Best Tent Camping near St. Joe, AR

Tent campgrounds along the Buffalo National River near St. Joe, Arkansas offer multiple primitive camping options with scenic river access. The Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area provides designated tent sites on bluff tops, while campgrounds like Carver, Rush, and Shine Eye Gravel Bar feature tent-specific sites with varying levels of accessibility. Buffalo National River campgrounds typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis and cost between $5-12 per night.

Most primitive tent setups in the St. Joe area lack modern amenities. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, but limited services otherwise. Vault toilets are available at most established campgrounds, though some gravel bar campsites offer no facilities. Campground surfaces range from sandy beaches along gravel bars to forest clearings with compact dirt pads. Road access varies significantly, with locations like Kyle's Landing requiring navigation down steep, rough gravel roads that may challenge standard vehicles. A visitor commented that "the drive in is something you have to be thoughtful about... it was a very rough gravel road, so this is definitely more of a tent camping spot."

Walk-in tent locations throughout the Buffalo River corridor provide greater seclusion than drive-up sites. The campgrounds closest to the river feature tent pads that drain quickly after rainfall, making them preferred locations during wet weather. At Steel Creek Campground, "the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm." Many tent campers use these locations as starting points for multi-day float trips, with sites like Gilbert Gravel Bar serving as convenient put-in locations. Tent campers should note that cell service is extremely limited throughout the area, especially in valley campgrounds. Water access varies seasonally, with some spigots closing in winter months. Spring Creek Campground and other primitive tent areas provide the most isolation, though rangers patrol regularly to ensure camping regulations are followed.

Best Tent Sites Near St. Joe, Arkansas (30)

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Tent Camping Reviews near St. Joe, AR

638 Reviews of 30 St. Joe Campgrounds



Guide to St. Joe

St. Joe, Arkansas, offers a fantastic selection of tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Rush Campground — Buffalo National River features a vault toilet and a water spigot, making it a convenient spot for primitive camping right by the beautiful Buffalo River.
  • Carver Campground — Buffalo National River provides fire pits and picnic tables, allowing for a comfortable camping experience while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
  • Hasty Takeout — Buffalo National River includes drinking water and well-maintained toilets, ensuring a pleasant stay for campers.

Tent campers should check out Rush Campground

  • Rush Campground — Buffalo National River is known for its stunning views and regular ranger patrols, offering a safe and informative camping experience.
  • Dillards Ferry — Buffalo National River is a peaceful spot with clear water, perfect for swimming and relaxing after a day of outdoor activities.
  • Spring Creek Campground — Buffalo National River offers a more secluded experience, ideal for those seeking privacy while still being close to the river.

Local activities for tent campers

  • Kayaking and fishing are popular at Hasty Takeout — Buffalo National River, where visitors can enjoy clear waters and a small pebble beach.
  • Gilbert Gravel Bar — Buffalo National River serves as a great starting point for canoe trips, with ample space for setting up tents before hitting the water.
  • Hiking and exploring the nearby bluffs are highlights at Carver Campground — Buffalo National River, providing breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near St. Joe, AR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near St. Joe, AR is Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near St. Joe, AR?

TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near St. Joe, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.