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Sam's Throne Recreation Area welcomes pets at all its primitive campsites with fire rings separated by trees for privacy. Campers with dogs appreciate the spacious sites and nearby hiking trails where leashed pets can explore the scenic Ozark terrain. The composting toilets are regularly maintained, but visitors must bring their own water for themselves and their animals as no drinking water is available on site. This free campground near Mount Judea offers both drive-in and walk-in access, with several areas suitable for tent camping or small self-contained RVs. Pets must remain on leash throughout the recreation area, particularly on the popular hiking trails that lead to stunning bluff overlooks and climbing areas.
The connecting trails through Sam's Throne provide excellent opportunities for dog owners to exercise their pets while enjoying panoramic valley views. Many campers report wildlife sightings, including deer that frequent the campground, so keeping dogs properly leashed is essential. The Buffalo National River area features several pet-friendly campgrounds including Kyles Landing and Steel Creek, both allowing pets on leash in designated camping areas. During peak climbing seasons, particularly weekends, the campground fills quickly with visitors and their pets, while weekdays often see only 2-3 occupied sites. The nearest veterinary services are located in Harrison, about 25 miles north. For campers seeking more amenities, Dogwood Springs Campground in Jasper provides pet-friendly sites with full hookups, though spaces are considerably closer together than the more primitive options at Sam's Throne.
"There’s lots of campground near by but across a bridge is hidden off road that will take you to Carwash Falls. It has a great scenic off road trail and backroad highway."
"Located on the beautiful Buffalo River, the views are incredible. It’s Dog friendly too and there are many hiking trails close by, some of which even connect to the campground."
from $20 - $25 / night
Check Availability"I think I'm the only one here who has my dog tethered to a tree with a long rope, everyone else allows the dog to be off leash and that almost created a dog fight so just be cautious of that."
"Many groups out there taking advantage of the beautiful March weather to hit the rock and explore all the many jaw-dropping routes on and around Sam's rocky Throne."
"During that time try and get a site away from the launch/takeout spots. "
"A real bob Ross of a campground, however the drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us."
"Pros: Great location on the river and close to plenty of hiking trails! Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. The bathrooms were well maintained and there is drinking water available."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Camping at Dogwood Springs Campground in Arkansas was amazing! The owner was so full of hospitality and worked around our schedule!"
"My Drive to the campsite was beautiful. The new owners are extremely kind & accommodating. My cabin was perfect for my dog & I. I’m excited to see the updates to visit again."
"campers in the area but during the day LOTS of people coming to swim ( and leaving trash 🤮 ) The water was beautiful, eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in arkansas"
"Lovely area but you can hear the vehicles that drive by on the highway plenty of hiking nearby"
"Dog park and small laundry room on site. Three bathrooms one with showers. Dog wash station at two bathrooms."
"They offer a spacious dog park, which the dogs are currently playing at while I relax and take in nature."
"Short hiking trail will lead you to the most gorgeous views! You can even do a little rock climbing here. Please keep pets on a leash. Pit toilets are available at each end of the campgrounds."
"Not much firewood to collect, I bought wood from the nearby Red Oak store. Prices were very reasonable. Hiking is awesome here."
"Upon arrival we were asked if we’d prefer a slot next to the bathrooms or away from the road. The road does seem a bit noisy so I enjoyed the option to be away from it."
"sites are a little tight but they have it setup that you park opposite of each other. close to the highway but there isn't alot of noise."
from $44 - $58 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $45 / night
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GuideHosts were very accommodating. Site was lovely. Coffee shop was great. We did get a pizza one night, delicious. My only “complaint” We selected a site by the dog park on the map, but there is not a dog park.
ScoutLocation is easy to find. Love being next to the water! Heard there is a dog park coming this summer. Great place to go if u want to vacation with someone that doesn't have a camper because of the cabins on property. we will be back.
TravelerThe owners are very friendly and have events to include all campers. Dog park and small laundry room on site. Three bathrooms one with showers. Dog wash station at two bathrooms.
TravelerRARE FIND Such a BEAUTIFUL place! I love all the oak trees and the sounds of nature are so relaxing. They offer a spacious dog park, which the dogs are currently playing at while I relax and take in nature. If you are looking for a small piece of nature where you can get way from it all but still be close to town, this place is it. Everyone here is friendly and the shared spaces are always very clean.
They offer great rates and a Military Discount too!!
Enjoy your stay!
RangerSitting right on the Buffalo National River this is a quiet and clean little campground. There are 18 back-in RV/camper sites, a playground for the kids, dog park, community fire pit, pavilion, group tent sites, star gazing area, tent sites, bath house and small camp store.
ScoutSpent three nights. Called for reservations, very receptive owners no problems getting in. I was running late due to the distance. They called to check on us and left instructions in a box at the office with site number, WiFi, bath codes. Again very nice owners. Went in the next morning to settle bill. Office is stocked with a nice assortment of things that an RV owner might need for minor repairs. Camp site was pretty level, spacing is typical for a campsite built some years ago, but we had a site on the end so we didn’t feel too close to anyone. Owners have only had the campground for two years. Was told the water connections were their next priority. Connections are a little inconvenient due to being under ground level, but no problem connecting my water filter for my 5th wheel. Dog park was a short walk away, was clean. Campground was clean, dumpsters accessible for trash and area clean around them. We would be happy to stay there again.
