Best Campgrounds near De Queen, AR

The southwestern corner of Arkansas surrounding De Queen features diverse camping options within the Ouachita National Forest and along several waterways. Campgrounds like Bellah Mine, Oak Grove, and Pine Ridge provide year-round access to De Queen Lake with full hookup sites for RVs and tent camping areas. Within a 30-mile radius, campers can also access Cossatot River State Park Natural Area, offering more primitive experiences along its namesake river. Beavers Bend State Park, just across the Oklahoma border near Broken Bow, provides additional options with highly-rated campgrounds including Acorn and Dogwood areas situated along Mountain Fork River. The region's camping landscape ranges from developed sites with electric hookups and shower facilities to remote backcountry locations requiring more self-sufficiency.

Gravel forest roads leading to many campgrounds can become challenging after heavy rainfall, particularly at locations like Cossatot Reefs near Gillham Lake. As one camper noted, "The campground is tricky to locate, I would recommend familiarizing yourself with the directions especially if you are arriving after dark. There are several miles of driving on a gravel forest road between the main highway and the campgrounds." Cell service throughout the region is spotty, with AT&T coverage particularly limited in more remote areas. Spring and summer bring intense insect activity, with multiple reviewers recommending permethrin treatment for clothing to prevent ticks and additional repellents for mosquitoes. The town of De Queen serves as the primary supply point for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials before venturing into less developed areas.

Waterfront sites receive consistently high ratings across the region's campgrounds, though they tend to fill quickly during peak seasons. At Cossatot River State Park, campers appreciate the proximity to water recreation: "The camping area is just a short walk to the sandbar where you can enjoy the cool floating water." Fishing opportunities abound in the area's rivers and lakes, with trout and sunfish commonly caught. Wildlife sightings are frequent, with reviewers mentioning deer, various birds, and warnings about snakes. Several campgrounds feature walk-in tent sites that offer more privacy than RV areas. Primitive backcountry sites along Eagle Rock Loop trail system provide solitude but require proper preparation. According to one hiker, "During the spring and summer the insects can be intense. I advise treating clothing and gear beforehand with permethrin to prevent ticks and use picaridin on the spot for other insects."