Best Tent Camping near Van Buren, AR
Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Van Buren? Find the best tent camping sites near Van Buren. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Van Buren campsites are perfect for tent campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Van Buren, AR (17)
1. Natural Dam
Natural Dam, Arkansas4 Reviews•11 Photos•56 Saves- Fires
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2. Eagles Point — Tenkiller State Park
Monroe Lake, Indiana3 Reviews•2 Photos•5 SavesTenkiller State Park is known as Oklahoma's “heaven in the hills.” The sparkling blue waters of Lake Tenkiller offer water enthusiasts an abundance of recreational opportunities between 130 miles of shoreline and 13,000 surface acres. The park’s plentiful amenities make it a favorite destination for all ages.
Tenkiller State Park in Vian is a haven for all water sports including water skiing, fishing, boating, tubing and scuba diving. Outdoor facilities include a volleyball court, basketball court, two playground areas, four group picnic pavilions and 172 picnic tables. An outdoor swimming pool is available seasonally at the park and includes a water slide and splash pad. Additional amenities include a community building, three hiking trails and the Driftwood Nature Center.
Lake Tenkiller is considered one of the best places in the state for scuba diving, as its waters are clear from eight to 28 feet. Tenkiller Scuba Park is a diver's dream, with a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats to explore underwater. In some areas of the lake, divers can see the remains of homesteads and artifacts left behind from before the lake was formed. The Fisherman's Point Area provides access to a swim beach, dive park, and boat ramp. The lake's underwater terrain ranges from mildly sloping hills to rock cliffs, and the water goes up to 160 feet deep in places. With an Oklahoma fishing license, divers can try their luck at spear fishing for non-game fish. Two diving pro shops, Gene's Aqua Pro and Nautical Adventures, are located on the lake and offer training, certification and equipment rental.
Tenkiller State Park offers RV and tent sites scattered between 10 campgrounds. Online reservations must be made for the RV and tent campsites. Primitive campgrounds include Bluff View, Eagle Point, and Hickory Flats with Day use area's at Fisherman's Point, Goose Neck Bend North and South . RV campgrounds with 30-amp electric and water hookups include Blue Jay Knob and Flying Squirrel. The Shady Grove and Fox Squirrel campgrounds both offer full hookups, with 50-amp electric service. A total of seven comfort stations with restrooms and showers are available in the park, and there are two on-site waste dump stations.
In addition to the tent and RV campgrounds, Tenkiller State Park guests may choose from 38 cabins, ranging from one to three-bedroom styles. All the cabins, except for the three-bedroom models, are duplexes. Cabins are equipped for the maximum number of guests with linens, full kitchens, heat, air conditioning and satellite television. In addition, some cabins are pet friendly. There are a total of 22 one-bedroom cabins, 14 two-bedroom cabins and two three-bedroom cabin.
Tenkiller State Park features two multi-use trails and one nature trail. The Tenkiller Multi-Use Trail is a handicap accessible paved trail 1.5 miles in length. Also located on-site, the Pine Cove Marina offers fuel, snacks and boat rentals, as well as the floating Clearwater Café.
Tenkiller State Park also has The Driftwood Nature Center and a full time Naturalist on staff. There are daily activities Memorial Day through Labor Day. Through the winter months weekend events and activities are planned. To see what is happening at The Driftwood Nature Center call 918-489-5641 or email: leann.bunn@travelok.com
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3. Jack Creek Recreation Area
Blue Mountain, Arkansas3 Reviews•4 Photos•42 SavesJack Creek Recreation Area is located in a picturesque setting alongside towering rock bluffs and flowing waters. The area was constructed in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) and displays several unique, historic facilities. There is a short trail that climbs a couple of hundred feet to a recently restored rock overlook vista that offers a panoramic view of whispering pine trees and colorful fall vegetation. Jack Creek offers day use and a primitive campground at no cost. Also from Jack Creek Recreation Area is a trailhead for the Hole-In-The-Ground Mountain Hiking Trail and Sugar Creek Hiking Trail. Hole-In-The-Ground Trail is not a loop trail and extends approximately four miles in length. The Sugar Creek Hiking Trail extends approximately three miles connecting Jack Creek to Knopper’s Ford Recreation Area. Click here for more information.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
4. Hickory Flats — Tenkiller State Park
Monroe Lake, Indiana2 Reviews•11 Photos•5 SavesTenkiller State Park is known as Oklahoma's “heaven in the hills.” The sparkling blue waters of Lake Tenkiller offer water enthusiasts an abundance of recreational opportunities between 130 miles of shoreline and 13,000 surface acres. The park’s plentiful amenities make it a favorite destination for all ages.
