Best Camping near Pencil Bluff, AR

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Pencil Bluff, AR (204)

    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    1. COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    43 Reviews
    53 Photos
    54 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Overview

    Crystal Springs Campground, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape.Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Facilities

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres.

    Nearby Attractions

    Part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs just north of the lake. Here, hikers and mountain bikers can explore an array of breathtaking views in the Ouachita Mountains.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground

    2. Lake Ouachita State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    230 Photos
    402 Saves
    Mountain Pine, Arkansas

    This recreation area is part of Ouachita Lake

    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    3. Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    72 Reviews
    200 Photos
    416 Saves
    Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

    Overview

    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.

    Recreation

    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.

    Natural Features

    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.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (501) 620-6715.

    Nearby Attractions

    Gulpha Gorge campground is just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row.

    Charges & Cancellations

    __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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point

    4. Denby Point

    18 Reviews
    56 Photos
    103 Saves
    Mount Ida, Arkansas

    Overview

    Groups and families of all sizes come to camp at Denby Point for its scenic views, year-round fishing and convenient boating facilities. The campground promises to entertain jet skiers, boaters, hikers and birders alike. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    World-class striper fishing brings crowds of anglers year-round, and incredibly clear waters attract scuba divers, hoping to explore the flooded forests and mountain valleys below the lake's surface. Hikers take pleasure in the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which lines the southern end of the lake.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita sits in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, just 28 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The lake stems from the Ouachita River and boasts 692 miles of shoreline and over 40,000 surface acres.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore Ouachita National Forest's 1.8 million acres, surrounding Lake Ouachita and extending across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground

    5. Daisy State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    92 Photos
    118 Saves
    Kirby, Arkansas

    This recreation area is part of Greeson Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    6. Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    280 Photos
    400 Saves
    Jones Mill, Arkansas

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Campground

    7. Crystal Campground

    10 Reviews
    54 Photos
    241 Saves
    Norman, Arkansas

    Small campground in an attractive wooded site next to a small stream. More recreation opportunities in the Caddo/Womble Ranger District

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlton Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlton Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlton Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlton Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlton Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Charlton Campground

    8. Charlton Campground

    13 Reviews
    77 Photos
    150 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Overview

    Charlton Campground is located 17-miles west of Hot Springs National Park along Highway 270-West. This historic campground constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's has been upgraded with modern amenities. Known as one of the coldest swimming sites in the State of Arkansas, the cool water temperatures can be enjoyed through-out the summer months.

    Recreation

    Charlton Recreation Area offers a developed day use with swimming and picnicking facilities. A large pavilion is located in the day use area. The swimming area is known by area residents as being some of the coldest water through-out the summer months. Walnut Creek, a spring-fed stream provides refreshing water in the swim site. Hiking trails are located in and around the campground. An amphitheater is located in the day use area for group gatherings. Campsites are available from a basic campsite to more developed with additional amenities, to include 30-50 amp electrical service, water connections and some sites offering sewer connections. A dump station is located at the campground. Walnut Creek runs through the campground and access is available for wading and fishing in the creek.

    Natural Features

    Located in the valley between two tree covered mountains, the campsites through-out the campground are well shaded. The campground constructed along Walnut Creek, a natural spring-fed stream, temperatures are cool, even through the summer months.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lake Ouachita Vista - Hickory Nut Mountain Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) Lake Ouachita Hot Springs National Park Historic Hot Springs Quartz Crystal Mines

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground

    9. Mount Magazine State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    169 Photos
    210 Saves
    Blue Mountain, Arkansas

    Nestled between the Ozark National Forest to the north, and the Ouachita National Forest to the south, Mount Magazine State Park boasts the highest point in the state of Arkansas: Mount Magazine at 2753 feet. Located just 100 miles northwest of Little Rock, this area has been a recreation destination since the late 1800s. Recreation at Mount Magazine really started booming in the 1930s and 40s with the construction of a lodge, campgrounds and trails. Visitors came to beat the heat of the surrounding valleys, as well as to enjoy the panoramic views, abundant wildflowers, autumn color, and numerous opportunities to play outdoors. The area finally became a state park in 1998.

