatures in summer.
Plan bathroom access: Shana D. notes about Petit Jean, "The showers are not very private other than a nasty mildewed shower curtain, but there is nowhere to dry off or dress that is private." Consider Loop A for families needing reliable facilities.
Water activities for hot days: Cove Lake Complex offers family-friendly swimming areas with a small beach. Taryn S. shares, "Boat rentals right onsite, concessions, even a small beach area! We will 100% be back." The lake provides cooling relief during hot summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVers visiting Macks Pines, Amy & Stu B. advise, "Some sites require a bit of leveling, lots of full hookup and good amount of 50 amp. Some sites are close, so are not." This campground offers full hookups but requires careful site selection for larger rigs.
Leveling preparation: Several campgrounds in the Jerusalem area have uneven sites. At Petit Jean State Park, Ryan S. notes, "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level." Bring leveling blocks, especially for Loops B and C where root systems have affected site terrain.
Full-hookup options: For RVers seeking sewer connections, Petit Jean's Loop A provides the most complete services. Fred S. mentions, "Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables." Loop A sites often feature lake views but provide minimal shade compared to other loops.
