Dog-Friendly Camping near Tumbling Shoals, AR

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    COE Greers Ferry Lake Old Highway 25 Campground in Tumbling Shoals maintains pet-friendly accommodations with both tent and RV sites available. John F Kennedy Campground on the Little Red River also welcomes pets with spacious sites and river access for dogs that enjoy water. Both campgrounds feature electric hookups, drinking water, and restrooms with toilets. Sites are generally well-spaced, providing adequate room for pets to settle while maintaining leash requirements. Dam Site Campground offers similar pet amenities with the added benefit of year-round access. Visitors note the parks are clean and well-maintained, creating a comfortable environment for both pets and their owners. Camping photos and user guides for Tumbling Shoals, Arkansas are available on The Dyrt.

    The Little Red River trout fishery provides excellent opportunities for pet owners who enjoy fishing with their companions nearby. Several trails accessible from the campgrounds allow for dog walking, including the Collins Creek Trail that connects directly to John F Kennedy Campground without requiring a drive to the trailhead. Shady campsites throughout the area offer relief from summer heat, particularly important for pets during warmer months. The cool breeze off the river creates a comfortable environment even during peak summer temperatures. Most campgrounds in the area maintain standard pet policies requiring leashes and proper waste disposal. Local marinas and day-use areas may have additional pet restrictions during busier periods, particularly on holiday weekends when boat ramps become congested.

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    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Tumbling Shoals (78)

      1. John F Kennedy

      4.8(22)3mi from Tumbling Shoals68 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Very nice little campground just off Arkansas Hwy 25 by Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Springs, Arkansas. Actually, many of the campsites are along the beginning of the Little Red River."

      "Without a lot fan fair since you have no clue, from the highway, that there is a campground at this location.  Not far off the road but you do not hear the traffic. "

      from $22 - $50 / night

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      2. COE Greers Ferry Lake Old Highway 25 Campground

      4.2(13)3mi from Tumbling Shoals118 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Nice sites on the lake. We camp here a lot since it is close to our house. Staff is friendly and doesn't get in your business. Drive through to find the choice sites."

      "Right next to the water. Great views, great breeze. Our campsite was handicap accessible."

      from $18 - $150 / night

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      3. Heber Springs

      4.7(12)6mi from Tumbling Shoals132 sitesRVs, Tents

      "It isn’t all that accurate to say “Heber” is the location for camping. Instead, Heber is a small community about 60 miles north of Little Rock on Greers Ferry Lake."

      "Greers Ferry Lake is one of those places. However, as I said in a review of “Heber Springs,” if I’m reviewing campgrounds here, it isn’t accurate to review “Greers Ferry Lake.”"

      from $18 - $50 / night

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      4. Dam Site(greers Ferry)

      4.3(9)2mi from Tumbling Shoals241 sitesRVs, Tents

      "The lake is Beautiful and you’re minutes away from The Little Red River. Very clean park, well kept and the amenities are excellent!"

      "Very steep decline to the waters edge. No mosquitoes which is half a point itself."

      from $18 - $150 / night

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      5. Red River Trout Dock

      4.6(5)2mi from Tumbling ShoalsRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "The sites close to the road are really easy to get into. Just be prepared to do a some leveling but that’s part of camping right?"

      from $45 - $500 / night

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      6. Shiloh - Greers Ferry Lake

      3.8(5)10mi from Tumbling Shoals117 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Trees for our hammock, large level site, near the water for our kayak, and great views of the lake. There is no electricity at these sites. You will need to bring water."

      "We tent camped on a small point of the park-we were the only one in that area. it was a beautiful location, cool breezes off the lake all night, moon rising above. it was wonderful!!"

      from $18 - $150 / night

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      7. COE Greers Ferry Lake Devil's Fork Campground

      4.2(5)12mi from Tumbling ShoalsRVs, Tents

      "This is one of several campgrounds to choose from around Greers Ferry Lake that are operated by the Corps of Engineers (COE), and there are a few good reasons to choose it."