Tenkiller State Park in Vian is a haven for all water sports including water skiing, fishing, boating, tubing and scuba diving. Outdoor facilities include a volleyball court, basketball court, two playground areas, four group picnic pavilions and 172 picnic tables. An outdoor swimming pool is available seasonally at the park and includes a water slide and splash pad. Additional amenities include a community building, three hiking trails and the Driftwood Nature Center.
Lake Tenkiller is considered one of the best places in the state for scuba diving, as its waters are clear from eight to 28 feet. Tenkiller Scuba Park is a diver's dream, with a sunken airplane fuselage, school bus, helicopter and two boats to explore underwater. In some areas of the lake, divers can see the remains of homesteads and artifacts left behind from before the lake was formed. The Fisherman's Point Area provides access to a swim beach, dive park, and boat ramp. The lake's underwater terrain ranges from mildly sloping hills to rock cliffs, and the water goes up to 160 feet deep in places. With an Oklahoma fishing license, divers can try their luck at spear fishing for non-game fish. Two diving pro shops, Gene's Aqua Pro and Nautical Adventures, are located on the lake and offer training, certification and equipment rental.
Tenkiller State Park offers RV and tent sites scattered between 10 campgrounds. Online reservations must be made for the RV and tent campsites. Primitive campgrounds include Bluff View, Eagle Point, and Hickory Flats with Day use area's at Fisherman's Point, Goose Neck Bend North and South . RV campgrounds with 30-amp electric and water hookups include Blue Jay Knob and Flying Squirrel. The Shady Grove and Fox Squirrel campgrounds both offer full hookups, with 50-amp electric service. A total of seven comfort stations with restrooms and showers are available in the park, and there are two on-site waste dump stations.
In addition to the tent and RV campgrounds, Tenkiller State Park guests may choose from 38 cabins, ranging from one to three-bedroom styles. All the cabins, except for the three-bedroom models, are duplexes. Cabins are equipped for the maximum number of guests with linens, full kitchens, heat, air conditioning and satellite television. In addition, some cabins are pet friendly. There are a total of 22 one-bedroom cabins, 14 two-bedroom cabins and two three-bedroom cabin.
Tenkiller State Park features two multi-use trails and one nature trail. The Tenkiller Multi-Use Trail is a handicap accessible paved trail 1.5 miles in length. Also located on-site, the Pine Cove Marina offers fuel, snacks and boat rentals, as well as the floating Clearwater Café.
Tenkiller State Park also has The Driftwood Nature Center and a full time Naturalist on staff. There are daily activities Memorial Day through Labor Day. Through the winter months weekend events and activities are planned. To see what is happening at The Driftwood Nature Center call 918-489-5641 or email: leann.bunn@travelok.com
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Toilets
5. Riverfield Acreage- White River
Combs, Arkansas2 Reviews•6 Photos•26 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
$30 - $100 / night
6. Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area
Park Hill, Oklahoma2 Reviews•18 Photos•79 Saves- Pets
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Alcohol
7. Gates Nature Preserve
Monroe Lake, Indiana1 Review•5 SavesCamp at an animal lovers paradise! Gates Nature Preserve allows you to pitch your tent beside a petting zoo. Meet exotic reptiles and farm animals while spending a night in the forest of Eastern Oklahoma. When you're not playing with animals, Gates Nature Preserve is an outlet to the outdoors! This campsite sits beside the Tenkiller Ferry Lake which is great for water sports and only 5 miles from Tenkiller State Park. It is also less than 7 miles from Greenleaf state park which gives you access to the Arkansas River, Webber Falls Reservoir and Greenleaf Lake. This campsite is equipped with picnic tables, a fire pit, and a bathhouse with potable water and showers. Bring your own tent, food, and firewood.
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- Picnic Table
$25 / night
8. Citadel Bluff
Be the first to review!Ozark, Arkansas•3 SavesThis recreation area is part of Ozark Lake
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9. Miracle Mountain Homestead
Be the first to review!Winslow, Arkansas•27 Photos•1 SaveOur first official campsite, Tanglewood Terrace is now available to rent! This has been a long time coming, and we are so proud of how it turned out.
Nestled in the heart of the Boston Mountains, surrounded by gorgeous dogwood trees, this is a private, natural, convenient campsite. We have a rustic tent platform, picnic table, fire pit, PK grill, bathroom (compost toilet/outhouse), horseshoes, cornhole, and room for multiple tents. Pull your vehicle right into camp to unload, and you are able to park across from the campsite to free up space. We would love to have you visit Miracle Mountain Homestead! Just 3 short miles from Devil's Den State Park!
