13 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Carter Cove and Quarry Cove campgrounds near Nimrod Lake accommodate pets with water/electric hookups and spacious sites for tent and RV camping. Quarry Cove offers direct lake views from some sites, while Carter Cove features a swimming area near the boat launch. Most campsites at these Corps of Engineers parks provide picnic tables with fire rings, and both campgrounds maintain clean restroom facilities. Sites at Carter Cove are generally shaded, with some spots located above the boat launch area. Campsite sizes vary considerably, with some reviewers noting certain sites at Carter Cove may be tight for larger RVs.
Hiking opportunities exist throughout the Nimrod Lake recreation area, with pet owners finding several dispersed camping options in the surrounding Ouachita National Forest. Trails along Hogan Creek provide access to secluded camping spots where dogs can enjoy the sounds of flowing water. Forest Road 83W offers winter season dispersed sites suitable for pets, though summer visitors should be aware that high grass and weeds can overtake some areas. The Fourche La Fave River provides additional water access points where dogs can cool off. During summer months, Lake Nimrod's water temperature rises significantly, so owners should monitor pets for safety when swimming. Sites at Sunlight Bay include shelters over picnic tables, though there is minimal privacy between campsites.
"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
"Didn’t find any trails but nice to walk around."
"We had a drive thru site that had a beautiful view of the lake. Our boys enjoyed a fire and the nearby views of the dam!!"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $75 / night
"The picnic table had a few steps up to it. This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot."
"There is also a lake nearby. Dog friendly.
There are lots of nature trails, but none very long.
Lots of ticks, tricky to get good starlink connection."
from $35 / night
"We took walks on the bank and around the park . Had friends over for Valentine's dinner ! Great camp for you fishing people !"
"Trails to walk to find nice fishing spots. Bathrooms mostly clean. Electric and water. Hosts very nice and helpful. Boat launch and swimming area."
Available this weekend
from $24 - $75 / night
"We had a lovely time tent camping at Lake Ouachita. It was a last minute Memorial Day weekend plan, so there wasn't much research before hand."
"This was our second stay here, and it confirmed what we’re starting to realize: Arkansas state campgrounds are next level."
"Arkansas is awesome for camping. Camping right along the river below Nimrod Dam"
"Campsite was overlooking the lake, there was a rocky area that was easy to walk down to fish at."
Available this weekend
from $23 - $75 / night
"On the path offers hidden creek waterfalls, lots of one way bridge and a serenity drive."
"It was quiet & we were undisturbed until a couple of locals parked their pickups right next to us at 7 am. But they were in their boat & gone quickly."
"Gravel drive. Sites nearly level. No tent pads, but tents can be set up. Sites may be able to accommodate a truck camper & smaller."
"The State Park systems in the US are some of our favorite places to find beautiful camping spots, but Lake Dardanelle State Park in Arkansas tops most of them all."
"Pretty campground on the lake. You can see Mount Nebo in the distance. Not much in the way of hiking trails. They have a short loop trail near the visitor center that is good for small children."
"Park is on the smaller side so the spots arent super big, ours was very close to the neighbors. Hookups are really well done with electricity, water, and sewage. Bathrooms were very clean."
"The trails are gorgeous and the staff is wonderful."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $34 / night
GuideBeautiful, clean park with huge sites and a friendly host who obviously takes pride in her work. I only booked for 2 days for a break while traveling through the area and I wish I had a week or more. It's so peaceful and my dog loved being here.
ScoutWe spent the weekend at Lake Hamilton Escape and absolutely loved it! We stayed at campsite 512, and I have to say, sites 510, 511, and 512 are fantastic! They’re right on the water, no more than about 20 feet from the lake. One of our favorite things was being able to set up our chairs and table right on the dock, do a little fishing, and still have all the comforts of our camper just a few steps away. It really doesn’t get much better than that! The restrooms and shower house were very clean and just a short walk from our campsite, which was a big plus. If you enjoy camping with kayaks or have a boat, I’d definitely recommend checking out the campsites in the 500s, especially the waterfront sites. Being able to dock your boat, walk right up to your camper, and enjoy all the amenities makes this a great setup. We also enjoyed the hiking trails. Since it wasn’t quite warm enough for swimming, the trails gave us a chance to get out, explore, and burn off a little energy. We didn’t get to experience the clubhouse or pool because of the time of year, but that just gives us something to look forward to next time! Personally, I’d recommend visiting in early spring or early to late fall. The weather is comfortable, there’s less traffic, and you can really enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. We had a wonderful weekend, made some great memories, and will definitely be back. If you’re looking for a relaxing lakeside camping experience with beautiful views and great amenities, Lake Hamilton Escape is worth checking out!
ScoutVery quiet with direct lake access.
ScoutReally nice cabin w/ lots of amenities. koa was flexible in letting us rent the cabin for our daughter and grandkids while we slept in the Rv out front.
ScoutSites are closer together than what appears online—overall clean and well maintained. A hike to the bathhouse but there is one!
TravelerThe one semi level spot appears to be a homeless camp. Garbage everywhere, random wheel chair. Grass not mowed like it stated in other reviews. Still tons of constant dog barking. Beautiful view of the lake but definitely wouldn’t recommend staying for more than a night.
