Buffalo Point Campground in Buffalo National River permits pets in all camping areas with standard leash requirements. Multiple campgrounds near Marshall allow dogs, including South Maumee Camping Area, Tyler Bend Campground, and Gilbert RV Park. Most sites require pets to remain on leashes no longer than 6 feet when outside vehicles or tents. The dog park at Shady Oaks Campground includes a dog wash station at two of the bathrooms, providing convenient cleanup options for muddy paws after hiking or swimming. Campgrounds typically offer a mix of tent sites, RV spots with hookups, and some cabin accommodations that welcome pets.
Hiking trails throughout the Buffalo National River area provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, though pet owners should verify trail-specific policies as some National Park Service trails restrict dogs. Sam's Throne Recreation Area offers free dispersed camping with pet-friendly policies and access to scenic hiking routes. The short trail at Sam's Throne leads to gorgeous views perfect for hiking with leashed dogs. Water access points along the Buffalo River allow pets to cool off during summer months, though owners should be vigilant about wildlife encounters and carry sufficient water during hikes. Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities with designated pet waste disposal areas, and several reviews note the peaceful camping environment is ideal for pets who may be sensitive to noise or crowds.
$20 - $50 / night
"Each site has parking, for car or RV all differing in length, and you walk behind the parking to an area with benches, picinic table, lantern hanger, and fire pit."
"Some sites you may not be long enough for your entire rig and you would park your tow vehicle next to your camper. Shade was plentiful. There are five different loops."
$20 - $50 / night
"The pictures of the river are from a different buffalo river access point Easy access to bathroom, drinking water and river from this spot."
"Quiet and close to the river."
$38 / night
"The campground is small and a bit sparse, but the location to the river is unbeatable. The camp owner and store manager “Jim” is a delight…as is “homer” the camp dog."
"We got all setup and enjoyed our time around Gilbert. The quiet little town with some live music occasionally."
"There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot."
"I think I'm the only one here who has my dog tethered to a tree with a long rope, everyone else allows the dog to be off leash and that almost created a dog fight so just be cautious of that."
"Many groups out there taking advantage of the beautiful March weather to hit the rock and explore all the many jaw-dropping routes on and around Sam's rocky Throne."
"Absolutely stunning spot to enjoy all Arkansas has to offer! Visited in the early fall, our days filled with basking in the warm sunshine and dips in the clear cool river."
$3 - $60 / night
"I completed my undergrad and graduate degrees in Arkansas about 30ish miles north of Little Rock."
"Blanchard Springs has great camp sites, great hiking, multiple access to swim/wade into water, plus great caving opportunities! There is NO cell service in the park. "
TravelerThe owners are very friendly and have events to include all campers. Dog park and small laundry room on site. Three bathrooms one with showers. Dog wash station at two bathrooms.
TravelerRARE FIND Such a BEAUTIFUL place! I love all the oak trees and the sounds of nature are so relaxing. They offer a spacious dog park, which the dogs are currently playing at while I relax and take in nature. If you are looking for a small piece of nature where you can get way from it all but still be close to town, this place is it. Everyone here is friendly and the shared spaces are always very clean.
They offer great rates and a Military Discount too!!
Enjoy your stay!
ScoutSpent three nights. Called for reservations, very receptive owners no problems getting in. I was running late due to the distance. They called to check on us and left instructions in a box at the office with site number, WiFi, bath codes. Again very nice owners. Went in the next morning to settle bill. Office is stocked with a nice assortment of things that an RV owner might need for minor repairs. Camp site was pretty level, spacing is typical for a campsite built some years ago, but we had a site on the end so we didn’t feel too close to anyone. Owners have only had the campground for two years. Was told the water connections were their next priority. Connections are a little inconvenient due to being under ground level, but no problem connecting my water filter for my 5th wheel. Dog park was a short walk away, was clean. Campground was clean, dumpsters accessible for trash and area clean around them. We would be happy to stay there again.
RangerTent campers have the better camping loop at this campground, closer to the water, nicer sites, most with plenty of trees for shade. You can drive up to the less attractive and less conveniently located RV loop to use the showers, if you need them. Some campsites are just a football-field distance from the rocky swim beach, while others sit either nestled in the woods or overlooking the creek from above on a small bluff. The big draw is the charming swimming area with its imposing trio of rocks that swimmers love to jump off of. Pets are not permitted around or in the water, so we prefer to leave our dog at home when visiting here. Hiking from the campground is terrific, too, particularly when the water is flowing to make waterfalls. Long Pool is a must-visit camping destination for Arkansas residents.
TravelerThis is probably an excellent site in spring or fall. However summertime is hot at the site because of the lack of shade trees. Site 15 is by the water and has a large area for dogs or family. There is a staircase down to the water next to site 8. The fishing is good. It’s a pet friendly site however if your dogs bark neighbors will complain. The manager is friendly. They do not have trash pick up service; you just take your trash to a dumpster at the end of the camp, which is not a big deal. No grill available but has picnic tables and fire ring. WI-FI aid very good.
TravelerQuick lake access, spacious, shady space, pet friendly, amazing bathhouses.