RangerTent campers have the better camping loop at this campground, closer to the water, nicer sites, most with plenty of trees for shade. You can drive up to the less attractive and less conveniently located RV loop to use the showers, if you need them. Some campsites are just a football-field distance from the rocky swim beach, while others sit either nestled in the woods or overlooking the creek from above on a small bluff. The big draw is the charming swimming area with its imposing trio of rocks that swimmers love to jump off of. Pets are not permitted around or in the water, so we prefer to leave our dog at home when visiting here. Hiking from the campground is terrific, too, particularly when the water is flowing to make waterfalls. Long Pool is a must-visit camping destination for Arkansas residents.
TravelerThis is probably an excellent site in spring or fall. However summertime is hot at the site because of the lack of shade trees. Site 15 is by the water and has a large area for dogs or family. There is a staircase down to the water next to site 8. The fishing is good. It’s a pet friendly site however if your dogs bark neighbors will complain. The manager is friendly. They do not have trash pick up service; you just take your trash to a dumpster at the end of the camp, which is not a big deal. No grill available but has picnic tables and fire ring. WI-FI aid very good.
TravelerSimple, but nice. No frills. Quiet. If you are looking for a peaceful, quiet place, away from the city, this is a great place. I love it. Have stayed several times in several different sites. Will stay again. About 13 campsites, all gravel. Has a wooded trails for walking and a big open are for walking and playing with pets. Water, sewer and 30/50amp electric are easy access and to hook up. James the owner is great and has a U-Pick orchard as well.
Sam's Throne Recreation Area sits at around 1,700 feet elevation in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Dispersed campsites here offer separation by native forest, providing a true wilderness experience only 30 miles south of Harrison. The region receives about 47 inches of rainfall annually, creating a lush woodland environment with seasonal streams and notable limestone bluffs popular with rock climbers.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: The trails at Sam's Throne Campground connect to panoramic viewpoints of the surrounding valleys. "Hiking is awesome here. Beautiful cliff views are a short walk away," notes Taylor E. from Sam's Throne Campground. Trails range from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging routes along bluff edges.
Rock climbing access: The area attracts climbers of all skill levels with numerous established routes. At Steel Creek Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to climbing areas. "You wake up every morning to the sound of the Buffalo River coursing by just a few hundred yards away, and are greeted by the breathtaking view of the bluffs you are surrounded by," shares Miranda D.
Riverside activities: The Buffalo River provides swimming and paddling opportunities from spring through fall. "The water was absolutely beautiful Thursday-Saturday," reports Susan R. from Buffalo Point, noting how water conditions can change quickly after rainfall when the river rose "13 feet" overnight during her stay.
Dark sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. At Buffalo Point, Heath L. observed: "The park is great and very clean. Some of the sites can get a little crowded on the weekend. During the week was super quiet and more my speed."
Wildlife encounters: The forested setting supports diverse wildlife viewable from campsites. "Deer were everywhere" reports a Buffalo Point visitor, while at Sam's Throne Recreation Area, a camper noted "Bambi and her mom also seem to live here," highlighting the frequent deer sightings.
Private camping areas: Many campsites offer natural separation from neighbors. "Private camping spots, with trees separating each site," reports Kelsey R. about Sam's Throne Recreation Area. The campground's layout provides seclusion while maintaining access to trails and viewpoints.
Water availability: Most primitive campgrounds require bringing your own water supply. At Sam's Throne, Alexandra warns "No water access, so bring your own." Plan to carry enough for drinking, cooking, and dog hydration during your entire stay.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require careful driving. At Kyles Landing Campground, Luke B. advises: "The drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Weekend popularity: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "The site is located near the haw creek water fall and the Ozark highlands trail runs thru it. There are 9 sites available at first come first served basis only," explains Tricia E. about Haw Creek Falls Camping.
Swimming spots: Natural water features provide family entertainment. At Haw Creek Falls Camping, Samantha W. describes it as a "Great Campground w/Swimming Hole" noting the "swimming area is fantastic, a much needed relief after a hot day of hiking!"
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some sites offer designated family amenities. Matt G. recommends Shady Oaks Campground where his family "had a great time at the campground. Large playground, short nature trails, clean showers, nice folks that run the place."
Multi-day itineraries: Plan activities across several locations to maximize your visit. Ashley F. recommends: "What's nice is you can also drive 20 or so miles out to other beautiful spots like Pedestal Rock Scenic Area and Alum Cove Natural Bridge."
Site selection: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Mount Judea accommodate smaller RVs with limitations. Miranda M. notes about Sam's Throne: "There aren't any specific spots for RV's but there are a few cleared areas with room to park an RV or trailer."
Hookup availability: For those requiring services, options exist within driving distance. "We had a pull through gravel site with full hookups for $38/night," reports Allison N. about Harrison RV Park & Campground, located about 30 miles north of Mount Judea.
Access limitations: Large RVs face challenges at most primitive sites. Kelsey R. advises about Sam's Throne: "It is considered a national park spot so it's not set up for rv, but if your van or rv is self standing is perfect!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Mount Judea, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Mount Judea, AR is Ozark Campground — Buffalo National River with a 4.4-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Mount Judea, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 146 dog-friendly camping locations near Mount Judea, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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