Southwest Arkansas offers a variety of camping experiences near Nashville, Arkansas. Located in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, this region features several lakes and outdoor recreation areas within a 40-mile radius. The terrain varies from rolling hills to flatlands with elevation ranges between 300-600 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping environments from lakeside settings to wooded areas.
What to do
Diamond mining at Crater of Diamonds State Park: Visitors can search for real diamonds at this unique park in Murfreesboro, 25 miles from Nashville. One visitor at Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground notes, "The best time to take a trip to the Arkansas diamond fields is after a heavy rainstorm, but keep in mind that you will get muddy during your visit so always wear the appropriate clothes and shoes while out in the search area."
Fishing at Lake Greeson: The lake offers excellent bass and crappie fishing opportunities year-round. A camper at Daisy State Park Campground mentioned, "We have tent camped here multiple times, and has been our go to place for the past couple years! It has beautiful scenery, clean facilities, and the staff has been great."
Birding at Millwood Lake: This lake is known for its diverse bird population. According to a visitor at Beard's Bluff Park, "This is a small campground but is totally awesome. The road in heads down into the campground and it is a very good paved road. There are several sites on the water."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Cowhide Cove Campground shared, "Nice Campground - Immaculate bathrooms and showers! There's a lower loop near the playground that is perfect for families with kids."
Lakefront camping: Several parks offer direct access to water. A camper at Beard's Bluff Park mentioned, "This campground is quiet and beautiful with large spaces, perfect for our big RV set up. Our campsite (22) overlooks the water, and the playground which is perfect for our young family."
Affordability: Camping options range from $12-38 per night depending on amenities. A visitor to Nashville City Park noted, "Great place clean and only $12 includes electric and water."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Some lakes in the region have alligator populations. A camper at Millwood State Park Campground warned, "The lake is BEAUTIFUL, we saw an alligator (I was quite excited about that). The dump station is a pretty tight squeeze but doable if your site doesn't have a dump."
Seasonal weather considerations: Winter and spring offer more moderate temperatures compared to summer. A visitor at Parker Creek stated, "On a whim, I reserved a site driving from Tennessee to Texas. Had to book through the recreation.gov app, which does not give you a good idea of what is booked or not."
Reservation requirements: Some parks require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. One camper at Cottonshed Park stated, "Camp host on site. Fee:$16.00 per night with electric and water. Sites: 44 paved."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Cowhide Cove Campground shared, "We booked a site for 1 night only because it was close to the Crater of Diamonds State Park. We were at site 4 on the bottom loop and it was beautiful. We loved watching the sun go down over the lake. Also, we have 3 boys so being close to the playground was awesome."
Educational experiences: The diamond mining opportunity offers hands-on learning. A camper at Crater of Diamonds State Park mentioned, "Winter, Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit. The diamond field is a large, unshaded field. I've never found a diamond but have seen others find them!"
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas. A visitor to Millwood State Park noted, "Nice level campsites with great views of the lake. No shade on the full hookup side of the campground. Lots of shade in the water/electric side of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on shade needs and hookup requirements. An RVer at Parker Creek shared, "This place is huge! On a whim, I reserved a site driving from Tennessee to Texas. Had to book through the recreation.gov app, which does not give you a good idea of what is booked or not."
Hookup availability: Most parks offer electric and water connections, with fewer offering full hookups. A camper at Murfeesboro RV Park noted, "This place was nice. The staff was extremely nice and helpful. The sites were well maintained and spaced nicely."
Road conditions: Some access roads have steep grades or tight turns. An RVer at Beard's Bluff Park mentioned, "Open: Mar 1- Oct 31. Limit: 14 days. Reserve: 877-444-6777 or recreation.gov (must have reservations) Sites: 24 paved."
