Dispersed camping locations near De Queen, Arkansas offer varied terrain within the Ouachita National Forest, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,800 feet. Most camping areas sit between 600-800 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F during peak season. Several campgrounds feature concrete pads that help with site stability during the region's frequent rainfall.
What to do
River activities at Acorn Campground: Located at Beavers Bend State Park, this campground provides direct river access. "This campsite provided us with a spot next to the water to fall asleep to the sounds of the running river. Out on the water whether swimming or on a boat is guaranteed to be accompanied with a rear view of the shoreline and animals to accompany it such as eagles, raccoon and... you've guessed it, a bountiful of fish!!" according to Acorn Campground visitor Christian.
Hiking trails near Mountain Fork Park: The area features both short nature walks and longer hikes. "There is another trail to hike down that is supposed to be a lot longer, but we did not hike it. There are many places to rent kayaks & go down the river. There are small waterfalls. Kid friendly," notes Bridgette P. from her stay at Mountain Fork Park.
Wildlife viewing at Cossatot Falls: The natural area provides excellent opportunities for animal spotting. "We parked at the visitor center and hiked the 5-6 miles to the state park. Beautiful moderate hike. If you go right after some heavy rain, all the falls along the trail will be flowing at full blast!" explains Nicki M. who camped at Cossatot Falls.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature premium lakeside locations. "We stayed at #3 & the way we had it set up, it was very private. The bathrooms were clean. No showers. 1 very short hiking trail... Like maybe 5 or 10 minutes to walk down it, but worth it. It has very beautiful views of the river & a good place to play in it," reports Bridgette P. about her Mountain Fork Park experience.
Fall colors: The region transforms during autumn months. "Late October and the colors were gorgeous. We were so close, but missed peak fall colors by about a week or so. We plan to go again but next time will have to plan for the whole week," shares Jeff R. about his family trip to Beavers Bend State Park.
Swimming options: Natural swimming areas provide relief from summer heat. "Driving back from Mena, AR to Texas, we happened upon this river by mistake. We came in from the backway and it was a long trek but worth finding this end result. Quiet, river was beautiful and calm. Some rapids where we were, a lot of rock," recalls Sherry S. about Cossatot River State Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "No Verizon service except at the nature center (definitely worth a visit especially if you have kiddos, and the ranger here is fantastic!!). You can jump on their wifi, or if I walked to the pavilion behind the store I could get one bar on my phone," advises Susan L. about Acorn Campground.
Road access challenges: Many sites require driving on unpaved roads. "Love this camping spot!! Right next/near the Cossatot river/rapids with easy access spot. Wish I could say the same thing about the gravel logging road in! O.o OH MY LORT!! It will test your suspension!!" warns Wenona D. about Cossatot Falls.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds now require advance booking. "These sites are now reservable, not first come. You can luck out, but I would recommend reservations. Fantastic large camp sites. 1 and 2 are closest together, and nearest to toilets. 3 though 6 have reasonable separation," advises phil B. about Cossatot Falls.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "This area is located below the spillway. Basketball goals, horseshoe pits, and a playground are available," notes Terry A. about Cossatot Reefs.
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming and boating opportunities exist for families. "Campgrounds are set up for RV, boast grills, firepits, and improves surfaces. There's a canoe launch, volleyball, basketball, playground, horseshoes... showers and toilets are clean and there is easy access to hiking trails," details Vanessa M. about Cossatot Reefs.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs and nature centers enhance family visits. "HUGE place. Cabins, a lodge, restaurant, RV campgrounds, tent only campgroundsii, fly fishing, kayaks, hiking. When it isn't COVID they have wagon rides, horse riding, pedal boats, paddle board and kayak rentals and miniature golf," explains Cheri H. about Beavers Bend State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site layouts and sizes: Campgrounds vary in their ability to accommodate larger vehicles. "Stayed here for 3 nights summer of 20. Every site had an unobstructed view of the lake due to the unique terraced landscapes. Paved, mostly level sites with good power 30 and 50A service and shade. No sewer but the dump station is right at the exit," reports Michael M. about his stay at Bellah Mine.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access differs between sites. "This campground was fantastic! I jumped on it, it was the last campground with availability in the Path of Totality for the Solar Eclipse. Sites are at perfect price points, you can get water/50a sites for $25/night, pretty darn good," notes Jon D. about Jefferson Ridge.
Premium site selection: RVers recommend specific areas for better experiences. "We ended up reserving a premium RV site 5 in Acorn and our 5th wheel fit perfect. This site is a back in site with the river directly behind the site. Site consists of 1 fire pit, 1 picnic table and barbecue pit. The hookups consist of water and 30/50 amp electric," describes John R. about his Acorn Campground stay.
