Campgrounds surrounding Mulberry, Arkansas provide a mix of primitive and developed sites along the Mulberry River and nearby waterways. Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures offers tent and RV camping with river access, while Vine Prairie Park provides electric hookups and water views. Several state parks within driving distance, including Devil's Den State Park and Lake Fort Smith State Park, feature cabins alongside traditional camping areas. The Ozark National Forest lands near Mulberry contain additional undeveloped camping areas with varying levels of accessibility.
Access to camping areas varies seasonally, with some campgrounds operating year-round while others have limited availability during winter months. Most developed sites in the region provide water and electric hookups, with several offering full sewer connections for RVs. The terrain around Mulberry features river valleys and forested hills, with many campgrounds positioned near water. Weather conditions can affect camping experiences, particularly during spring when rainfall may increase river flow. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage at developed campgrounds closer to Interstate 40. A camper mentioned, "The river was raging on the night we stayed so no swimming at all," highlighting how conditions can change rapidly.
Waterfront camping dominates the region, with many campsites providing direct access to the Mulberry River. Campers frequently mention swimming holes, fishing spots, and water recreation as highlights of their stays. Several campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some sites featuring full hookups while others maintain a more rustic atmosphere. Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures receives positive reviews for its natural setting and river access, with one visitor noting it has "about a mile of River that is deep and slow moving" ideal for swimming and fishing. Campgrounds in the area typically provide basic amenities like restrooms and picnic tables, though shower facilities may be limited at smaller locations. Proximity to hiking trails and ATV routes represents another common feature mentioned in visitor reviews, making the region popular for both water recreation and land-based activities.
$15 - $35 / night
"We stayed at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures for a few days and had a great time. We spent most of our time swimming, fishing, floating and kayaking in the Mulberry River."
"Right off I40, on the Mulberry River, very friendly staff, you can Tube, float, kuyak, or just swim and relax. They have access to the national forest, and atv there also."
$20 / night
"Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great. "
"The trails are great and our campsite had a path right down to the river. The water hookup was a bit tricky, it leaks all over the place until you turn it all the way."
$23 - $163 / night
"Lake Ft. Smith State Park is a beautiful park in the Boston Mountains. We drove over from Memphis to meet my brother’s family (who lives in Tulsa)."
"This is a nice modern park on the shore of the man made Lake Fort Smith."
$15 - $215 / night
"Located beyond a perfectly canopied gravel road and surrounded by miles of mostly uninhabited forests White Rock Mountain has been the most delightful treasure of 2016."
"The views, as other reviewers have said, are impressive and the Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season."
$16 - $75 / night
"Boat launch and lovely views of the Arkansas river. Close to restaurants and shopping ."
"We used it as a base camp to visit several Arkansas state parks such as Devil’s Den and Lake Fort Smith. The camp was clean, a little crowded, but very nice and relaxed."
$16 - $75 / night
"Really nice campground you have two options in the A section you are right one a small river and one the B side it’s more of the wooded option but most sites have the Arkansas rive close by with mountain"
"It’s in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can launch a boat or you can go kayaking in Massard creek. There’s Cat fish, Perch and, Bass."
"It’s just far enough away from the highway so you have a quiet nights rest without hearing the traffic. The pond on the property has soothing sounds of peepers to fall asleep too."
"Was headed to Lake Fort Smith but area was booked so we stopped here and was pleased with our stay. Spaces are quite small but it has become the norm everywhere."
"Super nice place run by the City of Mulberry that lease this park from the COE. They allow dumping of gray water BUT, it is illegal to dump gray water on the ground ANYWHERE in Arkansas!"
"If you want to fish the Arkansas River and have a place to stay then this is the place for you.."
$16 - $75 / night
"This park is located on the Arkansas River. There’s a boat ramp, so bring your boat and enjoy the beautiful Arkansas River. Pets are allowed, there is a leash law. Bring your own firewood."
"Campground road is paved as well as Highway 215 from I-40 accessing the campground. Sites are mostly shaded, but there is no privacy between sites."
TravelerIt was awesome, the campsites were nice and so many beautiful sights to see and so much exploring to do. If you have a sedan or a smaller car it is very difficult and risky getting to the campsite, so I would recommend bringing a very capable offroad vehicle. Going around May the weather is perfect!
GuideThe campground was really nice. The sites were spread out really well for full hookup spots. Each spot had some privacy and distance between them. Bathrooms were super clean. There’s plenty of hiking trails around but other than that it’s a pretty relaxing campsite. Weather is 10-15 degrees cooler than what you’d expect in the River Valley.
ScoutOwners are exceptional. New park. Nicely landscaped but trees are immature, no shade. Newly expanded to around 50 sites. Lot of extended stays but immaculate. Small lake with catch and release fishing. Community fireplace, pool and nice playground. Tell Gus (resident Golden Retriever and greeter) "hi."
GuideI got there with Google maps at no problem. I found a small camp site with a rock fire ring . Which was perfect for my compact suv and 6 person tent. The signal for Verizon was really good and I got 5g. There's alot of little trails that you can walk. And getting there was a lot of twists and turns so I'd say drive slow at that point. But, its not that bad.
