Primitive camping options near Turrell, Arkansas concentrate within a 30-mile radius of the town, primarily on the Mississippi side of the state border. Arkabutla Lake serves as the main destination for tent campers in this region, with access points that receive limited maintenance and visitor traffic. Winter months bring water levels approximately 5-10 feet lower than summer pool stages, affecting shoreline tent placement and boat launch accessibility.
What to do
Fishing access points: Kellys Crossing Campground offers direct water access where tent campers can combine overnight stays with fishing. One visitor noted, "This is an off the beaten path area for standard recreation. It's technically a boat ramp that accesses Arkabutla Lake with picnic and camping areas nearby" (Kellys Crossing Campground).
Lake recreation: The boat ramps at both primitive camping areas provide water access despite their minimal development. A camper at Pleasant Hill Campground observed, "There is a boat ramp" even while noting the overall poor condition of the facilities (Pleasant Hill Campground).
Solitude seeking: Winter camping offers particularly quiet experiences for those wanting true seclusion. A December visitor reported, "I am visiting at the end of December, so there are hardly any other persons around besides the fishermen out on the water."
What campers like
Minimal competition for sites: The undeveloped nature of these camping areas means they rarely fill up. As one camper stated, "The positive is that you won't be fighting a lot of other campers to be able to stay here. The access to the lake is nice. Would be a good spot to go if you needed to get away for some solitude."
Clear camping guidelines: Despite the primitive conditions, Kellys Crossing maintains basic information for visitors. A camper noted, "The bulletin board has primitive camping rules and guidelines to follow. The fee has been reduced to free, so enjoy but be respectful!"
Cost-effective options: With no fees currently charged at Kellys Crossing, tent camping near Turrell provides an economical outdoor experience. Visitors appreciate that "The fee has been reduced to free," making this an accessible option for budget-conscious campers.
What you should know
Property boundaries: When tent camping near Turrell at Kellys Crossing, be aware of adjacent private property. A visitor cautioned, "Private property is close by and you have to travel past them to get to the public day use area so also be aware of that."
Facility limitations: The primitive nature of these sites extends to bathroom facilities. At Pleasant Hill, a camper warned that despite having two structures, "The newer looking (of the two on site) bathhouse is closed for some reason, but the terrible smelling vault toilet bathroom is open."
Site conditions: Tent sites at Pleasant Hill show significant signs of neglect according to recent visitors. One camper described, "The campsites are overgrown or sunken. Looks like no one has camped here or taken care of the property in years."
Tips for camping with families
Bring all water supplies: No potable water exists at either camping area near Turrell, making it essential for families to pack sufficient drinking and cooking water. This includes water for cleanup and sanitation needs when camping with children.
Consider site selection carefully: With unmaintained grounds at Pleasant Hill, families should arrive early to scout suitable tent locations. The reported "overgrown or sunken" sites may present challenges for setting up family-sized tents or establishing safe play areas.
Plan for bathroom challenges: The limited and poorly maintained toilet facilities make these locations potentially difficult for families with young children. The documented "terrible smelling vault toilet" at Pleasant Hill requires preparation and possibly portable alternatives for families.
Tips from RVers
Not suitable for RVs: The primitive tent camping areas near Turrell, Arkansas do not accommodate recreational vehicles. The access roads and ungraded terrain make these locations appropriate only for tent camping or small vehicles accessing the boat ramps.
Nearby alternatives: RV campers should look beyond these primitive tent areas to find suitable hookups and services. The unpaved, natural terrain and lack of amenities at both Kellys Crossing and Pleasant Hill make them unsuitable for anything beyond basic tent camping.