      "Super nice Campground right on Greers Faity lake. Our only complaint was that they didn't stop us to check us in upon arrival and we had to return to do so."

      from $17 - $22 / night

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      8. Devils Fork

      4.2(5)12mi from Tumbling Shoals55 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Nice spot, we stay next to the swimming area. Most of the sites have a big concrete pads. Campground host was very friendly. Great value for what you get."

      "Last minute move from below the Dam up to the lake . Nabbed a great spot on the water B15. Facilities are typical for this area ."

      from $22 - $50 / night

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      9. COE Greers Ferry Lake Cove Creek

      5.0(1)2mi from Tumbling ShoalsRVs, Tents

      "If you are boating or swimming in Arkansas this will do it."

      10. Sugar Loaf

      4.1(7)17mi from Tumbling Shoals76 sitesRVs, Tents

      "As most campsites are, there are no real defined borders and all Greers Ferry and Heber Springs are surrounded by residential areas."

      "There are sites near the water. The closest to the water was D7. You have a view of Sugar Loaf mountain in the background. It’s a medium sited lot but plenty of room for a tent and a canopy."

      from $18 - $50 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Tumbling Shoals, AR

    340 Reviews of 78 Tumbling Shoals Campgrounds


    • a
      Dec. 2, 2024

      Sweet Escape RV Resort

      relaxing calm family friendly

      Sweet Escape RV Resort in Austin, Arkansas, offers a peaceful and welcoming experience for RV travelers. Conveniently located near Highway 167, it provides easy access to nearby cities like Cabot and Little Rock. The park features several amenities, including full hookups, a large dog park, fishing ponds, a bathhouse with showers, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Recreational options like yard games and scenic surroundings enhance its appeal for families and solo adventurers alike. this RV park is in its early stages also the bathrooms are the cleanest  that i have seen in a campground/ RV park they clean them daily. in the winter they have complementary hot chocolate and a 15 ft Christmas tree!!! 100% would recommend

    • Ronnie B.
      Jun. 21, 2026

      Sweet Escape RV Resort

      Must place to camp

      Second time staying there. Even better than the first time. The dog park is fabulous, enough room for 2 German Shepherds to run. We were able to pick blackberries, walking trails are so well maintained.

    • J
      Nov. 26, 2024

      Sweet Escape RV Resort

      Great place to stay!

      Very friendly campground. Many amenities including laundry, bathhouse, very nice showers, and large dog park. We really enjoyed the fishing ponds as well. The owners could not have been nicer and more helpful. Would recommend this place to anyone.

    • K
      Jul. 25, 2021

      Toad Suck

      Relaxing by the Arkansas River

      Just outside Conway, AR. Easy access to sites, very clean park. Plenty green areas to throw frisbee or just play with pets.

    • S
      Sep. 17, 2020

      Sylamore Creek Camp

      Great site!

      We love this campground. We love having direct access to creek. It is kayak, family, pet friendly. The only thing it is lacking is internet connection, which for us is a plus for disconnecting. All sites are reasonably level. Site F is the premium and most secluded full hook up site. They have all levels of sites: primitive, water and electric, or full. Their small store has firewood and many other convenient items for sale. We take our own kayaks, but they do have rentals. They have public showers and restrooms, but the restrooms are currently closed due to renovations. It’s really one of our favorite local sites to camp.

    • Malaney H.
      Sep. 16, 2018

      Buffalo Point — Buffalo National River

      A must!

      Buffalo national river is the first national river established in the US and let me tell you it's gorgeous!! There are many places to camp but we stayed at Buffalo Point. There are a few different loops to stay on, we stayed in A. Each site has parking, for car or RV all differing in length, and you walk behind the parking to an area with benches, picinic table, lantern hanger, and fire pit. The river is behind the sites and you can swim in it. I recommend swim shoes because its all rocks to get to it and entering in and out of the water. Behind A loop on the opposite side from the ramp before the curve in the river is a rope swing. Its across the river so you must be a strong swimmer to beat the current. The bathrooms are well kept and there is trash bins available. Pets are allowed too. The loop that we stayed in was first come first serve and there was a self pay station near the bathroom. If you are up early enough, you may see bald eagles flying around the river like we did!

