Camping spots near Huntsville, Arkansas range from riverfront sites with prime bluff views to wooded retreats with electrical hookups. Located in the Boston Mountains subrange of the Ozarks, the region sits at elevations between 1,500-2,200 feet, creating dramatic temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Creek and river camping options often feature gravel bars suitable for tent setups alongside deeper swimming holes.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Multiple trails near Steel Creek Campground access scenic water features. "We visited Hemmed-In Hollow and Whitaker Point while camping here. Both are great, but keep safety in mind, especially at Whitaker Point," notes Leah H., who recommends checking with rangers for current trail conditions.
Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds around Huntsville provide excellent opportunities for animal sightings. At Steel Creek, campers report, "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over." The nearby Elk reserve mentioned by reviewers provides additional wildlife viewing opportunities during morning and evening hours.
Fishing access: Dam Site River Campground offers excellent angling opportunities. "There is trout fishing right along the grounds in the White River," reports Stephen R., adding that "the bluff across the river looks like fire when the sun is setting." Fishing access points include parking areas and trails over berms to reach prime riverside spots.
What campers like
Direct river access: Kyles Landing Campground receives consistent praise for its proximity to Buffalo River. "It's right on the river and across from huge beautiful bluffs that the Buffalo River is known for!" Sara J. shares. The campground serves as both a starting point and take-out location for paddlers, making it ideal for water activities.
Peaceful settings: Many campers value the quiet atmosphere at smaller campgrounds. War Eagle Campground stands out as "small and usually very quiet," according to Donald P., who returns with his family annually. The campground's location on the less-traveled side of Beaver Lake contributes to its tranquil environment.
Convenient amenities: Withrow Springs State Park Campground offers features that make camping more comfortable. "All hook ups. Level sites. Trees between sites give lots of shade," notes Julian C. Another camper, Stephanie H., describes it as a "Small, quaint campground. 29 RV sites with water hookups and electric. 10 primitive walk in sites."
What you should know
Road access challenges: The drive to many campgrounds involves narrow, winding roads that can be difficult for larger vehicles. At Kyles Landing, one reviewer cautions, "The drive down the Arkansas hill to this serene location is a tense frustrating and should not be attempted with a rear wheel drive or low profile vehicle."
Site leveling issues: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Prairie Creek Campground, campers advise bringing leveling equipment: "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads," warns Mandi R. Similar issues affect tent campers, with one noting that "a lot of the sites slope making it hard to find level ground."
Cell service limitations: Communication options vary widely throughout the region. At Withrow Springs, one camper notes there is "no cell phone reception in the campground, but its camping! Get unplugged!" Similarly, at Dam Site River Campground, visitors report spotty coverage depending on exact location within the grounds.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Horseshoe Bend Recreation Area offers family-friendly water activities. "Swimming area was very spacious. Nice playground for kids," reports Mary D., who found the campground "very well-maintained" with "several bathhouses."
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds have dedicated recreation areas. Prairie Creek includes "nice recreational areas with play equipment, pavilions and beach volleyball," according to reviewers. There are also "a couple playground areas, a beach, marina, boat launch, and several bathrooms with flush toilets."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy the animal sightings common throughout the area. One visitor to Horseshoe Bend notes, "Deer roaming around throughout," while Steel Creek campers regularly report seeing deer wandering through the campground, providing memorable nature experiences for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Assess your needs before booking at Devil's Den State Park. "If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space," recommends Gonzo A., who found the campground excellent for RVs.
Access considerations: RV drivers should consider approach routes carefully. For Devil's Den, one camper advises, "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)." At War Eagle Campground, sites "are at various locations on the hill and some are quite tricky to get into with a camper," though the reviewer managed with their 26-foot camper.
Electric post locations: Check the placement of hookups when selecting sites. At War Eagle, one camper noted the "electric at our site was way in front of the camper, about the distance of the front, right bumper of our truck. We had to go buy a $50 extension cord to even hook up to the electric."
