Camping sites near White Hall, Arkansas offer a variety of water-based recreation opportunities along the Arkansas River and nearby lakes. Seasonal closures affect many Corps of Engineers campgrounds, with most operating from March through October. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making waterfront sites popular despite increased insect activity.
What to do
Fishing from riverbanks: At Rising Star campground, visitors can fish directly from their campsites along the Arkansas River. "We had site 15 which was at the end of the park and had a beautiful, large site with plenty of privacy... Plenty of wildlife to be seen!" according to one camper.
Boat watching: The Arkansas River serves as a commercial waterway with frequent barge traffic. "We could watch the tug boats with their barges go by" at Tar Camp, notes a visitor who appreciated the riverside location.
Hiking to waterfalls: Lake Catherine State Park offers several trail options including the Falls Branch Trail. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," shares one camper who found it suitable for children.
Kayaking on calm waters: Lake Catherine provides excellent conditions for paddlers. A repeat visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed the hiking trails and rented a few kayaks. It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water."
What campers like
Spacious riverside sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing at Willow Beach campground. "The sites are all very spacious with very long back in driveways. Some of the sites had covered picnic tables, which was great," according to a visitor who appreciated the layout.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good bathroom facilities. One camper at Willow Beach noted: "Beautiful campsite along the Arkansas River... Showers and bathrooms were clean and in good condition."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple reviewers mention wildlife spotting opportunities. "Squirrels everywhere" at Saracen Trace RV Park, according to one visitor who described it as "a lovely, well-kept park" with natural surroundings despite its proximity to Pine Bluff.
Pecan gathering: Fall visitors to Rising Star can collect pecans that drop naturally. "We picked up enough pecans for 2 pies," noted one happy camper who visited during autumn.
What you should know
Weather closures: Corps of Engineers campgrounds may close unexpectedly due to river conditions. At Tar Camp, one camper reported: "They evacuated the park due to high water while we were there and we never received the phone call or a text."
Seasonal limitations: Many sites operate only during warmer months. A visitor to Ste Marie Park found: "Went by 1/17/2021 gate locked closed for winter opens up March 1st."
Snake activity: Waterfront locations have reptile populations. "We encountered lots of snakes... it's pretty risky walking around or letting kids play in the grass because you can't really see snakes if they are hiding under the grass," warned a visitor to Willow Beach.
Shower limitations: Bathroom quality varies significantly between locations. At Maumelle Park, a camper observed: "We used our trailer showers. Public showers need a renovation."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. Willow Beach has playground facilities, though a visitor noted "Nice playground but it was taped off during our stay due to covid."
Biking opportunities: Flat terrain at Maumelle Park makes it ideal for children learning to ride. "Lots of kids riding bikes and being outdoors. Sits on the bank of the Arkansas River so fishing and water sports are available," according to a satisfied camper.
Security features: Some campgrounds implement safety measures. At Willow Beach, "They lock a gate every night at the entrance to the campground, however they do give you the code to the padlock," providing additional security for families.
Budget-friendly options: Corps of Engineers sites offer affordable rates for families. "It's $20 per night. Water and electricity available but no sewer although there is a dump station," reports a camper about Saracen Trace RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Extended site options: Downtown Riverside RV Park in Little Rock (about 40 minutes from White Hall) offers unique configurations. "Lots of pull through and back in sites, some are long enough you can put two rigs in (and there are hookups for two as well!)."
Level pads: Many campgrounds feature well-maintained, level sites. A Willow Beach visitor specifically mentioned: "The sites are extremely level! I didn't even need to level my pop-up camper!!"
Hookup variations: RVers should check specific amenities before booking. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP), concrete, level pads," at Downtown Riverside RV Park, but a camper noted the tradeoff: "Limited amenities, no picnic table or fire pit on site."
Seasonal flexibility: For RVers seeking winter camping, options are limited. Maumelle Park operates year-round, with a visitor noting it's "a little close to the Little Rock metro area for me BUT it's very well maintained, quiet and family friendly."
