Campground options near Murfreesboro, Arkansas span both public and private facilities within 45 minutes of the Crater of Diamonds State Park. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms. Cell service remains limited in many rural locations, particularly in the valleys surrounding the Cossatot River area.
What to do
Diamond hunting preparation: At Murfreesboro RV Park, campers can borrow diamond mining equipment at no extra cost. "This place has been great, we stayed for two nights and got to rent out equipment for free to go diamond mining and the woman on staff was very friendly and helped us out with a last minute reservation," reports natalie G.
Water activities on Caddo River: Caddo River Access RV Park provides direct river entry for floating, fishing, and swimming. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," notes Jessica D. The park's location puts campers at the starting point for river activities.
Hot Springs National Park visits: Located about 60 minutes from Murfreesboro, the historic bathhouses and hiking trails attract campers. "We spent a week here on our way out west. Nothing fancy but decent... it was relatively quiet for the time we spent here," says Chip about staying at Treasure Isle R.V. Park.
What campers like
Affordable alternatives: Tent camping options cost significantly less than full RV sites. "20.00 a night for two people in tent camping. I'm in van and they allowed me to van camp. Tent sites have electric. So bought an extension cord and took full advantage for a small heater," shares Jeanne A. about Murfreesboro RV Park.
Clean facilities: "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly. They have a dogpark!" explains Nicole C. about Leisure Landing RV Park. Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower buildings despite rural locations.
Highway accessibility: For travelers passing through, ease of access matters. "Great spot to stop right off the highway. Nothing fancy, but clean & everything was easy to navigate. Got there after hours, picked up an envelope to pay when we left & you can drop it in their office mail slot or mail it in. Easy peasy!" says Mary Elisabeth D. about Arkadelphia Campground.
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Many RV parks in the region place units close together. "The RV park is kinda small and all of the camper pull through spots are right on top of one another. It does have great views of the lake," notes Kohl about Treasure Isle R.V. Park.
Highway noise levels: Road noise affects several campgrounds, especially those offering easy interstate access. "Be warned that the campsite is right off a highway bridge so a decent amount of traffic through at all times," cautions Suzsan M. about Caddo River Access.
Seasonal infrastructure: Arkadelphia Campground & RV Park undergoes continuous improvements. "At one time it was a KOA then it was renamed Arkadelphia Rv park. Last year it got new owners and the name now is Caddo Valley Rv Park. The sites are large clean and all new full hookups. Still needs landscaping which is coming this spring/summer 2022," explains Tim.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Certain campgrounds report significant insect activity. "Got the popup all setup, then discovered there was a large wasp nest in the electric hookup box. Had to break down and move to another spot in the dark. Not a great night," warns Matthew T. about Caddo River Access RV Park.
Alternative activities: Beyond diamond hunting, families need backup plans. "If you are planning to kayak, canoe or tube, then you may not mind how busy the campgrounds are... Pretty scenery and the river activities are fun, otherwise there's not much to do here. You have to travel if you plan to hike any trails," advises Melissa B.
Swimming pool access: Hot Springs Arkansas Finish Line RV Park provides family-friendly facilities. "This is a nice little gated park. Close to the national park in Hot Springs Arkansas... It's pretty new, but not really any extra amenities. 20/30/50 amp full hookups. Concrete pads, and paved streets," notes Kenneth F.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Water pressure varies significantly between campgrounds. "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure," cautions Josh F. about J and J RV Park.
Site leveling requirements: Check ahead about site conditions. "Sites were pretty level but some were kind of cramped. Wifi and cable were adequate and it was relatively quiet for the time we spent here. Both ATT and Verizon signals were good here," mentions Chip regarding his Treasure Isle experience.
Early check-in arrangements: Call ahead if arriving outside normal hours. "We called and let the office know we were 30 minutes away and the park office was closing in 5 minutes. Shannon said she would wait for us!" shares Paulene T. about Sunrise RV Park.
