Tent campsites near Marshall, Arkansas offer primitive camping options with direct access to the Buffalo River. Most sites sit at elevations between 700-1,200 feet above sea level, creating cooler evening temperatures compared to surrounding lowlands. During summer months, camping areas can see temperatures drop 15-20 degrees from daytime highs after sunset.
What to do
Float trips along Buffalo River: Rush Campground provides access to the Buffalo National River wilderness area. "This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low. This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing," notes one visitor.
Swimming at natural river spots: Haw Creek Falls Camping features a natural swimming area for cooling off. "Swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking! Something really important to note though is that there is NO WATER!! Bring your own water in to avoid making a half an hour trip to the nearest gas station," advises a camper.
Hiking nearby trails: The Buffalo River Trail provides access to numerous campsites. At Carver Campground, visitors can "explore the beautiful bluffs, swim in the river, hike the trails, and peer out into the majestic valleys from the mountain tops (especially Mt. Judea which is a good distance South of the campground)."
What campers like
Quiet off-season atmosphere: Winter and weekday camping offer the most solitude. At Carver Campground, one camper shared, "Each morning after waking up and cooking breakfast we explored the beautiful bluffs, swam in the river, hiked the trails, and peered out into the majestic valleys from the mountain tops."
Fishing opportunities: Dillards Ferry camping area provides fishing access. One camper reports, "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp. It isn't my favorite camp site but it is my favorite swim spot."
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature water access with clear pools. At Haw Creek Falls, one visitor mentioned "eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in Arkansas," though they also noted seeing "lots of snakes and a feral cat."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Kyles Landing Campground has a particularly challenging access road. "The 'hill' is a steep road down into the campground... I got my compact car down just fine. Go slow in a lower gear," advises one visitor. Another warns it "should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have no connectivity. At Kyles Landing, a camper reports "Absolutely no cell service. No one in our group with varying cell service providers had service."
Wildlife encounters: Watch for local wildlife at tent sites. At Haw Creek Falls, campers have reported "lots of snakes and a feral cat," while others mention seeing various animals throughout the camping areas.
Weather impacts access: Some campgrounds close during heavy rain. At Haw Creek Falls, "the area is closed during times of intense rain, due to frequent flooding."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites with amenities: Spring Creek Campground offers family-friendly spaces. "The campsites are a good distance apart, they have plenty of room and have fire rings and picnic tables," reports one visitor.
Plan for noise levels: Some locations are quieter than others. One camper at Rush Campground noted it's "a beautiful campground for the entire family. Fairly quiet at night after 11pm. Very busy during the day and evening time."
Bring all supplies: Most tent sites near Marshall require self-sufficiency. At Spring Creek, a camper advised, "Be aware that there is no drinking water and I didn't get phone service (yay!). There is a vault toilet that wasn't too bad."
Consider swimming safety: Many campsites offer water access, but supervision is essential. At Haw Creek Falls, one visitor mentioned it's a "great spot for families" with a "fun campground, not exactly remote but private enough."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at most sites: Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area allows RVs but has restrictions. "Stayed the night in Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites... Must purchase camping license from Game and Fishing Commission."
Permit requirements: Some areas require special permits for camping. At Gene Rush WMA, "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish."
Size limitations: Most tent campgrounds near Marshall cannot accommodate large RVs. Gene Rush WMA campsites are limited, as "There is only a handful of sites spread throughout the WMA and you can only camp in those designated by the game and fish."