    Whether you prefer a posh lodge or cabin, a fully-equipped RV pad, or a rustic campsite, there’s a place for you to stay and play at Mount Magazine. The park’s campground offers 18 spacious sites with full or partial hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. Campers are required to store food and trash properly to minimize black bear encounters. For more luxuriant accommodations, the park’s lodge offers 60 guest rooms and spa suites with a variety of comforts, as well as 13 full-equipped cabins with up to three bedrooms. Not in the mood for hot dogs over the campfire? The large dining room at the Skycrest Restaurant serves daily meals while overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley.

    When you’re ready to play on Mount Magazine, you can do it by foot, wheels or wings. Hikers have access to 14 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 3 miles, with connecting options for going farther. The 34-mile Huckleberry Mountain Trail is great for mountain biking and horseback riding. For gravity-defying activities, the park offers more than 100 climbing routes on its southern bluff, as well as a hang gliding launch point over the Petit Jean River Valley. Less strenuous activities include bird and wildlife watching, guided ranger walks, historic site tours and various interpretive programs and outdoor skills workshops. There’s also spectacular leaf-peeping in the fall when the forest takes on its vibrant autumn transformation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Nut Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Nut Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Nut Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Nut Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Nut Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Nut Mountain
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Showing results 1-10 of 204 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Pencil Bluff

Recent Reviews in Pencil Bluff

952 Reviews of 204 Pencil Bluff Campgrounds


  • Charles H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    Dec. 8, 2024

    Mount Magazine State Park Campground

    Flying High

    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!

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Creek Campground
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Twin Creek Campground

    Nice stay for one night

    We decided to stay here for an overnight after being in Hot Springs area.
    There was only one other camper. The fee is $14 a night, not the $12 listed on sign. There is a pay kiosk that takes cards The campground was very clean and had many many trash cans.
    Bathrooms clean and had running water and flush toilets. Cell signal was poor with Verizon. Found an opening and Starlink worked great.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from J and J RV Park
    Nov. 18, 2024

    J and J RV Park

    Great small campground along a stream

    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.

  • Logan R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Forest Service RD 153 Ouachita National Forest

    Overland site

    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.

  • Forest K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckville - Lake Ouachita
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Buckville - Lake Ouachita

    Nice boon-docking area

    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!

  • Steven A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Leisure Landing RV Park
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Leisure Landing RV Park

    Don't Bother

    Gravel parking lot with painted stripes, a patch of grass growing under the picnic table, and full hookups. Be sure to back in centered, others are complaining about hitting their slide outs. Watch your step. One of the long-term residents isn't picking up their dog waste. The nicest spot in the whole place is the little fenced-in dog spot overlooking the canal that makes its way out to the lake you can't see from here.

  • Twyana S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Creek
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Bear Creek

    Primitive beauty

    This park is a wooded area beside a lake. Campsites have a picnic table & grill. No electricity or water. No concrete parking pads. However almost all sites have a view of the lake. Beautiful views. Two pit toilets were clean & smelled ok.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Greeson Self Creek Jim Wylie Recreation Area and Campground
    Oct. 21, 2024

    COE Lake Greeson Self Creek Jim Wylie Recreation Area and Campground

    Wooded With View of Lake

    This site was difficult to find. It is listed on the highway with a sign but on GPS it wasn't listed. The proper address is 4101 US-70, Kirby, AR 71950.

    You book through recreation.gov but it is actually listed under Self Creek campgrounds. When booking just lok for sites listed on LOOP JW.

    This is a good site for tents, campervans, and smaller rvs. There are sites for larger rvs but not many. It may be difficult to find a level spot if you're in a larger vehicle. There is only one site directly on the water. The remainder are on the wooded hill but still have a beautiful view of the lake.

    The bathhouse has flush toilets and showers but is very old. They maintain it well and it is cleaned regularly. The toilets are perfectly fine but the showers are just old and a bit icky. I would suggest for showers going to the Daisy State Park. They have newer and nicer showers.

  • Twyana S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Self Creek
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Self Creek

    Lots of Choices

    Large campground with lots of different areas to camp. They have sites in the woods, next to the water, and out in the open.