TravelerBeautiful, secluded spot. The vantage point faces the wrong way for the sunset, but if you enjoy watching the sunrise, this is the spot to do it. Sat in my chair and enjoyed my coffee and the show. Not much level ground, but plenty of rocks to level your vehicle if you're sleeping in or on it. Probably room for 3 rigs comfortably. A little bit of traffic on the dirt road, so expect a little dust as this site is right off the road. I think we saw about 4 vehicles, some slowed to reduce dust, some didn't. Some reviews said the road in was impassable, but I didn't even have to use 4wd, so they must have fixed it.
TravelerNice little spot. Very easy to get in with plenty of room, level ground, and multiple fire rings. No spectacular view or anything, you're just in the woods with a couple ATV trails. Quiet.
GuideThis review is strictly for camping. Needed a spot for the night on a road trip. Chose a spot based on limited user photos, as Recreation.gov lists none. Note that the $15 rate jumps to $23 after an $8 reservation fee. Despite previous reviews reporting zero cell coverage, T-Mobile worked fine. We initially chose C15 over the largely vacant Loop A for perceived privacy and proximity to facilities, but it didn't match expectations upon arrival. Phone support stated they cannot modify or cancel reservations for this facility. To switch, we had to create a second Recreation.gov account (the system blocks booking two sites) and pay another $23. The camp host never came by, but we didn't want to risk setting up without an active reservation. If multiple sites are open, scout them in person before paying online. The grounds themselves are pleasant, and the proximity to Hot Springs is a major plus. However, the day-use facility (the only practical option for Loop A) was poorly maintained, leaving only one functional toilet in the women’s restroom.
Dispersed camping options near Plainview, Arkansas extend beyond the established campgrounds at Nimrod Lake. The Ouachita National Forest surrounds the area with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across different terrain types. Winter temperatures average 30-50°F while summer months can reach above 90°F with high humidity.
Hiking to waterfalls: Mount Magazine State Park features trails for all skill levels with unique geological features. "The Cedar Falls hike is beautiful and a quick fun adventure. I recommend going to the Petit Jean Grave. The view is vast!" shares Sondra M. about Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Bank fishing is available at multiple access points around Lake Nimrod and nearby waterways. "This campground was a great find! We had never been there before and booked based on the map. We had tons of room and a direct view of the lake. Sunsets at this lake are beautiful!" notes Jennifer W. about her stay at Quarry Cove.
Boat and kayak launches: Multiple ramps provide access to Lake Nimrod and the Fourche La Fave River system. "Small but beautiful campground. There's a small, sandy swim beach and plenty of places to put in a boat or kayak," according to Jennifer W. who visited Quarry Cove.
Private campsites: Carter Cove offers larger, more spaced out sites. "Nice campground. Clean and mostly quiet. Trails to walk to find nice fishing spots. Large camping spots," says Sandy H. about her experience at Carter Cove.
Wildlife viewing: The Ouachita National Forest provides excellent opportunities for nature observation. "This section of the National Forest offers two hours gravel road through the forest. On the path offers hidden creek waterfalls, lots of one way bridge and a serenity drive," notes Jeff P. about Ouachita National Forest Fourche Mountain.
Winter camping solitude: Off-season visitors find peaceful conditions at Lake Nimrod. "Because of its location convenient to Little Rock, and low traffic, Nimrod Lake makes a good camping destination. When the fall leaves change and begin to drop it is an especially pretty setting," writes 2SHOE S. about camping at Quarry Cove.
Water conditions: Lake Nimrod temperatures vary significantly by season. "The lake is so close and beautiful! The sunset view is to die for!" explains Mandi R. about Lake Dardanelle State Park.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. "There is no cell service in the campground but if you go up to the dam, we had anywhere from 3 to 5 bars of service. The campground is older but we loved it," reports Aaron D G. about River Road campground.
Campsite variations: Size and quality of sites vary considerably. "Sites at Carter Cove are generally shaded, but some spots are angled differently and there is no clear indication how you have to enter the loop to be able to access your site. It can create some frustration when trying to get set up," explains a visitor.
Free camping alternatives: Fourche Mountain Campground offers no-cost options for pet-friendly camping near Plainview. "Small 5-site primitive campground. No water. No electric. Clean vault toilets with tp, and a trash barrel. Clean campground & campsites. Sites are small with reasonable separation, but no privacy," reports Fred S. about Fourche Mountain Campground.
Swimming areas: Designated beaches provide safe access for children and pets. "Carter Cove features a boat launch and swimming area. The campsite was overlooking the lake, there was a rocky area that was easy to walk down to fish at," notes Kelli M.
Educational opportunities: Visitor centers offer nature programs. "The State Park systems in the US are some of our favorite places to find beautiful camping spots, but Lake Dardanelle State Park in Arkansas tops most of them all. The spots are spacious and aesthetically nice," says Rose Alice W.
Hookup access: Water hookups at several campgrounds have unusual configurations. "The water hookups in 'D' area are in strange locations at each site," mentions Mandi R. about Lake Dardanelle State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require significant adjustment. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," notes a visitor to River Road.
Overflow options: When established campgrounds are full, dispersed camping is available. "We stayed in overflow site was great beautiful views," states Steve S. about his experience at Mount Magazine State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Plainview, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Plainview, AR is Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 109 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Plainview, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 173 dog-friendly camping locations near Plainview, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
