Ozark is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Ozark is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Ozark, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
Devil’s Den includes 17 cabins with kitchens and fireplaces and 6 camper cabins. The park also offers 135 campsites (44 Class AAA, 4 Class B, 13 Class C, 24 Class D [no hookups], eight hike-in [tent only], and 42 sites with hookups in the horse camp that includes a bathhouse and access to the horse trails). The park’s cafe is open seasonally. The pool is open in summer only. Also on-site is a group camp, standard pavilion, playground, store, and meeting room.
Join park interpreters on hikes along trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail and for a variety of programs and special events year-round, like the Ozark Mountain Bike Festival held annually in the spring.
$20 / night
Welcome to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures! We are all about getting outside! We have Full Service RV Hookups as well as tent sites.
$15 - $35 / night
Experience nature and adventure at historic White Rock Mountain! This National Forest Recreation Area features three unique and rustic natural stone cabins and a large natural stone lodge built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Each features a stone fireplace new, antique, and original wood furniture handcrafted by the CCC. Wind, rain and natural elements had caused the deterioration of the buildings over the years. In 1987 a volunteer group, Friends of White Rock, began a project to renovate the historic structures. With a lot of commitment and hard work, the lodge and cabins were restored to their original state in 1991. White Rock Mountain also offers nine primitive family camping sites. These easily accessible shaded campsites include tents pads, fire rings, grills, picnic tables and access to restrooms and water. Small RVs or pop-up campers can be accommodated at a few sites.
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
White Rock Mountain is 2,309 feet above sea level and received its name from the appearance of the lichen on the sheer bluffs that appear white from a distance. Guests at White Rock can enjoy incredible scenic views from the lodge, cabins, campground and bluffs. The forest is home to a large variety of wildlife including deer, bear, bald eagles, turkey and more. In the fall season White Rock Mountain offers unrivaled opportunities for taking in the bright red, orange and yellow autumn foliage that sweeps across the Ozark National Forest. The forest around White Rock is also a waterfall hunter's paradise featuring several great falls located in the surrounding area.
Ozark Highlands Trail, Shores Lake Recreation Area, National Scenic Mulberry River, Mill Creek and other ATV Trails, Waterfalls, Scenic Drives, Mountain Biking, Wineries (Altus, AR) and more.
This location is staffed. Please call (479) 369-4128 to speak with local staff.
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
$125 / night
Download a park map HERE__ Aux Arc Campground sits on the shores of Ozark Lake in the picturesque Arkansas River Valley. "Aux Arc" is a name that originated with French explorers when they mapped the territory. The term means "the big bend," describing the bend in the Arkansas River. Over time, the name was simplified to "Ozark," thus the name for Ozark Lake.
Boating, hiking and picnicking are favorites with locals and visitors alike. Anglers find success with both boat and bank fishing, and popular fish species include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. Public land surrounding the lake yields deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits, dove, wild turkey, ducks and geese for hunting season.
Boating, hiking and picnicking are favorites with locals and visitors alike. Anglers find success with both boat and bank fishing, and popular fish species include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. Public land surrounding the lake yields deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits, dove, wild turkey, ducks and geese for hunting season.
Ozark Lake extends 36 miles along the Arkansas River. The shoreline of the lake varies from steep bluffs and tree-lined banks to open farm lands and level fields.
Two of the largest wineries in the state are located in the nearby town of Altus. Here, large grape vineyards reminiscent of the European Rhineland dot the countryside.
$50 - $75 / night
Nestled between the Ozark National Forest to the north, and the Ouachita National Forest to the south, Mount Magazine State Park boasts the highest point in the state of Arkansas: Mount Magazine at 2753 feet. Located just 100 miles northwest of Little Rock, this area has been a recreation destination since the late 1800s. Recreation at Mount Magazine really started booming in the 1930s and 40s with the construction of a lodge, campgrounds and trails. Visitors came to beat the heat of the surrounding valleys, as well as to enjoy the panoramic views, abundant wildflowers, autumn color, and numerous opportunities to play outdoors. The area finally became a state park in 1998.
Whether you prefer a posh lodge or cabin, a fully-equipped RV pad, or a rustic campsite, there’s a place for you to stay and play at Mount Magazine. The park’s campground offers 18 spacious sites with full or partial hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. Campers are required to store food and trash properly to minimize black bear encounters. For more luxuriant accommodations, the park’s lodge offers 60 guest rooms and spa suites with a variety of comforts, as well as 13 full-equipped cabins with up to three bedrooms. Not in the mood for hot dogs over the campfire? The large dining room at the Skycrest Restaurant serves daily meals while overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley.
