Ozark-St. Francis National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Ozark-St. Francis National Forests camping trip.
The campgrounds feature a total of 125 campsites (including 26 pull-through sites). Thirty-five of the sites—the Class AAA sites—have 30 and 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. The 90 Class B sites offer 30 amp electrical and water hookups. All sites are reservable. Campsites are divided into four campground areas. Each includes a modern bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets. Area "A" is near Lake Bailey and include sites along the lakeshore. Areas "B," "C," and "D" are located on the south side of Ark. 154 in wooded settings.
Other campsite choices in the main camping area include a 44-unit Rally-style Area with 20 amp electrical service available for camping clubs.
A trailer dump station is centrally located near the Rally-style camping area.
Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport.
$25 - $40 / night
Maumelle Park Map Customer Comment Card Special Event Application HERE All Sites in the UAMS Medical Loop MUST have Approval from a Park Ranger and a Physician Prior to Making Reservations.
The Nuttall Trail runs through the park, offering visitors hiking opportunities. Anglers will find a selection of crappie, bream, hybrid bass, white bass and more. A boat ramp is provided for campers to enjoy the river.
The campground is set on the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, a series of navigation pools used to help ships navigate upstream toward Oklahoma. The Arkansas River is one of the Mississippi's largest tributaries, flowing 1,450 miles from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, through to Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Wintering eagles can be seen in large numbers along the Arkansas River. Most of these eagles migrate from Canada and the U.S. Great Lakes region.
The Pinnacle Mountain State Park is just two miles from the campground. The 13 mountain trails here range from easy to strenuous, and each one promises captivating scenery. They also have several new mountain biking trails. See Pinnacle Mountain State Park for more information. Two Rivers Park is a city park that is also two miles form the campground. This park hase numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as, a bridge that connect the trails to the vast Arkansas River Trail. See Two Rivers Park and Arkansas River Trail
Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center For specific information about fees and cancellations/Changes please visit: Rules and Regulations
$30 / night
Toad Suck Park Map Customer Comment Card Special Event Application HERE! Toad Suck Campground, situated on the Arkansas River, is a popular destination for families and groups. Picnicking, boating and fishing all draw visitors to this shady campground.
Fishing is excellent year-round, and record fish catches are common in the Arkansas River. The waters have an abundance of bream, crappie, white bass, largemouth bass and several species of catfish.
Situated in the eastern edge of both the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, the area is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Dogwood, redbud, wild plum and other native flowering trees offer breathtaking sights in springtime.
The nearby Cadron Blockhouse in Cadron Settlement Park, a replica of a structure that was built in the late 18th century, is a popular tourist attraction. The town of Conway hosts an annual Toad Suck Daze Festival, featuring a toad race competition.
$75 / night
Gulpha Gorge campground is a tree lined retreat nestled on Gulpha Creek just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row. Open all year, the campground features 44 campsites all suitable for RVs and tents. This popular spot is the ideal base camp for all of your Hot Springs adventures and tends to fill up quickly, even in the fall and winter. Reservations are recommended.
Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row. The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.
Sit back and relax to the sounds of adjacent Gulpha Gorge Creek under the canopy of towering trees while being serenaded by the local winged inhabitants and you just may forget you are so close to downtown Hot Springs National Park. Enjoy a stunning hike to Bathhouse Row with mountain-top views along the way. Dip your toes in Gulpha Gorge Creek or stretch out on the cool grass to enjoy the breeze while planning a visit to one of the stunning spas on historic Bathhouse Row.
For facility specific information, please call (501) 620-6715.
Gulpha Gorge campground is just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row.
__Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 72 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.
$34 / night
This peaceful park makes great camping near Little Rock and is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The only full-service marina on the lake is here at the park and open in the summertime for bait, snacks/drinks, and fuel. Boat rentals are available year-round. The park also includes a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, and a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall.
The park has 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. There are also many native stone and wood buildings on-site. The history of these structures dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round. Guided horseback rides are offered seasonally.