GuideSo, I never been here so it took me a little bit to find a camp spot. I found a spot where my medium clearance compact suv could drive up to. ...it was a all wheel drive, but I think a 2- wheel drive could get to where I camped. It was very nice where I was at. Covered with trees and a rock fire ring there.
ScoutNot a bad spot. Lots of room and shade. Plenty of space to turn a truck and trailer around. Had full cell service. No water access and a fair amount of traffic during the week due to road repairs further down the road. Good views, you can actually see spy rock from the site.
TravelerThis is an abandoned former campsite in a beautiful location. It's free and quiet, which is nice, but the camper next to us gave us such bad vibes that we moved to another site to get a bit of space from them. Overall it's good with little to no litter, but take obvious safety precautions.
TravelerThis is an abandoned former campsite in a beautiful location. It's free and quiet, which is nice, but the camper next to us gave us such bad vibes that we moved to another site to get a bit of space from them. Overall it's good with little to no litter, but take obvious safety precautions.
TravelerFirst come first serve camping. This area is meant for daytime picnics, but the park rangers at the state Park office allows camping here for a cheaper rate, if you ask. It's great for a quiet camping, if you're okay with practically no amenities. They have a glorified outhouse there with no power. No running water. Individual camp sites each with a fire pit and picnic table. If you're lucky, there are two camp/picnic spots with an amazing view.
Camping sites near Mulberry, Arkansas offer access to the Ozark National Forest at elevations ranging from 400 to 2,500 feet. Most campgrounds in the area sit along tributaries of the Arkansas River watershed, creating a unique riverine environment for outdoor recreation. Water levels fluctuate seasonally with winter and spring bringing higher flows, while summer months typically maintain stable conditions for water activities.
Explore nearby caves and trails: Devil's Den State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails and cave systems for exploration. "4 days of camping with the guys, exploring caves and trails, and overall having a blast!" reports Brian E., who visited in August.
Kayak the Arkansas River: Aux Arc provides direct access to the Arkansas River with boat ramps and riverside sites. "Aux Arc Park is a beautiful little campground with large sites on the water," notes Stephen B., who recommends the location for water activities and fishing.
Practice archery: Vine Prairie Park & Boat Launch offers a city-owned archery range adjacent to the campsites. Michael W. mentions, "There is a city owned archery range next to the campsites. You can bike the road which is along the Arkansas River all the way to Alma to the west."
Secluded tent spots: Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures offers tent sites away from RV areas for a more private experience. "The tent sites are near the river. It was quiet at night. The staff was very helpful as well," shares Mike M., highlighting the peaceful setting.
Off-season solitude: At Shores Lake, visitor numbers drop significantly during non-peak months. As Shelia H. notes, "Off season you may just have the whole place to yourself!"
Accessible water recreation: Most campers appreciate the easy water access for various activities. "Great place to camp and kayak. River view from our campsite, easy access to the river. The owners were awesome!" remarks Sheila H. about her stay at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty connectivity. At Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground, "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park," according to Gonzo A., who suggests stocking up on supplies beforehand.
Road conditions vary: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. At Shores Lake, Justin mentions it's "about 20 minutes from I-40 up a windy road," while White Rock Mountain requires slow driving on rough terrain.
Seasonal closures: Always check if facilities are open before planning a trip. Jo reported about Devil's Den State Park: "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!"
Look for level sites: When camping with children, select areas with minimal elevation changes. At Lake Fort Smith State Park, Jennifer O. recommends: "It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all," making it safer for small children.
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds offer play structures for children. At Springhill, Rebecca H. notes, "I saw two playgrounds in the park, one was close to our site, with both locals and travelers playing."
Consider cabin options: For families wanting amenities beyond tent camping, Devil's Den State Park offers cabin rentals. Dam J. explains, "This facility has everything you need. If you are a glamper there is a place for you, but if you like to primitive camping there is also a place for you."
Reserve sites with full hookups: Sites 1-20 at Lake Fort Smith offer complete services. Donna H. suggests, "If you need sewer service, I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park."
Plan for tight spaces: Some RV parks in the area have limited room between sites. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, Julie F. warns, "It's a bit tight, we found ourselves sharing our front yard with our neighbor. You have to keep your blinds closed otherwise you find yourself looking right into the windows of your neighbors on both sides."
Check road clearance: Many access roads have steep grades and tight turns. For White Rock Mountain, Clarissa F. advises, "The drive up to this campsite was a slight challenge. I would recommend an SUV or other tall vehicle with 4 wheel drive. The twisty, steep, narrow dirt road makes for quite an adventure."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mulberry, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mulberry, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 132 campgrounds and RV parks near Mulberry, AR and 19 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mulberry, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mulberry, AR is Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures with a 4.4-star rating from 23 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mulberry, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Mulberry, AR.
What parks are near Mulberry, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 35 parks near Mulberry, AR that allow camping, notably Ozark Lake and John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake.
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