White Rock Mountain Recreation Area features campgrounds at 2,753 feet elevation in the Ozark National Forest. The area receives significant fog due to the elevation, with temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Access to most glamping and camping options near St. Paul, Arkansas requires navigating unpaved forest roads that can be challenging during wet conditions.
What to do
Hiking the Rim Trail: At White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, visitors can access scenic trails directly from their campsite. "The Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season," notes Matt B., who adds, "We've done day hikes there with the kids since, and in a prior visit I saw a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock."
Off-road adventures: Byrd's Adventure Center offers extensive private trail systems for off-road enthusiasts. "They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road," explains Eric L. The center provides terrain for various skill levels and vehicle types across its 800-acre property.
Rock climbing: Experienced climbers can access numerous sandstone formations throughout the region. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area," according to Luke O., who notes that the area provides routes for all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the spacing between sites at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground. "Sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery!" reports Jennifer O., who appreciated that "The hiking trails were right out of our campsite."
Onsite dining options: Many visitors appreciate having food service available at camping locations. At Byrd's Adventure Center, John F. notes that "The restaurant is pretty awesome as well. Food is YUM!" This saves campers from needing to pack all meals or leave the property after a day of activities.
Year-round access: Most campgrounds in the area maintain services throughout winter. A January visitor to White Rock Mountain, Erin-Frannie R., reported, "January 31-Feb 3, White Rock is a great little campground. With only 8 tent camp sites it is very quaint." Winter camping offers solitude, with this reviewer noting they were "the only tent campers" during their visit.
What you should know
Road conditions: The roads to many camping areas require careful driving. "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that the last hour of the drive is only 20 miles," explains Erin-Frannie R. about accessing White Rock Mountain. She adds, "It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other."
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations create distinct microclimates. Donny S. warns about Mount Magazine State Park Campground: "The temperature is literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below. One night we were there it got down to mid teens." Pack accordingly, even during warmer seasons.
Cabin cleanliness issues: Some mountain cabins require preparation. Matt B. cautions about White Rock Mountain cabins: "One warning on the cabins though - in summer be prepared for some bugs. It didn't bother me at all, but it did her. Water pressure and hot water were not what one would hope if you want a shower as well."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated recreation areas. Mary D. notes that Horseshoe Bend has a "Nice playground for kids. (Closed currently due to COVID.)" However, she adds that "Sites are in several smaller groups so it would be great for camping with friends and family."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide water access for hot summer days. Horseshoe Bend features a "Swimming area was very spacious," according to Mary D., making it suitable for multiple families. Lake Fort Smith State Park includes a pool and splash pad that operate seasonally.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting animals. Matt B. recalls, "In a prior visit I saw a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock. Only time in 40+ years I've seen a bear in the wild in Arkansas, and I grew up in the country!" Some campgrounds like Horseshoe Canyon Ranch feature domestic animals that roam the property.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Several campgrounds offer only partial hookups. Mary D. notes about Horseshoe Bend: "Sites have electric but not water so fill your tank before you come." Similarly, check each location's specific amenities before arrival.
Leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain creates uneven parking areas. Chelsea B. warns about Horseshoe Bend: "Some of the camping pads are pretty steep so longer rigs will have trouble leveling if you're camping close to the water." Site selection becomes crucial for larger RVs.
Shower facilities vary widely: Bath houses range from excellent to problematic. At Serenity Campground, Daniel D. found "The bathrooms and showers were super nice and perfectly clean. They even have a washer and dryer that campers can use." This contrasts with Chelsea B.'s experience at Horseshoe Bend: "The stalls were filthy and too small so everything you bring with you gets soaked."
