RV camping near Pettigrew, Arkansas offers options across the Ozark region with varying levels of facilities and access. Located in the Boston Mountains subrange of the Ozarks at approximately 1,700 feet elevation, Pettigrew experiences distinct seasonal changes with fall colors typically peaking in late October to early November. Many campgrounds in this area don't accept advance reservations during winter months when seasonal closures can affect facility availability.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: The Razorback trail network begins near Southgate RV Park of Fayetteville, connecting to over 40 miles of paved paths. "The Razorback trail and network of bike trails (which can take you all the way to Bentonville) are just a few blocks down the road from Southgate. This is a great way to get downtown without driving and trying to find parking," notes Kelsey G.
Vineyard tours: Within driving distance of Pettigrew, Grape Country RV Park in Altus sits amid working vineyards. "Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manacured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids. Great wines right up the road," reports Jessica P. Another camper adds, "It is on the wine trail and there are vineyards across the road."
Mountain views: The area offers scenic drives and lookout points. At Wanderlust RV Park, Allen S. shares, "The sunsets on the ridge were amazing! You can sit at your camp site and watch the sun go down way below the horizon every night it was very cool!" Many campgrounds feature elevated sites with views of surrounding mountain ranges.
What campers like
Helpful campground hosts: Many RV parks in the region earn praise for personalized service. At Harrison RV Park & Campground, Julie G. notes, "The campground managers are super friendly and had lots of good information on the area. They took us to look at sites first to see which one we would like. He then helped us park." This hands-on approach is common at smaller parks.
Clean facilities: Despite varying ages of infrastructure, cleanliness remains consistent. "We love the new bathroom and shower house," writes Vien W. about Turner Bend. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, a camper mentions, "Bathouse was clean and stocked," though notes challenges with "little red mites" that were numerous in the area.
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds strategically located near local points of interest receive high marks. "The location is convenient a quarter of mile off the Highway 23/The Pig Trail that motorcycle riders love," says a Turner Bend reviewer. For those wanting urban access, Southgate RV Park offers advantages as "you can't camp in your RV any closer to downtown Fayetteville than at Southgate."
What you should know
Site dimensions: RV spots vary significantly in size and accessibility. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, Caleb L. cautions, "It was somewhat tight getting a big rig in and out. And the parking spots are pretty close to each other." Similar concerns appear at other campgrounds, with one Wanderlust review noting they "pack you in like sardines, not even 5 feet apart."
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Wanderlust RV Park runs from "Mar 1 to Mid Nov" while others remain open year-round. Weather conditions often determine facility availability, with water systems frequently winterized from November through March.
Highway noise: Road proximity affects sound levels at several parks. A Harrison RV Park reviewer notes it's "right on Highway good for campers" but acknowledges "a bit of road noise, which comes with the convenience." At Southgate, a camper reports being "right next to a busy road, but you can't really hear it when inside your camper."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies dramatically between locations. At Southgate, Jamie B. reports "good wifi connection," while Harrison RV Park receives praise for "screaming fast wifi." However, more remote campgrounds often lack connectivity altogether.
Tips for camping with families
Space for activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. At Grape Country RV Park, James G. appreciates "a wooded trails for walking and a big open are for walking and playing with pets." These common areas provide alternatives when individual sites are small.
Playground availability: Not all parks cater to children. One camper at Wanderlust noted "There isn't much for kids to do. It's definitely a camp ground to simply stay the night and then go do things in Eureka Springs. The gravel was loose and not great for riding bikes...There is no play ground and lots of drop offs around the park."
Swimming options: During summer months, pool access becomes important. Harrison RV Park receives positive reviews for its "nice clean pool" as a family-friendly amenity when temperatures rise above 90°F, which typically occurs from June through August.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Kingston Trails RV Park maintains level sites with both 30 and 50-amp service. At Fort Smith-Alma, a reviewer noted their "site A2 had fire pit, grill, picnic table was pretty level even with gravel." Experienced RVers recommend carrying leveling blocks regardless of park descriptions.
Reservation timing: During peak seasons, especially fall foliage viewing periods from late October through mid-November, campgrounds fill quickly. For Love's RV Hookup in Clarksville, Beverly W. advises, "Reserve ahead though as all 4 sites were taken by 3pm on a Sunday."
Hookup variations: Electrical service differs between parks. Harrison RV Park offers "sites are pull thru with full hook ups including robust cable TV channels," while others provide only basic electricity. Before booking, confirm whether 30-amp or 50-amp service is available for your specific RV needs.
