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Dog-Friendly Camping near Pelsor, AR

121 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Haw Creek Falls Camping in the Ozark National Forest welcomes pets at its primitive campsites along the creek. The campground features picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets but requires campers to bring their own drinking water and pack out trash. Dogs must remain leashed when outside vehicles, with owners responsible for waste cleanup. Many visitors enjoy bringing their pets to the water's edge where the shallow creek provides a refreshing spot for dogs to cool off during hot weather. The area remains fairly quiet during weekdays but experiences higher traffic on weekends when day visitors arrive for swimming.

    Sam's Throne Recreation Area and Campground permits dogs throughout its dispersed and established camping areas. The primitive sites offer toilet facilities but no water hookups, requiring pet owners to pack sufficient water for themselves and their animals. Several hiking trails surrounding the camping areas welcome leashed dogs, providing access to scenic overlooks and wooded paths suitable for morning and evening walks. The campground's location in the Ozark highlands means pets need protection from ticks and other wildlife encounters. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly in this region, requiring campers to consider their pets' comfort in varying weather conditions. The nearest veterinary services are located in nearby towns, approximately 30 minutes from the campground.

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    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Pelsor (121)

      1. Haw Creek Falls Camping

      4.5(24)9mi from PelsorTents

      "campers in the area but during the day LOTS of people coming to swim ( and leaving trash 🤮 ) The water was beautiful, eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in arkansas"

      "Lovely area but you can hear the vehicles that drive by on the highway plenty of hiking nearby"

      2. Sam's Throne Recreation Area

      4.5(17)11mi from Pelsor

      "I think I'm the only one here who has my dog tethered to a tree with a long rope, everyone else allows the dog to be off leash and that almost created a dog fight so just be cautious of that."

      "Many groups out there taking advantage of the beautiful March weather to hit the rock and explore all the many jaw-dropping routes on and around Sam's rocky Throne."

      3. Ozark Campground — Buffalo National River

      4.4(31)24mi from Pelsor31 sitesRVs, Tents

      "There’s lots of campground near by but across a bridge is hidden off road that will take you to Carwash Falls. It has a great scenic off road trail and backroad highway."

      "Located on the beautiful Buffalo River, the views are incredible. It’s Dog friendly too and there are many hiking trails close by, some of which even connect to the campground."

      from $20 - $25 / night

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      4. Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI)

      4.5(10)16mi from PelsorTents

      "This recreation area is as close to off-grid as you can get with so many great options right off the pavement."

      "Swimming is a small but slightly difficult walk down a steep Rocky path. It's rarely crowded which is why we like it."

      5. Ashtyn's Adventures

      5.0(1)4mi from Pelsor2 sitesRVs

      from $45 / night

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      6. Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River

      4.5(25)25mi from Pelsor40 sitesTents

      "The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us."

      "Pros: Great location on the river and close to plenty of hiking trails! Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. The bathrooms were well maintained and there is drinking water available."

      from $20 / night

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      7. Kyles Landing Campground — Buffalo National River

      4.5(23)25mi from PelsorTents

      "During that time try and get a site away from the launch/takeout spots. "

      "A real bob Ross of a campground, however the drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a real wheel drive or low profile vehicle."

      from $20 / night

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      8. Sam's Throne Campground

      5.0(2)11mi from PelsorRVs, Tents

      "Short hiking trail will lead you to the most gorgeous views! You can even do a little rock climbing here. Please keep pets on a leash. Pit toilets are available at each end of the campgrounds."

      "Not much firewood to collect, I bought wood from the nearby Red Oak store. Prices were very reasonable. Hiking is awesome here."

      9. Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

      4.7(108)42mi from PelsorRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "We decided on Petit Jean State Park to be our first Arkansas camping experience and it did not disappoint!"

      "Great areas to look around and hike. Restaurant is pretty decent and breakfast was hot and delicious. There’s a little petting zoo thing close by for kids. Playground was great."

      from $25 - $40 / night

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      10. Macks Pines

      4.5(2)12mi from PelsorRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "There are some trails nearby, but the area and trails are really designed for ATVs."

      "short drives from the campgrounds to beautiful scenery with a little bit of research, or ask greg.  alot are even accessible by car.   take the 30 min drive to hillbillys lims bbq as well."

      from $20 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Pelsor, AR

    842 Reviews of 121 Pelsor Campgrounds


    • Melissa D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 11, 2023

      Shady Oaks Campground & RV Park

      Travel nurse

      The owners are very friendly and have events to include all campers. Dog park and small laundry room on site. Three bathrooms one with showers. Dog wash station at two bathrooms.