    • NThe Dyrt PRO User
      Sep. 5, 2021

      COE Greers Ferry Lake Mill Creek Recreation Area

      The Natural State

      Dates: May 15 Sep 15   Booking

                  Sep 15  May 15 Out of season

      Travelers will find a very steep entrance road and the fact that this campground is very rural. Carry your supplies with you. Many sites are not level but there is the bonus that the sites are not on top of each other and there are some water sites. We had good service with Verizon.

      This is an excellent camp for enjoying the song of the birds and the bounty of the lake. This campground offers 31 non-electric sites. Additional amenities include vault toilets and boat ramp. 

      A dense mix of red cedar, black gum, red oak, elm, pecan and sweet gum trees forest the area, providing shade in the summer months and beautiful fall colors in autumn. Wildlife is plentiful around Greers Ferry Lake. Visitors commonly see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, rabbits, squirrels and a wide variety of birds.

       Greers Ferry Lake is an outdoor enthusiasts' dream, with boating, sailing, water skiing, swimming, scuba diving and fishing opportunities. Hikers enjoy the area's three National Nature Trails and one multi-purpose fitness trail. The William Carl Garner Visitor Center is just west of the dam, with exhibits, a children's touch table, and a replica of the world record 40 lb. 4 oz. brown trout caught in the Little Red River downstream of the center.•

      Standard Nonelectric• Overnight• Boating• Camping• Hiking• Boat Ramp• Drinking Water• Picnic Table• Parking Area• Campfire Rings• Paved Sites• Pets Allowed 

      With over 30,000 acres of water surface, the lake serves as a playground for all kinds of water sports. 

       Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information. 

      LNT 

      Better than when you found it

      Stay safe  Happy travels

    • Donny S.
      May. 23, 2020

      Blanchard Springs Recreation Area — Ozark St. Francis National Forests

      Cool Sites-Ok Camping

      I completed my undergrad and graduate degrees in Arkansas about 30ish miles north of Little Rock. While living in Arkansas, my brother and I traveled all over the state, including a visit to the Blanchard Springs Caverns and recreation area. Hiking through the caverns and around the recreation area is phenomenal. The caverns make you feel like you’re looking at something made my aliens. It’s really pretty amazing. It’s also enormous inside the cave. For us, it was a day trip excursion. However, we did explore all around the recreation and campground area. I’ve camped all over Arkansas and what I’d say is that this is probably a great place for primitive tent camping and/or backpack/hammock camping. I have three small boys and it wouldn’t be my first choice for a family camping trip, albeit very very cool. The campground is small, maybe 30 or so spots and heavily wooded. The terrain isn’t conducive to kids unless you’re ok constantly being concerned about injuries. There are lots of cool swimming holes, moving water and falls nearby with it’s close proximity to Mirror Lake and Sugar Loaf Mt. definitely worth a trip if you’re close by, but not something I’d make a multi-hour trip for. Also wouldn’t stay there more than maybe two nights. I’d say if you’re camping somewhere relatively close, work in a day trip to Blanchard Springs. If you are like me and have kids, and you’d have to travel anything beyond an hour or two to get there, it’s not worth it. There are too many beautiful places in AR and you’d probably drive by more than one of them to get to Blanchard Springs. I’m giving it 3 stars for that reason alone. If I were rating based solely on the sites, activities, etc. I’d give it 5.

