Camping in Morrilton, Arkansas sits within the Arkansas River Valley region at approximately 354 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, humid summers with average July temperatures around 93°F and mild winters with January lows near 30°F. Local campgrounds often remain accessible year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions with moderate temperatures and reduced humidity.
What to do
Hiking on Petit Jean Mountain: Petit Jean State Park features trails ranging from easy to difficult with varying terrain. "Go Spring or Fall for the View. If in Arkansas, Petit Jean State Park is a must. With a ton of trails, lodge, restaurant, and waterfalls it is a nature lovers dream," says Andrew S. about Petit Jean State Park.
Fishing access: Cherokee Park provides direct access to the Arkansas River for fishing opportunities. "Beautiful place located not far off I-40. Easy to get to just know you're going through downtown Morillton and past some churches then past some farmland to get out there. Beautiful and peaceful place to just sit and watch the river," notes Cheri H. about Cherokee Park.
Boat watching: The lock and dam system creates interesting river traffic viewing opportunities. "This campground is right on the river! Water flows by very fast. No swimming. Lots of fishing. Sites are clean but a little close. Lots of shade," explains Kathy E. about Toad Suck campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain regularly serviced restrooms. "The bathhouses are located quite a distance from Loop D. The one I checked out was modern and clean," mentions Jeanette W. about Toad Suck Ferry Park.
Wildlife viewing: The river area attracts diverse wildlife species. "We have seen quite a bit of wildlife including and up close encounter with a bald eagle, several blue herons, and a few river otter sightings," writes Steve S. about Cherokee Park.
Riverfront views: Several campgrounds offer direct riverside sites. "It's a beautiful park by the AR River with lovely grounds to walk or bike. Sites are very well spaced and you can take your chairs to the river or use the picnic benches scattered along the river full of waterfowl and occasional boaters and huge barges," explains Stevann H. about Maumelle Park.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Research specific site characteristics before booking. "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove, easy access to the paved CCC trail, 30/50 amp service, water, picnic table, fire ring and trash hook, clean and accommodating bath house, enough space between sites for plenty of privacy," advises Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park.
Free camping option: For budget-conscious campers seeking pet-friendly options. "Just a picnic table no other amenities and the view is amazing great place to stay for free," says Sara W. about Harris Brake Lake.
Reservation timing: Popular sites require advance planning. "A loop cons: 'Stays booked 93% of the year' -Park Office. It's really hard to get a reservation if you don't book at least a year out in A loop," warns Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer play equipment for children. "Small clean campground. Some spots are very private Some not so much. Spots are large. Great views of lock. Multiple playgrounds and pavilions. Basketball, volleyball and store across the street," notes John R. about Toad Suck.
Biking opportunities: Paved trails provide safe cycling options. "Made our reservations through Recreation.gov. Arrived on a Sunday afternoon and it was a very busy place. With its large river access I imagine it attracts all the local boaters. The playground attracts lots of children," shares Stevann H. about Maumelle Park.
Wildlife education: Wildlife sightings create learning opportunities. "This is our second stop at Toad Suck Park and we enjoy the off season quiet beauty of the Arkansas River. Very clean and staff is very kind and friendly," reports Teresa S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "B loop cons: many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," cautions Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park.
Park accessibility: Access roads vary in quality and navigability. "There are actually two entrances to the park, recommend the second one as it has less sharp curves. The bridge is high enough for rigs to go under of choosing the first entrance," advises Never Sitting S. about Toad Suck.
Hookup locations: Service connections aren't always ideally positioned. "Some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper. It's purely inconvenient and I'm not sure why this is this way. Pay attention when you book your site to campsite photos," recommends Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park.
