RV sites near Mountainburg, Arkansas sit at the edge of the Ozark National Forest, where elevations range from 800 to 2,200 feet across the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Most camping facilities in the area remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation for potential ice and snow conditions.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: The Mill Creek trailhead is located just 2 miles north of Turner Bend, making it convenient for campers to access popular hiking routes. "We love the view of the mountain and the fact that we can ride our ATV to the Turner Bend Store to get gasoline and sandwiches. Mill Creek trailhead just 2 miles north from our campsite," notes a camper.
Wine tasting tours: Several campgrounds are positioned along the Arkansas Wine Trail with vineyards within walking distance. Grape Country RV Park offers easy access to local wineries. "Very small, off a country road with wine tasting right down the street. Great hook ups, clean, level gravel," according to one reviewer who appreciated the convenient location.
Mountain biking: The region offers numerous mountain biking trails of varying difficulty levels, with some trails accessible directly from campgrounds. "Best shades sites rented in advance (Site 24-27)," advises a camper who stayed at Hog Valley RV & Treehouse Resort while enjoying nearby mountain biking trails.
What campers like
Quiet country settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful rural atmosphere at campgrounds in the region. At Grape Country RV Park, visitors enjoy "beautiful manicured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids," and the campground is "settled right in between grape fields."
Wooded camping areas: Some parks offer shaded tent sites in wooded settings. A reviewer at Twin Creeks RV Park noted that "they have RV spots, but they also have tent sites down by the creek that include picnic tables."
Proximity to attractions: Campers value locations that provide easy access to local points of interest. At Riverfront RV Resort, a reviewer appreciated that the campground is "located right along the river and is close to other attractions like Fort Smith and the US Marshall's Museum (literally down the block)."
What you should know
Varying hookup availability: While most RV parks offer full hookups, the specific services vary by location. At William O. Darby RV Community, a visitor noted, "This place had everything and the bathhouse was just like taking a shower at home!"
Site spacing considerations: The distance between camping sites varies significantly between parks. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, a reviewer observed that sites "are a little tight" and "you have to keep your blinds closed otherwise you find yourself looking right into the windows of your neighbors on both sides."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences temperature extremes that can affect camping comfort. At The Creeks Golf & RV Resort, a camper shared, "We were not prepared for below-freezing conditions so we had to gear up to keep the water lines from freezing."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. At Riverfront RV Resort, a visitor mentioned, "Our kids enjoyed the playground, outdoor gym, and pickleball - it was too cold to swim."
Pet-friendly areas: Most campgrounds accommodate pets but have specific designated areas. One reviewer at Grape Country RV Park appreciated the "beautiful manicured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids."
Swimming options: During summer months, pools provide relief from the heat. A visitor to Fort Smith-Alma RV Park mentioned that the "campground with pool, dog walk, and quaint store" offered good activities for families.
Tips from RVers
Pad surfaces: RV sites feature various surfaces that affect setup and stability. A camper at Fort Smith-Alma RV Park noted their "site A2 had fire pit, grill, picnic table was pretty level even with gravel."
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies throughout the region, especially in valley locations. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "Antenna TV good, TMobile service good," which is valuable information for those needing to stay connected.
Winter camping preparation: RV campers should prepare for cold weather if visiting during winter months. At The Creeks Golf & RV Resort, a visitor advised, "We were not prepared for below-freezing conditions so we had to gear up to keep the water lines from freezing."