RV parks around Pencil Bluff, Arkansas offer direct access to the Ouachita Mountains, where elevations range from 600 to 2,700 feet. The region receives approximately 54 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forest conditions and seasonal water level changes in the rivers. Most camping areas maintain moderate temperatures even in summer, with highs rarely exceeding 95°F.
What to do
Crystal mining excursions: Just over an hour east of Pencil Bluff at Crystal Ridge RV Park, visitors can spend the day digging for quartz crystals. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," notes one camper who had success following rainfall.
Canoeing and kayaking: The Caddo River offers gentle water recreation options within a short drive. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," mentions a visitor to Caddo River Access RV Park, which provides direct river access for water activities.
Local exploration: Many campers use Pencil Bluff as a base for day trips. "Very convenient place to stay only 2 min from town and just a short drive to any location you might want to visit," reports a guest at South Fork RV and Camping, highlighting the area's strategic location for regional exploration.
What campers like
Riverside camping settings: Several campgrounds feature sites directly on waterways. One camper at Ouachita River Haven noted the peaceful atmosphere of "hearing the bullfrogs at night" along with opportunities to see wild turkeys nearby.
Clean facilities: Despite the rural setting, campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms. A visitor at Leisure Landing RV Park described their experience with "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly."
Affordability: The region offers good value compared to more developed tourist areas. One Crystal Ridge RV Park visitor emphasized this point: "$12 a night, full hookup potential AND you are walking distance to the mine!!! For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals."
What you should know
Weather and seasonal considerations: Fall is the busiest season with limited availability. "Watch your step. One of the long-term residents isn't picking up their dog waste," warns one candid reviewer at Leisure Landing RV Park, highlighting that maintenance can vary by season and occupancy levels.
Natural hazards: One camper warned about seasonal pests: "Oakworms were crazy. That's not rain you hear falling from the trees! lol Stay under the awning." Wildlife encounters are common throughout the region.
Campground size variations: Many RV parks in the area are compact. "The campsite is closer to the river/bridge construction than the map says, and was currently blocked by construction vehicles, but it looked like a nice spot with hookups," reported one Caddo River Access visitor, noting that actual conditions may differ from online descriptions.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly activities: Murfeesboro RV Park offers special equipment loans for diamond mining. "This place has been great, we stayed for two nights and got to rent out equipment for free to go diamond mining and the woman on staff was very friendly," according to one family that appreciated the no-cost equipment rentals.
Water safety: Families with children should be cautious near waterways. "The camp sites have good shade and are all close to the water. You can start fires, keep your vehicle right by, and bring your furry friend along too!" notes a Caddo River camper, emphasizing the importance of supervision near water.
Alternative accommodations: Several campgrounds offer cabins for families without camping equipment. "There are also a couple cabins in the back it looked like," mentioned a visitor at Cossatot River RV Park, providing options for families who prefer solid walls.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RVers mention varying experiences with site dimensions. "Very nice and clean park. Nice and quite, right on the Ouachita River / lake Hamilton. Very friendly and helpful staff," notes a visitor to Treasure Isle R.V. Park, though others mention tight quarters.
Hookup quality: Water pressure can be inconsistent across RV campgrounds in Pencil Bluff. "We also had to run the water from another site. Our neighbors were complaining about their site not having water either," reported one Crystal Ridge RV visitor, suggesting bringing pressure regulators.
Accessibility challenges: Some RV parks have challenging approaches. "If you're planning to kayak, canoe or tube, then you may not mind how busy the campgrounds are. The bath/showers are not terribly close, unless you're staying near the bunk houses," explains a Caddo River visitor about facility distances within campgrounds.
