North Little Rock's campground options span from the western edge of the Ouachita Mountains to the lowlands along the Arkansas River, with elevations ranging from 250 to 500 feet. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures routinely reaching 90°F, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons. Several primitive camping areas provide alternatives to developed campgrounds when visiting this central Arkansas region.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: At Woolly Hollow State Park, there are beginner-friendly trail options for cyclists just 30 miles north of North Little Rock. "The park has a couple hiking options along with the lake activities. This SP will fill up quickly in the spring and fall, reservations are recommend," notes Chad K. about Lake Catherine State Park.
Fishing opportunities: The Camp Robinson area provides access to bass fishing, though lake conditions vary seasonally. "The lake has been partially drained to allow work to be done on stumps. The road back to it is well maintained and we had good cell reception with AT&T and Spectrum," shares Julie A. about Camp Robinson Dispersed Site.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer the best chance to spot local wildlife. "There is considerable wildlife to view and great fishing in our pond. Occasionally, we even have a Golden Eagle that will make an appearance!" notes Susan E. about camping at Erwin Estate High Point.
What campers like
Quiet escape: Camp Conway RV Park offers a peaceful setting despite being near urban areas. "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park. Convenient to Conway and even Little Rock," writes Burt about his experience at Camp Conway RV Park.
Accessible waters: Lake Catherine provides multiple options for water recreation. "We took my nieces on a weekend trip in our camper to Lake Catherine State Park. Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors," shares Alison C.
Lakeside camping: Sites directly adjacent to water are popular but book quickly. "I tent camped at Site #3, right beside the lake. Put my hammock up and watched the sun set and the fireflies start dancing. A few ducks played on the edge of the water and walked on shore for a bit," describes Amy W. about Woolly Hollow State Park.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Dirt roads no electric nice little quiet excluded spot but it's be tough for an RV to get around there," warns Loren J. about Adam's Lake Boat Ramp and Camp.
Seasonal water levels: Lake conditions change throughout the year, affecting activities. "We wish we could have stayed longer but we are planning to go back once the water level of the lake gets up and can swim," notes Brian G. about Woolly Hollow State Park.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential, especially at primitive sites. "Another no-frills camp on a wildlife management area. Mosquito spray is more important than food," advises Jason W. about Adam's Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Woolly Hollow offers family-friendly water access when levels permit. "There is a nice swimming area with a shop to order drinks/snacks. The park rangers and staff were super friendly and helpful," shares Alison C.
Educational opportunities: Parks sometimes offer educational programs worth planning around. "The state park ranger had a weekend full of planned events from a box turtle demo to a sand castle competition. The best part was the guided hike with Master Naturalist group of AR," explains Kelci C. about Erwin Estate High Point.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include playground equipment. "There is a large playground for the children (we don't have any of those). The trails are easy to walk and the nature is awesome here," reports Kathy E.
Tips for RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on rig size and access needs. "Out of the Arkansas State Parks that we have already visited, Woolly Hollow has been the best!! The sites are all asphalted and the bathhouse is located in the center of all of the sites so access is easy," recommends Brian G.
Reservation timing: Popular camping seasons fill quickly. "This park has everything you need. We got an amazing site right on the water and spent a day here because it was so beautiful," shares David B. about Lake Catherine.
Dump station availability: Check for services before arrival, as options vary. "Wooly, Hollow State park is a great place for a family camping trip. They have 30 campsites with power, water, and sewer hookups," confirms Jason B.
