Millwood Lake campsites span across 29,500 acres of flooded timber in southwest Arkansas, with minimal shoreline development creating a natural setting for campers. The lake maintains a relatively stable water level throughout the year with seasonal fluctuations of 1-3 feet. Camping facilities cluster primarily on the eastern and southern shores where road access connects to Highway 32.
What to do
Birdwatching opportunities: White Cliffs Park provides excellent viewing platforms for birders. "We were tent camping and had plenty of flat area for our tent and we were far enough away from neighbors that it was quite," notes a camper about the peaceful setting conducive to wildlife observation.
Diamond mining excursions: Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground offers a unique activity within driving distance. "Didnt find any Diamonds," reports one visitor, but the experience remains popular. "Winter, Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit. The diamond field is a large, unshaded field."
Fishing from shore: Fishing opportunities extend beyond boat access at many sites. A camper at Saratoga Landing noted the campground features "fishing dock, fishing pier, pavilion, bank fishing and great for getting the kayaks in the water." Many campgrounds include fish cleaning stations for processing your catch.
What campers like
Waterfront site selection: Campgrounds offer varying proximity to the water. At Beard's Bluff Park, a visitor shared, "We love a campsite that has a view of lakes/rivers/ocean and this was a fabulous lake view site!" Most waterfront sites have no natural barriers between campsites and the shoreline.
Spacing between sites: Cottonshed Park receives praise for its layout. "The lots are spacious and well spread out. And most of all this place is peaceful!" Campers appreciate the additional room compared to other regional campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse quality varies between campgrounds but receives generally positive reviews. "The bathroom and showers were nice but a little out dated," notes a White Cliffs Park visitor, while at Millwood Landing Golf & RV Resort, "the coolest place to be is the restrooms and laundry, very nice."
What you should know
Alligator presence: Multiple campgrounds post alligator warnings. At Saratoga Landing, campers are specifically cautioned with signage: "BEWARE: Alligator." These reptiles inhabit the lake year-round but are most visible during warmer months.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise from nearby highways. At Millwood State Park Campground, a visitor recommends, "I'd recommend staying by the lake. Not as much traffic noise and better views."
Cell service variability: Connectivity fluctuates significantly across campsites. At Millwood Landing Golf & RV Resort, a camper reported, "Cell phone signal for T-Mobile is non existent. Verizon is AWFUL. AT&T is bad but doable." Plan communications accordingly if staying connected is necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. At Millwood State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Nice trail for walks and big playground for kids." Playground equipment varies in age and maintenance level across facilities.
Swimming considerations: Water recreation requires caution due to submerged timber and wildlife. Crater of Diamonds State Park offers alternatives with "a nice swimming creek nearby" according to one visitor, providing a safer option than lake swimming for children.
Site location strategy: When camping with children, select sites strategically. One family at Beard's Bluff Park chose "campsite (22) overlooks the water, and the playground which is perfect for our young family." Request maps when making reservations to identify family-friendly locations.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary between campgrounds. At Millwood State Park, "No shade on the full hookup side of the campground. Lots of shade in the water/electric side of the campground," notes a visitor, highlighting the common tradeoff between amenities and shade.
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have mixed reviews regarding large rig access. At White Cliffs Park, one camper described, "level pad, a little narrow," while others note low-hanging branches on approach roads can be problematic for taller rigs.
Dump station access: Not all sites offer sewer connections. A camper at Crater of Diamonds State Park observed, "The dump station is a pretty tight squeeze but doable if your site doesn't have a dump." Plan accordingly or select full-hookup sites if this is a concern.
