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Best Tent Camping near Ponca, AR

1,111 Reviews

Tent camping opportunities around Ponca, Arkansas are concentrated along the scenic Buffalo National River, offering primitive tent sites with riverside access and breathtaking bluff views. Steel Creek Campground serves as a central backcountry tent camping location with 26 tent sites arranged in an open field setting near the iconic Roark Bluff. Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging provides additional tent camping options with riverside locations and access to canoeing and kayaking activities on the Buffalo River.

Tent campsites at Steel Creek feature picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern poles, with access to vault toilets and water spigots that remain available until November. The campground layout places some sites along a tree line while others sit in open areas with unobstructed views. A recent review noted that "the campsites are all in a big grassy field which I love. There are trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole!" Most tent sites cost around $12 per night with a maximum of six people allowed per site. Though officially first-come, first-served, many visitors report finding available tent spaces even when entrance signs indicate the campground is full.

Areas farther from the parking areas offer more seclusion for tent campers seeking a quieter experience. The tent sites backing to the forest edge provide better hammocking options and more shade during summer months. "Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure," described one camper. Tent-only camping areas connect directly to hiking trails including the Buffalo River Trail and Old River Trail, allowing easy day hikes from your campsite. Summer weekends typically see higher occupancy rates, while spring and fall offer more solitude for backcountry tent camping experiences. Cell service is virtually nonexistent at most tent campgrounds, requiring a drive into Ponca for connectivity, creating a true disconnect from urban life.

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Best Tent Sites Near Ponca, Arkansas (31)

    1. Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River

    24 Reviews
    Ponca, AR
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (870) 861-2570

    $20 / night

    "There are toilets and water spigots around the campground, but no showers. I set up camp at site #16 which was out in the open and provided us the best seats for the nighttime sky."

    "The sign said "campground full" but thanks to another review we disregarded this and found an open site, as did the person who drove in behind us."

    2. Kyles Landing Campground — Buffalo National River

    22 Reviews
    Compton, AR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 439-2502

    $20 / night

    "It includes hiking trails, river access and walk in camp grounds only. Tents only are highly recommended. Rough road getting there and no cell service which is fine with me."

    "Water access available but no hookups. Very low cost too. Picnic tables, lantern post, and fire rings at each site. Absolutely no cell service."

    3. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

    9 Reviews
    Ponca, AR
    4 miles
    Website

    $5 - $245 / night

    "Amenities include potable water, flush toilets, showers, and a trash dumpster. The only downside to this campground is that it can be moderately expensive."

    "Car camp, hammock, tent camp, or rent one the cabins to enjoy the roaming goats and horses around the property. Infamously known in AR as one of the best climbing spots."

    4. Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging

    3 Reviews
    Ponca, AR
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 861-5522

    $15 - $150 / night

    "Beautiful area near the Buffalo National River. Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging has a yurt, campsites, cabins with hot tubs on the deck, bunkhouse, showers, allows pets, and is family owned."

    5. Haw Creek Falls Camping

    23 Reviews
    Pelsor, AR
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 964-7200

    "This is a pretty nice and quite camp site there is definitely traffic through here more than we’re use to but it’s a really nice spot, it’s all primitive camping, there is vault toilets on site we keep"

    "The campground is located in the Ozark National Forest. Beware of flooding during the rainy seasons. When it rains a lot, the creek floods and covers the road into the campground."

    6. Kings River Falls Campground

    4 Reviews
    Pettigrew, AR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 789-0415

    $27 - $30 / night

    "You are close enough to see your neighbor campers but we couldn’t hear them at all. We had 2 dogs that loved the space too. Not much water right now on the river but will be back in the spring!"

    "Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas."

    7. Black Raspberry Campsite

    1 Review
    Jasper, AR
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 715-2016

    $100 - $125 / night

    8. Hasty Takeout — Buffalo National River

    3 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    16 miles

    "Beautiful surrounding areas. Near Cobb Cave and Whitaker Point!"

    "It was nice but the people camping next to is where up all night. They were loud and drunk but besides that we had a wonderful time."

    9. Carver Campground — Buffalo National River

    3 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 439-2502

    "Add to that that the road leading down to the waters edge from the campground was a dirt path that was wet and slick, it did make getting our crafts up a little rough."

    "The sites has fire pits, picnic tables, and plenty of room to spread out and relax."

    10. Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area

    4 Reviews
    Vendor, AR
    20 miles

    "Stayed the night in Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area. Spoke with Arkansas Game and Fishing Commission Ranger. No despersal camping but you can camp in the 2 designated campsites."

    "100% of Wildlife Management Areas in the state of Arkansas require a Hunting license or WMA camping permit purchased though Arkansas Game and Fish."