$15 - $25 / night
This park is located in two areas on Lake Dardanelle, a 34,300-acre reservoir on the Arkansas River. The main site is in Russellville where you’ll find the Sport Fishing Weigh-in Pavilion, a fishing pier, swimming beach, boardwalk, trail, and visitor center with five aquariums, and the Lakeview Room meeting facility. Park interpreters lead a variety of programs and lake tours. There are 57 campsites in the Russellville area of the park (16 Class AAA, 14 Class AA, and 27 Class B) with 18 Class B sites in the Dardanelle area of the park.
This recreation area is part of Ouachita Lake
The campgrounds feature a total of 125 campsites (including 26 pull-through sites). Thirty-five of the sites—the Class AAA sites—have 30 and 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. The 90 Class B sites offer 30 amp electrical and water hookups. All sites are reservable. Campsites are divided into four campground areas. Each includes a modern bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets. Area "A" is near Lake Bailey and include sites along the lakeshore. Areas "B," "C," and "D" are located on the south side of Ark. 154 in wooded settings.
Other campsite choices in the main camping area include a 44-unit Rally-style Area with 20 amp electrical service available for camping clubs.
A trailer dump station is centrally located near the Rally-style camping area.
Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport.
$25 - $40 / night
Maumelle Park Map Customer Comment Card Special Event Application HERE All Sites in the UAMS Medical Loop MUST have Approval from a Park Ranger and a Physician Prior to Making Reservations.
The Nuttall Trail runs through the park, offering visitors hiking opportunities. Anglers will find a selection of crappie, bream, hybrid bass, white bass and more. A boat ramp is provided for campers to enjoy the river.
The campground is set on the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, a series of navigation pools used to help ships navigate upstream toward Oklahoma. The Arkansas River is one of the Mississippi's largest tributaries, flowing 1,450 miles from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, through to Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Wintering eagles can be seen in large numbers along the Arkansas River. Most of these eagles migrate from Canada and the U.S. Great Lakes region.
The Pinnacle Mountain State Park is just two miles from the campground. The 13 mountain trails here range from easy to strenuous, and each one promises captivating scenery. They also have several new mountain biking trails. See Pinnacle Mountain State Park for more information. Two Rivers Park is a city park that is also two miles form the campground. This park hase numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as, a bridge that connect the trails to the vast Arkansas River Trail. See Two Rivers Park and Arkansas River Trail
Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center For specific information about fees and cancellations/Changes please visit: Rules and Regulations
$30 / night
Toad Suck Park Map Customer Comment Card Special Event Application HERE! Toad Suck Campground, situated on the Arkansas River, is a popular destination for families and groups. Picnicking, boating and fishing all draw visitors to this shady campground.
Fishing is excellent year-round, and record fish catches are common in the Arkansas River. The waters have an abundance of bream, crappie, white bass, largemouth bass and several species of catfish.
Situated in the eastern edge of both the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, the area is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Dogwood, redbud, wild plum and other native flowering trees offer breathtaking sights in springtime.
The nearby Cadron Blockhouse in Cadron Settlement Park, a replica of a structure that was built in the late 18th century, is a popular tourist attraction. The town of Conway hosts an annual Toad Suck Daze Festival, featuring a toad race competition.
$75 / night
Gulpha Gorge campground is a tree lined retreat nestled on Gulpha Creek just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row. Open all year, the campground features 44 campsites all suitable for RVs and tents. This popular spot is the ideal base camp for all of your Hot Springs adventures and tends to fill up quickly, even in the fall and winter. Reservations are recommended.
Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row. The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.
Sit back and relax to the sounds of adjacent Gulpha Gorge Creek under the canopy of towering trees while being serenaded by the local winged inhabitants and you just may forget you are so close to downtown Hot Springs National Park. Enjoy a stunning hike to Bathhouse Row with mountain-top views along the way. Dip your toes in Gulpha Gorge Creek or stretch out on the cool grass to enjoy the breeze while planning a visit to one of the stunning spas on historic Bathhouse Row.
