Tent camping near Jerusalem, Arkansas offers primitive camping experiences within the Ozark National Forest. At around 500-1,000 feet elevation, these sites experience hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cool winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Most campgrounds in this region lack potable water, requiring campers to bring their own water supplies for drinking and cooking needs.
What to do
Hiking access to waterfalls: At Haw Creek Falls Camping, visitors can explore nearby trails with waterfall views. "Several waterfalls in the area to explore. Drive-up, fire-ring, hook, bench, pit toilet. Hammocks are allowed if you choose," notes Josh B.
Swimming in natural waterways: The Illinois Bayou at Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI) provides swimming opportunities. "There aren't many spots in this area. All sites are pretty shaded all day. Swimming is a small but slightly difficult walk down a steep Rocky path," explains Stephanie M.
Rock climbing adventures: For climbing enthusiasts, travel about 55 miles northwest to reach Horseshoe Canyon Ranch. "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," states Luke O.
What campers like
Unique stone structures: The CCC-built rock shelters at Bayou Bluff POI provide both shelter and character. "The stone buildings are so nice to set up somewhat out of the weather and have functional fireplaces. The walk to the river is very easy," shares valerie.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites in the area. "This recreation area is as close to off-grid as you can get with so many great options right off the pavement. This campground has no water or electricity but has 4 drive-up campsites with picnic tables, fire circle, and rock shelters," says Amy W.
Water features: Most tent sites in the Jerusalem area have water access. "Fun campground, not exactly remote but private enough. $10/night, which is more than fair considering the size of most of the sites. Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking!" notes Samantha W. at Haw Creek Falls.
What you should know
Pack-in water supplies: Lack of potable water is common at tent camping areas. "Something really important to note though is that there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station!!" warns a Haw Creek Falls camper.
Limited cell coverage: Communication can be difficult in these remote areas. "There is no cell service on ATT - it showed only 'SOS' but the town of Hector is nearby if you need to check your phone in a pinch," reports valerie about Bayou Bluff.
Flash flood risk: Be aware of weather conditions, especially near water. "Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground," cautions Lacee G. about Haw Creek Falls.
First-come basis: Most tent sites don't take reservations. "Upper loop is closed to camping and will be eliminated completely. Use of the vault toilet, large pavilion, three shelters, and a small pavilion will remain. The pavilions are managed on a first-come, first-service basis," explains Fred S. about camping at Bayou Bluff.
Tips for camping with families
Check for campground maintenance: Some camping areas receive inconsistent upkeep. "It is hard to tell if the federal government, state government or some local agency built this park and then turned it over but it is a large park with nice campsites but no one seems to be maintaining the facility," reports Matt S. about Delaware Park.
Pack trash bags: Several campgrounds operate on pack-in, pack-out principles. "Trash services are managed by visitors as 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out,' and Leave No Trace ethics are posted on information kiosks," notes Fred S. about Bayou Bluff.
Plan for bathroom facilities: Restroom options vary widely between sites. "The vault toilets are clean, and the campground grounds appear to be reasonably maintained," shares Fred S. about Bayou Bluff, while other sites may only offer primitive options.
Tips for RVers
Site limitations for larger vehicles: Most tent camping areas near Jerusalem have restrictions for RVs. "I recommend only tent camping here, as well as car/truck/van camping. Sites appear to be too small for RVs & trailers," advises Fred S. about the Bayou Bluff sites.
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "The sites are primitive. There is a decent amount of space between the sites," notes Lacee G. about Haw Creek Falls.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for wildlife interactions when camping in this region. "Lots of snakes and saw a feral cat but so pretty, and the bathrooms were absolutely disgusting and full of trash," reports layla B. about her experience at Haw Creek Falls.
