Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Powhatan, AR

Lake Charles State Park Campground permits pets throughout its developed camping areas with 50-amp electric hookups, water connections, and sewer facilities in select sites. Davidsonville Historic State Park Campground similarly accommodates pets with both drive-in and walk-in access points across its tent and RV sites. Both parks maintain clean, modern facilities with recently renovated bathhouses. Campers consistently report positive experiences with their dogs at these locations, particularly enjoying the paved walking trails around Lake Charles that provide easy pet exercise opportunities. The parks enforce standard leash policies and expect owners to properly dispose of pet waste to maintain the natural environment.

Greene Road Camp Dispersed offers a more primitive pet-friendly camping experience near Powhatan, with picnic tables available but no drinking water, electrical hookups or bathroom facilities. For families camping with dogs, Lake Charles State Park provides access to swimming areas, fishing opportunities, and playground equipment, though pets must remain outside designated swimming zones. Lake Frierson State Park Campground, located about 30 miles southwest of Powhatan, offers additional pet-friendly camping options with electric and water hookups plus cabin accommodations. The natural wooded settings provide ample shade during summer months—important for pet comfort during Arkansas' hot season. Visitors should be prepared for seasonal biting flies and mosquitoes, especially in morning hours, and should pack appropriate insect repellent for both humans and pets. The local wildlife and abundant fishing opportunities create an enjoyable outdoor experience, though campers should maintain awareness of their pets near water areas.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Powhatan, Arkansas (47)

    1. Lake Charles State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Powhatan, AR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 878-6595

    $36 / night

    "A lake is generally deeper than a pond. You weigh the depth and surface to judge if a body of water is one or the other. In Arkansas you will find a pond on a ranch or a farm."

    "There are trails for hiking or bike riding all three campground areas have access to the lake for fishing or bring your own boat and explore the lake."

    2. Davidsonville Historic State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Powhatan, AR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 892-4708

    "Besides having a nice little exhibit open to experience, they even are keeping the kayak, canoe and pedal boat rentals open (Other Arkansas Parks are keeping some bathrooms, showers, rental boats and exhibits"

    "Beautiful, peaceful, smaller campground with a small lake, a river, hiking trails and historic sites with interpretive signage."

    3. Pocahontas City Park

    4 Reviews
    Pocahontas, AR
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 892-8896

    "Someone’s dog barked ALL night. Not another camper- a local’s dog."

    "This park is in the city of Pocahontas, Arkansas. It has 7 full service concrete parking pads. A very nice boat launch & plenty of parking for trucks with boat trailers."

    4. Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Walcott, AR
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 573-6751

    $23 / night

    "The facilities were very clean and near to the sites. So impressed with how Arkansas State Parks are maintained- we were pleased!"

    "Two Lakes, several trails, a "spring" and plenty of camping options."

    5. The outback

    1 Review
    Powhatan, AR
    13 miles

    $10 - $15 / night

    6. Almost Home RV Park

    1 Review
    Hoxie, AR
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 886-5810

    7. Craighead Forest Park

    18 Reviews
    Jonesboro, AR
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 933-4604

    "Excellent weekend camping at Craighead Forest State Park outside Jonesboro, Ar."

    "Craighead Forest Park was conceived in 1937 when the Young Mens' Civic Club began work on the lake.  It is now a city owned park that is located in the rolling hills of Crowley's Ridge. "

    8. Lake Frierson State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Walcott, AR
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (870) 932-2615

    "Lake Frierson State Park is a nice stop off on the way to Jonesboro Arkansas. Nice trails, water recreation and quiet. The campground is small. 7 sites near one of the boat ramps."

    "The sites are nice and have great views of the lake. For those of you with RV’s beware that there is no sewer dump station here."

    10. Spring River Oaks

    5 Reviews
    Cherokee Village, AR
    26 miles
    Website

    "No pets. Camping along the Spring river with excellent waterfront views. Small store on the campground for necessities and close enough to local shopping in town."

    "Ok forget the ever running trains not to far from back of campground or the 3 mile drive on a dirt and gravel road, this is a beautiful park. The river that runs through it has great fishing."

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Powhatan, AR

167 Reviews of 47 Powhatan Campgrounds


  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 3, 2018

    Craighead Forest Park

    Chilly Camping

    Excellent weekend camping at Craighead Forest State Park outside Jonesboro, Ar.

    The park offers four trails, one gravel pedestrian only, one paved multi-use with excercise equipment, a forest trail and one dirt trail for bikers and runners. Three large playgrounds, pavilions and several small playgrounds. A dog park/beach access area and dog dock. Fishing and watercraft access. Camping and a nature center.

    When we arrived at the campground we had the choice of several primitive campsites. There is limited parking in the small gravel lot. There are three sites near the lot and then several others about 200 to 300 ft down the gravel trail.