This is a working homestead, and our family lives on the property, (not in sight of the campsite.) We are always available and happy to help with anything you might need.
(Also available while you stay: goat therapy, hiking/atv trails are always expanding so we are happy to be your guide, goat milk & fresh eggs for sale)
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$45 - $50 / night
10. Elk Creek Marina
Be the first to review!Tenkiller Ferry Lake, OklahomaThis recreation area is part of Tenkiller Ferry Lake
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Recent Tent Reviews in Van Buren
556 Reviews of 17 Van Buren Campgrounds
Michael W.
Scout
Vine Prairie Park & Boat Launch
Extremely nice place!
I stay here often. Super nice place run by the City of Mulberry that lease this park from the COE. They allow dumping of gray water BUT, it is illegal to dump gray water on the ground ANYWHERE in Arkansas! There is a city owned archery range next to the campsites. You can bike the road which is along the Arkansas River all the way to Alma to the west. The hosts are exceptional people who go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant visit. I had a medical emergency during one stay and the hostess stayed with me until the ambulance arrived.
Senior discount of 50% on the camping rate.
Gonzo A.
Traveler
Greenleaf State Park Campground
Not A Fan of the RV Full Hook Up Section
Landed here during Memorial Day last spring and it wasn't the best experience. The RV FHU sites in the Deer Run campground are on top of one another. We had a neighbor's picnic table maybe a foot or two at best from the slide out side window who proceeded to burn trash in their firepit the entire weekend. So the smell and being stacked on top of one another were huge dampers to the weekend. Seems like a nice location and perhaps the other campgrounds aren't so packed together.
- Gonzo A.Traveler
Devil's Den State Park Campground
A Park Must When in Arkansas
Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great. The sites are generally spacious. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space. There are several hiking trails within the park and other activities during warmer months (i.e. pool). If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow). There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services.
Joseph B.Scout
Riverfront RV Resort
Very Nice and Convenient
This campground is only about a year old and everything seems to still be in good shape. Online reservations were simple, even on the day of arrival. Most sites are concrete pads and even the gravel sites have a concrete pad for the picnic table. Campground is adjacent to the Arkansas River (thus the name) and less than 2 miles from the Fort Smith National Historic Site. The bathrooms were clean and secured by door combination though the showers only had a curtain to close.
Charles H.Traveler
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
Flying High
The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain. The entrance and welcome center is grand and very accepting of anything from small vehicles to large diesel pushers. The camping spaces are large and accommodating, most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in. The amenities were clean and - while dated - all in good working conditions. The various trails are well marked and offer several levels of technical expertise. At the top you can camp or stay at The Lodge - which offers a myriad of services from food to catered events.
But the views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!
kcki M.
Guide
Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Nice and quiet
Nice, quiet place. Great hiking! Not really a place for a quick overnight, the road in is steep and crooked.
Fred S.
Legend
Morgan Mtn Rd/Spy Rock Dispersed
Large dispersed with a view
Coordinates: 35.69300,-93.76803. Large dispersed site with a view, especially in the winter, of the mountains to the west. Located along Morgan Mountain Road, Forest Road 1504, a little over a mile north of AR Hwy 215. The trailhead to Spy Rock is about a mile north of this site. Altough eroded in spots due to recent heavy rains, Morgan Mountain Road was in good condition - no obstacles. A 2wd passenger car can carefully make it over the eroded areas. Except for one small spot, the site is not level - slopes downhill a little toward the ridge. Camping rigs may need leveling depending on the parking spot. Access into the site from the forest road is easy. There is a clean rock fire ring. Tenting camping is possible. Hammock camping may be possible using nearby trees. The site is mostly shaded. The forest surrounding this campsite is beautiful. I received no T-Mobile service during my visit. I decided not to camp here during my visit due to a brisk, cold north-northwest wind blowing through the campsite.
- Fred S.Legend
Redding Campground
Some recent flood damage, but still good
Camped in site #6 on Nov 20, 2024. The Mulberry River had some serious flooding a few weeks ago which caused this campground to close. The campground is now open, and work is being done to restore the campground and its campsites back to its previous clean state. During my stay, grading was being done on the campground loop road. Some of the campsites were flooded leaving behind some debris and eroded site driveways. The sites away from the river were in good condition. The tent pads look level. Water was available; toilets and showers were functional. The restoom/shower house can use some cleaning, but not too bad. Trash service was available. Despite the flood damage, this is a good campground in a pretty area. I look forward to returning.
