Best Tent Camping near Murfreesboro, AR
Tent campsites near Murfreesboro, Arkansas range from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites, with several options in the surrounding Ouachita National Forest. Pikeville Creek Campground and Buckhorn offer tent camping from March to mid-November, while Cossatot River State Park provides tent-only sites with more natural surroundings. Albert Pike Recreation Area, once a popular camping destination, now serves as day-use only, though nearby primitive tent sites can be found along the Eagle Rock Loop trail system.
Most tent campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, but limited access to drinking water. Campers should bring their own water supply or filtration systems, especially at primitive sites. The gravel roads leading to many tent sites require careful navigation, particularly after rain. One camper noted, "We do recommend it to anyone that has a high clearance vehicle and if you are towing that your trailer be one of high clearance too." Several campgrounds enforce a 14-day stay limit, and sites are typically first-come, first-served with cash payment required.
Tent campers at Hickory Nut Mountain enjoy free camping with picnic tables, fire rings, and views overlooking Lake Ouachita. The tent-only sites at Cossatot Falls provide spacious camping pads and easy access to swimming holes and hiking trails. For more secluded experiences, the primitive tent sites along Eagle Rock Loop offer true backcountry camping with creek access. These sites require hiking in from trailheads and following Leave No Trace principles. A review mentioned, "The campsite is along Long Creek so you will have access to water. Perhaps 100 feet up river from our campsite I found a nice fishing hole." During spring and summer, campers should prepare for intense insect activity by treating clothing and gear with appropriate repellents.