ScoutMy wife and I camped here for four nights. Overall it was nice, but there were some things that I wish we knew. The location is great in the sense that it’s easy to get to and it’s laid out well. Unfortunately, it’s directly under an overpass and it is loud- loud enough that I used ear plugs at night.
It’s located on the White river and has a very nice gravel boat ramp, which is a big positive. It also has fishing access during low water.
The WiFi is excellent and the staff are super helpful and friendly.
The biggest plus for us is the bathrooms were among the best that we have found. They’re clean and fairly new.
There is plenty of property to walk and they were very pet friendly. It looks like many of the guests are long term residents.
ScoutIt was one of the most peaceful campgrounds I have ever been in! Short hiking trail will lead you to the most gorgeous views! You can even do a little rock climbing here. Please keep pets on a leash. Pit toilets are available at each end of the campgrounds.
GuideBeautiful area near the Buffalo National River. Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging has a yurt, campsites, cabins with hot tubs on the deck, bunkhouse, showers, allows pets, and is family owned. Loyal customers return year after year. Canoeing, kayaking, or hiking. LVC store has groceries, even organic, supplies, and friendly folks.
Buffalo National River near Marshall, Arkansas attracts campers with its crystal-clear waters, rugged limestone bluffs, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The river corridor sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for hiking and camping. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer days often reach into the 90s with high humidity.
Explore Indian Rockhouse trail: Located near Buffalo Point Campground, this historic site features caves once used by Native Americans. "The Indian Rockhouse hike was really great. I will def be back in warmer weather to float the river which it was low for the winter," reports Heath L. The trail is moderately difficult with some elevation changes.
Visit Rush Ghost Town: Accessible from Buffalo Point, this abandoned mining community offers a glimpse into the area's zinc mining history. "We also went to the Rush Ghost Town and did the short loop to check it out—went out past the Overflow parking at Rush to see the rapids," says Susan R. The short interpretive trail takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Fish in clear waters: The Buffalo River offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. "I got to fish," notes Bryson B. from Buffalo Point's group campsite. Fishing is particularly good in spring and fall when water levels are moderate and fish are active.
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution makes nighttime skies spectacular at Sam's Throne Recreation Area. "On the right dark night you can see every star in the sky," mentions reviewer bri. The elevated location provides unobstructed views of constellations.
Swimming holes: Clear, cool swimming spots along the Buffalo River offer relief during hot summer months. "Great beautiful water with very nice employees! Very clean campground," shares Corbin I. about South Maumee Camping Area. The gravel bars provide safe entry points for wading.
Cave exploration: Blanchard Springs Caverns near Mountain View offers guided tours. "The caverns are beautiful with lots of hiking and water activities. The standard cave tour is great, plus there is a more extreme tour where you can crawl and squeeze through trails in the caves," explains Lynn G. Tours cost approximately $10 per person.
Weather affects river conditions: Heavy rain can dramatically change water levels and clarity. "Our float trip was amazing...By 8 pm Saturday, the water at the beach area was completely brown and we could tell the water was up a LOT...the water level had gone up 12 feet by Saturday night," reports Susan R. from Buffalo Point.
Some sites lack amenities: Many campgrounds offer basic facilities only. "No water access, so bring your own," advises Alexandra about Sam's Throne. Similarly, "There is limited shelter during bad lightning storms. The road in is very dicey and a long way off the main road," warns Arkansas F. about South Maumee.
Weekend crowds: Popular areas fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "A LOT of people use this access including outfitters. Great gravel bar, plenty of room to launch, picnic, camp," explains Jason W. about South Maumee Camping Area. Arriving mid-week improves chances of finding quieter camping experiences.
Look for kid-friendly hiking options: Blanchard Springs Recreation Area offers trails suitable for various ages. "Beautiful area. The camp sites were very roomy! Clean bathrooms. Hikers' paradise!" shares Leah H. The connecting trail behind site 24 leads to main paths with moderate elevation changes.
Select campsites with river access: Direct water access provides built-in entertainment. "We had a good time walking down to the river to play. Great place to chill out and cool off!" notes Heather L. about Buffalo Point. Choose sites in loops closer to the river for easier access with children.
Pack extra supplies: Remote locations mean limited shopping options. "There is a gas station not too far from the park for firewood on your way in," mentions Heath L. about Buffalo Point. Gilbert RV Park offers basic supplies: "The store contains everything you may need plus some!" according to Kala V.
Site selection matters: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small," Lucy P. notes about Tyler Bend Campground. Research site dimensions before arrival.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "The close proximity to US 65 Highway detracts from what is otherwise a beautiful campground. Truckers seem to favor Jake brakes when descending into the river Valley…especially at 4:00 am," warns Marty about Tyler Bend Campground.
Limited hookup availability: Many pet-friendly camping areas near Marshall, Arkansas have minimal RV services. "No hook-ups for our rv and most sites are first come, first serve," shares Steve S. about Tyler Bend. Buffalo Point offers more options with electric hookups, water, and a sanitary dump station.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Marshall, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Marshall, AR is Buffalo Point — Buffalo National River with a 4.5-star rating from 33 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 137 dog-friendly camping locations near Marshall, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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