Camping near Morrilton, Arkansas offers diverse settings from lakeside sites to riverfront camping with elevation changes ranging from 300 to 1,800 feet. The area sits at the transition between the Arkansas River Valley and the Ouachita Mountains, creating varied camping environments with cool pine forests to the south and riverside camping to the north. Winter camping requires preparation for potential freezing temperatures, while summer months typically see highs above 90°F.
What to do
Hiking at Petit Jean State Park: The park features multiple trail difficulty levels with terrain varying from easy forest paths to more challenging rocky sections. Petit Jean State Park offers trails for all ability levels as noted by Fred S.: "Fantastic hiking trails - rated from easy to difficult. Since I live only 45 minutes from this park, I normally come here for the day for hiking."
Swimming and water recreation: Access lake swimming at Lake Sylvia Recreation Area during warm months from the designated beach area. "There is a swim beach in season and we hiked a short trail to the dam at sunset. Beautiful!" shared Amanda C. about her experience at Lake Sylvia Recreation Area.
River watching: Observe barges and wildlife from Cherokee Park along the Arkansas River. Cheri H. describes the experience: "Beautiful and peaceful place to just sit and watch the river. Mr. Jack, campground host, was the perfect combination of helpful but not overbearing or too chatty."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campsites in the region offer natural separation and shade, particularly valuable during hot summer months. Ryan S. notes about Petit Jean State Park: "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove... enough space between sites for plenty of privacy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide chances to spot native Arkansas wildlife along waterways. Steve S. describes his experience at Cherokee Park: "We have seen quite a bit of wildlife including and up close encounter with a bald eagle, several blue herons, and a few river otter sightings."
Free camping options: Harris Brake Lake offers no-cost camping with basic amenities for those seeking budget accommodations. According to Sara W.: "Just a picnic table no other amenities and the view is amazing great place to stay for free." Julian P. adds: "absolutely beautiful place the fireflies here are amazing! Nobody else was camping here which made for some quiet nights."
What you should know
Limited winter access: Several campgrounds close seasonally, with varying dates. Lake Sylvia Recreation Area operates from April 27 to October 15, a fact missed by several reviewers. Josh B. noted: "Campground was closed when I tried to stay. May be seasonal, may be weather related. No explanation."
Varying shower facilities: Hot water availability differs between campground loops and locations. As Michael M. explains: "Hot showers in A, cold in B; but you can use either. Be careful how close you are to the wash house in B; the halogen light outside humms all night."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds are close to highways, affecting the camping experience. Steve S. reports about Morrilton RV Park: "It was a very nice park with full hook-ups.cabins, Very clean and well kept. It's pet friendly and accommodates larger RVs. It pretty much has everything. Looked really great except it is right next to I40. LOTS of noise."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: COE Toad Suck Ferry Park offers several play areas for children throughout the grounds. George L. shares: "Plenty of area for the kids to play. Nice playgrounds. Clean restrooms. We will definitely be back!"
Swimming access: During summer months, several campgrounds provide designated swimming areas suitable for families. Lona T. describes Toad Suck: "The kids enjoy the playgrounds x 3, walking, plenty of open space, and watching the barges coming down the river. Area real close to town."
Trail difficulty markings: Families can select appropriate hiking challenges based on clearly marked trail systems. Andrew S. recommends planning your visit timing carefully: "If in Arkansas, Petit Jean State Park is a must. With a ton of trails, lodge, restaurant, and waterfalls it is a nature lovers dream."
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: Different camping loops offer varying amenities and site sizes that affect RV camping comfort. Fred S. advises about Petit Jean State Park: "Areas C and D are in the woods. Most of the sites in these areas are on the small size but should easily accommodate a truck camper and smaller. Not all sites are level. Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant effort to level RVs, particularly in wooded areas. Ryan S. notes: "many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level."
Full hookup scarcity: Maumelle Park offers water and electric hookups with river views. Teresa S. shares about Toad Suck Ferry: "Good hookups and level paved sites. We will be returning often." For those needing sewer connections, options are more limited, with Petit Jean's A Loop being one of the few with full hookups in the area.