For facility specific information, please call (501) 620-6715.
Gulpha Gorge campground is just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row.
__Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 72 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.
$34 / night
This peaceful park makes great camping near Little Rock and is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The only full-service marina on the lake is here at the park and open in the summertime for bait, snacks/drinks, and fuel. Boat rentals are available year-round. The park also includes a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, and a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall.
The park has 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. There are also many native stone and wood buildings on-site. The history of these structures dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round. Guided horseback rides are offered seasonally.
$15 - $25 / night
Legend
Coordinates: 34.82029,-92.82184. Large creekside dispersed campsite located on a rocky, bumpy track, about 150 yards east of Forest Road 179 (aka Wildcat Mountain Rd). If going southbound on FR179, the track is on the left immediately after crossing a bridge. The track may look sketchy to some drivers, but I drove down it okay in my Subara. Good spot for car camping. The site itself is very rocky, so it may be uncomfortable for tent camping. There are trees for hammock camping. There are 3 large rock fire rings. This site is prone to flooding. The site appears to be popular and well used. There are no hiking trails, but the access track passes the site and continues along the creek - good for an easy stroll. Tried fishing here, but no luck. I do know from previous experience that there is fish in the creek. The creek is nice for a summertime dip when its running high. The site is mostly shaded; may be difficult to get a Starlink connection. I received no cell service. This is a pretty nice site, offering some privacy from the forest road and a wonderful sound of the creek.
Legend
Coordinates: 35.58695,-93.20723. Camped here Dec 29, 2024. Set well off of Meadows Knob Rd. Expect pinstriping along the access track to this secluded dispersed campsite. FR1802A toward the site has some erosion; low clearance vehicles may high center in one or two spots. The main forest road into this part of the Ozark National Forest is okay. The campsite is in open area, located in an old clear cut area. There is a partial view of the distant mountains. The site is a level, dirt surface. Not a large site; okay for one rig. Tent camping possible. No nearby mature trees for hammock camping. The site is overgrown with grass and weeds; a weed whacker is needed to clear the rock fire ring. There is a spot on the ground where a previous campfire was made. Good AT&T and T-Mobile 5G service. No shade; access to Starlink is possible. No hiking trails, although there is a 2-track for hiking that leads down into Graves Creek Canyon and some unnamed waterfalls. The hike along this trck is nice. This is not a pretty dispersed site, but it is well off of the main forest road; very private. Access to the site may be difficult for some vehicles. High clearance 4x4 vehicles should have no problems.
Legend
Coordinates: 34.84016,-92.82538. Located along unpaved Forest Road 179 (Wildcat Mountain Road), about 3/4 miles south of junction with Forest Road 132. The forest road was in good condition during my visit. A 2-wheel drive passenger car should be able to reach this site. It is a large campsite, close to forest road; no privacy from the road. The site is a dirt surface with a very large rock fire ring. Mostly level. Tent and hammock camping possible. No T-Mobile service. Has AT&T 5G service. Shaded; connection to Starlink will be a challenge. Beautiful forest with a very small pond behind the site in the woods. May be able to back a truck camper into the site; I don't recommend anything larger. Pretty area; nice area for a stroll in the woods. There is a hiking trailhead near FR132 with a dirt parking space. This is a really nice, clean site if one doesn't mind the lack of privacy from the forest road.
