Camping options around Malvern, Arkansas extend along the Ouachita River watershed at elevations between 300-500 feet. Located approximately 20 miles southeast of Hot Springs, this area maintains moderate humidity levels with summer temperatures averaging in the 90s. Winter camping remains viable with overnight lows typically staying above freezing from November through February.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Willow Beach, the Arkansas River provides prime fishing spots. "Beautiful campsite along the Arkansas River. The sites are all very spacious with very long back in driveways. Some of the sites had covered picnic tables, which was great," notes Kelly E. The water access attracts anglers targeting catfish and bass.
Visit Hot Springs National Park: Located just 18 miles northwest of Malvern, the historic bathhouses offer cultural exploration. According to Josh F., who stayed at J and J RV Park, "About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs. Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure."
Explore Lake Hamilton: The lake offers boating and swimming opportunities. "Decent spot with standard hookups - water & power up to 50A. Clean facilities with showers and showers even a little dining area," reports Cultivating Fire L. about their J and J RV Park experience.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature generously-sized plots. At Willow Beach, Rod A. observes, "50 Amp electric, water no sewer hook up but dump station. Spaced spread out not crowded. Campground is low and will be soggy after rain."
Peaceful settings: Finish Line RV Park earns praise for its tranquility despite proximity to attractions. "Great location for everything," writes Stacey L. "Located in Hot Springs proper. Easy access to everything. The Dog Park, laundry facilities, and restrooms/showers are of course new and clean," adds Erich H.
River views: The waterfront locations receive consistent appreciation. Jo E. remarks about Willow Beach: "This is a pretty campground with huge trees for shade. The sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!! The water hyacinths were in full bloom while we were here and are beautiful!!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Some rv parks near Malvern, Arkansas have challenging access roads. Sarah J. advises about Cloud Nine RV Park: "Be careful on the road in. It's a little bumpy but it evident they do try to maintain it. It also has two turns that you want to take wide."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels affect campground conditions year-round. "Campground is low and will be soggy after rain," notes Rod A. about Willow Beach.
Connectivity varies: Cell service and wifi performance fluctuate throughout the region. At Cloud Nine RV Park, Sarah J. reports, "The Wi-Fi is pretty good for streaming. I had a little trouble working on a team call but I switched to cellular and it was fine. Both AT&T and Verizon have full bars."
Wildlife awareness: As with most Arkansas camping areas, local fauna requires attention. Jennifer C. cautions about 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."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Leisure Landing RV Park offers particularly clean amenities. Nicole C. observes, "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly. They have a dogpark!"
Recreation options: Hot Springs area campgrounds provide varied activities. Katie B. reports about Leisure Landing: "We loved our weekend stay at this park. There are a lot of long term people and a few that seem to rotate. The bathrooms were fantastic and so was the laundry room. Theres a little boat dock and good sized dog park too."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas. Jeff R. notes about Willow Beach: "Playgrounds were present but closed thanks to Covid. Mosquitos are very bad. Overall a really nice spot."
Insect preparation: Bug spray is essential during warmer months. Kelly E. advises Willow Beach visitors: "It is near water so there are a lot of mosquitos, so come prepared."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Campers consistently note the quality of parking pads at Treasure Isle RV Park. Bob R. reports, "Very nice and clean park. Nice and quite, right on the Ouachita River / lake Hamilton. Very friendly and helpful staff."
Hookup considerations: Water pressure varies between Malvern area rv parks. Josh F. cautions about J and J RV Park: "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure."
Passport America discounts: Several parks offer membership discounts. Cheri H. notes about Treasure Isle: "It accepts Passport America so I paid approximately $17/night. Has cable, WiFi, full hookups and a very nice bathhouse."
Site selection strategy: At Leisure Landing, Ron R. advises: "Most of the sites are level and are comprised of crushed rock compressed. You're next door neighbor is about 12 to 15 ft from your door. So the sites are a little bit tight."
