Best Camping near Royal, AR

Looking for the best campgrounds near Royal, AR? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arkansas camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Royal. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Royal, AR (184)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    1.

    Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    73 Reviews
    201 Photos
    403 Saves
    Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

    Overview

    Gulpha Gorge campground is a tree lined retreat nestled on Gulpha Creek just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row. Open all year, the campground features 44 campsites all suitable for RVs and tents. This popular spot is the ideal base camp for all of your Hot Springs adventures and tends to fill up quickly, even in the fall and winter. Reservations are recommended.____

    Recreation

    Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row.__ The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.____

    Facilities

    Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row.__ The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.____

    Natural Features

    Sit back and relax to the sounds of adjacent Gulpha Gorge Creek under the canopy of towering trees while being serenaded by the local winged inhabitants and you just may forget you are so close to downtown Hot Springs National Park.____ Enjoy a stunning hike to Bathhouse Row with mountain-top views along the way. Dip your toes in Gulpha Gorge Creek or stretch out on the cool grass to enjoy the breeze while planning a visit to one of the stunning spas on historic Bathhouse Row.

    Nearby Attractions

    Gulpha Gorge campground is just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (501) 620-6715.

    Charges & Cancellations

    __Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 72 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    2.

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    280 Photos
    381 Saves
    Jones Mill, Arkansas

    This peaceful park makes great camping near Little Rock and is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The only full-service marina on the lake is here at the park and open in the summertime for bait, snacks/drinks, and fuel. Boat rentals are available year-round. The park also includes a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, and a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall.

    The park has 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. There are also many native stone and wood buildings on-site. The history of these structures dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round. Guided horseback rides are offered seasonally.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    4.

    COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    43 Reviews
    53 Photos
    45 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Overview

    Crystal Springs Campground, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape.Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Facilities

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    Nearby Attractions

    Part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs just north of the lake. Here, hikers and mountain bikers can explore an array of breathtaking views in the Ouachita Mountains.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park

    5.

    DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park

    30 Reviews
    154 Photos
    114 Saves
    Kaweah Lake, California

    This recreation area is part of Degray Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing

    6.

    Catherine's Landing

    23 Reviews
    116 Photos
    189 Saves
    Hot Springs, Arkansas

    Whether your perfect vacation is action-packed or laid back, you’ll find everything you need at Catherine’s Landing. Conveniently situated on 400 pastoral acres with a mile of frontage on beautiful Lake Catherine just outside historic downtown Hot Springs. 

    Catherine’s Landing offers an ideal natural environment mixed with a range of accommodations and on-site activities that appeal to every form of traveler. Choose from RV sites with modern concrete pads, fully-furnished resort cottages, yurts for a true "Glamping" experience, or raised and bordered tent sites. Add exceptional on-site amenities, a convenient concierge at your service, a beautiful lake right outside your door, Wi-Fi and cable, and you have everything you need for your next getaway.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA

    7.

    Hot Springs National Park KOA

    19 Reviews
    34 Photos
    114 Saves
    Hot Springs, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    8.

    Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    98 Reviews
    541 Photos
    618 Saves
    Adona, Arkansas

    The campgrounds feature a total of 125 campsites (including 26 pull-through sites). Thirty-five of the sites—the Class AAA sites—have 30 and 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. The 90 Class B sites offer 30 amp electrical and water hookups. All sites are reservable. Campsites are divided into four campground areas. Each includes a modern bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets. Area "A" is near Lake Bailey and include sites along the lakeshore. Areas "B," "C," and "D" are located on the south side of Ark. 154 in wooded settings.

    Other campsite choices in the main camping area include a 44-unit Rally-style Area with 20 amp electrical service available for camping clubs.

    A trailer dump station is centrally located near the Rally-style camping area.

    Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point

    9.

    Denby Point

    18 Reviews
    56 Photos
    99 Saves
    Mount Ida, Arkansas

    Overview

    Groups and families of all sizes come to camp at Denby Point for its scenic views, year-round fishing and convenient boating facilities. The campground promises to entertain jet skiers, boaters, hikers and birders alike. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    World-class striper fishing brings crowds of anglers year-round, and incredibly clear waters attract scuba divers, hoping to explore the flooded forests and mountain valleys below the lake's surface. Hikers take pleasure in the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which lines the southern end of the lake.

