John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake sits along the Arkansas River near Fort Smith, offering a recreation area with extensive hiking and mountain biking trails. The lake's elevation of approximately 410 feet creates a moderate climate with hot summers and mild winters. Camping options near the lake include Corps of Engineers sites with full hookups and multiple state parks within driving distance where pets are welcome.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: The area near COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground features a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently. "I saw deer, a snake, and what looked like a coyote on the trail," reports Jennifer L., noting the excellent wildlife viewing opportunities while using the trails.
Kayaking opportunities: Massard Creek connects to the Arkansas River and provides calm waters for paddling. "A12-14 are premian spots to camp. I have been camping out here for years but never took advantage of the A side... It's in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can launch a boat or you can go kayaking in Massard creek," notes Headgear7 from Springhill Park.
Bank fishing access: Clear Creek Recreation Area provides easy access for anglers. "They have all the amenities you'll need. Gorgeous sites... lot's of things to do," says Penny T. The area is known for catfish, perch and bass fishing, with multiple spots to cast from the shoreline.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The Devil's Den State Park Campground offers well-separated sites with plenty of privacy. "The campsites were very nice. We had a spacious site with plenty of room between us and our friendly neighbors," notes Rebecca H., highlighting the comfortable camping experience.
Clean facilities: Lake Fort Smith State Park maintains exceptionally clean restrooms and showers. "Absolutely the cleanest and most beautiful campground we've been in - in this part of the county yet. Sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery," shares Jennifer O.
Water quality: The drinking water at Springhill Park receives consistent praise from campers. "Stayed 2 nights in A Loop. 30 Amp hook up with some of the best water I have ever had. Only 35 ppm on my zero water tester. Bottled water has had more than 75 ppm," notes Beverley D., emphasizing the exceptional water quality.
What you should know
Uneven campsites: Many sites at COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground require leveling equipment. "Only about half the sites (in Loop B) were not flat enough for us to get level without having the wheels off the ground. Smaller RVs or trailers that use blocks instead of automatic leveling jacks should be able to get level," warns Nancy W.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region. Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures has good coverage, while Devil's Den State Park has "no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park," according to Gonzo A.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities close during off-seasons without notice. "Site is still charging campers full price for extended camping (14 days) was told showers and restrooms available then suddenly they closed the facilities without notice," reports Carmen V. about Springhill Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for specific sites: When bringing children to Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground, choose carefully. "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous. If you are a parent with small kids, sites 17-20 and sites 2-3 are better," advises Ryan S.
Playground access: Several campgrounds have playgrounds for children. "I saw two playgrounds in the park, one was close to our site, with both locals and travelers playing," mentions Rebecca H. about Springhill Park.
Swimming options: For hot summer days with kids, choose campsites with water access. "Pool is cold but clean and well maintained," notes Julie B. about Riverfront RV Resort, while at Devil's Den State Park, "Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" according to Melissa M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: When traveling with big rigs to Riverfront RV Resort, look for concrete pads. "Most sites are concrete pads and even the gravel sites have a concrete pad for the picnic table," notes Joseph B., highlighting the solid parking surfaces.
Water hookups clarification: At COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground, water availability can be confusing. "When looking at the 'site list' page you will notice no sites have water listed as an 'amenity' but it does list the electric. To find out if a site has water, click on the link for specific details of a particular site," explains Nancy W.
Winter camping considerations: For cold weather camping with pets, choose sites with full hookups. "If you need sewer service, I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park," suggests Donna H. about Lake Fort Smith State Park.
