35 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Tent campsites in the Ouachita National Forest surround Nashville, Arkansas, offering multiple primitive camping options for tent enthusiasts. Cossatot Falls Campground within Cossatot River State Park provides six tent-only sites with fire rings and picnic tables, while multiple backcountry sites along the Eagle Rock Loop trail offer more remote experiences. Albert Pike Recreation Area, although primarily a day-use area, connects to several hiking trails with dispersed tent camping. Long Creek, Viles Branch, and Straight Creek provide primitive tent sites accessible only by hiking into the wilderness areas.
Most tent campgrounds near Nashville require self-sufficiency as amenities remain minimal. Campsite surfaces vary from cleared forest floor to rocky terrain, with many locations offering only vault toilets and no potable water. Sites at Cossatot Falls include fire pits, grills, and picnic tables, but campers must bring their own water or filter from streams. First-come, first-served rules apply at most locations, with typical fees ranging from free to $8 per night. A review mentioned, "There are six large, improved sites which are first come first serve cash pay only. Vault toilets, no water and no electricity." Some backcountry areas along hiking trails require visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles, including digging catholes for waste.
The Ouachita Mountain terrain provides tent campers with excellent shade coverage and riverside opportunities. According to one visitor, "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." Walk-in tent locations offer greater solitude, particularly on weekdays when visitation drops. Many tent sites provide quick access to swimming holes, particularly along the Cossatot River where natural rock formations create inviting pools. Tent campers should be prepared for variable weather conditions, with spring and summer bringing intense insects requiring preventative measures. Hiking poles are recommended for accessing many of the more remote tent sites, especially when crossing streams or navigating the varied terrain of the Eagle Rock Loop.
"The trails to get to this rec area are for the 4wd’s and off-road vehicles. Great point to camp with great access to water. Didn’t see a boat ramp but wasn’t looking either."
"Open: Mar- Oct 31 Fee: $5.00 per night
Limit: 14 days
Sites: 5 tent
Pit toilet, picnic table, fire ring, lantern pole, pedestal grill, trash Totally amazing sites sitting right on a small finger"
from $8 / night
Check Availability"Kitty Cove was secluded, but you'll definitely want to bring a tarp or umbrella because there isn't much shade cover. There are two little islands you can swim or kayak to from Kitty Cove."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Vault toilets, no water and no electricity. Each site has enough room for three tents and has a grill, fire pit, table, and bear pole. There is easy access to the falls and hiking trails."
"We also have a large 20’ tent that makes it difficult to fit into regular square pad tent sites. These pads were huge and fit our tent, which was super nice because our original plans fell through."
"Although the campground is closed due to the flood (at least last time I checked), it's definitely worthwhile to camp a little up the trail and in the backcountry."
"This area is superb for primitive camping along the mountain road side pulloffs. Or if you're up for more of a challenge like us, you can take on the 28-30 mile Eagle Rock Loop trail."
"The Long Creek Primitive Campsite is located in the Ouachita National Forest along the Little Missouri Trail on the eastern section of the Eagle Rock Loop."
"I loved this trail!! So pretty and full of great camping spots"
"A very pretty location and depending on the time of year you come you may also see bald eagles like we did also it gets very crowded in the summer but other than that it’s a great campsite and the swimming"
GuideQuiet, nicely maintained camping area. No fire rings, no services, T-mobile 2 bars, marked gravel pads. There is a boat ramp at the end of the peninsula. Obviously a fishing lake. Secluded. 20 minutes from interstate 30. Good for overnight or maybe two if exploring the area.
ScoutSites are closer together than what appears online—overall clean and well maintained. A hike to the bathhouse but there is one!
GuideN8ce park but it almost looks forgotten. When we drove through there were no campers and it looked like some of the sites needed a little TLC.
GuideThis review is strictly for camping. Needed a spot for the night on a road trip. Chose a spot based on limited user photos, as Recreation.gov lists none. Note that the $15 rate jumps to $23 after an $8 reservation fee. Despite previous reviews reporting zero cell coverage, T-Mobile worked fine. We initially chose C15 over the largely vacant Loop A for perceived privacy and proximity to facilities, but it didn't match expectations upon arrival. Phone support stated they cannot modify or cancel reservations for this facility. To switch, we had to create a second Recreation.gov account (the system blocks booking two sites) and pay another $23. The camp host never came by, but we didn't want to risk setting up without an active reservation. If multiple sites are open, scout them in person before paying online. The grounds themselves are pleasant, and the proximity to Hot Springs is a major plus. However, the day-use facility (the only practical option for Loop A) was poorly maintained, leaving only one functional toilet in the women’s restroom.