    This is the same gravel trail, approximately 3 miles long, that circles the lake. Needless to say there is a lot of foot traffic on it.

    There was plenty of room at the site. We set up two tents and a hammock plus had the picnic table, fire pit and gravel pad which is right on the lake. If you bring your fishing gear or water craft it’s easy to tie off right at your campsite.

    Directly across from primitive camping are two very large , active playgrounds a pavilion and restroom. There’s a snow cone vendor with loud music who frequents that parking area too. In addition the park is not closed during the night so we got to listen to several loud conversation, music blaring from a car stereo until about 1:30am and a rather colorful argument at one point.

    You drive through the RV area on your way in to the primitive area. There is a nice new bathroom facility with uncomfortably warm cranking heat, the metal fixtures were warm to the touch. One drawback to there being only one restroom about 1/4 mile from the primitive area, you know people aren’t walking that far at night when the need to go…, just saying.

    So Pros: centrally located, water access, nice trails, good size sites, a lot to do

    Cons: foot traffic, noise, no privacy, noise, not limited access

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Lake Charles State Park Campground

    Country Life

    I must make a comment regarding two other reviews. A lake is generally deeper than a pond. You weigh the depth and surface to judge if a body of water is one or the other. In Arkansas you will find a pond on a ranch or a farm. Now in some areas of the United States there are lakes that cover masses of acres and I had to laugh at the fact that Lake Charles was being called a pond. In the south we consider Lake Charles a lake even if it is only 645 acres.  Please don't take offense, I meant none, we just look at things a bit different, we are also very proud of Arkansas and the fact that it is considered "The Natural State."

    Folks if you travel to very many state parks or Corp of Engineer COE parks in Arkansas you will encounter another southern foible.  Narrow roads.  Most of Arkansas is rural and you will find that most roads are older, narrow and farm equipment or ranching equipment uses the roads.  That also leads toward the "charm" of Arkansas.  If you stay in the larger towns you will manage to get by fairly well but venture towards the campgrounds and we hope you enjoy the state.  Take your time.

    Lake Charles State Park is 1/2 more or less hour from Jonesboro on a quiet country road.  It has a 645 acre lake with bass, crappie, bream and catfish.  This park operates year round.  From March to October to will be able to purchase bait and tackle at the Visitor Center.  There are Class AAA sites to tent sites with many on the lake.  There are yurts available.  From November to February a 3-D Archery range is open.  You will find 4 hiking trails and there are several programs offered by the rangers.  Check on the programs offered through the Arkansas State Parks, find the park you want, and plan your stay.  It will be a learning experience for young and old.  So map out everything you want to do and learn.

    Fish, kayak, hike, ranger talks, camping, picnicking, what more can you ask for.  Lake Charles was established in 1963 and was dedicated on May 28, 1967.

    Picnic tables, grills, lantern hooks and paved pads are at each campsite.  Restrooms and bathhouses are modern and "air conditioned" which come in handy when you are dealing with Arkansas heat and humidity.  There is a dump stationed and trash area shortly after coming into the park.  All sites may be reserved.  Beautiful shades trees, level sites with some a bit tight.  No waterskiing or tubing is allowed.

    Four walking trails with the Cedar Trail being paved.  The Butterflies and Blooms Trail is a short gravel trail and the Native Plant Trail uses plants that will attract butterflies and local wildlife.

    Swimming area is free of charge and is located in a day use area.  You will not find life guards so please watch over all.  Alcohol, glass bottles and pets are not allowed.  You will find a gently sloping sandy beach.  

    A short distance away from the park is Davidsonville Historic State Park and Powhatan Courthouse State Park.  There is plenty to keep you busy and we hope you enjoy a laid back southern vacation.

    Word of warning.  Even a native Arkansan quakes when it come summer time and the dreaded flies and mosquitoes come out to play.  Research, find all kinds of options for keeping them at bay, screens on your doors, campfire smoke, anything just don't let them stop you from enjoying.

    Have Fun - Stay Safe   Leave No Trace Better Than You Found It

  • Cathy W.
    Jun. 13, 2018

    Spring River Oaks

    Spring River Oaks

    Great place to take the family. Water hook ups , electric , dumping station . Camp in tents , rvs. No pets. Camping along the Spring river with excellent waterfront views. Small store on the campground for necessities and close enough to local shopping in town.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2021

    Craighead Forest Park

    Cool Oasis

    Craighead Forest Park was conceived in 1937 when the Young Mens' Civic Club began work on the lake.  It is now a city owned park that is located in the rolling hills of Crowley's Ridge.  The park encompasses 692 acres and should be the pride and joy of Jonesboro.  A residential area has grown around the park which will ensure the peacefulness of the area.  Basketball, bike and running trails, bird watching, camping, disc golf, fishing, horseshoes, playgrounds, softball, volleyball.  There is a great splash pad for the kids.  This place has it all rolled into one great package.  The grass and wooded areas are well maintained to make for a wonderful stay.