    • Julie H.
      Jun. 12, 2026

      Camp Conway RV Park

      Horrible

      This is a long review but please read it. It is a public service announcement. Camp Conway greenbrier. Landlord Burt Zinser. Where to begin.. Let start with Ameneties. The website states Each site has full hook ups including 20/30/50 amp electric, clean city water, city sewer and fiber-optic high-speed WiFi. Guests at Camp Conway have the option of porches, sheds and gazebos with management approval. We also offer a bath house and a laundry. 1. Clean city water- it taste like plastic and chlorine. Must have a water filter if you actually want to drink it or give it to your pets. 2. Fiber optic high speed wifi. That's a joke. Shoddy at best. TCW repeatedly has to come out to fix it and it's still garbage. If you are okay with internet dropping in and out every 5 to 10 min, then it's great. Save yourself the headache and get your own, but don't expect Burt Zinser to reduce your rent for services he offers but you can't use. Here at camp conway you can expect to pay for services unrendered.(Not the only one that has this problem in the park) 3. Porches, sheds or gazebos. 100%, as long as you are one of his favorites, like the people in the pictures he uses on his website. The beautiful two story rv with full front porch, likes to watch what everyone else is doing and then go complain to Burt if she doesn't like how your lot looks or what your doing. Burt will be sure to tell you it's too much, or beauty is sometimes only in the eye of the beholder. 4. We also offer a bath house and a laundry. The"Bath House" is one shower, without a bathroom vent, a toilet and sink, in the laundry room and is always disgusting. Hair on the floors, wall, drain, soap scum, ect. The toilet has pubic hair and feces on and around it. No one cleans it, nor cleans up after themselves. Not sure who replaces the toilet paper but half the time it's empty. The laundry is two household washers and dryers. Costing 2.50, which isn't bad. Just don't run the washers at the same time or they flood the room(you will be blamed for over loading it) and expect to dry your clothes for an hour or so, or they will be damp. The state of the laundry room is horrible. Trash overflowing, dog hair, and random debris all over the floors. Again no one cleans them.( you think well I'll just get compact washer, expect to be charged extra for water and don't you dare hang clothes outside to dry, that includes beachwear and towels). It's not visually appealing. 5. Spacious lots. The outer lots are 600 and the other lots 565(it was 550 back in Feb, this is important to note). Price subject to change without a notice. Do Not expect Burt Zinsers crappy memory to remember not to over charge you(text wont help you either). Honestly, don't bother to ask Burt about it, or he will get annoyed and either kick you out or threaten to. I'll get to that later. The lots flood when it rains, grass is almost non existent, scorching heat from lack of trees and of course you have to love the red clay that gets over everything. Lots are suppose to mowed by him, but he hasn't mowed in the 5 months we've been here. He sends his child out, who does a half ass job weed whacking around the pedestals and mows part of the big field. If it wasn't for one of the permanent resident here mowing for people that ask him, it would be horrible. 6. Someone pointed out they have a huge open field with plans to extend the park, but currently it's a great dog area to let your dogs off leash to play. WRONG. DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BE OFF LEASH. Expect to be harassed about picking up your dog poop. Even when you do, other people do not, while letting their dog roam free and you will be blamed. He has plans to extend the park, true, but until then expect for Burt to constantly remind you that until the park fills up, it all comes out of his pocket, so he's loosing money. You can rent one of his tiny homes if you want to pay near 1,000 for a studio apartment, open floor plan, with a 500 dollar, per pet, fee. You will be secure too as one of his security cameras point directly in the front windows of the current one and only tiny home he has on the premises. 7. Rules. It all depends which of his rules and who you are. If he tells you no AC units in the windows of RVs. There are currently 5 RVs that have units in the windows, so he doesn't really give a crap about that rule. I personally don't care but it was one of the things he stated when we called. No agressive dogs. His example, like pitbulls. Hey as long as you tell him it's another breed he doesn't know the difference and isn't bothered to check. I see nothing wrong with pitties, he's just the type that believes in bad dogs, not bad owners. Oh and on that note you will be sure to hear or be told, that you don't need another mouth to feed, or straight up told you can't keep another pet if you get one. 8. Privacy. Don't expect it. Burt Zinser likes to meddle in people's business. He gives unsolicited relationship advice, opinions on how you should