Camping spots near Jessieville, Arkansas center around the Ouachita National Forest, which sits at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F during July and August, while winter lows can dip below freezing. Spring camping typically features abundant wildflowers, particularly in April when dozens of native species bloom throughout the region.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Ouachita: Access prime fishing spots at Stephens Park Campground, located about 20 minutes from Jessieville. "The river is beautiful with clear, cold water. Campsite 3 is right on the river. Sites are full hookup. There is a day use area with access to be able to fish from the bank," notes a camper.
Crystal hunting opportunities: Explore the region's famous quartz deposits near Crystal Ridge RV Park. A visitor mentions, "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems."
Waterfall hikes: Trek the Falls Branch Trail at Lake Catherine State Park. One hiker shared, "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
What campers like
Tent camping by the water: Lake Ouachita State Park Campground offers lakefront sites for tent campers. "The campsites are on a small peninsula, so every site was right on the water. Being so close to the water kept the temperature comfortable, and having direct access to the lake was perfect for swimming," reports a tent camper.
Kayaking on calm waters: Rental opportunities abound for water exploration. "It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," notes a visitor to Catherine's Landing.
Hot springs access: Many visitors appreciate camping near Hot Springs National Park's thermal features. "Fantastic hiking trails - rated from easy to difficult. Since I live only 45 minutes from this park, I normally come here for the day for hiking," says a camper at Petit Jean State Park.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many forest service roads become difficult after rainfall. At Hot Springs National Park KOA, a visitor noted, "It is about 20 min off the main highway. Things close up early here and once off main highway there really is nothing as you drive to the park."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "This popular campground is divided into 4 areas - A through D. There are a total of 125 campsites, including 26 pull-through sites. All sites are reservable," explains a camper at Petit Jean State Park.
Limited cell service: Coverage can be spotty in mountainous areas. "We got 2 bars on Verizon, which was manageable for internet and phone calls," reports a camper at Stephens Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: Lake Catherine State Park offers water access that's family-friendly. "We took my nieces on a weekend trip in our camper to Lake Catherine State Park. Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view."
Educational ranger programs: Many state parks offer nature learning opportunities. A visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park shared, "Ranger programs, educational displays, swimming beach, cabins and traditional tent/RV camping. You can rent boats onsite and you will want to!"
Kid-friendly hiking options: Choose trails appropriate for different ages. "We enjoyed the hiking trails and rented a few kayaks. It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," explains a family at Lake Catherine.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground provides electrical options but limited sewer. "No Wi-Fi or sewer hookups. We stayed for 5 days with 4 teenage grandkids and had a blast. Rented a pontoon boat for a day and had a blast (price was much less than I expected)."
Site selection based on shade: Choose sites according to seasonal needs. "The sites were pretty level but some were kind of cramped. If you're going out with your RV and you've got multiple waste port, this place has multiple lines in the sites for front and back tanks," notes a Hot Springs KOA visitor.
Site leveling requirements: Many sites in the Ouachita National Forest require leveling blocks. A visitor at Crystal Springs Campground warns, "Some of the sites in B & C were uneven from roots pushing the asphalt up. Beware!"