    • 5 tent sites
    • A primitive camping area
    • Electrical outlets
    • Fire rings
    • Picnic Tables,
    • Water
    • Tolilet and shower facilities
    • Laundry facilities
    • 41 sites with water and electric
    • Dump station
    • Reduced rates for seniors
    • Free firewood
    • Pets They have a dog jumping pier

    This is a small, compact campground on a one lane road with a nice turn around at the bottom at the lake.  Some sites are called water sites but I consider them sites with a view of the water.  Most sites are level, some not, so when you reserve ask for one of the sites that has the new concrete pads.  The campground is located away from the ball areas so it is very quiet and not being on a thru street the only traffic is to be the campground traffic.  Sites are wooded and there was a nice breeze coming off the lake.  My first thought when I booked was MOSQUITOES you can't be from that area with out thinking of them.  For the two days we were there not a mosquito and almost no flies.  This is a wonderful surprise for anyone coming through Jonesboro.  We will be back.  Being in the south we all know how hot and humid it can be and a trip to the bathroom/shower facility is often not the most pleasant.  Loved the shower/bathroom facilities.  Air Conditioned, it was amazing with the temps reaching 100 and more while we were there..  This campground had set the bar high and I am sure they will always attain excellence.

    The park has approximately 15 miles of mountain bike trails intertwined in the forest, there is a 2.4 mile chat trail that winds around the lake and a 2.9 miles if nicely paved road that circles the park.  There is an area for ATV riders and many trails can accommodate horses.  Check out the three trails that lead to the Forrest L. Wood Crowley's Ridge Nature Center.

    The Forest L. Wood Crowley's Ridge Nature Center gives the visitor a chance to see the story of a very special ridge that runs along the top of the Mississippi Delta.  They have a 17,033 square foot facility that features an education, exhibit and meeting facility that is on 160 acre prairie.  There is a 2.5 acre pond and about 100 acres of woodlands.  the Nature Center is the perfect accessory to your stay at the Craighead Forest Park.

    Jonesboro offers plenty of entertainment not nature related.  Arkansas State University, a great college town, all types of restaurants, chain and local, movie theatre, grocery stores, shopping mall.  There is the Arkansas State University Museum that features a 21,000 square feet of historic, archaeological and natural history exhibits.  It mainly focuses on the history and cultural heritage of Northeast Arkansas and the Mississippi River Delta.

    Jonesboro might not be quite the draw of many other areas but I think you might be surprised.

    Jonesboro is the fifth largest city in Arkansas weighing in at over 67,000 people

  • Becca
    Sep. 17, 2021

    Rocky River Resort

    Rocky River Resort

    We spend the whole summer here and couldn’t ask for a more friendly place! It’s perfect, from being right on the water to allowing pets! They provide everything needed to float but your cooler and food! They will carry you up river and your float ends at the campground! Been coming here 30 years and counting!

  • Shana D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 17, 2020

    Riverside Campground and Canoe

    Great spot on Spring River

    Large campground on Spring River with lots to offer. Cabins, Camper Cabins, RV sites with water & elec and tons of primitive sites. You can also take float trips down the river with this place. Camp store onsite, but only open during busy season. No pets allowed at this campground. This place is packed during warmer months. Make a reservation!

  • Shana D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 24, 2022

    Lake Poinsett State Park Campground

    Nice sites, quiet park

    Another great Arkansas State Park! The campground is small, but the sites are nice. Arkansas has some of the best bathhouses as well! There is a really nice playground and also a walking trail that you can access from the campground.

    The lake has finally been repaired and they have begun the refill process after is has been dry for several years.

    The town of Harrisburg is close by in case you need to make a store run or grab some food. There is a small store here at the park, but it was closed while we were here, so I’m not sure how much stuff they have to offer.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2017

    Craighead Forest Park

    Big park , itty bitty campground

    Craighead Forest Park is outside Jonesboro Arkansas and pretty awesome on the recreational side. There are several very cool playgrounds, a paved trail that encompasses the park as well as a dirt trail around the outside.

    The campground is small, not many camper sites and the primitive area which is walk in, doesn't have much privacy.

  • Kathy E.
    Jun. 14, 2018

    Craighead Forest Park

    Close to City

    This campground is in the outskirts of Jonesboro, Arkansas. This is a small park and reservations cannot be made. All sites are first come first serve. There is a large playground for the kids. I didn't see anyone fishing so I'm not sure if fishing is allowed or not. This is a great place to stay and then go to the mall to shop. There are many nice restaurants and fast food places so no need to pack your refrigerator! Lots of shade.


