Best Campgrounds near Maumelle, AR
The Arkansas River corridor near Maumelle provides a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed sites within 30 minutes of Little Rock. Maumelle Park, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, serves as the primary camping destination with 95 water and electric sites along the riverfront. Several miles east, Downtown Riverside RV Park offers urban camping with easy access to Little Rock attractions. For those seeking more natural settings, Camp Robinson Dispersed Site provides primitive camping options north of the city. Petit Jean State Park, located about an hour northwest, offers a more remote experience with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. Most campgrounds in the region feature boat ramps and fishing access, reflecting the area's strong connection to the Arkansas River.
Reservations are essential for Maumelle Park, particularly for waterfront sites which fill quickly during summer weekends. As one camper noted, "Count yourself lucky to get a space during the summer. Sites can be reserved and I do suggest you reserve." The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while spring brings occasional heavy rainfall that can cause muddy conditions at some sites. Cell service is generally strong at developed campgrounds, with campers reporting "T-mobile and AT&T speeds were great for remote work" at Maumelle Park. Most Corps of Engineers sites require payment, with rates typically $22-26 per night, though discounts are available with federal recreation passes.
Waterfront camping dominates the reviews of Maumelle Park, with visitors highlighting the "beautiful panorama view of the Arkansas River." The park's proximity to Pinnacle Mountain State Park (less than two miles away) makes it popular for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Many campers mention the mature trees providing shade throughout the campground. Tent campers should note that the area tends to be RV-centric, with one reviewer observing they were "the only tent-only campers" during their stay. Weekend evenings can be lively with local campers, while weekdays offer more tranquility. The park's cleanliness and maintenance receive consistent praise, though some mention limited privacy between sites and occasional issues with insects, particularly "no-see-ums" in the evening hours.