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Ponca, AR

47 Photos of 31 Ponca Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Ponca, AR

1111 Reviews of 31 Ponca Campgrounds

  • Amy W.
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI)

    Small campground with CCC-built rock shelters

    This recreation area is as close to off-grid as you can get with so many great options right off the pavement. This campground has no water or electricity but has 4 drive-up campsites with picnic tables, fire circle, and rock shelters that overlook the beautiful Illinois Bayou. I only recall seeing trash receptacles on the lower loop.  An upper loop is accessible by hiking in. These are tent sites only with no rock shelters on the sites. The rock shelters have a large rock fire area.  There's also a vault toilet on the lower loop. A pavilion onsite is reservable and has electricity. There's also several small trails through the campground but it's most fun when the water is low enough, to go down to the water and walk along the creek. The area is close to many great hiking trails and dirt roads to explore around Hector and makes a great home base. Just up the road is a great area to explore with Jeeps or ATVs. Look up Lindsey Mtwy. This area is not on many people's radar so it's possible that you may only see a local or two while you're here. I still had cell service with my Verizon network while I was in the campground but I lost service when I went down by the Illinois Bayou.  Overall, this is a heck of a nice campground for the non-electric camper. If you visit the area, please leave no trace. :-)

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 25, 2022

    Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI)

    Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI)

    The Bayou Bluff Recreation Area is now called the Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI). In summary, there are only 4 campsites, including a group site. Also, these sites are free, first come, first serve. Here's is info directly from the Bayou Bluff  page on the National Forst Service Web site: "Effective October 2021, Bayou Bluff became a Point of Interest. The fees are suspended for camping and day use and is now open all year. Upper loop is closed to camping and will be eliminated completely. Use of the vault toilet, large pavilion, three shelters, and a small pavilion will remain. The pavilions are managed on a first-come, first-service basis. Trash services are managed by visitors as "pack-it-in, pack-it-out," and Leave No Trace ethics are posted on information kiosks. Active partner groups and volunteers are helping extend the life of the current amenities, excluding trash services." Also: "Open all year. No fees. Upper loop closed. Pavilions available on a first-come, first-served basis only. No trash services. Pack it in- pack it out." The NF page also indicates that there is no water available, but there may water in the group site. The vault toilets are clean, and the campground grounds appear to be reasonably maintained. I recommend only tent camping here, as well as car/truck/van camping. Sites appear to be too small for RVs & trailers.

  • Matt S.
    Jul. 23, 2017

    Lost Bridge South

    Stay at South Bridge for Lakeside camping and beautiful scenerey

    I really like Lost Bridge South and Lost Bridge North. They are on the banks of Beaver Lake and are beautiful. The only downside is both campgrounds are built on the slopes of a hill. The RV and camper pads are level with asphalt, but to pitch a tent can be a bit tricky to find level ground.

    Personally I do not like pitching my tent on concrete or rock pads, I prefer good old grass and dirt. Both my tent and my back last a little bit longer when on soft ground versus rocks.

    The facilities were clean nice. The showers and bathrooms were pretty good. The only problem was there were no soap dispensers, so bring your own if you like clean hands.

    This is a solid four star campground. I highly recommend getting a campsite next to the lake. We had a lot of fun with some great views.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 18, 2024

    Wolf Pen Recreation Area Campground

    Primitive Camping - Mulberry River, AR Ozarks

    Camped here on Sept 1, 2023. $10 camping fee ($5 with federal pass); pay station. Site sizes are okay; more than enough room for a single rig. The 6 sites are close to the unpaved campground road. Each site has a metal fire ring; most sites have grills. No tables. Campground road end at a loop. Some road noise from highway 215. Access to the Mulberry River for swimming & fishing. No water. Trash dispensers. Vault toilets were pretty dirty during our stay, so we set up our own toilet system at our campsite.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Shores Lake

    Quiet stay in a hardwood forest

    Camped in site #10 in mid-November 2024. Site 10 is non-electric; paid $7.50/night with senior pass. Overall clean campground, well maintained and managed, in pretty hardwood forest. Not busy during my stay. Sites have picnic tables, tent pads and clean metal fire rings. Site 10 was level. The campground includes a clean restroom/shower house, one clean vault toilet at the far end of the campground, trash dumpsters and drinking water; all of these facilities and services were available during my stay in November. Campground can accommodate tents, camper vans, car camping and RVs. Some sites are electric. There are no water and sewer hookups. Campground road is paved as well as Highway 215 from I-40 accessing the campground. Sites are mostly shaded, but there is no privacy between sites. Shores Lake trailhead is located in a parking area in the campground. Day use area nearby with good fishing in Shores Lake. Campground hosts Donna and Eddie were wonderful. I really liked this campground.

  • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 26, 2020

    Drury-Mincy Conservation Area

    Gem in Missouri

    Lovely spot in Missouri. Passing through to Tennessee and found this gem of a spot with 2 vault toilets, trash and it’s free! Arrived at sunset in a Wednesday and only 2 other campers. There’s about 6 spots to pull in with a camper/ RV then at least 6 tent spots. Most spots have a fire ring and picnic table. 2-3 bars of LTE with AT&T. Little bit of road noise but no issues sleeping in my van. Everyone we came across was kind. No electric or water so come prepared. Closest town for supplies is around 25 minutes. Would definitely stay here again!