Legend
Coordinates: 34.85844,-92.85765. Camped here in mid-December 2024. Large dispersed campsite in a wooded area positioned between the Winona Scenic Drive (Forest Road 132) and the Ouachita National Recreation Trail in the Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas. The site has easy access from both the forest road and the backpacking trail. Convenient to hikers and softroaders. The North Fork Pinnacle viewpoint is a half-mile hike from the campsite. The campsite is set back from the forest road; no issues with dust from the road. The site, as well as the driveway into the site, are dirt surfaces. There are 2 clean fire rings. I camped by the 2nd fire ring which is further away from the forest road. Maneuvering my van into position took some effort due to the trees at this spot; a little bit of leveling was required. The first fire ring, closer to the forest road, is easier to set up next to and more level. This dispersed campsite can accomodate 3 or 4 small to midsize rigs. Tent and hammock camping is possible. The site is shaded. About 100 yards west on the other side of the forest road, there is a clear-cut area which has a lot of downed limbs for firewood. There was spotty T-Mobile service, but good AT&T service, at this site. The ride on Forest Road 132 from the east (Hwy 9) is bumpy/rocky in several places. Erosion seems to be getting worse over time on this unpaved road. I aired-down the tires for ride comfort. Low clearance vehicles should be okay on this road. There are several other dispersed campsites, which are easy to find, along the road. Enjoyed camping here. Beautiful site in the woods. Quiet. Next to the Quachita National Recreation Trail which is a wonderful hiking trail.
Traveler
The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain. The entrance and welcome center is grand and very accepting of anything from small vehicles to large diesel pushers. The camping spaces are large and accommodating, most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in. The amenities were clean and - while dated - all in good working conditions. The various trails are well marked and offer several levels of technical expertise. At the top you can camp or stay at The Lodge - which offers a myriad of services from food to catered events.
But the views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!
Scout
Sweet Escape RV Resort in Austin, Arkansas, offers a peaceful and welcoming experience for RV travelers. Conveniently located near Highway 167, it provides easy access to nearby cities like Cabot and Little Rock. The park features several amenities, including full hookups, a large dog park, fishing ponds, a bathhouse with showers, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Recreational options like yard games and scenic surroundings enhance its appeal for families and solo adventurers alike. this RV park is in its early stages also the bathrooms are the cleanest that i have seen in a campground/ RV park they clean them daily. in the winter they have complementary hot chocolate and a 15 ft Christmas tree!!! 100% would recommend
ScoutVery friendly campground. Many amenities including laundry, bathhouse, very nice showers, and large dog park. We really enjoyed the fishing ponds as well. The owners could not have been nicer and more helpful. Would recommend this place to anyone.
Traveler
Great value for the price, $48 cash/$53 card. No online reservations. Owner is really nice and helpful. Clean facilities. Quiet. Sites along the stream have a great view and a great place to sit and enjoy nature. About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs. Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure.
Scout
First off the coordinates are 34.80858, -93.07552 This campsite has amazing 360 sunsets and sunrises. A bit rocky for tent campers but should have no trouble finding a spot for a 4 man tent. There is also limited level ground but not bad. This site has room for 2-3 rigs. If ya needed to squeeze 4 you definitely could. There is a good breeze as it is on the top of the ridge which would be great in summer but can get a bit nippy in the colder seasons so keep that in mind. Nice sound of the breeze in the trees to put you right to sleep and extremely rare traffic so minimal reminders of society!!! I’ve rambled a bit but this site genuinely ticked all the boxes for me. Made for a beautiful evening.
Traveler
Our family has camp here the last 4 years, sometimes twice a year. We like it for the family and grandkids because of the swimming area and pit toilets, which allows us to stay for about 3-4 days at time, you need to bring your own toilet paper and water. There used to be a store a couple of miles up the road from here, but the last time we camp, it was closed due to the spouse passing away. If you like boon docking, Kayaking, and fishing in a quite area, this is the place for you. Bring your Kayak and go Island hoping!
Scout
I really love this place because it’s so peaceful. This is why I like places with forests and lakes. I work in cities, block blast always so noisy there…
Guide
Lots of Space, Shade, and access to mountain bike trails and downtown hot springs
Ranger
This state park is one of the hardest to book a camping site for a last-minute camping trip. After we finally secure our spot, it’s easy to see why it’s so hard to secure at a moment's notice.
