Millwood Lake camping areas include several primitive camping options located along 29,000 acres of lake shoreline in southwest Arkansas. The lake sits at an elevation of 259 feet above sea level with surrounding terrain that ranges from river bottoms to rolling hills. Summer temperatures routinely reach 90°F with high humidity, making water access important for tent campers.
What to do
Water activities: The Little Missouri River feeds Lake Greeson near Buckhorn, providing excellent fishing and paddling opportunities. "The lake is beautiful and I would love to come back many times over. I do recommend it to anyone that has a high clearance vehicle and if you are towing that your trailer be one of high clearance too."
Rock exploration: Visit Cossatot Falls Campsites for unique rock formations. "Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river. The park rangers were very nice and informative," notes one visitor who found the natural play areas perfect for families.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails connect to the Albert Pike Recreation Area, including the challenging Eagle Rock Loop. "You can take on the 28-30 mile Eagle Rock Loop trail. Beautiful views. Lots of water crossings over the Little Missouri River. Area is prone to severe flash flooding so know the weather before heading out."
What campers like
Riverside camping: At Sandbar Area Campsites, campers enjoy easy river access. "River access is within a very quick walk, this section of the river is very calm. Overall the campground is isolated. Its about a fifteen minute drive to the park headquarters, popular trails, and other activities."
Small, quiet sites: River Run West offers minimal but peaceful camping. According to a visitor, "This is a very small campground with just 4 tent sites but is a beautiful space. Well maintained but it really is only for tents where you will find shade provided by the nice mature trees."
Wildlife viewing: Many sites feature abundant animal sightings. "There is an abundance of wild life, keep an eye for snakes and thicks!" warns one Sandbar Area camper who noted wildlife was part of the experience.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many sites require serious off-road driving. At Pikeville Creek Campground, "The trails to get to this rec area are for the 4wd's and off-road vehicles. Great point to camp with great access to water."
Water availability: Most primitive sites lack potable water. Bring enough water for your entire stay, especially in summer. Bluegill Hill campers noted, "There are two little islands you can swim or kayak to from Kitty Cove."
Tent setup challenges: Beyond gravel tent pads, some sites have specific layout considerations. At Cossatot Falls, "We typically don't camp in regular campgrounds, we prefer more separation. We also have a large 20' tent that makes it difficult to fit into regular square pad tent sites. These pads were huge and fit our tent."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Look for campsites with nearby water features for kids. One Cossatot Falls visitor notes, "These sites are now reservable, not first come. You can luck out, but I would recommend reservations. Fantastic large camp sites."
Supply runs: Prepare for limited services. "It's 5 miles to pavement. On a good day, depending what you're driving, that's 20 to 30 minutes of dirt, gravel, rocks, and washboards," explains a Cossatot Falls camper regarding distance to supplies.
Weather monitoring: Flash flooding occurs in many of the best tent camping near Millwood Lake. "Area is prone to severe flash flooding so know the weather before heading out," warns an Albert Pike visitor. This is critical for family safety.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: For RVs, Bluegill Hill offers some of the best camping options with dedicated spaces. "Charles was a gracious, personable host and met us on-site. He told us the history of the land, and gave us the rundown of all things Bluegill."
Generator considerations: Noise restrictions vary by campground. At Cossatot Falls, "They did allow generators which is unfortunate because the river is so close. Part of what we love about camping is being in nature and hearing the sounds around us but one person's generator use ruined the quiet."
Clearance requirements: Many access roads aren't suitable for larger RVs. One Buckhorn camper notes, "I do recommend it to anyone that has a high clearance vehicle and if you are towing that your trailer be one of high clearance too."
