Campgrounds near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests in Arkansas offer various recreational opportunities along Arkansas River waterways and Lake Conway. The region features numerous Corps of Engineers-managed sites with waterfront access, where temperatures frequently exceed 90°F during summer months. Water levels can fluctuate significantly based on dam releases and seasonal rainfall patterns.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated docks: At Adventure RV, campers can fish directly from the property. "Not only is it right on the lake with multiple fishing docks plus a boat ramp, but there is a private fishing pond in the middle of the park as well," notes Bradley B.
Riverside walking trails: Downtown Riverside RV Park offers walking paths along the Arkansas River. "There is a pedestrian bridge accessed through a security gate that crosses the river and arrives at the Clinton Library and park. It was so nice to stroll through after a day of driving," explains Pam R.
Wildlife observation: Wildlife viewing is popular at many campgrounds in the region. At Willow Beach, campers can watch for diverse bird species. "We encountered lots of snakes. I shooed a few off the road and they disappeared as soon as they slithered into the grass," warns Jennifer C., highlighting the need for caution during wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds at many campgrounds. "Spacious camps. Flat pad," notes Shiloh M. about Willow Beach, while another camper mentions that sites are "extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!"
Natural surroundings: Camp Conway RV Park offers a natural setting with abundant wildlife. "Camp Conway is quiet with excellent bird-watching. Must have seen 12 bird varieties thriving in the park," reports Burt.
Riverfront views: Waterfront sites provide scenic vistas at several campgrounds. "This is a pretty campground with huge trees for shade," describes Jo E. about Willow Beach. Pam R. states about Downtown Riverside, "We lucked into site 29 which was huge and right on the Arkansas River."
What you should know
Security features: Several campgrounds implement security measures. Willow Beach has "a gate every night at the entrance to the campground, however they do give you the code to the padlock," according to Jennifer C. Downtown Riverside is described as "fenced, secure, and has everything RVs need."
Bathroom maintenance: Bathroom conditions vary significantly between parks. Kelly E. notes at Willow Beach: "The toilet paper is out or almost out in all of them and there is no soap in any of the dispensers. Other than that they all appeared clean."
Seasonal considerations: Ivy's Cove RV Retreat remains accessible year-round. "We lived at this RV park for 5 months while we were house hunting," reports Katherine N., indicating the viability of extended stays regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. According to Cindy C., Ivy's Cove has a "small play area," making it suitable for families with young children.
Water safety awareness: Parents should monitor children near water features. Willow Beach is "located on the river with beautiful scenic views" but has "lots of bugs due to being near the river," cautions Shiloh M.
Urban exploration options: Downtown Riverside provides convenient access to educational opportunities. "You can take a walking bridge across the river directly into downtown Little Rock," explains Richard S., making it easy to combine camping with city attractions like museums.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay considerations: Many RVers use these campgrounds for longer-term stays. Katherine N. shares about Ivy's Cove: "We lived at this RV park for 5 months while we were house hunting. Great owners. Clean, large showers. Game/exercise room. 5 minutes to anything you need, but still feels secluded."
Noise levels: Traffic noise can affect some campground experiences. 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 so we decided to move on."
Site spacing: RVers appreciate parks with adequate distance between sites. Gary I. mentions about Downtown Riverside: "Unlike most RV parks who like to equate staying in a mobile home with many luxuries, as 'camping', as a promotion. It's nice this park has no fire pits so you don't have to worry about the stink from your neighbors poorly built fire in your RV."