    The bathrooms were clean and well maintained.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Daisy State Park Campground

    Very Nice but Busy

    They have a lot of campgrounds but most are very close. Not a bad thing for those social butterflies but a little tighter than I like. Their bathrooms and showers are really nice. Clean and spacious.

    It's definitely worth a visit but make sure to book well in advance. They sell out quick.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Greeson Star of the West
    Oct. 19, 2024

    COE Lake Greeson Star of the West

    Good Location But Better Options Available

    The price here is now $10 per day but if you have America the Beautiful Pass it's half price.

    Couple downsides are that the bathrooms are pit style bathrooms and kind of nasty and unless you snag one of the sites far back in the woods you are pretty close to the highway so some noise.

    It is my understanding that they are scheduled to update the bathrooms in the next year or two but until then I'd definitely suggest going to Arrowhead Point. It's right down the road, same price, quieter, and nicer bathrooms.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Arrowhead Point — Lake Greeson
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Arrowhead Point — Lake Greeson

    Affordable and Comfortable

    This location is right on the lake with quite a few camp sites available. The only down side is they have only one site available with electric and hookups. Everything else had no electric or hookups.

    The electric site is $22 and all the rest are $10. If you have a senior pass they are half off though. It's first come first serve.

    A nice boat ramp is on site as well as a swimming beach. The beach isn't really big and I visited in October so not sure how nice it is or deep but still a good option to have.

    The bathroom has flush toilets and are decently clean. No showers but the state park right down the road has showers you can use for free.

    Overall, I really like this place. It's quiet and peaceful. And most important, doesn't hurt my pocketbook too bad.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Miners Camping & Rock Shop
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Miners Camping & Rock Shop

    Good For Primitive Camping Terrible Bathrooms

    My first impressions of this site were terrible. The Bathrooms are extremely old and honestly seem like they're rotting down. The playground area is small but jot terrible. The area for rvs is pretty cramped with no privacy. Luckily while talking to some folks there they directed us on down the road. There are two more sections specifically for primitive camping that are really nice. There are a couple picnic tables and fire rings. There is also a nice pond. The cell signal isn't terrible but it's a bit hit and miss for internet.

    Overall, I would suggest it but don't expect to use their showers or bathroom. Go a couple minutes down the road and use the state parks showerhouse. It's really nice.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FR132 - Crossroads Site Dispersed
    Oct. 14, 2024

    FR132 - Crossroads Site Dispersed

    Super Simple But Has Signal

    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.

  • Susan L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Daisy State Park Campground
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Daisy State Park Campground

    Definitely worth a stay!

    I never start a review like this, but this park had the cleanest bath house/restrooms I've ever experienced! 2 stalls in the shower in this loop and they each had a clean shower curtain, a bench, hooks to hang stuff. Immaculate. Better than some hotels!

    Stayed in site 104 in the loop by the boat ramp. Nice shade and long parking pad. Sense of privacy. The sites that back to the cove had terraced areas, so if stairs aren't good for you then skip, but the arrangement made for a large area to spread out relax. This site had an additional parking pad next to it that was right next to the tent pad. Handy for ent campers to unload or boaters for boat, plus there were extra parking spots in the cul-de-sac leading down to the boat ramp. 

    The lake is sometimes smooth as glass. Kayaks for rent and this is a must do. Visitor center was being remodeled at the time of visit. 2 short hiking trails. Great state park!

  • Susan L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins Bend
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Tompkins Bend

    COE Lake Ouachita camping

    I tend to like COE campgrounds. However, this one was a different experience for me. It's laid out in a way that it seemed like there was no space between sites and no berms or green cover to give the feeling of some privacy. The site next to me parked their truck about 10 feet from my site on the dirt between us. Boats on trailers are parked in between sites on diagonal or however to make them fit.

    Narrow, windy road into park is nicely paved. Nicely shaded, almost level gravel/asphalt site (not very wide with a tree on one side that would obstruct a rig with slide, awning side is tight too) with picnic bench, fire ring, lantern pole and BBQ.

