Camping in the Walcott area of Arkansas offers a mixture of wooded sites and lakeside experiences across multiple recreation areas. The region sits within the Mississippi Alluvial Plain with elevations averaging 250-300 feet above sea level, creating mostly flat terrain with occasional rolling hills. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity, while winter lows can dip into the 30s.
What to do
Hiking varied terrain: Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground features multiple trails with different difficulty levels, including unique bridge crossings. "The trails had interesting bridges and a suspension bridge. Moderate to strenuous. There is a swimming area next to a historic CCC building and bridge," notes Shelly S. The park's trail system connects directly to camping areas.
Paddle sports: Davidsonville Historic State Park Campground offers kayak, canoe and paddle boat rentals during summer months. Arkansas F. mentions, "Fishing looked good and the kids loved the Pedal Boats." Several lakes in the region support small watercraft with designated launch areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes within 30 miles of Walcott provide fishing access, with several campgrounds offering direct lake access. A visitor at Pocahontas City Park noted, "Kids had fun on the playground! Places to eat and shop nearby!" The park includes a boat launch with ample parking for vehicles with boat trailers.
What campers like
Shaded camping sites: Many campers appreciate the wooded settings available at several parks. At Craighead Forest Park, Bill D. mentions, "Great campground. Perfect for family's. The lake is nice for fishing and feeding the ducks. Bathrooms are great." The park offers both RV sites and tent camping options.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. Davidsonville Historic State Park visitors consistently mention cleanliness, with Sue M. noting, "Bathroom and shower accommodations were clean and well maintained." This helps offset the more primitive experience at some dispersed camping locations.
Swimming areas: Lake Charles State Park Campground provides a dedicated swimming beach. Mandy J. comments, "Really lovely lake with a great area for swimming. We had kind neighbors and felt very safe." Several parks feature designated swimming zones separated from fishing areas.
What you should know
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes and flies can be problematic, particularly in summer months near water. Jeff E. observed at Crowley's Ridge: "The only thing negative I can say is the mosquitos come out at dark and are pretty bad so bring your mosquito spray." Similar reports come from other area campgrounds.
Limited services in rural areas: Some campgrounds require significant travel for supplies. At Lake Charles State Park, Robert L. advises, "Clean area. Good spot for fishing. It is a dry county have to drive 30 or so minutes to get to a decent store for food. Keep that in mind if you stay here, make sure to be prepared."
Varied site types: Greene Road Camp Dispersed offers a more primitive experience with limited amenities. Kevin S. describes it as having "Two pull in spots with concrete picnic tables in the woods. Quiet, rural area." Most established campgrounds offer electric and water hookups, while dispersed sites typically have neither.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple camping areas include playground facilities for children. At Craighead Forest Park, Andrew H. reports, "This is a great park with many things to do. Splash pad, multiple playgrounds for all ages of kids, a new walking and biking path, hiking trails."
Lake activities: Lake Frierson State Park Campground offers family-friendly water recreation. Donna M. mentions, "Kayaking and fishing was great! Beautiful place to stay!" Several parks rent boats at reasonable rates, though availability may be seasonal.
Swimming options: Several parks feature swimming areas with shallow sections for younger children. At Lake Charles State Park, one visitor observed, "Really lovely lake with a great area for swimming." The designated swim beaches typically have sandy shorelines and gradually sloping entry points.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. Gabe S. noted at Crowley's Ridge, "Very unleveled and rocky terrain would be only downside." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for RVs at many area campgrounds.
Limited full-hookup sites: While most parks offer electric and water, sewer connections are less common. At Davidsonville Historic State Park, Sue M. advises, "We stayed in site 1, which was a pull through with full hook ups." Making reservations for full-hookup sites is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Dump station locations: Not all parks with RV camping offer on-site dump stations. Shana D. warns about Lake Frierson State Park: "For those of you with RVs beware that there is no sewer dump station here. You have to drive to Crowleys Ridge State Park to use their dump station (10 minute drive)."