    Facilities

    World-class striper fishing brings crowds of anglers year-round, and incredibly clear waters attract scuba divers, hoping to explore the flooded forests and mountain valleys below the lake's surface. Hikers take pleasure in the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which lines the southern end of the lake.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita sits in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, just 28 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The lake stems from the Ouachita River and boasts 692 miles of shoreline and over 40,000 surface acres.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore Ouachita National Forest's 1.8 million acres, surrounding Lake Ouachita and extending across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $60 / night

  • 10.

    Treasure Isle R.V. Park

    16 Reviews
    66 Photos
    13 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Treasure Isle RV Park is located on the banks of Lake Hamilton. There are many types of RV sites including Concrete back-in, Concrete pull thru, gravel pull thru, and lakefront sites. Amenities include: coin laundry, bath house, pool, large playground, three covered pavilions with seating and grills available for use by the park guests, and fishing piers. There are kayaks and pontoons available to rent. Come enjoy your vacation with us!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $45 - $95 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 184 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Royal

Recent Reviews In Royal

924 Reviews of 184 Royal Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Edgewood
    September 1, 2024

    Edgewood

    Sites 21-24 are very close together

    We stayed in tent site 22 for a weekend camping trip. You can’t tell by looking at the Recreation.gov reservation site but tent pad 22 is one of 4 in a grouping of tent sites. 21-24 are so close together. If you are with friends or a large family group then it would be ideal but if don’t want people right on top of you then pick another site. Thankfully, we had some cool neighbors but it was a very noisy and bright spot to camp. Also, your neighbors have to walk through your campsite to get to either of the two water spickets that serve all 4 campsites. There is no where to park your boat unless you rent an RV spot and there is no boat ramp in the camp ground. All of the spots were very shady and cool. We had a good time but we wanted to warn others so you know what you are getting into.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite
    August 20, 2024

    Brown Creek Cascade Dispersed Campsite

    Nice weekend

    Didn’t have to drive too far down the road found a spot on the left. Nice stone camp fire circle, good flat spot for my tent, which is a four person. Bring a chair if you want a comfortable seat, also hard to find decent wood to burn, had to walk a bit to find. Not many cars drive down the road, saw some people hiking, also Sunday morning there were hunters out, so hearing gunshot pretty close to camp. All in all though it is good to be with nature and I’d go back to this spot or find another one on the road. I didn’t go very far down the road have more to explore!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    August 18, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Great State Park!!

    Very beautiful place to stay!! Our site on the lake was very beautiful and every site on the water has a small dock you can fish off. Bugs were not bad at all. Would recommend this place to anyone.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    August 12, 2024

    Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    Great Campground

    This was our first destination in our brand new 26ft TT and it was great 😃 Cleanest shower house I've ever seen. The camp host was very welcoming and helpful. We stayed 3 nights and it was so quiet and peaceful the whole time. Our kids loved playing in the creek. We want to go back when it's a little cooler and check out the trails (too hot for hiking for us). Our only complaint was the trees around our particular site made it difficult but not impossible to back into and prevented our awning from fully extending (we didn't really need it for this trip though).

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    July 29, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Resort / Country Club

    This is a fantastic spot with tons of amenities (including a great pool) & many activities. Also, guests and campers were extremely nice! Clean and a well planned resort! Stay if you have a chance.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    July 28, 2024

    Catherine's Landing

    Great amenities & nice sites

    We had an overnight here after visiting the hot springs national park. The euro delights food truck was a tasty treat. Loved that the pool was open until 10pm just wish the store was open past 5. Great sites. Full hook ups. Paved roads perfect for scootering.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground
    July 27, 2024

    Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground

    Great full hookup campground

    I keep coming back here to dig for diamonds. There are cheaper campgrounds in the area, but the State Park grounds are top notch. Very level camper pads, stable power and water and everything is well maintained. There are multiple bath “houses” — single shower room style privacy, not a large room with curtains. A playground in the sites for kids to play on also.