GuideGreat little park, right on the water. We booked site 007 a good sized pull through, we are about 60 feet with our TOAD We had to pull to the front of the spot since we didn't have levelers, so we needed 30 feet of extention cord to reach our rig. But it was a beautiful park.
ScoutRemote enough to feel like a getaway but close enough to food and direction access if needed. Beautiful trees and fall changes colors and lots of wildlife to watch- deer, squirrels, eagles, armadillos, cranes and fishing. Just know that you may need extra hose as some spigots are shared. The electric has both 30 and 50amp plugs. Bathrooms have showers and are clean. Beautiful view of the creek from our site.
TravelerCool campsite with a creek but you’re paying a minimum 15$ for no signal or WiFi, some bathrooms without lockable doors or sinks, shower that is sometimes hot sometimes cold. But if you wanna spend the money it’s not bad and you’re 30 minutes away from hot springs.
GuideReally cool hosts. Very helpful had all you need to find diamonds. Offers tours. People living their dream.
GuideDidn’t book ahead. They had space. Gracious host. Provided more than a place to stay. I’m glad we found you.
Tent camping near Nashville, Arkansas provides access to rugged Ouachita Mountain terrain with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet. The area receives approximately 54 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forested environments and seasonal water features. Local campgrounds typically experience temperature ranges from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer, with significant humidity during warmer months.
Water activities: River Run West offers primitive camping with direct access to fishing and boating opportunities. "This is a very small campground with just 4 tent sites but is a beautiful space. Well maintained but it really is only for tents where you will find shade provided by the nice mature trees," notes a camper.
Bouldering and swimming: Cossatot Falls Campsites provides natural rock formations perfect for climbing and water exploration. "It's not for the faint or heart or people avoiding physical activity because trekking the huge river boulders is not easy. But the beauty is worth it. The water is crystal clear and you can watch fish swim by," reports one visitor.
Trout fishing: The mountain streams around Long Creek Campsite offer productive fishing spots accessible by hiking. A camper shared, "Perhaps 100 feet up river from our campsite I found a nice fishing hole and caught and released 7 trout and 1 sunfish within about 1 hour."
Secluded river access: Pikeville Creek Campground requires four-wheel drive but rewards with solitude. "Luckily it hadn't rained in a while. The trails to get to this rec area are for the 4wd's and off-road vehicles. Great point to camp with great access to water," states one reviewer.
Large camping spaces: Tent sites at Cossatot Falls provide ample room for setup. "The tent pads were huge and the waterfall area was beautiful. Our children enjoyed climbing on the rocks and splashing in the river," notes one family.
Wildlife viewing: The forest around tent sites offers opportunities to see and hear native species. At Viles Branch Creek, campers report, "You'll hear birds singing all day long. We did have critters visit us in the evening so be prepared to hang your food in a tree or carry a protective canister."
Limited water sources: Most campgrounds require bringing your own water or filtering from streams. At Cossatot Falls, a camper reports, "It's primitive camping only and just about 6 spots. The bathroom was clean and well stocked. No running water or electricity."
Road conditions: Access to remote sites often requires navigating rough roads. One Cossatot visitor warns, "Wish I could say the same thing about the gravel logging road in! OH MY LORT!! It will test your suspension!!"
Weather awareness: Flash flood risk exists in low-lying areas. At Albert Pike Recreation Area, a ranger notes, "This area is superb for primitive camping along the mountain road side pulloffs... Area is prone to severe flash flooding so know the weather before heading out."
Bring water shoes: River crossings require appropriate footwear. A hiker at Viles Branch Creek advises, "Bring hiking shoes and water shoes for the various river crossings. Trekking poles are also recommended to aid in the river crossings."
Insect protection: Seasonal bug activity requires preparation. "During the spring and summer the insects can be intense. I advise treating clothing and gear beforehand with permethrin to prevent ticks and use pacaridin on the spot for other insects," suggests one experienced camper.
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Bluegill Hill offers safe water access for children. "There are two little islands you can swim or kayak to from Kitty Cove. Bennett Cove was perfect for star-gazing, but admittedly a little less secluded," notes a visitor.
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Nashville have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Buckhorn, a camper advises, "I 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."
Generator policies: Noise restrictions vary by location. At Cossatot Falls, one camper mentioned, "They did allow generators which is unfortunate because the river is so close. Part of what we love about camping is being in nature and hearing the sounds around us."
Timing for optimal sites: Weekend crowding affects availability at prime locations. "On the weekend this area gets a high number of visitors, so it is best to arrive early in the day," suggests a camper at Albert Pike Recreation Area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nashville, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nashville, AR is Pikeville Creek Campground with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
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TheDyrt.com has all 35 tent camping locations near Nashville, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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