When you’re ready to play on Mount Magazine, you can do it by foot, wheels or wings. Hikers have access to 14 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 3 miles, with connecting options for going farther. The 34-mile Huckleberry Mountain Trail is great for mountain biking and horseback riding. For gravity-defying activities, the park offers more than 100 climbing routes on its southern bluff, as well as a hang gliding launch point over the Petit Jean River Valley. Less strenuous activities include bird and wildlife watching, guided ranger walks, historic site tours and various interpretive programs and outdoor skills workshops. There’s also spectacular leaf-peeping in the fall when the forest takes on its vibrant autumn transformation.
$35 / night
$23 - $163 / night
Experience the best tent and RV camping in Arkansas at Byrd’s Adventure Center. Right on the Mulberry River, Byrd’s offers a host of activities not found at any other Ozark campground.
Enjoy our comfortable RV and tent campsites as you relax in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Byrd’s Adventure Center offers spacious camping in a beautiful setting along the Mulberry River.
A variety of grassy and wooded campsites are available. Some sites have small shelters with picnic tables and campfire rings. In addition to our new Riverfront Restaurant (open weekly Friday-Sunday), we have more amenities than you’ll find in other Ozark campgrounds. These include a large heated shower house, a convenient on-site store with deli, stages, pavilions, an extensive trail network, two backcountry airstrips, rental cabins, plus floating and fishing on the pristine Mulberry River. All of this is located on our private 800-acre ORV park surrounded by the Ozark National Forest.
$10 - $22 / night
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
Download a Springhill park map HERE__ Springhill Park sits along John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake in the lush, rolling hills of Arkansas. Campers come here for boating, birding and relaxing.Avid mountain bikers enjoy the Springhill Park Mountain Bike Trail, a 10-mile "fast" trail where experienced bikers race frequently. The trail is also a designated National Recreation Trail.
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
Year-round fishing for catfish, bream, crappie and white and largemouth bass is fantastic in the fertile waters of the Arkansas. From late fall until early spring, the tailwaters immediately below the lock and dam boasts some of the best sauger fishing in the country.
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake is on the James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River. Some campsites line the river while others sit between the lake and Massard Creek. Bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs and open agricultural fields create the scenery.
The Fort Smith Museum of History is located about 20 minutes away.
$50 - $75 / night
Devil’s Den includes 17 cabins with kitchens and fireplaces and 6 camper cabins. The park also offers 135 campsites (44 Class AAA, 4 Class B, 13 Class C, 24 Class D [no hookups], eight hike-in [tent only], and 42 sites with hookups in the horse camp that includes a bathhouse and access to the horse trails). The park’s cafe is open seasonally. The pool is open in summer only. Also on-site is a group camp, standard pavilion, playground, store, and meeting room.
Join park interpreters on hikes along trails including the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail and for a variety of programs and special events year-round, like the Ozark Mountain Bike Festival held annually in the spring.
$20 / night
Welcome to Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures! We are all about getting outside! We have Full Service RV Hookups as well as tent sites.
$15 - $35 / night
Experience nature and adventure at historic White Rock Mountain! This National Forest Recreation Area features three unique and rustic natural stone cabins and a large natural stone lodge built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Each features a stone fireplace new, antique, and original wood furniture handcrafted by the CCC. Wind, rain and natural elements had caused the deterioration of the buildings over the years. In 1987 a volunteer group, Friends of White Rock, began a project to renovate the historic structures. With a lot of commitment and hard work, the lodge and cabins were restored to their original state in 1991. White Rock Mountain also offers nine primitive family camping sites. These easily accessible shaded campsites include tents pads, fire rings, grills, picnic tables and access to restrooms and water. Small RVs or pop-up campers can be accommodated at a few sites.
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
White Rock Mountain is 2,309 feet above sea level and received its name from the appearance of the lichen on the sheer bluffs that appear white from a distance. Guests at White Rock can enjoy incredible scenic views from the lodge, cabins, campground and bluffs. The forest is home to a large variety of wildlife including deer, bear, bald eagles, turkey and more. In the fall season White Rock Mountain offers unrivaled opportunities for taking in the bright red, orange and yellow autumn foliage that sweeps across the Ozark National Forest. The forest around White Rock is also a waterfall hunter's paradise featuring several great falls located in the surrounding area.
Ozark Highlands Trail, Shores Lake Recreation Area, National Scenic Mulberry River, Mill Creek and other ATV Trails, Waterfalls, Scenic Drives, Mountain Biking, Wineries (Altus, AR) and more.
This location is staffed. Please call (479) 369-4128 to speak with local staff.
