Maumelle Park provides riverside camping 13 miles northwest of Little Rock, with waterfront sites positioned along the Arkansas River. The park sits at 290 feet elevation in a partially wooded setting that offers water views and shade, depending on site selection. Campgrounds near Little Rock operate year-round, though summer humidity levels regularly exceed 80% between June and August.
What to do
Waterfall hiking access: Lake Catherine State Park Campground offers several trails leading to water features. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," writes Alison C. The park combines hiking with lakeside recreation opportunities.
River fishing opportunities: Toad Suck Park provides direct Arkansas River access from campsites. "Nice park playground for the kids pretty quiet and well kept good fishing," notes Steve S. The swift river current makes swimming unsafe but creates prime fishing conditions for anglers.
Downtown exploration: At Downtown Riverside RV Park, campers can access downtown attractions via the pedestrian bridge. "You can take a walking bridge across the river directly into downtown Little Rock," reports Richard S. The park's location enables car-free exploration of urban amenities.
Mountain biking trails: Near Maumelle Park, riders can access the Pinnacle Mountain Trail system. According to Stevann H., "The Pinnacle Mountain Trail system was a shaded easy trail system that can be accessed right from this campground." This network offers beginner-friendly routes with natural shade.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Willow Beach campground features large sites with water views. "Spacious camps. Flat pad," reports Shiloh M. Sites include covered picnic tables and tall fire rings, with enough room for multiple tents or larger RVs.
Convenient urban access: Campers appreciate Little Rock North KOA's proximity to city amenities while maintaining a campground atmosphere. "This place was great. Close to all things Little Rock without feeling like you're in the middle of the city," explains Amy H.
Well-maintained facilities: Petit Jean State Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness and upkeep. "Cleanest park I've ever see! From the loop A, great view to the lake. A lot of hiking around," shares Perrine C. The park's multiple camping loops offer different environments and amenity levels.
Wildlife viewing: Campsites at Maumelle Park provide opportunities to observe river wildlife. "Beautiful view as we were winding down for the night. Lots of geese wandering around & still chatty late at night- but kinda cute to hear," reports tiffany P.
What you should know
Site levelness varies: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment for RVs. At Gulpha Gorge Campground, "Paved, level" sites accommodate both tent and RV camping according to Ariel & John W., but Petit Jean visitors note "many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks."
Limited shower facilities: Several campgrounds lack shower buildings. Gulpha Gorge offers "no shower, so bring your own or there's always the small river that runs on the back of the campground," suggests Shelly S. Willow Beach has newer facilities but limited quantity.
Snake activity awareness: Jennifer C. reports from Willow Beach: "We encountered lots of snakes. I shooed a few off the road and they disappeared as soon as they slithered into the grass, so to me it's pretty risky walking around or letting kids play in the grass."
Campground closures: Burns Park suffered tornado damage in March 2023 and remains closed indefinitely according to THERESE, who discovered this while "looking for a place to stay near Little Rock." Always check current operating status before planning visits.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Toad Suck Park provides multiple recreation areas for children. "Multiple playgrounds and pavilions. Basketball, volleyball and store across the street," notes John R. The campground's three separate play areas accommodate different age groups.
Swimming options: Petit Jean State Park includes water recreation beyond typical camping. "A pool at the top of an expensive out overlook which ultimately leads down to a gorgeous waterfall," shares Elise A.
Bike-friendly environment: Maumelle Park offers safe cycling areas for children. "Very well maintained, quiet and family friendly. Lots of kids riding bikes and being outdoors," observes Jason W. The paved surfaces provide suitable terrain for young riders.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: For travelers towing vehicles, selecting sites that accommodate staying hitched saves time. "We have a class A and towing. We use the nice paved pull thru's," recommends Gary I. at Downtown Riverside RV Park.
Power considerations: Most campgrounds offer 50-amp service for larger RVs. Justin M. notes Willow Beach provides "50amp + water" connections at a reasonable price point of "$9 a night with America the beautiful pass."
Flooding awareness: Low-lying campgrounds may experience water issues after rain. Rod A. warns that Willow Beach "is low and will be soggy after rain" despite having level sites and good utility connections.
