Buffalo National River offers many dispersed camping options near Mountain View, Arkansas. The terrain in this region varies from densely wooded hills to riverside clearings with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during the day with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions and better water levels for river activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Greers Ferry Lake - COE/Cherokee Rec Area provides excellent access for anglers seeking rainbow trout. "I pulled out so many rainbow trouts from this lake! The camp sites are close to the water, and the boat docks are easy to access," notes camper Jill R.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems accommodate various difficulty levels throughout the area. At Woolly Hollow State Park, campers can access both short and challenging routes. One visitor explains, "Great hiking with short and long options, a pour-off waterfall during the wet season when the lake is high, biking options."
Water recreation: The Buffalo River offers swimming, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. At Woolum Dispersed Area, campers can enjoy "both a rock and sand beach currently" according to William M., who visited during Memorial Day weekend when the area was still relatively uncrowded.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many campers value the tranquility found at these sites. At Henderson Park, visitors appreciate the "beautiful site right on beautiful lake" and the "short distance from town" with "mature trees" as noted by reviewer N.I.
Swimming areas: Access to clean swimming holes ranks high among visitor preferences. One camper describes Woolum as having "the best swimming hole" and notes it's "super easy to pull our trailer into every spot there."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse bird and animal populations. Camp Conway offers "excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park," according to visitor Burt, highlighting the natural environment that attracts wildlife enthusiasts.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas have minimal amenities. Tyler Bend Campground camper Lucy P. advises, "Pretty basic campground, kind of just a bunch of spots in a field. About half are first come first serve... Only one bathhouse in the car camping area so it gets pretty busy."
Seasonal limitations: Water levels and access can change dramatically. One Henderson Park visitor noted, "Arkansas is experiencing flooding at this time and we were fortunate that our site was not flooded."
Horse camping regulations: While specialized horse campgrounds near Mountain View, Arkansas are limited, Woolum serves as a horse camp with numerous spots available. However, users must be self-sufficient as reviews mention it's a "very primitive campground" with only vault toilets and no trash service.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Woolly Hollow State Park organizes special events for children. One parent shared, "The state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition."
Educational opportunities: Bidwell Point Park and surrounding areas offer learning experiences. A homeschooling parent at Woolly Hollow noted, "As a homeschool family we are always looking for learning opportunities and we are thrilled we stumbled upon this campground. The Master Naturalist group put our daughter right up front and identified every plant and tree we passed."
Swimming safety: River conditions can change quickly. Campers should check water levels before swimming, especially with children. "The river is gorgeous," reports a Tyler Bend visitor, though seasonal temperatures affect swimming comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many horse campgrounds near Mountain View, Arkansas have challenging access for larger rigs. At Bidwell Point, camper Brent M. warns, "If you are not proficient in backing your camper sites 10-13 are probably not the best choice. You have to back down a hill quite a ways."
Hookup availability: Most dispersed areas lack hookups. When staying at Tyler Bend, one RVer noted their "only issues were lack of hookups, bad weather, and some people who decided to crowd us and run a loud generator despite the campground being mostly empty."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. A Tyler Bend camper reported, "The close proximity to US 65 Highway detracts from what is otherwise a beautiful campground. Truckers seem to favor Jake brakes when descending into the river Valley...especially at 4:00 am."