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
$125 / night
Download a park map HERE__ Aux Arc Campground sits on the shores of Ozark Lake in the picturesque Arkansas River Valley. "Aux Arc" is a name that originated with French explorers when they mapped the territory. The term means "the big bend," describing the bend in the Arkansas River. Over time, the name was simplified to "Ozark," thus the name for Ozark Lake.
Boating, hiking and picnicking are favorites with locals and visitors alike. Anglers find success with both boat and bank fishing, and popular fish species include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. Public land surrounding the lake yields deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits, dove, wild turkey, ducks and geese for hunting season.
Boating, hiking and picnicking are favorites with locals and visitors alike. Anglers find success with both boat and bank fishing, and popular fish species include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. Public land surrounding the lake yields deer, quail, squirrels, rabbits, dove, wild turkey, ducks and geese for hunting season.
Ozark Lake extends 36 miles along the Arkansas River. The shoreline of the lake varies from steep bluffs and tree-lined banks to open farm lands and level fields.
Two of the largest wineries in the state are located in the nearby town of Altus. Here, large grape vineyards reminiscent of the European Rhineland dot the countryside.
$50 - $75 / night
Nestled between the Ozark National Forest to the north, and the Ouachita National Forest to the south, Mount Magazine State Park boasts the highest point in the state of Arkansas: Mount Magazine at 2753 feet. Located just 100 miles northwest of Little Rock, this area has been a recreation destination since the late 1800s. Recreation at Mount Magazine really started booming in the 1930s and 40s with the construction of a lodge, campgrounds and trails. Visitors came to beat the heat of the surrounding valleys, as well as to enjoy the panoramic views, abundant wildflowers, autumn color, and numerous opportunities to play outdoors. The area finally became a state park in 1998.
Whether you prefer a posh lodge or cabin, a fully-equipped RV pad, or a rustic campsite, there’s a place for you to stay and play at Mount Magazine. The park’s campground offers 18 spacious sites with full or partial hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. Campers are required to store food and trash properly to minimize black bear encounters. For more luxuriant accommodations, the park’s lodge offers 60 guest rooms and spa suites with a variety of comforts, as well as 13 full-equipped cabins with up to three bedrooms. Not in the mood for hot dogs over the campfire? The large dining room at the Skycrest Restaurant serves daily meals while overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley.
When you’re ready to play on Mount Magazine, you can do it by foot, wheels or wings. Hikers have access to 14 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 3 miles, with connecting options for going farther. The 34-mile Huckleberry Mountain Trail is great for mountain biking and horseback riding. For gravity-defying activities, the park offers more than 100 climbing routes on its southern bluff, as well as a hang gliding launch point over the Petit Jean River Valley. Less strenuous activities include bird and wildlife watching, guided ranger walks, historic site tours and various interpretive programs and outdoor skills workshops. There’s also spectacular leaf-peeping in the fall when the forest takes on its vibrant autumn transformation.
$35 / night
$23 - $163 / night
Absolutely beautiful from the Senic Overlook!! The trails are easy to traverse, and the nature here is breathtaking!!
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.
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
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
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
This was our second spot on our trip we just needed a quick place to sleep for the night before we left back to Oklahoma and we were very delighted with this one. Clean showers and restrooms on site. Very clean sites and nice flat ground for our tent. We were a little close to a busier road but it didn’t bother us that much and all of the other campers were quiet and respectful. Overall a nice little place but be mindful it’s not secluded or anything as several people were there at the lake with their RVs but it looked like a great spot for families to have fun.
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).
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.
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.
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!
Flat Sites, Clean, Nice Amenities, Nice Staff, Little Exposed in heat to Sun. Best shades sites rented in advance. (Site 24-27)
Camping Review: A Slice of Paradise
If you're looking for the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I can't recommend this camping spot highly enough. Nestled in a remote area, far from the chaos of civilization, this campsite offers a rejuvenating experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene sounds of nature—the rustling leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the gentle flow of the Buffalo River nearby. With no cell service, it was liberating to disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in the beauty around me.
The campsite itself was impeccably maintained, with spacious sites that allowed for privacy and a true sense of seclusion. Each morning, I awoke to breathtaking sunrises that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a perfect start to a day filled with adventure.
During my stay, I hiked along the winding trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and panoramic views that took my breath away. The evenings were spent gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under a blanket of stars that seemed to shine brighter than ever.
The lack of modern distractions was refreshing, allowing me to fully appreciate the simple pleasures of life—like the crackling fire and the warmth of good company. Whether you're an experienced camper or a beginner, this remote getaway is perfect for anyone looking to recharge and reconnect with nature.
