Camping spots near Shirley, Arkansas center around Greers Ferry Lake, a 40,000-acre reservoir situated at approximately 450 feet elevation in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The area features limestone bluffs and cedar-hardwood forests that provide natural shade for campsites during hot Arkansas summers, which typically see temperatures in the 90s from June through August. Many campgrounds are situated within a 15-mile radius of Shirley, creating convenient access to both water activities and hiking opportunities.
What to Do
Mountain hiking: Sugar Loaf offers a popular hiking trail leading to panoramic views. "While in college, and subsequent thereto, I frequently visited Sugar Loaf Mountain for day hikes. I think this is a beautiful area of the state and the mountain is located W-NW Greers Ferry Lake and Dam," writes Donny S. The trail is accessible year-round for day use with a $5 vehicle entry fee or $2 walk-in fee.
Trout fishing: John F Kennedy campground provides access to the Little Red River's cold waters. "Situated on the Little Red River well known for trout fishing. Some sites have electricity and water, ours electricity only," notes Don L. The campground's proximity to the river makes it ideal for anglers, though water levels can change when the dam releases water.
Swimming and cliff jumping: Many of the lake access points feature swimming areas with different experiences. "You drive over the spring to camp so be sure the water is not up before you make the drive! It's the clearest spring I've ever seen. There's a bluff in the camping area that's amazing for swimming and small jumping," reports Carla T. about Blanchard Springs Recreation Area. Water temperatures at Greers Ferry Lake reach the mid-80s during summer months.
What Campers Like
Lake views: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites that offer scenic vistas. "This is a great park. There are sites near the water. The closest to the water was D7. You have a view of Sugar Loaf mountain in the background," says Lacee G. about Sugar Loaf Park. Sites with water access allow campers to launch kayaks directly from their campsite.
Spacious, shaded sites: Choctaw receives praise for its layout and natural features. "This Campground is quiet, secluded jewel in Clinton, Arkansas. Tall trees everywhere you look. Every campsite is shaded. Perfectly spaced trees for the hammock lovers," notes Natalie E. The campground offers both paved and gravel sites with varying levels of privacy.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas around campsites provide opportunities to observe local fauna. "I had a peaceful stay at this beautiful campground. Tall trees, a lake, and nicely spaced out sites," writes Renata L. about her experience at Choctaw. Campers commonly report seeing deer, rabbits, and various bird species throughout the camping areas.
What You Should Know
Seasonal water levels: Old Highway 25 and other lakeside campgrounds experience fluctuating conditions. "Many sites are right on the water. We were able to camp right on the water and park our boat at the site," notes John M. Water levels can rise significantly during spring and after heavy rainfall events, which may affect site availability.
Bathroom facilities: Maintenance quality varies between campgrounds. "The cons or negative was: 1) only one bath house and it was atrocious dirty. 2) the simple restroom near our site was filthy also," reports MGySgt K. about Fairfield Bay RV Campground. Most Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer only basic facilities that may not include showers.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "This spot is popular so get your reservations in! Some come as you go spots but they go quickly!" advises Sherrie A. about John F Kennedy campground. Reservations can typically be made through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Shiloh offers amenities designed for younger visitors. "This place has been home to our annual Memorial Day weekend camp and lake trip the past 2 years. It's been wonderful for lake access. There's a good little park for the kids," writes Steve A. The playground provides entertainment options when taking breaks from water activities.
Safety considerations: Some areas require extra caution with children. "Sugarloaf has become my family's go to camping area. Park rangers patrol the park throughout the day and night, giving all campers piece of mind," notes Chris M. Parents should be aware that some lakefront sites have steep drop-offs to the water.
Swimming areas: Look for designated beaches with sand and shallow entry points. "A nice busy but not wild family camping area. Has a swim area and marina, kids can feed the fish, able to rent boats or kayaks/canoes also. Family friendly and relaxing," shares Angela M. about Sugar Loaf. Swimming beaches typically operate from May through September.
Tips from RVers
Site angles: Fairfield Bay RV Campground presents unique parking challenges. "Our site had the back of our trailer over looking the lake. But the truck was at such an angle because the sites are level but on a steep slope. You better have extra chuck blocks, because your tow vehicle sits on a heck of an angle," advises MGySgt K. RVers should check site descriptions carefully before booking.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer limited connections. "I can't give it 5 stars due to recent year deterioration with the bathhouses & lack of improvements to the rv sites, mainly adding sewer hookups," mentions Deanna M. about John F Kennedy campground. While electric hookups are common, full hookups are rare, and most campgrounds only offer dump stations rather than sewer connections.
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Check the site sizes to make sure your unit will fit," advises N.I. about Old Highway 25. Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds have sites suitable for RVs under 35 feet, with limited options for larger rigs.