    The only downsides that come to mind are the iffy WiFi (the reservation system is pretty accurate on which sites have “good” WiFi and which do not) that is decent for casual web browsing but not likely to be streaming possible. And then a mixed pro/com is that satellite connections (direct or Starlink) is going to be rough due to the wooded aspect of the sites — although the trees do help keep the camper cooler. 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jack Creek Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 22, 2024

    Jack Creek Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Large wooded dispersed campsite near creek

    Coordinates: 35.02281, -93.81060. Located 2.5 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and almost 1 mile past the turn off to the shooting range. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite is well off of Jack Creek Road, down an undesignated dirt track, offering a lot of privacy. Access is easy although the dirt track may be muddy during the wet season. This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek. The site has a level dirt surface which can accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping are possible. The site has a clean rock fire ring. There is a lot of shade during the summer. Solar charging is possible in an open field at the entrance of the site. This is a wonerful site to camp in. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away. I received no t-Mobile cell service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 21, 2024

    Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Small Pull Thru Site with Easy Access

    Coordinates: 35.02422, -93.81997. Located 2 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and 1/3rd mile past the turn off to the shooting range. It is a small pull though campsite with a small rock fire ring, close to Jack Creek Road (forest road); there is very little privacy from the forest road. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. This campsite can receive dust from passing vehicles. The site can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other. The site is shaded with a level dirt surface. Small tent & hammock camping is possible near rock fire ring which is located between the pull through driveway and the forest road. Easy access into the site. There is no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; no recreation, such as hiking trails, in the immediate vicinity. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jack Creek Road Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 19, 2024

    Jack Creek Road Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Large wooded site just off Jack Creek Road

    Not sure if the pin location is accurate, so here are the coordinates: 35.02802, -93.82913.  Located 1.3 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area. It is a large site with a large rock fire ring, set back a little from Jack Creek Road (forest road). Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite has a mostly level dirt surface that can accommodate 2 vehicles - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping is possible. The site is mostly shaded in the summer. There is an old undesignated track near the rear of the site; this may lead down to Jack Creek, but I was not able to verify this due to large mud puddles on the track. There was a little bit of trash at the site, but not too bad. I received no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; just a nice place to camp in for a night or two. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Outlet Area
    July 18, 2024

    Outlet Area

    RV and Big Rig Friendly Campground along Petit Jean River

    The Petit Jean River, flowing from an outlet, divides this US Army Corp of Engineers campround into two areas. There are 38 campsites, with electricity and water hookups. This includes three multi-family sites. Fees range from $18 to $40. Reservations are made on recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. First come, first served sites may be available outside the reservation season. The campground description at recreation.gov indicates that the campground is located on Blue Mountain Lake, but there is no lake access from here. A drive to Waveland Park is required for Blue Mountain Lake recreation. Most sites are waterfront; a few are just a short walk away from the Petit Jean River. Most sites have picnic table shelters. There are 12 sites and a restroom/shower house along the north bank of the river. The remaining campsites, along with a restroom/shower house, are on the south side of the river. The sites on the north side, except site #6, are in a open area offering little shade. The sites on the south side are along a forest and are more shaded. There is no privacy between campsites; several sites, especially on the south side, are close to each other. The north side restroom/shower house was closed. The south side restroom/shower house was very clean. The roads accessing and in the campground are paved. The campground is setup to accommodate RVs and big rigs, although tent camping is possible. Fishing in the river appears to be the main recreation activity. Walking access to the river bank is provided by stairs. Two playgrounds are at the south side camping area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Ashley Creek Recreation Area
    July 17, 2024

    Ashley Creek Recreation Area

    Pretty Location, Free Primitive Camping

    I didn't camp here, but thought I leave an updated review. Previous review still applies. This is a free primitive campground, but a permit is required to camp here; see COE Web site for info. There is a very clean portable john with tp in the campground. It appears that the campsites themselves have not been maintained in a while, although the campgound itself looks nice, with a view of the lake. Some of the sites are close together offering no privacy. I received T-Mobile cell service. Convenient boat ramp nearby. I wouldn't make this campground a multi-day vacation destinition, but it's convenient for an overnight stay and for those using the lake for recreation.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 23, 2024

    FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Convenient Dispersed Camping 2 Miles from Lake Sylvia

    Large dispersed campsite located 2 miles west of Lake Sylvia State Park, where Forest Road 152 meets Forest Road 132. Clean site with one rock fire ring. Can fit a couple of vehicles. Because of the position of the trees on the site, maneuvering a truck camper into the site may be a challenge; don't recommend anything larger. Tent camping is possible. This is a level dirt site with some embedded rocks jutting up. Nice wooded area around site to stroll through. Seasonal track FR132C is adjacent to the site; this track is hikeable. Since the site is at the intersection of popular forest roads, there will be vehicles driving by. The site is set back enough that dust may not be a concern. No T-Mobile cell service. This is convenient, pretty campsite.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine
    June 23, 2024

    Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine

    Quiet grounds and perfect for a trip for crystal digging

    The campground is on the small side, but with a nice shower area and coin laundry. The paved areas (including the Rv pads) are a bit rough, but ok. Leveling pads were needed for our site . Lots of crystals just laying around also. Something out of the control of the campground, but the Oakworms were crazy. That’s not rain you hear falling from the trees! lol Stay under the awning.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 22, 2024

    FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Overnight Dispersed Site

    Coordinates: 34.85431, -92.88115. Small dispersed campsite in the woods just off of Forest Road 132. Close to the forest road; easy access. There is a clean rock fire ring. Good campsite for a quick overnight stay. The surface of the site is dirt with a little bit of pea gravel. This site is only big enough for one rig, truck camper and smaller size. Pitching a tent is possible in a small clearing to the left of the rock fire ring. Slight downward slope but not bad. Shaded in summer. Nice wooded area. No T-Mobile cell service. There are no hiking trails nearby or remarkable natural features here, but the forest at this site is pretty. This is a nice site in the autumn.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Mountain Dispersed
    June 21, 2024

    Crystal Mountain Dispersed

    Good View with Difficult Access

    I haven't camped here recently. Forest Road 132A, which climbs up to the Crystal Mountain Overlook fom Forest Road 132, is not maintained and badly eroded. Drivers with high clearance 4x4 vehicles and OHVs will enjoy driving up this track, but I don't recommend this drive for the average passenger vehicle. I no longer attempt this with my stock AWD Subaru Outback - just not enough clearance. There are two rock fire rings at the top. Despite the nice views at the top, the dispersed campsites are usually trashy. I included an older photo of the view with Lake Winona in the distance.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Grindstone Mountain Area Dispersed, Ouachita NF. AR
    June 21, 2024

    FR132 Grindstone Mountain Area Dispersed, Ouachita NF. AR

    Forested Group Dispersed Site near Crystal Mountain Overlook

    Coordinates: 34.83903, -92.94556.  Set back from Forest Road 132 off of an old track - a short distance west of Forest Road 75. There is some minor erosion on the access to this site from FR132. Large site; good for groups. Should accommodate 4 rigs -  truck campersize & smaller. This site can accommodate 4x4 drivers that are planning to tackle Forest Road 132A to the Crystal Mountain Overlook - a short distance east of this site. FR132A is hikeable for those who do not drive high clearance 4x4s. The dispersed site has a level dirt surface. There are two rock fire rings. Beautiful forest backdrop. No T-Mobile service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground
    June 21, 2024

    Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground

    Great little state park campground

    This is a quiet campground with plenty of shaded and nearly perfectly level pull ins. Power is consistent. Water pressure fluctuates from good to high — regulator necessary. Wifi is spotty, but the reservation center is pretty accurate on strength of WiFi at various sites. The site we are in right now, WiFi is sketchy.

    In cool weather, a walk to the diamond field would be fine. In hot weather, no way.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Wilderness Boundary Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 20, 2024

    FR132 Wilderness Boundary Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Easy Access to Ouachita Trail

    Coordinates: 34.84128, -92.96055. This is basically a pull-in parking space along Forest Road 132. The forest road is in good condition. The dispersed site is small and close to road; the forest road may be busy at times, possibly kicking up dust. Easy pull-in from the forest road. The site is right on the Flatside Wilderness Area boundary. An old track at the back of the site leads you into the wilderness area and to the Ouachita Trail. It is a level site with a rock fire ring. The parking spot is large enough for a truck camper; plenty of room for my camper van. Spotty T-Mobile cell service. This is not an attractive dispersed site, but it offers easy access into the beautiful wilderness area and to the Ouachita Trail.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132-Grindstone Rd Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 19, 2024

    FR132-Grindstone Rd Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Nice semi-private dispersed campsite near Ouachita Trail