In summary, if you're seeking a peaceful retreat where you can truly escape the world, this camping spot is the best of the best. Pack your gear, leave your worries behind, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in nature's embrace!
Family friendly camping in nature.
The scenery here is really beautiful, Geometry Dash Breeze but it is so deserted that it is a bit scary at night.
The host meet us show where to park. And later came and check on us. And I would stay there again
Fantastic smaller campground minutes from Mount Magazine. It seems to be overshadowed by much larger, better known places like Devils Den, so it's fairly quiet even when it's 'busy.' We also learned that it has new management as of this year (2024), a young family that's extremely hands-on.
We stayed as a group (three families with 7 kiddos total, ranging from 6-15), across two adjacent sites: 1 & 3. You could see the lake from our sites, but they don't sit right over the lake like some do. With so many kids in our group, we actually wanted that. Sites are extremely spacious and well spaced from each other, and would feel even more private later in the season when the trees are full. Bathrooms are simple pit toilets, but clean and well-maintained.
Boat rentals right onsite, concessions, even a small beach area! We will 100% be back. No cell service whatsoever with Verizon.
Coordinates: 35.02281, -93.81060. Located 2.5 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and almost 1 mile past the turn off to the shooting range. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite is well off of Jack Creek Road, down an undesignated dirt track, offering a lot of privacy. Access is easy although the dirt track may be muddy during the wet season. This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek. The site has a level dirt surface which can accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping are possible. The site has a clean rock fire ring. There is a lot of shade during the summer. Solar charging is possible in an open field at the entrance of the site. This is a wonerful site to camp in. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away. I received no t-Mobile cell service.
Coordinates: 35.02422, -93.81997. Located 2 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and 1/3rd mile past the turn off to the shooting range. It is a small pull though campsite with a small rock fire ring, close to Jack Creek Road (forest road); there is very little privacy from the forest road. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. This campsite can receive dust from passing vehicles. The site can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other. The site is shaded with a level dirt surface. Small tent & hammock camping is possible near rock fire ring which is located between the pull through driveway and the forest road. Easy access into the site. There is no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; no recreation, such as hiking trails, in the immediate vicinity. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.
Not sure if the pin location is accurate, so here are the coordinates: 35.02802, -93.82913. Located 1.3 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area. It is a large site with a large rock fire ring, set back a little from Jack Creek Road (forest road). Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite has a mostly level dirt surface that can accommodate 2 vehicles - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping is possible. The site is mostly shaded in the summer. There is an old undesignated track near the rear of the site; this may lead down to Jack Creek, but I was not able to verify this due to large mud puddles on the track. There was a little bit of trash at the site, but not too bad. I received no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; just a nice place to camp in for a night or two. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.
Only 1 other camper the night I stayed, but some people used the river access during the day. Access to Spy Rock trail, but the vast amount of cobwebs made it seem like it’s not used much. Actually wish it hadn’t been so empty, since I was a bit sketched out to camp alone with only 1 other person around. Clean bathroom. Hot in July, but cooler than it was on I-40 due to higher elevations.
The Petit Jean River, flowing from an outlet, divides this US Army Corp of Engineers campround into two areas. There are 38 campsites, with electricity and water hookups. This includes three multi-family sites. Fees range from $18 to $40. Reservations are made on recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. First come, first served sites may be available outside the reservation season. The campground description at recreation.gov indicates that the campground is located on Blue Mountain Lake, but there is no lake access from here. A drive to Waveland Park is required for Blue Mountain Lake recreation. Most sites are waterfront; a few are just a short walk away from the Petit Jean River. Most sites have picnic table shelters. There are 12 sites and a restroom/shower house along the north bank of the river. The remaining campsites, along with a restroom/shower house, are on the south side of the river. The sites on the north side, except site #6, are in a open area offering little shade. The sites on the south side are along a forest and are more shaded. There is no privacy between campsites; several sites, especially on the south side, are close to each other. The north side restroom/shower house was closed. The south side restroom/shower house was very clean. The roads accessing and in the campground are paved. The campground is setup to accommodate RVs and big rigs, although tent camping is possible. Fishing in the river appears to be the main recreation activity. Walking access to the river bank is provided by stairs. Two playgrounds are at the south side camping area.