decorate, how your vehicle looks, if your working or not(regardless if you pay rent on time, he doesn't like it if you are a stay at home person). Our experience here has been crap. We moved into the park on Feb 3rd. The lot was one giant mud pit. We asked if he would buy grass seed and we'd care for the lawn until it fully grown. We were told yes at first then the next day we received a text staying no because then he'd have to do that for everyone. We bought grass seed, tilled the land by hand and grew grass. We called about the internet 3 different times. The first time he handed us a wifi extender, that didnt work and TCW said it was pointless since it wasnt hooked into landline nor had bluetooth capabilities. He then had TCW come out two more times to"fix" it, before we said screw it and got starlink. When asked if he would remove the fee for the interent we can't use. He said no. When we asked why are we paying for something we can't use, he stated it was our problem, not his. For the month of Feb rent was 550. March 550. April we TEXT him after hours and asked him to gIve us a call so we could pay rent. HE CALLED US, did the transaction and got off the phone. We checked and noticed he overcharged us, 565. We TEXT him again and pointed out he over charged us. HE CALLED US BACK. He asked when we had moved in, we told him Feb, he apologized and refunded the 15 dollars. When asked when he was going to raise the rent if he would be notifying us. We asked if we would still be paying 550 until then. He called us nieve to think rent wouldn't change. When we explained that we didn't think it would stay 550 forever, but that we would be notified and not just him taking whatever amount he decides he wants. He got irritated said we were busting his balls and he hadn't eaten dinner yet but instead dealing with this crap, and that we were temporary visitors(i didnt know 5 months of renting was temporary). He belittled a person that has autism and learning disabilities when he was the one to CALL US BACK and interupt his own supper. We called during business hours and informed him of the condition of the shower being filthy and smelling of cat urine, because everyone closes the door behind them after a shower and there is no vent( burt decided it wasn't needed, told to us by someone else). We were told people are supposed to be cleaning up after themselves. We asked if he would get a deck brush, hose and cleaning supplies for us and we would clean it for free, once a week. He said sure. A week later we saw him on the property asked about it again. He got annoyed, we dropped it and bought an external on demand hot water heater to be able to shower and feel clean. Once again it was time for rent to be paid. I noticed he had been over charging us again for may and June, not even a week after he told me that August 1st was when the rent would be raised. I saw him on the property and walked over to bring it to his attention. He got irritated and told me that it was becoming a bit much. When asked what he was talking about he stated that no one else bothers him as much as we do, and it's overwhelming. I stated to him that we haven't been unreasonable in holding him accountable for his property. I had explained previously about my husband being autistic with learning disabilities that sometimes effect how he understands things. I brought up that he stated he thinks he's autistic and his wife has told him thay his facial expressions and attitude towards people can be offputting and misinterpreted. I would think he would be more understanding. I told him he obviously has an issue with my husband and that from now on he will be dealing with me since my husband irritates him so much. He tried telling me no that wasn't the issue. I cut him off and said that was exactly the problem or it was holding him accountable, or both. He asked if we be out by then end of the month and I said no, as we have done nothing wrong. Rent is never late. Always paid. Our site is clean, we follow the rules. The next day we received a text from him telling us to be out by the end of the month and he was sorry it didn't work out. Retaliation for a woman speaking to him. Burt Zinser is a horrible business man, landlord and human being. He has issues with speaking too and dealing with woman if they try to be an equal. I truly believe he's sexist and I'm not the only woman in this park that thinks that. If you and your husband are speaking to him, you ask him a question he will disrespect you by looking at your husband and answering. Ask around, talk to people in the park, and not his favorites. I'm hoping I can attach the photos I've taken around the park and facilities but if I can't, feel free to reach out. I have no problem sharing them, in hopes you won't support this man and his park. I will be posting this in every RV group I'm a member of, local community pages and restaurants. Let's hold this man accountable for his disrespect, horrible ethics, and business. Greenbrier is a better community then this man deserves and he shouldn't be allowed to continue this way.


