Camping near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Camping opportunities near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests range from mountaintop sites with panoramic views to riverside locations along the Arkansas River. The region sits at elevations between 300-2,753 feet, with most campgrounds open year-round despite seasonal temperature variations that can reach over 90°F in summer months. Winter camping remains accessible at lower elevations, though mountain roads may become hazardous during ice or snow events.

What to do

Hiking to waterfalls: Cedar Falls Trail at Petit Jean State Park offers a moderately difficult but rewarding hike. "The Cedar Falls hike is beautiful and a quick fun adventure. I recommend going to the Petit Jean Grave. The view is vast!" notes Sondra M.

Fishing from riverside sites: Cherokee Park provides direct access to the Arkansas River with ample space for anglers. "It was wonderful and way over due on needing the getaway had a blast fishing and everyone was friendly and neighborly," reports TRU S.

Swimming at mountain pools: Mount Nebo State Park offers a refreshing swimming pool during summer months. "State park with swimming pool in summer. Playground and swings for young ones. Several hammock friendly sites. Hang gliders frequently use the bluffs to launch," explains Stan G.

Wildlife viewing: Harris Brake Lake attracts various wildlife for observation opportunities. "We had a really great night here. The place was mowed, there was a picnic table and firepit and the previous occupant left us some gathered firewood. Very pretty however, and lovely view of the lake!" shares Samuel S.

What campers like

Mountaintop breezes: Mount Nebo State Park Campground sits at 1,800 feet elevation, providing natural cooling. "Being on an 1800 ft elevation summit, surrounded by valley...its quiet and enjoys a constant breeze. Enjoying blue skies, the shade trees are appreciated in the camping area," notes Dave V.

Spacious riverside sites: Maumelle Park offers well-separated campsites along the Arkansas River. "It's a beautiful park by the AR River with lovely grounds to walk or bike. Sites are very well spaced and you can take your chairs to the river or use the picnic benches scattered along the river full of waterfowl and occasional boaters and huge barges," explains Stevann H.

Free camping options: Harris Brake Lake provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Just a picnic table no other amenities and the view is amazing great place to stay for free," says Sara W.

Diverse loop layouts: Petit Jean State Park features multiple camping areas with different characteristics. "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove, easy access to the paved CCC trail, 30/50 amp service, water, picnic table, fire ring and trash hook, clean and accommodating bath house, enough space between sites for plenty of privacy," shares Ryan S.

What you should know

Road access limitations: Mount Nebo has strict vehicle size restrictions. "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'. I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%," cautions Dave V.

Campsite selection timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially premium sites. "A loop cons: very little shade would be rough in summer months without shade tents, awnings, etc. 'Stays booked 93% of the year' -Park Office. It's really hard to get a reservation if you don't book at least a year out in A loop," advises Ryan S.

Seasonal availability: Cherokee Park operates with specific seasonal dates and fees. "Campsite fee: $24-26, March 1 - Oct 31, 2024," reports Fred S.

Weather considerations: Dispersed camping areas require planning for varied conditions. "Got here during sunset and it was beautiful but the gravel roads are invisible at night so definitely have some daylight ahead of you," warns Ashley T. at Harris Brake Lake.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Toad Suck Ferry Park offers multiple play areas throughout the campground. "Small clean campground. Some spots are very private Some not so much. Spots are large. Great views of lock. Multiple playgrounds and pavilions. Basketball, volleyball and store across the street," recommends John R.

Loop selection: Petit Jean State Park has family-friendly loop options. "We stayed at Petit Jean State Park for the first time over Easter weekend. Even though the park was booked to capacity, it is so well laid out that it was really nice to be there," shares Jill B.

Swimming options: Maumelle Park provides water recreation for families. "First time visiting little rock & this campground was perfect. Water & power hookup for each lot. Beautiful view as we were winding down for the night. Lots of geese wandering around & still chatty late at night- but kinda cute to hear," notes tiffany P.

Wildlife education: Harris Brake Lake offers nature observation opportunities. "absolutely beautiful place the fireflies here are amazing! Nobody else was camping here which made for some quiet nights :) the locals fish and swim in the lake so light traffic," shares Julian P.

Tips from RVers

Leveling requirements: Site selection matters for larger vehicles. "B loop cons: some sites are angled differently and there is no clear indication how you have to enter the loop to be able to access your site. It can create some frustration when trying to get set up. Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," cautions Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park.

Site sizing: Maumelle Park accommodates larger RVs with appropriately sized sites. "We got lucky with our spot, only 1 direct neighbor. Beautiful view of the Arkansas River. Busy park. Nearest toilet house was far away though," reports Ursula.

Electric service options: Campgrounds offer varied hookup capabilities. "Camped at site 103 in Area D. The staff at the office helped me pick this site for my campervan. The site had water and 30amp service," notes Fred S. about Petit Jean State Park.

Road navigation: Consider approach angles at some campgrounds. "Got here during sunset and it was beautiful but the gravel roads are invisible at night so definitely have some daylight ahead of you. We have a 25' travel trailer and didn't need to do any backing up to get in or out," advises Ashley T. about Harris Brake Lake.