- CCarmen V.Scout
Springhill
Disappointed
Site is still charging campers full price for extended camping(14days) was told showers and restrooms available then suddenly they closed the facilities without notice. Was helping disabled person and his family who is currently homeless with the campsite and he now needing to look for somewhere else to go because there is nowhere for them to shower or use the restroom when needed.
- Fred S.Legend
Shores Lake
Quiet stay in a hardwood forest
Camped in site #10 in mid-November 2024. Site 10 is non-electric; paid $7.50/night with senior pass. Overall clean campground, well maintained and managed, in pretty hardwood forest. Not busy during my stay. Sites have picnic tables, tent pads and clean metal fire rings. Site 10 was level. The campground includes a clean restroom/shower house, one clean vault toilet at the far end of the campground, trash dumpsters and drinking water; all of these facilities and services were available during my stay in November. Campground can accommodate tents, camper vans, car camping and RVs. Some sites are electric. There are no water and sewer hookups. Campground road is paved as well as Highway 215 from I-40 accessing the campground. Sites are mostly shaded, but there is no privacy between sites. Shores Lake trailhead is located in a parking area in the campground. Day use area nearby with good fishing in Shores Lake. Campground hosts Donna and Eddie were wonderful. I really liked this campground.
George B.Scout
Snake Creek
Great place to stay.
We really enjoyed this campground. Lots of room to roam, Plenty of access to the water for boats (multiple ramps) or wading/swimming. Plenty of sites to choose from some shaded, some by the water. A few full hookups but not many. Most spots are just electric and water. Clean restrooms/showers. One newer area of the campground has new private shower rooms. We have been back a couple of times with all the kids and grandkids. Overall a nice corp of engineers park.
Andrew R.Scout
Applegate Cove Campground
Tucked away spot that's almost heaven
I sort of threw darts at a board to where I would be camping next, and Applegate Cove was my destination this time. The campground is fairly small, but each lot is well maintained. The ground was a bit hard to drive tent stakes into, but I'm attributing that to the weather and season until I visit again and disprove that. There's a small walking loop down to the Arkansas river which left me a gorgeous view of the sunset, unfortunately I also visited during a fishing competition which brought quite a few people, making it a bit of a noisy area during the day as they were using the campground boat slip and dock to cast off from. You can also hear river barges during all hours, though personally I slept through all of the supposed noise. My only real complaint was that one of the bathrooms was in considerably worse condition than the other and you could smell it up to twenty feet away, which after learning I took the extra minute to walk to the nicer one. The shower was good and hot, no complaints there. All in all, I'm pretty happy with how my stay went, and there's very little I disliked about the campgrounds.
- NNick & Allyssa S.Guide
Springhill
Great for the weekend!
Fantastic park to bring the kids and ride the bike trails or fish. Several pavilions and playgrounds. Clean campground. NO SEWER at campsites which is the only reason for the 4 stars. We stayed 7 days and had to move to pump out twice during our stay, so it was slightly inconvenient. Other than that, we loved it and will be back for shorter visits!
Devin R.Traveler
Cane Creek Recreation Area
Beautiful Sunset
Be sure to catch the sunset here. This has a beautiful setting even though it has been basically abandoned by the COE. The people who stay here must really care about the place because my site was very clean. Do not. I repeat DO NOT think you can use the pit toilets here. Be self contained and you’ll be fine. There seemed to be some long-timers camped there together and their dogs barked quite often during the day, but they must have taken them in at night or my van did well with blocking out the noise. My site wasn’t 100% flat but I just slept with my feet going on the downhill slope. Also, be aware if you use a flashlight, you WILL see eyeballs looking back at you from the other side of the water
Todd R.Guide
Chicken Creek
Chicken Creek
Great camp ground, pleanty of shady spots. Would have given 5 stars, but they are limited on sites with 50amps. Showers were in rough shape as well
- Ricky T.Scout
Devil's Den State Park Campground
Undeniably Incredible!!
Absolutely beautiful from the Senic Overlook!! The trails are easy to traverse, and the nature here is breathtaking!!
- CClayton P.Guide
Natural Dam
Nice quiet spot not far from I-40
Easy to get to from I-40. Arrived late on a Thursday night and was the only person there. A little road noise off in the distance but the waterfall all but drowned it out.