    Guide to Tumbling Shoals

    Tumbling Shoals camping areas sit along the northern shore of Greers Ferry Lake at approximately 460 feet elevation. The region features limestone bluffs and wooded shorelines surrounding the 40,000-acre reservoir created by Greers Ferry Dam in the 1960s. Summer temperatures typically reach the 90s while fall brings cooler weather in the 60-70°F range with reduced humidity.

    What to Do

    Trout fishing access: John F Kennedy Campground provides direct access to premier trout fishing on the Little Red River. "Great spot for the heat of summer. Shady and a nice cool breeze off the cold little red!" notes Hillary W. The campground's proximity to the trout hatchery means anglers can fish directly from shore when water levels permit.

    Paddling to Sugar Loaf Mountain: Bring kayaks to Sugar Loaf Campground for a unique paddling-hiking combination. "Bring your kayak and paddle to Sugar Loaf then hike to the top!" recommends Lacee G. The mountain rises from the lake and offers panoramic views after a moderate hike.

    Swimming beaches: Most campgrounds feature designated swimming areas, particularly at Devil's Fork. "Beautiful Park with multiple clean swim beaches. Many lake view sites," writes Kim H. The beaches provide sand areas for comfort and improved lake access compared to the rocky natural shoreline.

    What Campers Like

    Cooler waterfront temperatures: The Little Red River creates notably cooler conditions during summer months at Red River Trout Dock. "This is an older private campground that is very well maintained right on the river. Peaceful tranquil setting with owners/operators on site that are very friendly," reports Lee J.

    Well-spaced campsites: Old Highway 25 Campground receives praise for its layout. "Open Mar - Oct with 116 sites and 80 are electric. Sites are mainly shaded with typical forest trees in this area. Wildlife spotting from your campsite is normal," explains a camper. Sites offer good separation compared to private campgrounds.

    Rock formations for recreation: Several campgrounds feature unusual rock formations that appeal to adventurous campers. "We love this campground. The sites are shady and there are rock bluffs that the grandkids love to jump from," shares Debbie H. These natural features provide entertainment beyond standard lake activities.

    What You Should Know

    Limited full-hookup options: Most campgrounds offer electric and water but lack sewer connections. At Dam Site Campground, "You have a wide range of sites to choose from. The newer sites have more space around them, water at sites and most are decently level. Down side is that alot of them are near full sun," advises Clayton W.

    Dam water releases affect river camping: Water levels on the Little Red River fluctuate significantly when the dam releases water. "The one drawback to this camp site is when the dam releases water, the river rises a lot. I'm talking a good 5 feet," warns Lindsay H. Check water release schedules before river camping.

    Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close outside peak season. "The group campsite area is nicely forested but is typically closed and some other sites near the water might be closed if there has been flooding," notes one camper.

    Tips for Camping with Families

    Dog-friendly campgrounds near Tumbling Shoals: Devils Fork Campground maintains pet-friendly policies throughout the year. "Super nice Campground right on Greers Ferry lake. Our only complaint was that they didn't stop us to check us in upon arrival and we had to return to do so," mentions Keri P. Dogs must be leashed and supervised in all pet-friendly camping areas.

    Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground equipment for children. "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.

    Reserve early for waterfront sites: Prime sites book quickly, especially during summer months. "This spot is popular so get your reservations in! Some come as you go spots but they go quickly!" advises Sherrie A.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection challenges: At Cove Creek Campground, larger rigs face limitations. "Be aware that many of the sites might be hard to back into or hard to level your rig. The area is thickly wooded and that might make it difficult," cautions a reviewer. Check site dimensions when reserving.

    Power adapter needs: Some campgrounds only offer 50-amp service. "They do not have 30 amp service, only 50, so bring an adapter," advises Jared A. RVers with 30-amp systems should pack appropriate adapters.

    Interior roads: Campgrounds built decades ago often have narrower access roads. "Check your site before parking - this park like many of the Corp of Engineer parks are older and built with tent and small RV's in mind," suggests a camper. Drive cautiously and scout sites before attempting to back in larger rigs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Tumbling Shoals, AR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Tumbling Shoals, AR is John F Kennedy with a 4.8-star rating from 22 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Tumbling Shoals, AR?

    TheDyrt.com has all 78 dog-friendly camping locations near Tumbling Shoals, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.