Primitive tent camping opportunities surround Mountain View in northern Arkansas, with multiple sites along the Buffalo National River. The area offers varied terrain from riverside gravel bars to wooded mountain settings. Seasonal flooding affects accessibility to many sites, particularly during spring rains when dirt access roads can become impassable.
What to do
Float trips from tent camps: Dillards Ferry provides direct access to Buffalo National River paddling routes. Dillards Ferry serves as an excellent launch point for canoe trips, with clear water beside the campground. "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp," notes camper Kristen G.
Mountain biking with base camp: Tent campers seeking trail access can utilize the trailheads at Syllamo, which features multiple mountain biking routes. "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. Bring lots of drinking water. Good for both Mountain Biking and hiking, but hikers need to make way for bikers," explains Arkansas F.
Fishing access: Gilbert Gravel Bar offers tent campers direct access to Buffalo River fishing spots. The location features a large beach area that serves as both camping space and river access. Local anglers recommend early morning or evening fishing during summer months when water levels are consistent.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the spaciousness at Spring Creek Campground, where sites provide ample separation. "We stayed three nights in October 2020. It's right on a put-in spot on the Buffalo River so there were a couple of buses and shuttles but for the most part it was very quiet. The campsites are a good distance apart, they have plenty of room and have fire rings and picnic tables," reports Lisa B.
Easy river launching: Shine Eye Gravel Bar offers tent campers flexibility for river access camping. "This is just a gravel bar along The Buffalo National River but it is beautiful! There are no designated campsites, just park in the parking lot, walk down to the river and find a spot," explains Lindsey P.
Ranger oversight: Regular staff patrols provide security at many Buffalo River tent sites. "Right on the beautiful buffalo river. The sites were patrolled by rangers on a regular basis. However, the rangers were great and knew a lot about area," notes Paul P. about his camping experience.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to primitive tent sites often requires navigating difficult terrain. Spring Creek Campground features particularly challenging 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.
Water availability: The best tent camping near Mountain View, Arkansas generally lacks potable water sources. Campers should pack in sufficient drinking water for their stay, especially during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
Varying amenities: Gilbert Gravel Bar provides minimal facilities but offers excellent river access. "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. You can tent hear in preparation for a canoe trip or as a stop over along the Buffalo River," explains Arkansas F.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is virtually nonexistent at primitive tent sites. Spring Creek campers report no cellular service, which many wilderness campers consider a benefit. As Lisa B. notes about Spring Creek, "Be aware that there is no drinking water and I didn't get phone service (yay!)."
Tips for camping with families
Evaluate noise levels: While most primitive tent camping sites near Mountain View maintain quiet hours, some experience varied activity levels. "This is a beautiful campground for the entire family. Fairly quiet at night after 11pm. Very busy during the day and evening time. Water gets crowded with canoers and people with kayaks," reports Jeyd A. about Rush Campground.
Select appropriate river sections: Buffalo River segments vary in difficulty. For families with young children, Rush Landing offers gentler water conditions. "This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing. Very few fast running water. If you are very skilled or experienced canoer you might be disappointed," advises Matt S.
Pack additional supplies: Tent camping families should bring all essentials as resupply options remain limited. The town of Gilbert provides basic necessities but larger grocery selections require driving to Mountain View, approximately 30 minutes from most campsites.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Mountain View cannot accommodate RVs due to access roads and site dimensions. For RV-friendly options with tent camping benefits, consider Hillbilly Hippie Hideaway, which offers big-rig friendly access while maintaining a tent camping atmosphere.
Hybrid camping options: RVers wanting to experience tent camping can base at developed campgrounds while making day trips to primitive areas. Mill Creek Recreation Area provides electric hookups with vault toilets while offering proximity to primitive tent camping spots.
