Camping near John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

Camping near John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake, Arkansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails are gorgeous and plentiful," highlighting the variety of paths available for all skill levels.
• Fishing: The lake is perfect for fishing. A camper at Fort Smith-Alma RV Park noted, "Fishing pond, dog walk area, propane station all on property for reasonable rates," making it a convenient spot for anglers.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Devil's Den State Park Campground shared, "We saw deer, armadillos, and skunks," which adds to the camping experience.

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Aux Arc. One reviewer said, "The sites are spaced out nicely," making it a comfortable choice for families.
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A camper at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground remarked, "The facilities are super clean and well taken care of," which is always a relief when camping.
• Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. A visitor at Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA noted, "Friendly staff. Highly recommend," which can make a big difference in your stay.

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A camper at White Rock Mountain Recreation Area mentioned, "No cell signal," which can be a nice way to unplug but might be inconvenient for some.
• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Springhill advised, "You have to reserve your site in advance via Recreation.gov," so plan ahead.
• Mosquitoes: Be ready for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Springhill warned, "Bring screen room or bug repellent for biting flies and no-seeums," to keep the pests at bay.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures said, "Everyone was so nice, but also gave us our space," which is great for families wanting a balance of fun and privacy.
• Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Devil's Den State Park Campground mentioned, "The hikes are short and just amazing," perfect for kids who might not want to hike for hours.
• Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A visitor at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground noted, "You can’t swim or paddleboard but can kayak or fish here," so having snacks ready for breaks is a good idea.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Fort Smith-Alma RV Park mentioned, "Spaces are quite small but it has become the norm everywhere," so double-check before booking.
• Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A visitor at Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA said, "Full Hookups, level sites," which is ideal for a comfortable stay.
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures shared, "He has on different occasions said we didn't pay when we did," indicating that communication is key to a smooth experience.

Camping near John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake, Arkansas, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!