Pencil Bluff is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arkansas camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Pencil Bluff, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$14 - $65 / night
"I took off one star because this site, while located right on the water, is very unlevel."
"We booked late but were able to find a great spot with lots of trees surrounding us, spread out, and a lake view."
$14 - $80 / night
"Arkansas has variable weather in January. Cold clear day today but higher temps predicted for later in the week. Many sites available. Beautiful views."
"This site also backs to the lake which is nice except that people would park their boats on the shore and walk through the site at which I was camped. This was a first for me."
"Located in Ouachita National Forest, this campground is easy to get to. Ideal for tent, vans, even tear drop campers. No hook ups. Some sites had really good solar potential, most were well shaded."
"It is located very central to a lot of quartz crystal mines. 3 miles down the road is collier spring where 1 can get all the drinkable fresh mountain spring water 1 wants."
$14 - $50 / night
"We arrived on Friday evening and found our site was even closer to the lake than expected. We were nearly surrounded by water and it made for a pretty view--especially at sunrise."
"The campground is nicely situated near the end of the LOViT cross country MTB/hiking trail. There are sites ranging from primitive to water and electric."
"This is our second favorite State Park in Arkansas. We had a spot overlooking the lake, which was beautiful. It's a super quiet and peaceful lake. Lots of kayaks and canoes."
"I arrived at my campground - site 68 in Loop D to realize I booked a site right next to the road."
"Hidden off road to the top for scenic view. If the gate is open then explore an hour worth moderate off roading. This place also offers great hiking trails and primitive camping."
"Right next to the trails! Beautiful view of lake below. Only issue was some broken glass around the picnic area. Please pack out all of your trash!"
"The nps map still has it listed as a campground, but there was a sign at the main entrance stating day use only."
$16 - $24 / night
"Hike in electric spot that overlooked the lake. Easy to walk down and swim in the water!"
"We enjoyed our 2 nights here on the lake. The campground is literally on a mountain in the lake. Tent sites right on the lake and so are some RV spots. Warning."
"This state park sits on one of the prettiest and clearest lakes in the state of Arkansas. The area that I will be focusing on is the primitive tent sites."
"Definitely my favorite park in Arkansas so far. It’s a really big park at the lake with lots to do. I was there in the fall so I didn’t do any lake stuff but still had a great time tent camping."
TravelerWe were excited to finally find a free camp area for our RV and drove into the wild for this one but when we arrived there were lots of people camping out with little space or privacy. Guess it depends on the season. But super beautiful forest and lake!!
ScoutWe’ve been to this RV park a couple of times. Both times there is NOT a working dryer in the laundry facilities. It’s frustrating when you pay for services that don’t exist but is advertised as an amenity.
Also, the sites are run down. Didn’t even bother to rake the old leaves away. We also had to run the water from another site. Our neighbors were complaining about their site not having water either.
Also, I think there should be some sort of discount for the mining if you’re paying for an RV site. It’s $25 a person for the mining of crystals. $35 if you want a mine tour and mining. .
GuideThey had some recent flooding, not all sites were available. Spot #1 was right at the waters edge. Concrete/stone picnic table, grill, firepit. The trees were perfect size and spacing for a hammock. Right next to the boat ramp. Lots of people fishing. Great for kayaking. Fairly level. No garbage/dumpster on site. Some sketchy pit toilets.
TravelerEasy access- Quiet. Would do again
LegendNice little campground along a stream. Best sites are those along the stream towards the back by the amphitheater (just check the map). Only downside (other than sites are close together) to this campground is there is one men’s shower and one women’s shower and you have to have a code to get in to those areas. However, we were told there wasn’t a shower at all, so we actually found that to be a bonus that they even had one. Just be aware that if you want to use them, you probably need to do so in the afternoon as there’s a wait at any other time. I would definitely recommend this campground if you’re coming to see or visit Hot Springs Arkansas. Hiking trails nearby and you can actually hike into town from the campground if you like.
ScoutHad a wonderful time here. Went in early April so still too cold to swim, but the campgrounds were great. There’s a swing for kids
ScoutThe area is very nice I came here tent camping and I love that there are designated tent spots rather than only trailer spots. There is a large enough area for multiple tents to be placed without issues. One thing to note is when the lake floods the water does come up to some of the tables that are near the edge.
Also there seems to be a bear that likes to roam around. He stayed clear of my tent but was getting into every trash can around camp and created quite a ruckus a few times. I just remote started my truck when he got near the trash cans near my tent and it spooked him a bit to run off.
ScoutA paradise for everyone! The property is so peaceful and quiet. We came with little kids and they explored their hearts out. Along the river there’s a trail and fun places for the kids to play and play. They made a “treehouse” and it was hours worth of fun! Next time I will choose site 286-288 to have the perfect access and view of this play spot. The services and amenities were all extremely nice here!
GuideGreat spor for a overnight stay. We entered after hours and paid in the morning. We stayed at spot 17 and paid around 53$. All hookups and showers for free and very very clean. Very kind service.
Camping near Pencil Bluff, Arkansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore hiking trails, there’s something for everyone.
Camping near Pencil Bluff, Arkansas, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Pencil Bluff, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 207 campgrounds and RV parks near Pencil Bluff, AR and 30 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pencil Bluff, AR is Denby Point with a 4.5-star rating from 18 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 30 free dispersed camping spots near Pencil Bluff, AR.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Pencil Bluff, AR that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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