Camping options near Clarksville, Arkansas range from remote, primitive sites to developed campgrounds with full amenities. The region sits at the transition between the Ozark Highlands and Arkansas River Valley, with elevations varying from 400 to 2,750 feet. Summer nights typically cool to the mid-70s even when daytime temperatures exceed 90°F, making evening campfires comfortable at higher elevations but potentially uncomfortable at lower river sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Dardanelle offers multiple fishing locations from Russellville Campground — Lake Dardanelle State Park shorelines. "We enjoyed our stay. We was in the area for a ballon festival. Kids enjoyed the stay," notes Lona T., who camped at Lake Dardanelle. Boat ramps provide direct lake access at most campsites.
Waterfall exploration: The Haw Creek Falls Camping area, located about 45 minutes from Clarksville, features accessible waterfalls and swimming holes. "The water was beautiful, eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in arkansas," reports layla B., though she warns visitors should be prepared for "Lots of snakes."
Trail hiking: Multiple trail systems connect campgrounds to higher elevations. At Cove Lake Complex, one camper described, "We use it as a base to hike up to Mount Magazine as the trail crosses the road and heads up to the top of Mount Magazine state park. The trail is out of the ordinary for the region and takes you have some washouts and up the mountain. If it has been raining, beware and check your weather."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront spots: At Piney Bay, campers appreciate the quieter setting away from busy areas. "Visited Piney Bay in early July and loved the location. Had hummingbirds at the site, well cleaned restrooms(easy access from site B25). Check in and out was easy and convenient. Was quiet with plenty of shade available," noted one reviewer who particularly valued the privacy.
High-elevation camping: Mount Magazine State Park Campground sits at Arkansas's highest point, providing cooler temperatures. "The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain. The entrance and welcome center is grand and very accepting of anything from small vehicles to large diesel pushers," reports one visitor, highlighting the cooler climate advantage compared to lower-elevation sites.
Free dispersed options: Cane Creek Recreation Area offers no-cost camping without facilities. "Excellent free campground if you are self contained. No water/electric or toilet. Secluded and safe. The sheriff drove through several times in the two days I was there. There are picnic tables, fire pits and a boat ramp," explains Ed O., noting the tradeoff between amenities and cost.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Campground restroom quality ranges from excellent to non-existent. At Mount Nebo State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Restrooms are clean and stocked. The pool showerhouse has but one shower a piece for men and women." However, at Cane Creek Recreation Area, several reviewers warned about bathroom conditions: "Do not. I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you'll be fine."
Wildlife encounters: Snake sightings are common at lower elevations near water. A camper at Haw Creek Falls reported, "Lots of snakes and saw a feral cat but so pretty," highlighting that wildlife is part of the experience in this region. Park staff at Mount Magazine inform visitors of "numerous venomous reptilian" in the area.
Road conditions limit access: Steep, winding roads restrict what vehicles can access certain campgrounds. One visitor to Mount Nebo explained, "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'. I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Long Pool Recreation Area offers natural swimming spots popular with families. "The big draw is the charming swimming area with its imposing trio of rocks that swimmers love to jump off of," notes 2SHOE S., adding that "Pets are not permitted around or in the water."
Playground facilities: Lake Dardanelle State Park features play areas for children. One camper mentioned, "This was a beautiful park with lots to do, especially for kids. The information center was large and the employees were very friendly." However, they cautioned about "a lot of unattended children and some of them made a mess in one of the bathrooms."
Educational opportunities: Visitor centers with displays can provide indoor activities during bad weather. "Great welcome center with aquarium displays that are quite informative," noted a visitor to Lake Dardanelle State Park, providing an option for families to mix outdoor adventures with educational content.
RV tips
Site dimensions matter: Many campgrounds advertise RV compatibility but have limitations. At Piney Bay, Emily R. warned, "Roads are narrow as are spots. The spots also say they're 'big/long enough' for a 42' rig but in reality it's super tight. Our spot was blocked by two spaces in front of us by parked trucks with boats."
Water access varies: Water quality and availability differ between campgrounds. At Long Pool Recreation Area, one reviewer cautioned, "Water wasn't potable and it was quite brown so we just use it to wash dishes etc, but nothing else. Bring plenty of groceries and other needs since all stores are 45'/60' away!"
Power hookup placement: Electrical hookups are sometimes positioned inconveniently. A camper at Lake Dardanelle reported, "The electric and water hookups in 'D' area are in strange locations at each site," requiring longer cords or hoses than might be expected.