Please be sure to visit the Petite Jean Coffeehouse which is located before the entrance to the park.
Scout
Arrived in town looking for somewhere to tent camp, found here. It works for a night Pros: Clean bathrooms Friendly evening staff and wife is friendly Has a small store with basics Wifi Laundry area Cons: Quite noisy with city noise Camp store is expensive ( 2 Gatorade, a pack of. Hot dogs, buns and ketchup came up to 13 dollars...and. Mustard was almost 6 dollars.... Tent area is more of a storage area We had it to ourselves, which was nice, but, felt as if we were the unwanted guest in the park. At $38 dollars a night, we felt it's not really worth what they ask.
Traveler
Be sure to catch the sunset here. This has a beautiful setting even though it has been basically abandoned by the COE. The people who stay here must really care about the place because my site was very clean. Do not. I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you’ll be fine. There seemed to be some long-timers camped there together and their dogs barked quite often during the day, but they must have taken them in at night or my van did well with blocking out the noise. My site wasn’t 100% flat but I just slept with my feet going on the downhill slope. Also, be aware if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water
GuideWe had a great weekend at Petit Jean. The hiking was great and the campsite is beyond beautiful. There is also a nice coffee shop that is conveniently close to the campsites.
Traveler
Despite that, I’ll just say that I love the town of Heber Springs which is located on the Lake. Area Code It may be because I have so many memories in Heber from my time in college so I should drop that disclaimer.
Traveler
This last time we were able to camp right on the water and park our boat at the site. Area Code Busy on the weekends so make sure and reserve. Weekdays are pretty peaceful.
Traveler
The site we had was level with a view to the river. The bathrooms and grounds were"military" clean and maintained. Area Code My only issue was the lack of staff. The place runs itself, apparently. There was no staff on site, not even the camp hosts.
Traveler
Gold Creek Landing RV Park Area Code is located in Arkansas
Traveler
This thought brings a fresh Area Code and insightful perspective to a familiar conversation.
Legend
WARNING Stay on the good gravel roads. GPS took me down 4 miles of an old log trail that I wasn't able to turn around on. Spent thirty minutes cursing GPS and contemplating my life choices. I was headed for one of the other sites but was so tired when I saw this one I took it.
The site is at a crossroads so quite convenient. Only room for one vehicle. It does have a stone ring for a fire pit. The main draw however is that there is pretty good signal with Verizon here which is really rare in the area.
LegendWhat a beautiful park, although it’s really spread out and you’ll need you an e-bike or bike to ride around. Lots of bouldering, hiking, overlooks, and tall pine trees! There’s something for everyone. I would recommend loop a for the best views and most spaced out spots. Very friendly hosts, clean bathrooms, visitors center is new and outstanding.
Guide
We arrived late at night, and I'm glad we had our lightbar. It's dispersed camping, so no dumpster, no gray water dump. It does have a picnick table, though.
Guide
Car camped at tent site to visit HSNP and trail ride. Staff were plentiful and friendly. My only issues were noise from a fast road near my site, walking distance from sites to restrooms, and most sites seemed quite tight for SUVs/trucks to park within. Even so, I highly recommend checking out this place. I really enjoyed my nights here and hours in the woods!
GuideNice little campground with nice, clean restrooms and showers. The creek is nice and you can hear the water flowing over the rocks at night, the proverbial babbling brook. Owner is very friendly and helpful. It’s a short drive to Hot Springs to see the attractions
Guide
Nice quiet campground with a nice lake, vault toilets, no electricity or water Wildlife in the area. We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade
Camping near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just relaxing in nature, there’s something for everyone.
Camping near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests offers a wide range of camping options, with 198 campgrounds and RV parks near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests and 40 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests is Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 102 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 40 free dispersed camping spots near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests.
What parks are near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 parks near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests that allow camping, notably Nimrod Lake and Lake Dardanelle.
