Camping options near Ethel, Arkansas are concentrated along the Arkansas River system and White River National Wildlife Refuge. The region sits in the flat Mississippi Alluvial Plain with elevations averaging 150-200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F with high humidity, while winter camping can see temperatures drop to the 30s, creating varied seasonal camping conditions across the year.
What to do
Fishing the Arkansas River system: Merrisach Lake connects directly to the Arkansas River via a ship canal, creating excellent multi-species fishing opportunities. A camper at COE Arkansas River Merrisach Lake Park noted, "Good, clean campground. Family friendly. Great fishing. Merrisack Lake joins the ship canal to the Arkansas River."
Kayak exploring: Many water access points provide launching spots for personal watercraft. At Mississippi River State Park, rangers offer specialized guided tours: "The kayak tour of Cypress forest was the highlight of the trip," reported one visitor who enjoyed the unique ecosystem viewing.
Wildlife observation: The White River National Wildlife Refuge near Ethel hosts numerous bird species and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many campgrounds in the area report frequent sightings of pelicans during winter months, with a camper at Wilbur D. Mills mentioning, "went by 1/17/2021 closed for winter saw a few pelicans."
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Most campsites in the region feature direct water views or access. A Mississippi River State Park camper appreciated that "We could see water from every side of our camper," highlighting the peninsula-style layout of many sites.
Clean, modern facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high-standard bathroom facilities despite their rural location. A camper at Pendleton Bend with a travel trailer noted, "The sites are spacious. For example, the water hookups are half way between the sites to be shared, and my 50ft hose just barely could reach."
Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the Ethel area maintain small footprints with limited sites. At Mississippi River State Park, a camper observed, "I like that it is not a large park (only 14 RV sites and 3 tent sites), so even when it is full, it does not feel overcrowded."
Off-season opportunities: Winter camping offers unique experiences with fewer crowds. A visitor to Pendleton Bend reported, "I stopped here for one night with a travel trailer and was in site B-01 for $16. The sites are spacious."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "COE Arkansas River Notrebes Bend Park" operates only from March through October, while others like COE Arkansas River Wilbur D Mills Campground have seasonal access restrictions.
Variable bathroom quality: Facilities range widely in quality and maintenance. A recent Pendleton Bend visitor provided detailed observations: "Do they have flushing toilets, yes! Sadly only slightly better than a hole in the ground with a seat. They thankfully have provided toilet paper, that's a step up from tree bark."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region. A camper at Mississippi River State Park observed, "ATT cell worked fair but no Verizon," while Pendleton Bend visitors noted "absolutely no cell phone signal and no WiFi, so have physical directions on you."
Winter wildlife viewing: Pelicans and other migratory birds frequent the area in winter months. A visitor noted at COE Arkansas River Wilbur D Mills Campground: "love this place camp here alot nice roomy sights plenty of shade, quiet and relaxing. plenty of wildlife... went by today 1-12-2021 and saw pelicans."
Tips for camping with families
Visitor center activities: Mississippi River State Park offers educational programming for children. A visitor noted, "The Rangers also keep a very full schedule of activities to keep locals and campers busy."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with sandy entry points. At Mississippi River State Park, a camper reported, "We were right across from the swimming area which had a sandy wade-in."
Watercraft rentals: Equipment rentals eliminate the need to transport boats. "The visitor center offers a drop-off service for SUPs and we woke up the next morning with the boards dropped right next to our van," shared one Mississippi River State Park visitor.
Educational opportunities: The White River National Wildlife Refuge and nearby Arkansas Post National Memorial provide historical context to camping trips. "The park is only a couple miles from Arkansas Post National Memorial which was very beautiful and worth a visit," recommended one camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Certain campgrounds offer superior RV sites. At Mississippi River State Park, a visitor recommended, "My favorite sites are 12, 13, and 14. My least favorite were 9, 10, and 11, but they are pull through sites."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "Only 17 sites, all level with full hook ups," observed a Mississippi River State Park RVer who appreciated the concrete pads and side parking areas.
Spacing considerations: Many sites require long hoses for water connections. At Pendleton Bend, a camper noted the generous spacing: "The water hookups are half way between the sites to be shared, and my 50ft hose just barely could reach."
Seasonal planning: The best places to camp near Ethel, Arkansas for RVers vary by season, with some parks closing entirely in winter. "Went by 1/17/2021 closed for winter," reported a winter visitor to Wilbur D. Mills campground, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal availability.