Guide to Powhatan

Located in the foothills of the Ozarks, Powhatan camping areas provide access to both riverine and wooded environments. Most campgrounds near Powhatan sit between 300-400 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often reaching above 90°F from June through August. Winter camping remains possible with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Lake Charles State Park offers productive fishing with multiple access points. "This is a pretty park with a man-made pond and surrounded by pretty natural setting. The roads into this area are narrow, winding and have no shoulder. Not the best for an old Class A, but worth the trip," notes one visitor to Lake Charles State Park Campground.

Paddle boating: Davidsonville Historic State Park includes rental options for water recreation. A visitor reports, "Great park to visit. Has paddle boats, lake to fish, boat ramp to Black River, newly updated campgrounds with all the hookups, playground for the kiddos, plenty of trails. Staff is awesome and do well taking care of the park," making Davidsonville Historic State Park Campground a good choice for water activities.

Hiking trails: Crowley's Ridge offers various trail difficulties across wooded terrain. A reviewer notes, "The dancing rabbit trail is awesome: don't forget bug spray. Spring fed waterfall/wishingwell crystal clear and COLD!!! Fishing w great Very peaceful!" This makes Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground worth considering for hikers.

What campers like

Recently renovated facilities: Campgrounds in the Powhatan area have upgraded their amenities. A camper at Davidsonville mentions, "New campground. We stayed in site 1, which was a pull through with full hook ups. Each site has a designated tent pad as well as a lantern hook. Sites on the outside of the loop back up to the woods, sites on the inside of the loop are more exposed to other campsites."

Waterfront views: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Powhatan offer lakeside camping with good access. "We had a 50amp FHU site and were able to get our 44' 5th wheel in site #2, which allowed us a lovely view of the lake. It would be easier to back rigs into the sites if they didn't have the wooden signs at the entrance to each site with the site#, but we got in with lots of back and forthing," reports a camper at Lake Frierson State Park Campground.

Privacy options: The campgrounds offer varying levels of seclusion. At Craighead Forest Park, a reviewer states, "Staff is so friendly and place is so clean and nice. Free fire wood and trash pickup at your site!" making Craighead Forest Park a popular option for those seeking pet-friendly camping with added amenities.

What you should know

Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. Plan communications accordingly.

Bug protection essential: Insects can be intense, especially near water. "Cons: located near a very tiny town, so bring everything you need with you because a quick trip to the store will take you at least 30 min. Also, the biting flies + mosquitos were ROUGH in the morning. You'll need your bug spray."

Dry county restrictions: Alcohol purchases require planning ahead. "Clean area. Good spot for fishing. It is a dry county have to drive 30 or so minutes to get to a decent store for food. Keep that in mind if you stay here, make sure to be prepared or you will be hungry."

Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience with pets, one camper describes Greene Road Camp Dispersed: "Two pull in spots with concrete picnic tables in the woods. Quiet, rural area," making Greene Road Camp Dispersed an alternative to more developed pet-friendly camping areas.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several campgrounds include play equipment for children. "Staff were extremely nice. Campground is clean. Bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained. We had the site closest to the water. Nice fishing pier and plenty of room for the kids to play."

Swimming opportunities: Designated swimming areas provide safe water recreation. A visitor to Hardy Camper Park reports, "Right outside of historic Hardy AR, this is a quiet campground with large grass sites, power and water and on site dump station. Hardy is a cool downtown area, but everything closes down here by 6pm. We had a beautiful site on the river!"

Store proximity planning: Limited supplies available at campgrounds means preparation is key. "This place is awesome everyone and the camp site was nice and keep to them selfs there wasnt people run all around and didnt have to worry about someone getting into our stuff and the was plent of spot to fish off the bank had a great weeke d and will diffently be back."

Nature center access: Some parks offer educational opportunities. "We have been there twice and will be going back there this spring. Nice camping areas and the fishing was good. Also has a nice swimming area. It also has a hiking trail that is paved," says a visitor to Hardy Camper Park.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Wonderful place to visit! We really enjoyed the hiking opportunities this park offers :) The sites were nice, somewhat wooded area. They were not super secluded, but we had enough privacy. The facilities were very clean and near to the sites."

Limited sewer connections: Plan accordingly for tank management. "This park is in the city of Pocahontas, Arkansas. It has 7 full service concrete parking pads. A very nice boat launch & plenty of parking for trucks with boat trailers. Park has a bath house, but it's very old and not too clean."

Road navigation concerns: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "This campground is small, not many camper sites and the primitive area which is walk in, doesn't have much privacy."

50-amp availability: Check specifications when booking for pet-friendly camping near Powhatan. "Beautiful, peaceful, smaller campground with a small lake, a river, hiking trails and historic sites with interpretive signage."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Powhatan, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Powhatan, AR is Lake Charles State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 19 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Powhatan, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 47 dog-friendly camping locations near Powhatan, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.