  • M
    Mar. 6, 2022

    Lost Bridge North

    Off Season Perfection

    Visited here in early spring and were spoiled with amazing lake views and not many neighbors. When the trees leaf out I’m guessing you still would have good privacy. No water hook ups at the site (if you need to fill your tank the water next to vault toilet by the lake is the most flat) but 30 amp hook up made it very comfortable. Large concrete picnic tables and fire rings (some also have grills) at each site. Close enough to Bentonville to spend a day in town or exploring Crystal Bridges!

  • S
    May. 28, 2019

    Ozark Campground — Buffalo National River

    Nice Campground!

    We enjoyed camping here. We came for Memorial Day weekend and the campground was very busy, but quiet hours seemed to be honored. Some of the campsites are walk-in while some are drive-in. Picnic tables and lantern hooks at every site, nice clean working bathrooms, dumpster, and even a volleyball net. The campsite encircles a large field in the center which some people used to play ball, frisbee etc. many of the sites are not very secluded; you could easily be sleeping right next to another tent. RVs are allowed. There is a quick trail leading to the river - if you camp near this, be aware that people will be going up and down it all day and loading/unloading canoes and kayaks. Fees are $20/night and the campground is patrolled frequently by a park ranger (he was very nice). Lots of dogs!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2021

    Drury-Mincy Conservation Area

    Great Deal, Needs some Tender Loving Care

    FREE

    FCFS 

    Sites: 13 

    This is a dispersed campground with picnic table, fire ring and sitting on the top of the mountain giving a great view. NO WATER but there are two pit toilets. When it comes to the toilets I guess you could say

    "any port in the storm" but they could use some TLC. There is also a trash dumpster but trash."  Come on people there is a trash dumpster USE IT. Pads are grass and the road is gravel. The site is situated along side the highway. 

    LNT  

    BTYFI 

    Travel safe

Guide to Ponca

Tent camping near Ponca, Arkansas offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, with a variety of well-reviewed campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts.

Tent campers should check out Steel Creek Campground

  • Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the soothing sounds of the nearby Buffalo River at Steel Creek Campground, where you can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature.
  • This campground features spacious sites that provide privacy, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and stunning sunrises.
  • With amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, you can easily enjoy evenings around the campfire while roasting marshmallows under a starry sky.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Haw Creek Falls Camping

  • At Haw Creek Falls Camping, you can experience a beautiful setting with access to swimming holes and scenic waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking.
  • The campground is free and allows pets, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together.
  • Although there are no drinking water facilities, the vault toilets are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Local activities for tent campers at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

  • Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is renowned for its rock climbing opportunities, attracting adventurers from all over who want to tackle the impressive sandstone cliffs.
  • The ranch also offers hiking trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, providing ample opportunities for exploration and photography.
  • With amenities like drinking water and showers, this campground ensures a comfortable experience after a day filled with outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best tent camping sites in Ponca, Arkansas?

The Ponca area offers exceptional tent camping along the Buffalo National River. Steel Creek Campground — Buffalo National River is a premier option with sites nestled beneath dramatic Ponca bluffs alongside the river. The campground features two layers of sites - some closer to parking and others nearer to the woods and river. Another excellent choice is Kyles Landing Campground — Buffalo National River, which offers well-maintained grounds with river access and walk-in tent sites. The natural setting makes it perfect for disconnecting, though the access road can be rough. Both campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis and fill quickly during peak float season.

What is the best time of year for tent camping in Ponca, Arkansas?

Fall is widely considered the prime season for tent camping in Ponca, with October offering spectacular autumn colors against the backdrop of Buffalo River bluffs. Spring Creek Campground — Buffalo National River is particularly pleasant in October when temperatures are moderate and the campground is quieter than during summer float season. Spring (April-May) is also excellent for camping in the area, with wildflowers blooming and comfortable temperatures, though water levels are higher for floating. Summer offers warm weather and swimming opportunities but can be hot and crowded, especially on weekends. Weekday camping at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch or other area campgrounds is recommended during peak season to avoid crowds.

What campgrounds near Ponca, Arkansas offer tent camping facilities?

Several campgrounds near Ponca cater specifically to tent campers. Bayou Bluff Point of Interest (POI) offers four free, first-come, first-served primitive campsites with picnic tables, fire circles, and rock shelters overlooking the Illinois Bayou. For a more established option, Drury-Mincy Conservation Area provides about 13 free sites with picnic tables and fire rings, plus vault toilets. The sites offer mountain-top views but no water. Other tent-friendly options include Lost Valley, Rush Campground, and Carver Campground along the Buffalo National River, all offering primitive facilities ideal for tent camping. Most campgrounds in the area are first-come, first-served and have minimal amenities, perfect for those seeking a more authentic outdoor experience.

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