    Coordinates: 34.84175, -92.97123.  Good dispersed site set back from Forest Road 132. The site is located at the corner of FR132 and Grindstone Rd (Y47A). Grindstone Rd is closed to all vehicles at this time, but it is hikeable. The Flatside Wilderness Area is accross FR132 from this dispersed site; easy access to the Ouachita Trail. The site has room for one rig. Access into the site from the forest road is a little eroded; non-high clearence vehicles may scrape. Access into the site beside the rock fire ring is tight. Best for rigs smaller than truck camper. The site is not quite level; some leveling may be required. Clean site with a clean rock fire ring. The area surrounding the site is wooded; plenty of shade in summer. Surrounded by beautiful forest; easy to explore. Tent camping is possible; the surface is not too rocky. I had sporadic T-Mobile cell service. I am looking forward to retrurning here, especially in the fall, early spring and winter.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR
    June 19, 2024

    Dispersed FR132 Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Pull-thru dispersed site near the Ouachita Trail

    This is an update to my Feb 2022 review. This dispersed camp site has a level pull-thru driveway which can accomodate about 2 or 3 vehicles. I believe this driveway can accomodate a truck camper. Parking is not next to the rock fire ring; the fire ring is a very short walk away into the woods. The site is pretty much surrounded by forest - easy to stroll around in. Despite the site's elevation, there is no view of distant hills. Included some summer time images with this review. I like this spot, especially with the easy access to the Ouachita Trail nearby.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest
    June 18, 2024

    Forest Service RD 132 Ouachita National Forest

    Fantastic View

    Near Oak Mtn Vista overlook. Great spot; fantastic unobstructed view of the hills to the south. Some shade in the summer. Fantastic view during the winter season. Large site; can comfortably accommodate 2, maybe 3 rigs - truck camper & smaller. Not level; some leveling is required. Dirt surface with exposed embedded rock - may be uncomfortable for tent camping. Close to road, which can get busy at times. Nice rock fire ring. Clean site. T-Mobile cell service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service RD 29145 Ouachita National Forest
    June 17, 2024

    Forest Service RD 29145 Ouachita National Forest

    Good Overnight Dispersed Campsite

    Small drive up site in a nice, wooded area. Very close to Forest Road 124, which is not busy. A few sections of this forest road coming from Trail 86 has minor erosion, but a 2WD passenger vehicle can carefully make it. The campsite slopes down slightly; some leveling may be required. Rock fire ring. Although close to the forest road, this is a pretty site. Good for an overnight stay while exlporing the forest. No T-Mobile cell service.



Guide to Royal

Camping near Royal, Arkansas, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With beautiful lakes and well-maintained campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy casting a line in the nearby lakes. One visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are all sitting on a serene lake. The spaces are so far apart you can enjoy your own spot without interruption."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A reviewer at Gulpha Gorge Campground noted, "If you enjoy hiking, this is an excellent location."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip at the swimming beaches. A camper at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground shared, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. One visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground said, "Cleanest shower house I've ever seen."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer large, private sites. A reviewer at Denby Point mentioned, "The site is HUGE!! You can’t hardly even see your neighbors."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of campground hosts. A visitor at Catherine's Landing noted, "The staff was amazing and very accommodating."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper at COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground mentioned, "Only negative was our bathroom was still closed for the season."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. A visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground shared, "Saw lots of deer and other wildlife."
  • Road noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Gulpha Gorge Campground noted, "A little close to a busy road, but if you have a creek spot you can hear the water flowing!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the right campground: Look for family-friendly amenities. A camper at Daisy State Park Campground said, "The park offers a lot of shade and was very well kept."
  • Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A visitor at Catherine's Landing mentioned, "Plenty of room for the kids to play behind our water site."
  • Stay safe: Keep an eye on kids near water. A reviewer at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground advised, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site access: Some sites can be tricky to back into. A camper at Denby Point noted, "Only problem is some sites are hard to get to."
  • Bring extra supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A visitor at Treasure Isle R.V. Park mentioned, "I couldn’t find a place to throw my trash away."
  • Enjoy the views: Look for sites with great scenery. A reviewer at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground said, "Gorgeous lake front sites! This place is really popular in summer time."

Camping near Royal, Arkansas, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. With plenty of activities and beautiful scenery, it’s a perfect getaway for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Royal, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Royal, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 184 campgrounds and RV parks near Royal, AR and 29 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Royal, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Royal, AR is Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park with a 4.1-star rating from 73 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Royal, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 29 free dispersed camping spots near Royal, AR.

  • What parks are near Royal, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 parks near Royal, AR that allow camping, notably Ouachita Lake and Nimrod Lake.