    Also, the lake is very low right now. I was told that the state is drawing down the lake for hydro power and because there hasn't been any rain in awhile it's starting to show. It was fun to walk the lake bed and look for rocks and minerals that are usually covered by water. Not much else to do if here if you don't have a boat. Otherwise, a nice place to sleep while visiting the area.

  • Lindsey M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs Offroad Park
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Hot Springs Offroad Park

    Cheap, Convenient, & Fun!

    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!

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from J and J RV Park
    Oct. 2, 2024

    J and J RV Park

    Clean and convenient

    Nice 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

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake Complex
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Cove Lake Complex

    Quiet and wooded

    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

  • W
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgewood
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Edgewood

    Sites 21-24 are very close together

    We stayed in tent site 22 for a weekend camping trip. You can’t tell by looking at the Recreation.gov reservation site but tent pad 22 is one of 4 in a grouping of tent sites. 21-24 are so close together. If you are with friends or a large family group then it would be ideal but if don’t want people right on top of you then pick another site. Thankfully, we had some cool neighbors but it was a very noisy and bright spot to camp. Also, your neighbors have to walk through your campsite to get to either of the two water spickets that serve all 4 campsites. There is no where to park your boat unless you rent an RV spot and there is no boat ramp in the camp ground. All of the spots were very shady and cool. We had a good time but we wanted to warn others so you know what you are getting into.

  • Kelsey P.
    Camper-submitted photo from The Vista at the Lake
    Sep. 1, 2024

    The Vista at the Lake

    Complete Scam, false advertising

    Upon arrival the campground looked to be deserted and a ghost town. The place was run down, falling apart, boarded up windows, a mold infested pool, overgrown weeds, and duct tape on bbq pits located at the campsite. Not at all what they advertise this place to be.


Drive Time


Guide to Pencil Bluff

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.

What to do

  • Swimming and Water Activities: Lake Ouachita State Park Campground is a great spot for swimming. One visitor mentioned, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water." You can also rent kayaks and canoes at the marina nearby.
  • Hiking: The area has several trails. A camper at Daisy State Park Campground noted, "There were many beautiful trails to be had within a 30-40 minute drive of the park."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Brady Mountain, offer fishing opportunities. One reviewer said, "The campground is lovely... The boat ramp has good parking and easy entry."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground remarked, "The bathrooms were very good."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many sites are roomy and well-maintained. A camper at Denby Point shared, "Very clean, well maintained, and HUGE sites."
  • Friendly Staff: Campground hosts and park rangers are often noted for their helpfulness. One camper at Charlton Campground said, "Everyone was friendly including the camp host."

What you should know

  • Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife, especially crows. A tent camper at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground warned, "The only thing to beware of is the crows. They are relentless."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cossatot Falls Campsites, have no running water or electricity. A visitor noted, "There are six large, improved sites which are first come first serve cash pay only."
  • Booking in Advance: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Daisy State Park Campground mentioned, "This place is really popular in summer time, so expect to book a year in advance."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas and playgrounds. One camper at COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground said, "Beautiful views and a great playground for young children."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids near water. A parent at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground felt comfortable with their kids swimming, noting, "I felt comfortable with the kids swimming on either side safely."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks handy can keep everyone happy. A camper at Daisy State Park Campground appreciated the camp store for selling firewood and snacks.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Accessibility: Some sites can be tricky to navigate. A reviewer at Denby Point mentioned, "Only problem is some sites are hard to get to."
  • Level Your Site: Make sure your RV is level for a comfortable stay. A camper at Brady Mountain noted, "The site was slightly sloping but easy to level our 24’ Itasca Navion."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, it’s wise to bring your own supplies. A visitor at Treasure Isle R.V. Park mentioned, "I wish quiet hours were enforced and the bathroom was heated especially in December when it was so cold."

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

  • What camping is available near Pencil Bluff, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Pencil Bluff, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 204 campgrounds and RV parks near Pencil Bluff, AR and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Pencil Bluff, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pencil Bluff, AR is COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 43 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pencil Bluff, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Pencil Bluff, AR.

  • What parks are near Pencil Bluff, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 parks near Pencil Bluff, AR that allow camping, notably Ouachita National Forest and Ouachita Lake.