Maumelle, Arkansas offers several camping options along the Arkansas River and nearby waterways. Located just northwest of Little Rock in central Arkansas, the area experiences mild winters and hot summers with average temperatures ranging from 30°F in January to 93°F in July. Many campgrounds in this region provide convenient water access with fishing opportunities for catfish, bass, and crappie.
What to do
Fishing at waterfront sites: Willow Beach campground provides direct water access. "Willow Beach is small, remote, and quiet. Situated between the Arkansas River and Willow Lake, every site is waterfront," notes camper Jeff R. The water hyacinths bloom seasonally, creating picturesque views.
Visit downtown Little Rock: Take advantage of the pedestrian bridge from Downtown Riverside RV Park for easy access to city attractions. "You can take a walking bridge across the river directly into downtown Little Rock," shares Richard S. The weekly farmers market is particularly popular during summer months.
Wildlife watching: Tar Camp offers excellent bird watching opportunities along the Arkansas River. "So happy to find a site right on the river. We could watch the tug boats with their barges go by," reports Angela G. Morning hours provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Camp Conway RV Park offers generous spacing between campsites. "Wide-open layout, outside of town, quiet, full-hookups. Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park," writes Burt, highlighting the natural setting.
Clean facilities: Sweet Escape RV Resort maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. As Alex L. describes, "The bathrooms are the cleanest that I have seen in a campground/RV park they clean them daily. In the winter they have complementary hot chocolate and a 15 ft Christmas tree!"
Level camping pads: Several campers note the flat, well-maintained sites. "The sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!" shares Jo E. about Willow Beach. Most sites include concrete or gravel pads that remain stable even after rain.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Not all rv sites near Maumelle, Arkansas operate year-round. Tar Camp runs seasonally from March through October, with occasional unscheduled closures. "Great place nice sites good fishing they have been repairing since it flooded they told me it would open up in March 2021," notes Steve S.
Wildlife considerations: Snake encounters are reported at some waterfront campgrounds. "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," warns Jennifer C.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense at riverside camping areas during warm months. "It is near water so there are a lot of mosquitos, so come prepared," advises Kelly E. Bug spray is essential equipment for camping near Maumelle from April through October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Willow Beach has a playground for children, though availability may vary. "Nice playground but it was taped off during our stay due to covid," mentions Jennifer C. Call ahead to confirm playground status before booking.
Dog-friendly options: Sweet Escape RV Resort accommodates pets with a dedicated area. "Many amenities including laundry, bathhouse, very nice showers, and large dog park," reports Jessie J. Most campgrounds require pets to remain leashed at all times.
Security features: Some campgrounds implement nighttime security measures. "They lock a gate every night at the entrance to the campground, however they do give you the code to the padlock," explains Jennifer C. about Willow Beach, providing added safety for families.
Tips from RVers
City camping conveniences: For RVers wanting city access, Downtown Riverside RV Park offers full hookups at reasonable rates. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP), concrete, level pads, overlooks the Arkansas River, large pavilion, gated RV park, easy access to downtown Little Rock AR," summarizes Beth R.
Site sizes and accessibility: Larger motorhomes and fifth wheels should confirm campground compatibility. "50 Amp electric, water no sewer hook up but dump station. Spaced spread out not crowded," reports Rod A. about Willow Beach. Camp Robinson RV Park cannot accommodate big rigs despite offering electric, water and sewer hookups.
Extended stay options: Camp Conway RV Park welcomes both short and long-term visitors. "Campground is friendly to monthly guests as well as nightly," notes Burt. Weekly rates at several area campgrounds average $130-150, with monthly discounts available.
