The Ozark National Forest surrounds Mountainburg, Arkansas at an elevation of 800-1,300 feet with dense hardwood forest cover characteristic of the Boston Mountains range. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snow, while summer camping typically experiences highs in the 80-90°F range with humidity levels often exceeding 70%. Most campgrounds near Mountainburg remain accessible year-round, though water systems at some locations are winterized from November through March.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground offers hiking trails directly from campsites. "We had a break in the winter weather this week and took three days to explore the trails around Lake Ft. Smith. As only one of four campers, we had the place to ourselves save the park keepers making their rounds to ensure our safety and the cleanliness of the park," notes one visitor to Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Mulberry River provides kayaking and fishing within 25 minutes of Mountainburg. "The mulberry river is a hidden gem that runs through the Ozarks. It's just a quiet beautiful place to camp, ride ATVs, float the river or just hangout with friends and families," explains a visitor to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures.
Cave exploration: Caves in the area provide summer cooling opportunities with temperatures remaining steady around 58°F year-round. "4 days of camping with the guys, exploring caves and trails, and overall having a blast!" reports a camper who visited Devil's Den State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area offers tent sites with extraordinary privacy. "Sites 1-4 are well spaced and have large tent pads. Sites 5-8 are smaller with smaller tent pads and the view from these sites is AMAZING! Just know that with the view comes the wind and less space to stretch out," explains a visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Mountainburg maintain high standards of cleanliness. "Neat, clean, well maintained with good space between spots. Very nice restrooms with free hot water. The place seems almost new!" shares a guest at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground.
Waterfront access: Many campsites provide direct water access for fishing or swimming. "Right on the river where there is a natural pool. Nice size camp sites with good cover, nice camp pavilion with games and other things to keep busy," reports a visitor to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful driving and vehicle preparation. "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that the last hour of the drive is only 20 miles. Make sure to stop for gas! It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other," explains a visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services," notes a camper at Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping experiences year-round. "It stormed at night but we were on the right side of the dam in case it flash flooded. Starlink and Verizon very spotty here," reports a visitor to Natural Dam.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming alternatives: When natural water isn't suitable, look for campgrounds with pools. "Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" shares a visitor to Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Campsite selection for young children: Some sites have safety considerations for families. "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous. If you are a parent with small kids, sites 17-20 and sites 2-3 are better," advises a camper at Aux Arc.
Playground access: Not all recreation areas are within walking distance. "The playground requires that you drive to it which is inconvenient," notes a family that stayed at Aux Arc.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV sites require minimal adjustment. "It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all," reports a visitor to Lake Fort Smith State Park.
RV site spacing: Space between sites varies significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are generally spacious. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space," recommends a camper at Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Accessibility considerations: Access routes can be challenging for larger vehicles. "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)," advises an RVer visiting a campsite near Mountainburg, Arkansas.
