The Walcott area sits at the edge of Crowley's Ridge, a geological formation rising 250-550 feet above the Mississippi Alluvial Plain in northeast Arkansas. This unique geography creates diverse camping options within a 30-mile radius, with sites typically experiencing humid summers and mild winters. Camping facilities in this region range from municipal parks to state-managed recreation areas with varying levels of shade coverage.
What to do
Hiking trails: Crowley's Ridge State Park offers several well-maintained paths including the Dancing Rabbit Trail. "The dancing rabbit trail is awesome: don't forget bug spray. Spring fed waterfall/wishing well crystal clear and COLD!!!" notes Sammy B. about Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Charles State Park provides multiple fishing access points around the 645-acre lake. "There are trails for hiking or bike riding all three campground areas have access to the lake for fishing or bring your own boat and explore the lake," explains Jeff E. in his review of Lake Charles State Park Campground.
Swimming and water recreation: Many parks in the area maintain designated swimming areas during summer months. "The lake area is beautiful with a small spring fed waterfall, a swim beach area and even a slide into the water," mentions Shana D. about Crowley's Ridge State Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at parks like Craighead Forest. "Staff were extremely nice. Campground is clean. Bathrooms and showers are clean and well maintained," notes Kyle in his review of Craighead Forest Park.
Shade coverage: Several parks offer mature tree canopy, providing relief during hot months. "The campground has great tent spots and a variety of paved spots. Some are really small, so make sure to take rv length into consideration," advises Shana D. about Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Parks in the region often include playgrounds and recreational facilities. "Great campground! Perfect for family's. The lake is nice for fishing and feeding the ducks. Bathrooms are great," writes Bill D. about Craighead Forest Park.
What you should know
Insect preparation: The region's humidity supports active mosquito populations, especially near water. "The mosquitos come out at dark and are pretty bad so bring your mosquito spray," warns Jeff E. about Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Very unleveled and rocky terrain would be only downside," mentions Gabe S. about Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground.
Rural location considerations: More remote parks require advance planning for supplies. "Located near a very tiny town, so bring everything you need with you because a quick trip to the store will take you at least 30 min," advises Mandy J. about Lake Charles State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Craighead Forest Park features extensive play areas for different age groups. "Several different playgrounds and walking trails! Great fishing and even a splash pad for the kids to enjoy!" reports Donna M. about Craighead Forest Park.
Swimming opportunities: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "We had a blast here! We did paddle boating and walked the trails!" shares Donna M. about Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience higher traffic volume affecting quieter camping. "You drive through the RV area on your way in to the primitive area... foot traffic, noise, no privacy, noise, not limited access," notes Shelly S. about Craighead Forest Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV parks Walcott, Arkansas and surrounding areas vary in site dimensions and layouts. "The asphalt camp sites are extremely long but narrow. The path around the pond is paved and has a lot of fruit trees along the side," observes Les T. about Lakeview RV Resort.
Seasonal considerations: Year-round camping is available at several rv parks near Walcott with varying amenities. "A park has been at this location since 1955. It was originally a trailer park but has been converted to a RV park. Located in flat farm land a few miles from Blytheville. There is no pool or playground. RV'er will find flat gravel sites that can handle most if not all rigs," reports N I. about Shearins RV Park.
Long-term options: Several facilities accommodate extended stays with monthly rate structures. "Growing Pains...This resort is located right alongside Interstate 555 just as you enter Jonesboro. It just changed ownership and is an RV park in it's infancy. It needs a great deal of work and is being upgraded. At this time they have 49 sites with monthly rates from less than $500 per month," notes N I. about Lakeview RV Resort.