    • M
      Dec. 2, 2021

      Shady Oaks Campground & RV Park

      RARE FIND - Beautiful Park

      RARE FIND Such a BEAUTIFUL place! I love all the oak trees and the sounds of nature are so relaxing. They offer a spacious dog park, which the dogs are currently playing at while I relax and take in nature. If you are looking for a small piece of nature where you can get way from it all but still be close to town, this place is it. Everyone here is friendly and the shared spaces are always very clean.

      They offer great rates and a Military Discount too!!

      Enjoy your stay!

    • Curt H.
      Jul. 17, 2020

      Outdoor Living Center RV Park

      Cool place on some hot days

      Spent three nights. Called for reservations, very receptive owners no problems getting in. I was running late due to the distance. They called to check on us and left instructions in a box at the office with site number, WiFi, bath codes. Again very nice owners. Went in the next morning to settle bill. Office is stocked with a nice assortment of things that an RV owner might need for minor repairs. Camp site was pretty level, spacing is typical for a campsite built some years ago, but we had a site on the end so we didn’t feel too close to anyone. Owners have only had the campground for two years. Was told the water connections were their next priority. Connections are a little inconvenient due to being under ground level, but no problem connecting my water filter for my 5th wheel. Dog park was a short walk away, was clean. Campground was clean, dumpsters accessible for trash and area clean around them. We would be happy to stay there again.

    • 2SHOE S.
      Aug. 20, 2018

      Long Pool Recreation Area

      Swimming hole perfection

      Tent campers have the better camping loop at this campground, closer to the water, nicer sites, most with plenty of trees for shade. You can drive up to the less attractive and less conveniently located RV loop to use the showers, if you need them. Some campsites are just a football-field distance from the rocky swim beach, while others sit either nestled in the woods or overlooking the creek from above on a small bluff. The big draw is the charming swimming area with its imposing trio of rocks that swimmers love to jump off of. Pets are not permitted around or in the water, so we prefer to leave our dog at home when visiting here. Hiking from the campground is terrific, too, particularly when the water is flowing to make waterfalls. Long Pool is a must-visit camping destination for Arkansas residents.

    • Bill  T.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 2, 2026

      Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

      National Park Worthy State Park

      We decided on Petit Jean State Park to be our first Arkansas camping experience and it did not disappoint! The area in and surrounding the park is absolutely stunning with amazing hiking opportunities. Waterfalls, rock outcroppings, flora and fauna… it’s all here! The site was surrounded by hardwood and pines and very private. Extremely pet friendly as well. We highly recommended staying here!

    • Devin M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jul. 24, 2021

      Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

      All kinds of camping options

      Love this place because there are so many types of camp sites available. Great areas to look around and hike. Restaurant is pretty decent and breakfast was hot and delicious. There’s a little petting zoo thing close by for kids. Playground was great.

    • J
      May. 19, 2021

      Grape Country RV Park

      Great Country Setting

      Simple, but nice.  No frills.  Quiet.  If you are looking for a peaceful, quiet place, away from the city, this is a great place. I love it. Have stayed several times in several different sites.  Will stay again.  About 13 campsites, all gravel.  Has a wooded trails for walking and a big open are for walking and playing with pets.  Water, sewer and 30/50amp electric are easy access and to hook up.   James the owner is great and has a U-Pick orchard as well.

    • Steve S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Mar. 28, 2021

      Mount Nebo State Park Campground

      Great views

      beautiful mountain top park my camper was to long for the road up so we stayed at a hike in site it was great quiet and remote the deer will walk up to you and you can pet them awesome park highly recommended

    • Steve S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 4, 2022

      Morrilton RV Park

      next to interstate

      We drove through looking for a place to stay. 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.


    Guide to Pelsor

    Pelsor, Arkansas sits at an elevation of approximately 1,280 feet in the Ozark Mountains, where camping opportunities range from established grounds to primitive sites. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Flash flooding can occur in creek-side camping areas during heavy rainfall, requiring campers to monitor weather forecasts during spring and fall seasons.

    What to do

    Hiking nearby waterfalls: At Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, trails lead to scenic spots including Pam's Grotto. "Enjoy the nearby trails while you are here! Pam's Grotto was my favorite," notes Lacee G. The area features accessible waterfalls with varied water flow depending on recent rainfall.

