The Midland area sits at the juncture of the Arkansas River Valley and the Ouachita Mountains, creating varied camping terrain from riverfront locations to pine-covered hills. Campgrounds near Midland, AR range in elevation from 400 feet along the Arkansas River to over 2,500 feet in the mountain areas. Winter temperatures typically stay above freezing, though occasional ice storms can affect access to higher elevation sites.
What to do
Kayaking at creek access points: Springhill Park offers unique paddling opportunities where Massard Creek meets the Arkansas River. "I have been camping out here for years but never took advantage of the A side. A12-14 are premian spots to camp. I tent camp and the view is amazing. It's in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can launch a boat or you can go kayaking in Massard creek," explains one Springhill visitor.
Explore historical sites: The Fort Smith National Historic Site is less than 2 miles from Riverfront RV Resort, making it convenient for history enthusiasts. "It is located right along the river and is close to other attractions like Fort Smith and the US Marshall's Museum (literally down the block)," notes a recent camper.
Mountain biking: Trail systems around the camping areas offer varied terrain for all skill levels. Cedar Lake features a 3-mile lake loop for beginners and longer trails for experienced riders. One reviewer reports, "We enjoy the Horsetheif Springs Trail which starts behind the dump station. You can either hike a small couple mail loop or extend it to 14 miles."
What campers like
Waterfront camping access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at multiple campgrounds in the region. A Cedar Lake visitor shared, "My favorite part was the rock outcropping at the river by our site. It felt like we had our own little dock to cast off from."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The woodland and river environments support diverse wildlife. "We stayed in the non-electric sites (North Shore loop)... The setting is absolutely beautiful with tall pines, rolling hills and a gorgeous lake. Saw a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes," reports a Cedar Lake camper.
Private, shaded sites: The terrain provides natural screening between many campsites. At Heavener Runestone Park, a visitor noted, "The park is beautiful and secluded, very clean and well kept. It has some really fun little themed touches in keeping with the Viking Runestone."
What you should know
Seasonal facility closures: Some campgrounds reduce services during off-peak months. At Springhill Park, a recent visitor warned: "Site is still charging campers full price for extended camping (14 days) was told showers and restrooms available then suddenly they closed the facilities without notice."
Limited resupply options: Several campgrounds are situated far from stores or services. As one Devil's Den State Park Campground camper cautioned: "Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services."
Water quality varies: Water systems at different campgrounds show significant variations. One Springhill visitor was pleasantly surprised: "30 Amp hook up with some of the best water I have ever had. Only 35 ppm on my zero water tester. Bottled water has had more than 75 ppm."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At William O. Darby RV Community, families appreciate that "The military police patrolled the park," providing additional security for those camping with children.
Swimming opportunities: The region offers various swimming options during summer months. At Riverfront RV Resort, "Our kids enjoyed the playground, outdoor gym, and pickleball - it was too cold to swim," showing the range of activities available.
Cliff safety concerns: Some campgrounds have potentially dangerous terrain features. At Heavener Runestone Park, one family noted: "Out of the three cliff tent sites I would say only 1 was safe for kids, 2 and 3 were too close to the cliff (beautiful views though)."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require additional equipment for proper leveling. One visitor to Springhill Park observed, "Our concrete pad at site A5 had a bit of an incline, and it looked to be the case for some others as well, but I can't speak for all."
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential at most established campgrounds near Midland. At Cedar Lake, a camper reported: "There was no campground host and nobody came to check our reservations, but it was not crowded so that could be why."
Gate security features: Some campgrounds offer enhanced security systems. At Riverfront RV Resort, "There was a gate at the front. There is a walking trail along the river so if your campsite faces it, there is plenty of people walking along that trail," providing information about both security and privacy considerations.
