Maumelle Park sits along the Arkansas River at an elevation of about 290 feet, offering waterfront camping with spacious sites amid the central Arkansas climate zone. The park serves as an outdoor base near Little Rock with riverfront access points and extensive forested shoreline. Campgrounds in the area typically operate year-round, with summer temperatures often reaching the 90s while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions.
What to Do
River activities: Fishing at Willow Beach is popular for waterside recreation. "It is near water so there are a lot of mosquitos, so come prepared," notes Kelly E., who enjoyed the riverside location despite the bugs.
Lock watching: View barge traffic at Toad Suck Ferry Park where visitors can observe the dam operations. "We stayed in B2 which faced the river... watching the barges coming down the river," writes Stevann H., highlighting the interesting industrial river traffic.
Trail hiking: Access Pinnacle Mountain from multiple camping areas for day hikes. "The Pinnacle Mountain Trail system was a shaded easy trail system that can be accessed right from this campground," according to one reviewer who appreciated the convenient trail connections.
Playground time: Multiple park options for families with children to enjoy outdoor play equipment. "Lots of kids riding bikes and being outdoors. Sits on the bank of the Arkansas River so fishing and water sports are available from the bank or boat," shares Jason W. about the family-friendly atmosphere.
What Campers Like
Waterfront views: Little Rock North KOA provides sites near water features. "Nice level, cement, pull through spots," writes Amy H., who enjoyed the convenience without feeling like they were "in the middle of the city."
Wildlife watching: Bird observation opportunities exist at several riverfront parks. "Lots of geese wandering around & still chatty late at night- but kinda cute to hear," comments Tiffany P., noting the active waterfowl presence.
Spacious sites: Room to spread out at many area campgrounds. "The sites are all very spacious with very long back in driveways. Some of the sites had covered picnic tables, which was great," Kelly E. observes about the comfortable camping arrangements.
Convenient location: Easy access to Little Rock attractions from multiple parks. "There is a pedestrian bridge that takes you over the Arkansas River to downtown and all the attractions; as well as, some great restaurants and a vibrant downtown," notes Nancy W. about the urban connection.
What You Should Know
Insects: Bug spray essential during warmer months, particularly near water. "Bring your mosquito spray" advises Jason W. about primitive camping at Green's Lake Camp, describing it as "one of those no frills" experiences.
Site variations: Check reservations carefully as sites may have unexpected layouts. "Pay attention when you book your site to campsite photos" recommends Ryan S., noting that "some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper."
Bathroom facilities: Variable quality across different campgrounds. "The showers are not very private other than a nasty mildewed shower curtain, but there is no where to dry off or dress that is private," warns Shana D. about one park's facilities.
Seasonal considerations: Shade availability impacts summer camping comfort. "Very little shade would be rough in summer months without shade tents, awnings, etc," cautions a reviewer about sections of a park with limited tree cover.
Tips for Camping with Families
Dog exercise: Maumelle Park provides designated pet areas. "Great place for dog walking and even a trail to take her on. Our Labrador loved it here too," shares Brenda L. about the pet-friendly environment.
Kid-friendly spaces: Look for open play areas where children can safely explore. "Lots of kids riding bikes and being outdoors," notes Jason W., highlighting the family-oriented atmosphere at his campsite.
Site selection: Research privacy levels between different camping loops. "We stayed in Loop C and I felt a little too secluded. The sites in C & D appeared to be a little smaller," advises Shana D. about finding the right balance of privacy and accessibility.
Pet swimming spots: River access points where dogs can cool off safely. "Dogs swam in river, kids fished and biked," reports Douglas A., describing a multi-activity experience for the whole family including pets.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Downtown Riverside RV Park offers concrete pads. "Concrete, level pads" are available according to Beth R., who appreciates this feature for easy RV setup.
Hookup variations: Check specific site amenities before booking as they differ significantly. "Thirty-five of the sites are Class AAA sites which have 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. There are 90 Class B sites offering 30 amp electrical and water hookups," explains Fred S. about one park's electrical options.
Dump station access: Plan tank management if staying at parks without full hookups. "No sewer. (Except for sites 47 & 48)" warns Ryan S. about one camping area, reminding RVers to check these details.
Site spacing: Toad Suck Ferry Park provides well-spaced sites. "The sites are very well spaced and you can take your chairs to the river," notes one camper who valued the room to spread out.