    Rock climbing access: Sam's Throne Recreation Area draws climbers looking to test their skills on natural bluffs. "The bluffs are fantastic," reports Clayton R. Day-use climbers create some traffic near the campsites but primarily on weekends.

    Creek exploration: Bayou Bluff Point of Interest offers creek access for wading and exploration. "When the water is low enough, go down to the water and walk along the creek," suggests Amy W. The Illinois Bayou provides shallow water spots for cooling off during summer months.

    Paddling opportunities: Steel Creek Campground provides river access points for kayaking and swimming. "Kayaking, swimming, and fishing were awesome!" says Donna M. The Buffalo River features multiple access points for different skill levels of paddlers.

    What campers like

    Primitive camping with views: Campers appreciate the natural setting at Sam's Throne Campground with minimal development but maximum scenery. "It was one of the most peaceful campgrounds I have ever been in! Short hiking trail will lead you to the most gorgeous views!" writes Shayla R.

    Clean facilities despite remote locations: Vault toilets at dispersed sites receive positive mentions. "The compost bathrooms were super clean. Had a great experience there," notes Ivan M. about Sam's Throne. Maintenance levels vary by season and visitor volume.

    Stone shelters at select sites: Bayou Bluff offers unique camping structures. "The rock shelters have a large rock fire area," explains Amy W. These structures provide partial shelter during inclement weather while maintaining an outdoor experience.

    Affordable camping options: Most primitive sites in the area remain free or low-cost. "Free camping right now," reports valerie about Bayou Bluff, though status can change. Sam's Throne and several other dispersed sites maintain free access with first-come, first-served availability.

    What you should know

    Water access limitations: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water supply. "No water access, so bring your own," warns Alexandra about Sam's Throne. Campers should plan to pack in all drinking and cooking water at most dispersed sites.

    Road conditions vary significantly: Access to some dog friendly campgrounds near Pelsor involves challenging roads. "Road is kinda sketchy on the way up but the bluffs are fantastic!" notes Clayton R. about Sam's Throne. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for certain areas, especially after rainfall.

    Seasonal crowd patterns: Kyles Landing Campground experiences predictable busy periods. "Great spot to camp, fills up fast on fridays!" warns Ace R. Summer weekends see significantly higher visitation than weekdays across most campgrounds.

    Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across pet-friendly camping options near Pelsor. "Pretty good service" with T-Mobile reports Jacquelyn H. at Sam's Throne, while others note complete dead zones, particularly in valley locations.

    Tips for camping with families

    Choose sites with river access: For families with children, water features provide built-in entertainment. "Good for families - you can book multiple spots next to each other," suggests Christina about Steel Creek Campground, where the river runs adjacent to campsites.

    Consider bathroom proximity: When camping with children, sites near facilities reduce nighttime treks. "I was happy to have the bathrooms close to our camp site," notes Kaitlin R. about Kyles Landing. Site selection makes significant difference in convenience for families.

    Plan for temperature swings: Petit Jean State Park campers recommend preparation for variable conditions. "It was raining and we didn't get that wet due to the tree coverage," explains Sondra M. Tree cover provides significant weather protection at many sites.

    Expect weekend noise differences: Campground atmosphere changes from weekdays to weekends. "Quiet park that enforces the quiet time rule after 9:00," reports Jason R. about Petit Jean State Park. This enforcement varies by location, with state parks typically maintaining stricter quiet hours than dispersed sites.

    Tips from RVers

    Limited full hookup options: RVers seeking connections should research carefully. "Thirty-five of the sites are Class AAA sites which have 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups," notes Fred S. about Petit Jean State Park. Most primitive sites accommodate smaller rigs with minimal or no hookups.

    Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven parking at dispersed sites. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," warns Ryan S. Bringing additional leveling equipment proves essential at most natural campsites.

    Campground layout considerations: At smaller developed campgrounds like Dogwood Springs, arrangement matters. "Very small, tight, jammed up place... All the spots are pretty much right next to the other spot. There is no privacy," cautions Derrick C. Research specific site layouts before booking.

    Weather impact on access: Heavy rain affects road conditions at dog-friendly campgrounds near the Pelsor area. "The road out can be a little slick as it is a very steep dirt road," notes Joshua H. about Kyles Landing. Plan arrival and departure with weather patterns in mind.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Pelsor, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Pelsor, AR is Haw Creek Falls Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Pelsor, AR?

    TheDyrt.com has all 121 dog-friendly camping locations near Pelsor, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.