The Mayflower camping area sits at the intersection of the Arkansas River Valley and Ouachita Mountain foothills, offering diverse terrain from riverside flats to wooded hills. Temperatures range from summer highs of 90-95°F to winter lows averaging 30°F, with a humid subtropical climate bringing 48-52 inches of rainfall annually. Fall camping typically features temperatures between 60-75°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night.
What to do
Fishing at Harris Brake Lake: Free lakeside camping with designated fire pits provides direct water access. "The sunset was gorgeous. A little bit of a drive off of I40 but it's a fantastic spot," notes Todd G., who appreciated the solitude at this location.
Barge watching at Maumelle Park: Observe commercial river traffic from waterside sites. "Sits on the bank of the Arkansas River so fishing and water sports are available from the bank or boat," says Jason W., who found the park "very well maintained, quiet and family friendly."
Hiking at Petit Jean State Park: Trails range from easy to difficult with varied terrain and lake views. "We spent most of our days hiking the many trails the park is known for. It was at peak Dogwood season, so the understory of the Forest was beautiful," shares Jill B., who visited during spring.
What campers like
Level concrete pads: Toad Suck offers well-maintained sites with solid infrastructure. "Small clean campground. Some spots are very private Some not so much. Spots are large. Great views of lock. Multiple playgrounds and pavilions," reports John R., who appreciated the amenities beyond basic camping.
Accessible recreation areas: Woolly Hollow State Park features a swimming beach, boat rentals, and fishing opportunities in a compact, well-designed setting. "It's a very beautiful park!! The sites are all asphalted and the bathhouse is located in the center of all of the sites so access is easy," says Brian G., who plans to return when lake levels are higher.
Riverside proximity: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Mayflower offer direct water access. "Our site was at the end of Loop D, far enough away from the noise of the highway, but it backed up to 2 drainage pipes, not the best view from our back window. It is level and surrounded by tall trees for plenty of shade," notes Jeanette W. about Toad Suck Ferry.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some campgrounds offer modern facilities while others have none. "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," reports Shana D. about Petit Jean State Park, though she still gave the park 5 stars overall.
Site privacy differences: At Little Rock North KOA, "The grounds are clean and spaces are level and close together. There's a little bit of road noise from the freeway but not bad. I wouldn't stay for an extended period but for a one night stop it was fine," according to Jil S.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close temporarily due to flooding or maintenance. "Toad Suck is temporarily closed. June 2019 flood deviated it and looks to remain closed thru 2020," reported Ralph Z., though the park has since reopened with renovated sites.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Mayflower-area pet-friendly camping options include family recreation facilities. "We have stayed at here several times. The kids enjoy the playgrounds x 3, walking, plenty of open space, and watching the barges coming down the river," shares Lona T. about Toad Suck.
Educational opportunities: Petit Jean State Park offers ranger-led programs suitable for children. "Amazing weekend right outside of the Ozark National Forest. The lake was closed for Maintenance but the state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition," explains Kelci C., who appreciated the educational value as a homeschooling parent.
Swimming options: Some parks offer designated swim areas during summer months. "There is a nice swimming area with a shop to order drinks/snacks. The park rangers and staff were super friendly and helpful," according to Alison C., who visited Woolly Hollow and found it ideal for families.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: At Maumelle Park, "We stayed in B2 which faced the river. If we return, I'd choose a river site but this was nice too except our 34 ft class A FDDS opened right onto a silty patch that forced us to navigate our entry into our motorhome," advises Stevann H., who recommends researching specific sites before booking.
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs passing through, "Easy access for a KOA, we have a cyclone 4270 (44' triple axel 5th wheel) which is pushing it for most KOA's. We landed a pull through just behind the office and on way out of curve in road so we slide right in," reports Daniel about Little Rock North KOA.
Leveling requirements: Pay attention to site conditions when bringing an RV to pet-friendly campgrounds near Mayflower. "Decently maintained. Most of the sites have concrete pads big enough for a couple tents. Solid concrete picnic table with a roof over it was nice. Parking was not very level but our 38ft schoolie fit fine with enough room for our car," explains Benjamin S. about his experience at Toad Suck.