Greg D.Guide
Cove Lake Complex
Quiet and wooded
Nice quiet campground with a nice lake, vault toilets, no electricity or water Wildlife in the area. We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade
Vien W.Guide
Round the Bend RV Campground
Round the Bend RV Camping
This RV Park is amazing! The view of Black Mountain at sunset is amazing! We love the well-kept grounds and spacious back in RV sites. They also have tent camping that you can book online. The location is convenient a quarter of mile off the Highway 23/The Pig Trail that motorcycle riders love. All the sites are generously space out with plenty of room for parking. The Turner Bend Camp Store is half mile down the road for gasoline, camping supplies, ice, fresh deli sandwiches and wraps, t-shirts, pins and patches.
We love the new bathroom and shower house. Don't miss this gem of a place. The owners are super nice
- JJessica P.Guide
Grape Country RV Park
Beautiful grounds, beautiful countryside
Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manacured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids. No additional amenities but not needed really with FHU. Owner came by and personally checked on us, booking was easy with a text! Great wines right up the road
Jeff P.
Ranger
Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Hidden Gem
The campground is a hidden gem. The RV and primitive camping are clean and well-maintained. The bathroom/shower requires a passcode to enter and is always clean to use. It's a great escape for off-roading and overloading. Be sure to stop by the Oark Cafe in Oark, Arkansas, which is a 25-minute drive from the campground. They serve one of the best burgers in Arkansas (Wednesday-Sunday).
- Jeff P.Ranger
Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Mulberry Mountain Lodging and Campground
Very nice campground, mostly flat land for RV and primitive campground. The bathroom/shower house is very clean to use. This area is great for getaways, off-roading, or overloading.
- ppaulGuide
Springhill
2 Days Nice
A little older of an area. Stayed in site B10. Close to level. We have a 36' 5th wheel, tow vehicle, plus another vehicle. Easy entry into site and large enough for all vehicles. Asphalt with concrete patio. There is a picnic table and fire ring. 50/30/20A We can kind of see the river from this site. Very roomy sites in the woods with plenty of shade. Mostly dirt ground. Older but clean restrooms. We didn't use them. There are single person combined toilet and shower rooms at the front of park. There are mountain bike/hiking trails all over, even a little bike park with ramps and jumps. Playground and boat ramp. No sewer hookups, but there is a dump station. Lots of mosquitoes in the evening. Although some sites need maintenance and the restrooms are old, this is a nice park. We stayed 2 days and would definitely stay again.
Noel L.GuideApplegate Cove Campground
Nice campground
Older Park. Renovations are being done... Pads, 10 ft picnic tables, playground... Right off the lake with awesome scenery. Couple who manages the place is really nice and helpful. Would stop here again.
- SSam W.Scout
Turner Bend
Clean, spacious, beautiful view. Away from highway noise. Friendly staff.
Clean and spacious RV sites. We love the view of the mountain and the fact that we can ride our ATV to the Turner Bend Store to get gasoline and sandwiches. Mill Creek trailhead just 2 miles north from our campsite. The staff are friendly and very helpful. We got a physical ATV map. The Paradise Pizza Pub just 3 miles from our campsite!
- CChris A.Guide
Hog Valley RV & Treehouse Resort
Clean place next to good mountain biking and University of Arkansas
Flat Sites, Clean, Nice Amenities, Nice Staff, Little Exposed in heat to Sun. Best shades sites rented in advance. (Site 24-27)
Ferrason A.ScoutNatural Dam
beautiful scenery but not many amenities
The scenery here is really beautiful, Geometry Dash Breeze but it is so deserted that it is a bit scary at night.
Guide to Van Buren
Tent camping near Van Buren, Arkansas offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.
Scenic Waterfalls and Natural Beauty
- Experience the tranquility of the Natural Dam, where a small waterfall provides a soothing backdrop for your camping experience.
- The Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area features stunning views of the Illinois River, ideal for those who appreciate picturesque landscapes.
- Enjoy the serene environment at Riverfield Acreage- White River, where you can relax by the river and take in the natural surroundings.
Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- At Jack Creek Recreation Area, you can hike scenic trails and enjoy a refreshing swim in the nearby swimming hole during warmer months.
- The Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area is perfect for kayaking, allowing you to paddle upstream and float back to your campsite.
- Camping Kings offers a secluded spot for tent camping, making it a great base for exploring the Ozark National Forest.
Unique Features and Amenities
- Natural Dam provides a peaceful atmosphere with no amenities, perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.
- At Riverfield Acreage- White River, you can enjoy a private camping experience with the option to have a campfire and bring your pets along.
- Jack Creek Recreation Area features picnic tables and toilets, making it a convenient choice for families looking for a comfortable camping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Van Buren, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Van Buren, AR is Natural Dam with a 3.8-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Van Buren, AR?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Van Buren, AR, with real photos and reviews from campers.