Campgrounds near Ozark Lake offer diverse accommodation options from primitive tent sites to cabins with modern amenities. The area spans elevations from 400 to 2,100 feet with heavily forested ridges and valleys throughout the Ozark National Forest. Campers should note that cell service is non-existent in some of the more remote campgrounds, particularly at White Rock Mountain and Shores Lake.
What to do
Swimming in natural pools: Mulberry River provides excellent swimming opportunities during summer months when water levels are adequate. "We spent most of our time swimming, fishing, floating and kayaking in the Mulberry River," noted a visitor at Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures.
Hiking nearby trails: The region offers extensive hiking options ranging from easy lakeside paths to challenging mountain routes. A camper at White Rock Mountain Recreation Area mentioned, "The Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season."
Archery practice: Some Ozark Lake campsites provide specialty amenities beyond standard offerings. A reviewer at Vine Prairie Park noted, "There is a city owned archery range next to the campsites. You can bike the road which is along the Arkansas River all the way to Alma to the west."
Wildlife watching: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "In a prior visit I saw a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock. Only time in 40+ years I've seen a bear in the wild in Arkansas," shared one White Rock Mountain camper.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds around Ozark Lake maintain high cleanliness standards. A camper at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground praised the "cleanest bathhouses" and noted it was "absolutely the cleanest and most beautiful campground we've been in."
Riverside locations: Proximity to water consistently receives positive feedback. "Great place to camp and kayak. River view from our campsite, easy access to the river," commented one visitor to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures.
Off-grid experience: Limited connectivity appeals to those seeking true disconnection. A visitor to Shores Lake mentioned, "Off season you may just have the whole place to yourself!"
Variety of terrain: The topography changes significantly between campgrounds. "Some sites are a little uneven. And some sites are tough to get a 41ft 5th wheel into," noted one camper at Springhill Campground, highlighting the diverse landscape of Ozark Lake campsites.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful driving. At White Rock Mountain, a reviewer cautioned, "The twisty, steep, narrow dirt road makes for quite an adventure. It has many large rocks in the road and decently sized potholes."
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies dramatically. "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park," reported a visitor to Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Bathroom conditions: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. At Aux Arc, a visitor noted, "The bathrooms could have been cleaner," while another mentioned that at Vine Prairie Park there are "no showers in bathrooms. But nice clean bathrooms."
Booking requirements: Reservation policies vary by location and season. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" warned a Devil's Den visitor, emphasizing the importance of verifying availability.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: During summer heat, swimming facilities become essential. A camper at Aux Arc shared, "No swimming but bluff hole is 15 minutes away and awesome," providing an alternative when on-site swimming isn't available.
Site selection for safety: Terrain at some Ozark Lake campsites presents challenges for families with young children. At Lake Fort Smith, a visitor observed, "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous."
Bug management: Insect activity varies by season and location. "The bugs were out of control," reported a Clear Creek camper during peak season, suggesting families pack appropriate repellent.
Alternative accommodations: Beyond tent camping, cabins offer comfort for families. "We stayed in Cabin B in August one summer with my wife, who is tougher than anything but spiders. I would have been wise to get there a couple hours earlier and let her relax while I cleaned the place thoroughly," advised a White Rock Mountain visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many campsites require equipment for leveling. "Sites have gravel which limits how much dirt/mud you have to deal with," noted a visitor to Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, adding that their "site A2 had fire pit, grill, picnic table was pretty level even with gravel."
Site spacing awareness: RV sites vary in privacy and proximity. "You have to keep your blinds closed otherwise you find yourself looking right into the windows of your neighbors on both sides," cautioned one Fort Smith-Alma RV Park visitor about the tight spacing.
Water quality differences: Water supplies vary between campgrounds. At Springhill, an RVer measured "some of the best water I have ever had. Only 35 ppm on my zero water tester. Bottled water has had more than 75 ppm."
Access route planning: Some campgrounds have specific approach recommendations. A Devil's Den camper advised, "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)," highlighting the importance of route planning for larger vehicles.
