The Arkansas River and White River convergence creates a unique camping environment near St. Charles, Arkansas. The region sits within the Mississippi Alluvial Plain at approximately 200 feet elevation, experiencing hot, humid summers and mild winters. Camping facilities in this delta region range from Corps of Engineers sites situated on river bends to state park campgrounds with varying amenities and reservation policies.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Mississippi River State Park Campground offers excellent fishing access with both lake and river options. "This is one of our favorites... There is a boat dock where you can put your boat in the water. They also have fishing boats and kayaks for rent," notes Kathy E.
Wildlife viewing: The convergence of major waterways creates prime habitat for diverse wildlife. At Pendleton Bend, visitors can watch cargo boats pass and observe seasonal bird migrations. "Went by 1/17/2021... great time to stay pelicans hanging around, very peaceful," reports Steve S.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature short nature trails with educational components. "The Trotting Fox Trail and Bear Creek Loop trail are very nice! The Rangers also keep a very full schedule of activities to keep locals and campers busy," shares Shana D. about Mississippi River State Park.
Swimming: During warmer months, designated swimming areas provide relief from the heat. "We were right across from the swimming area which had a sandy wade-in," explains Sean F. at Mississippi River State Park, noting the convenient beach access from lakeside campsites.
What campers like
Private, waterfront sites: Many campgrounds feature water-surrounded sites. At Yoder Outpost RV Park, Joseph P. appreciates the "secluded yet convenient" setting with "everything you need to stay one night or one month full hook ups, including great Wi-Fi fire pits."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities receive consistent praise. At Mississippi River State Park, "Bathrooms and showers were organized in banks of 4 private shower/bath combos and were clean and well-maintained," reports Sean F.
Spacious campsites: Most campgrounds offer generous site spacing. At COE Arkansas River Pendleton Bend Park, Allison N. notes, "The sites are spacious. For example, the water hookups are half way between the sites to be shared, and my 50ft hose just barely could reach."
Shade coverage: Tree canopy provides crucial relief during hot months. "Great park well maintained big sights quiet and no problem with bugs... very shady," reports Steve S. about Pendleton Bend.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several Corps of Engineers campgrounds operate on limited schedules. COE Arkansas River Notrebes Bend Park runs from March 1 to October 31 and has faced "closed for repairs from flooding" periods, according to Steve S.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Allison N. warns about Pendleton Bend: "There is absolutely no cell phone signal and no WiFi, so have physical directions on you."
Bathroom quality varies: Facility standards differ considerably between campgrounds. Ashley F. provides a detailed account of Pendleton Bend's bathrooms: "Do they have flushing toilets, yes! Sadly only slightly better than a hole in the ground with a seat... the mirror situation is comparable to trying to see your reflection in crinkled aluminum foil."
First-come camping: Some sites cannot be reserved in advance. At Delta Heritage Trail State Park Campground, "Only 10 sites though and it is first come first serve," explains Jacob W., adding that each site costs $15 per night.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swim beaches: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas ideal for children. "Swimming beach is nearby," notes Gary P. about Mississippi River State Park, which provides a safe environment for water play.
Consider activity options: Campgrounds with interpretive programs provide educational value. At Mississippi River State Park, "We met a park interpreter who was very nice and informative," reports Lindsey P., adding that the hiking trail was "beautiful and we saw several woodpeckers!"
Check playground availability: Not all sites have play equipment. Melissa notes about Mississippi River State Park: "No playground. But park is quaint enough bike riding and game playing for small kids works great!"
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential, especially at waterfront sites. At Delta Heritage Trail State Park, Hook C. advises: "Small place, mosquitoes were bad other than that it was great. We were invited to watch them feed the pet snake that was caught in the area."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Merrisach Lake campground has varying site quality across loops. Aaron D G. warns: "The pads for the campers were starting to become covered up with grass and tree debris... we were in E campground and it was not very well taken care of."
Dump station locations: Plan for potentially distant sanitary facilities. Aaron D G. notes at Merrisach Lake: "The dump station is probably a mile and a half from the campground so if you have a grey water tote tank that you pull behind the truck like me, expect a fairly long drive."
Water hookup preparation: Pack extra water hoses. Aaron D G. explains at Merrisach Lake: "Our picnic table has a corner busted off and the water hydrant was combined for two sites to one hydrant spot. Our 25 ft hose was too short so we borrowed a hose from the camp manager till we were able to buy another 25 footer."
Consider full hookup sites: Select campgrounds offer complete utilities. At Mississippi River State Park, Elizabeth L. notes: "Sites are full hookup. The bath house is very clean. There are four private toilet/shower rooms. All handicapped accessible. My favorite sites are 12, 13, and 14."
