Camping near Plainview, Arkansas offers several options nestled among the Ouachita Mountains at elevations ranging from 700-1,800 feet. The Fourche La Fave River and Nimrod Lake serve as key water features, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-90s and winter lows in the 30s. Campsites in this region vary from primitive forest sites requiring high-clearance vehicles to developed campgrounds with electric hookups and boat launches.
What to do
Hiking trails: Mount Magazine State Park features numerous scenic trails with varying difficulty levels. "The hikes are worth a trip to Mt Nebo. The trails are mostly shaded and well defined. Remember you are on a mountain so there will be elevation changes as you walk," notes one visitor to Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Lake Ouachita offers multiple water activities within driving distance of Plainview. "The lake was gorgeous! I wish we had more time to walk trails, but we were just stopping for the night," shares a visitor to Lake Ouachita State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: The Ouachita National Forest provides opportunities to observe deer and various bird species. "Deer and geese also made appearances that thrilled the kids," mentioned one camper who enjoyed the proximity to wildlife.
Swimming: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas during summer months. "We had a lovely time tent camping at Lake Ouachita. Being so close to the water kept the temperature comfortable, and having direct access to the lake was perfect for swimming."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Fourche Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest offers privacy for those seeking solitude. "We were the only folks staying overnight. Most people were using site to launch boats. It was quiet & we were undisturbed," notes a visitor to Ouachita National Forest Fourche Mountain.
Mountain views: Elevated campsites provide scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape. "Mount Nebo reminded my a lot of Mt Mag. Both overlook the Arkansas river valley," shares a camper at Mount Nebo State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Nimrod Lake offers productive fishing spots directly accessible from campsites. "Trails to walk to find nice fishing spots. Hosts very nice and helpful. Boat launch and swimming area. Small store down the road for bait and few necessities," notes a visitor to Carter Cove.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities despite rural locations. "The bathrooms and showers were immaculate! Camping spots are spaced out pretty well. We enjoyed our visit here!" reports a camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful navigation. "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'. I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%."
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "A loop is full hookup while B-D have electricity & water only. My 1st suggestion: RESERVE EARLY to get a spot in Loop A or Loop B."
Wildlife precautions: Bears and venomous snakes inhabit the region, requiring proper food storage. "There is a pack of dogs that came through at night. So be sure to put up your trash and food at night. Especially since bears could be around," advises a camper at Mount Nebo.
Site selection: Campsite layouts vary significantly throughout the region. "This campground is better suited to large RVs than to our teardrop trailer. Site number 28 was very tight. We were cramped in between two large RVs and next to a road so there was no privacy at all," notes a visitor to Lake Dardanelle State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This park is beautiful. It has camping for all types," notes a visitor to Lake Ouachita State Park. "The park has everything you would want, a beautiful visitor's center a gorgeous lake. Top of the line facilities, beautiful campsites, fun for the whole family."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs provide learning experiences for children. "The rangers were great and offered a variety of informational classes and hikes," shares a camper.
Beach access: Sandy swimming areas provide safe water entry points for children. "This campground was a great find! We had tons of room and a direct view of the lake. There's a small, sandy swim beach and plenty of places to put in a boat or kayak," reports a visitor to Quarry Cove.
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations can create significant temperature variations. "On the mountain than below. One night we were there it got down to mid teens. So unless you're going in July, I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require significant adjustment for proper setup. "Note, site is a little uneven, so chocks were helpful," mentions an RVer camping in the Ouachita National Forest.
Hookup arrangements: Water and electric connections may have unusual configurations. "Stayed in an RV spot with 30a and sewer. Had a polarity issue on the power but the spot was unique. Could use a bit of an update, but nothing that impacted the stay."
Turning radius: Mountain roads require careful navigation for larger rigs. "The campground is level and spaced out to have a little privacy. The cabins and lodge are beautiful and a great place to watch storms roll in and a great view of the valley below."
Site spacing: RV sites vary in privacy and positioning. "The sites were pretty close to each other, and some people might not prefer that," notes a camper at Lake Ouachita.
Dump station access: While many sites lack sewer hookups, dump stations are typically available. "There is no sewer hook up but there is a dump station. All sites are shaded and MOST are well spread out to where you are not bumping into your neighbors," advises a visitor to River Road.
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