Tent camping opportunities near Mountain Home, Arkansas center around the Buffalo National River watershed at elevations ranging from 700-1200 feet. The area contains multiple gravel bar camping sites accessible via country roads that become challenging after rain. Late spring through early fall represents peak camping season with daytime temperatures typically reaching the 80s and nighttime lows dropping into the 50-60s.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Gilbert Gravel Bar, campers can enjoy direct river access for fishing. "You can find Gilbert Gravel Bar off 65 just south of the city of St Joe's. Go through the city of Gilbert and you will find parking at the end of the road leading to a fairly large beach/gravel area," notes Arkansas F.
Mountain biking trails: The Syllamo trail system offers extensive mountain biking opportunities near camping areas. "This is a series of trails with multiple trail heads. Each trail head has a course gravel parking area and a very nice pit toilet. Good for both Mountain Biking and hiking, but hikers need to make way for bikers," explains Arkansas F.
Canoe preparation spot: Gilbert Gravel Bar serves as an ideal staging area for multi-day paddling trips. "We usually drop part of our crew, camping gear, and canoes and then park most of our vehicles at South Maumelle or Buffalo Point," reports Arkansas F., making this a practical starting point for river adventures.
What campers like
Wilderness access: Rush Campground offers the final camping opportunity before entering more remote sections. "This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing," writes Matt S., noting "This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at campgrounds like Spring Creek. "The campsites are a good distance apart, they have plenty of room and have fire rings and picnic tables," reports Lisa B., who stayed three nights in October 2020.
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently encounter local wildlife at sites throughout the region. Fred S. reports: "A handful of armadillos were scrounging around during the evening" at Spring Creek Campground, adding to the natural camping experience.
What you should know
Access roads: Many campgrounds require navigation along unpaved roads. "Campsite had a rather janky gravel and dirt road leading to it. In the rain, the road would be extremely difficult. Very steep," warns Nathan H. about Spring Creek Campground.
Limited facilities: Expect minimal amenities at most Buffalo River camping areas. Paul P. notes about Rush Campground: "This is primitive camping at its best. They have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot."
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At Drury-Mincy Conservation Area across the Missouri border, Rachel B. reports: "I have Google Fi and Verizon and both had pretty decent signal and fully supported streaming a movie," but many Buffalo River sites have no service.
Tips for camping with families
Basic site amenities: Most family-friendly sites include standard features. "This is a beautiful campground for the entire family. Fairly quiet at night after 11pm," shares Jeyd A. about Rush Campground, adding "Restrooms are pit-style, so dont expect anything fancy."
Swimming options: Look for gravel bars that offer safe water access. "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp," writes Kristen G. about Dillards Ferry.
Ranger presence: Some campgrounds have regular park staff monitoring. Paul P. mentions about Rush Campground: "The sites were patrolled by rangers on a regular basis. However, the rangers were great and knew a lot about area."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV capacity: Most sites near the Buffalo River accommodate only smaller RVs or vans. Fred S. notes at Spring Creek Campground: "Van-camped in site #3 in mid-October. Not all sites are level; varies from site to site."
Entry challenges: Larger vehicles may struggle with access roads. Rachel B. cautions about Drury-Mincy Conservation Area: "The only thing to be aware of is that the short 'road' from the street to the campground is pretty steep and graveled and several cars have struggled to make it up though I haven't seen any fail yet."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious RVers can find no-cost sites in conservation areas. Abby M. shares about Drury-Mincy: "Lovely spot in Missouri. Passing through to Tennessee and found this gem of a spot with 2 vault toilets, trash and it's free! There's about 6 spots to pull in with a camper/RV."
