Camping near Lexa, Arkansas offers both basic and premium outdoor experiences within 35 miles of this Delta region town. Located in the eastern Arkansas lowlands where the terrain averages just 200 feet above sea level, the area experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Seasonal flooding can affect campground availability, especially during spring months when the Mississippi River and its tributaries often rise.
What to do
Fishing access points: Arkabutla Lake at Dub Patton Campground provides shore fishing opportunities with dedicated areas for anglers. "Site 9 and site 10 are by far the most beautiful sites in the camp in my opinion. They are right on the lake and relatively separate from the other sites," notes Wild Sage F., adding that the location is "clean and safe for a female solo camper."
Hiking on Trail of Tears: Village Creek State Park Campground contains an historically significant section of the Trail of Tears. "There is a particularly stunning trail that includes one of the most well-preserved sections of the Trail of Tears. This made for both an lovely hike and a history lesson for our seven year old," shares Laura G., who explains that "the Crowley's Ridge region of the state is home to unique geological formations, soil and plant life unlike anywhere else in Arkansas."
Biking opportunities: The roads leading to Village Creek offer excellent cycling conditions. "The roads leading to this campground are fantastic for bikers, and the lakes have produced state record fish," notes Jonathan C., adding that despite not being "the biggest or best park in the state," it remains "a good one, with plenty to do, and usually not very heavily populated, even by the locals."
What campers like
Level sites with good spacing: Hernando Point provides well-maintained campsites with appropriate spacing. "Very clean restrooms and shower areas. Site had grill, fire ring, and picnic table. Water and electric hookup," reports Suzi T. Another camper, Cody J., adds: "Nice and clean. Well kept. Plenty of shady spots with lake views, very quiet also."
Wildlife viewing: Glamping in Lexa, Arkansas area includes opportunities to spot native wildlife. Merrisach Lake offers possible alligator sightings, though Aaron D.G. notes: "We were told by several people that we would be all but guaranteed to see an alligator but we never did. Not that they aren't there, we just never got that lucky."
Waterfront proximity: Many campsites feature direct water access. Wild Sage F. recommends specific sites at Dub Patton: "I booked number 9. It was right on the lake, but shade was limited. The place is fairly clean, and there are clean bathrooms and showers." For luxury camping options near Lexa, waterfront sites often book quickly during peak season.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Parts of Village Creek State Park experience periodic flooding. "More than half the trails and park were closed due to flooding. Lots of construction in progress," explains Holly C., also noting that sites are "water electricity only" with a "nearby dump station."
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds near Lexa offer full shower amenities. Pat Kelley RV Park provides only basic necessities. "This isn't a campground, but more of a place to park your RV if you have other things to do in the area or just need a place to park and sleep," explains Shana D., adding that "sites are tight and no picnic tables or fire rings."
Dump station distances: At some campgrounds, dump stations may be located far from camping areas. At Merrisach Lake, one camper reports: "The dump station is probably a mile and a half from the campground so if you have a grey water tote tank that you pull behind the truck like me, expect a fairly long drive."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Memphis offers multiple play areas. "There were several playgrounds my son enjoyed & we had a blast doing the scavenger hunt. We were too early in the season for the blow-up slides but we definitely plan on coming back to enjoy those," shares Amy L., who also mentioned they have "pedal bikes you can rent (must have closed toed shoes), tetherball, a pavilion, a pond where you can feed the fish."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds incorporate historical elements. At Village Creek State Park, Laura G. explains that "The Big Ben Nature Trail offers a great opportunity to identify these unusual plant species and is a short, easy hike," though she cautions that "erosion is a big issue on the ridge, and sections were somewhat washed out after recent heavy rains."
Heat considerations: Plan family visits during cooler months. "Wish we weren't staying in a tent and would have come at a cooler part of the year. Was too hot to do anything at the beginning of July. Ended up leaving early," advises Kali D. about her Village Creek State Park experience.
Tips from RVers
Late arrival procedures: Many campgrounds have self-check-in systems. At EZ Daze RV Park, Mark O. shares: "We got in late with no reservation. Box on door had about 7 registration slips so we guessed there were probably that many spots available (as there is no map or legend showing what spots were available for the night anywhere)." He recommends calling ahead if possible since "both went straight to voicemail."
Hookup variations: Understand what connections are available at each site. At Pat Kelley RV Park, Anthony B. notes: "This is a bare bone site with full hookups on drive through concrete pads. Nice and level. $20.00 cash." For luxury camping near Lexa, most sites include water and electric connections with varying amp service.
WiFi availability: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. Teresa M. reports that at Village Creek State Park, "We had no signal on ATT but there is free WIFI by the office which you can connect to day or night."