Coordinates: 35.02531, -93.88228. Located just off of Girard Road (Forest Road 20) - a maintained gravel/dirt forest road. This road is mostly a single track - narrow with some minor erosion in a few places. A lifted 4x4 vehicle is NOT needed to drive to the site. The dispersed site is located 1.3 miles south of the turnoff to Jack Creek Recreation Area. This site is set off from the forest road on a narrow undesignated dirt track which is easy to miss. It is a small site with enough room for one vehicle - truck camper size and smaller. The site is mostly level on a dirt surface with a rock fire ring. It is mostly shaded, although solar recharging may be possible during the afternoon with solar panels being placed on the access track in front of the site. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Received a strong T-Mobile 5G signal here. Except for some peace and quiet, there is nothing remarkable about this particular campsite. However, is is located in the Jack Creek area of the Arkansas Ouachitas. This area has a few nice swimming holes and hiking trails which one can drive to. OHV recreation is also possible in the area.
I didn't camp here, but thought I leave an updated review. Previous review still applies. This is a free primitive campground, but a permit is required to camp here; see COE Web site for info. There is a very clean portable john with tp in the campground. It appears that the campsites themselves have not been maintained in a while, although the campgound itself looks nice, with a view of the lake. Some of the sites are close together offering no privacy. I received T-Mobile cell service. Convenient boat ramp nearby. I wouldn't make this campground a multi-day vacation destinition, but it's convenient for an overnight stay and for those using the lake for recreation.
For actual camping there was maybe 2 other campers in the area but during the day LOTS of people coming to swim ( and leaving trash 🤮 ) The water was beautiful, eating dinner by the falls has become one of my new favorite camping memories in arkansas. Lots of snakes and saw a feral cat but so pretty, and the bathroomS were absolutely disgusting and full of trash
I am extremely disappointed with our recent stay at Buffalo Outdoor Center RV Park in Ponca, Arkansas. After a 7.5-hour drive, we arrived on June 29, 2024, eager to enjoy a week-long stay. Unfortunately, our visit turned into a nightmare within just one hour of our arrival. While setting up our 5th wheel trailer, there was a loud pop followed by smoke pouring out of our TV. Thankfully, my husband was able to unplug it before our trailer caught fire. To our dismay, none of the outlets on one side of our trailer were working, and our TV, microwave, and fan were all fried and non-functional. We immediately contacted an employee who came to our site, inspected the outside meter post by looking at it, not testing it, and nonchalantly stated that since there was no smoke coming from it, the problem must be on our end. When my husband asked for immediate assistance, the employee told us we would have to wait two days, until Monday, and go to a nearby town to find someone to help us. This response was unacceptable and showed a complete lack of concern for our safety. Moreover, the employee had the audacity to shame us by asking if we had a GFI power surge protector plugged into the meter. None of the other RV sites had this, and in our 23+ years of camping, we have never encountered such an issue. Feeling unsafe and unsupported, we decided to pack up and drive the 7.5 hours back home, after being at the site for just one hour. The lack of assistance and options provided by the Buffalo Outdoor Center was disheartening, especially considering we were in a completely different state with no information on what we could do. Upon arriving home, we hooked up our camper at our local campground, and everything worked fine. We also went on another camping trip to a local RV campground, and again, everything worked perfectly. This clearly indicated that the surge was on Buffalo Outdoor Center's end. When we requested a refund, they refunded all but one day. This is unacceptable considering the distress, inconvenience, and financial loss we endured, including having to purchase a new TV, microwave, and fan. Our experience at Buffalo Outdoor Center RV Park was nothing short of a disaster. The lack of customer service, concern for our safety, and willingness to provide immediate assistance was appalling. We will not be returning and cannot recommend this RV park to anyone.
There is not a lot to do, and it is pretty far from the city. However, there are big RV sites and amazing sunsets. There is also a lake nearby.
Dog friendly.
There are lots of nature trails, but none very long.
Lots of ticks, tricky to get good starlink connection.
This was a beautiful park with lots to do, especially for kids. The information center was large and the employees were very friendly. We were in sight number 28, which I picked because it was close to the bathroom. This campground is better suited to large RVs than to our teardrop trailer. Site number 28 was very tight. We were cramped in between two large RVs and next to a road so there was no privacy at all. It was very hot that night and since we don’t have air-conditioning, we had to have the windows open. One of the RVs had their light glaring in our window all night. There were also a a lot of unattended children and some of them made a mess in one of the bathrooms, which were previously clean. The host was very friendly however. I would highly recommend for a family in an RV, but it was not appropriate for a retired couple in a little tiny camper.
Camping near Ozark, Arkansas, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of campgrounds, there's something for everyone, whether you're a family, an RVer, or just looking for a peaceful getaway.
Camping around Ozark, Arkansas, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ozark, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ozark, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 138 campgrounds and RV parks near Ozark, AR and 19 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ozark, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ozark, AR is Devil's Den State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 82 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ozark, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Ozark, AR.
What parks are near Ozark, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 35 parks near Ozark, AR that allow camping, notably John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake and Nimrod Lake.
