The Ozark National Forest surrounds West Fork, Arkansas with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 feet, creating diverse camping experiences across all seasons. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, while summer brings temperatures in the 90s with high humidity. Campgrounds in this region typically feature gravel or concrete pads with varying degrees of level ground.
What to do
Hiking at Lake Fort Smith: Access the western terminus of the Ozark Highland Trail directly from campsites. "We took three days to explore the trails around Lake Ft. Smith. As only one of four campers, we had the place to ourselves save the park keepers making their rounds to ensure our safety and the cleanliness of the park," notes a visitor at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground.
Disc golf course: Natural Falls State Park offers an extensive 18-hole course through wooded terrain. "Loved the falls, big campsites, hiking trails and 18 hole disc golf," reports a camper at Natural Falls State Park Campground.
Off-road adventures: Access dedicated trails directly from several campgrounds. "They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road. Good place for vehicles that need to hook up or primitive," explains a visitor at Byrd's Adventure Center.
What campers like
Scenic overlooks: White Rock Mountain offers panoramic views. "January 31-Feb 3 2025. Sites 5-8 are smaller with smaller tent pads and the view from these sites is AMAZING! Just know that with the view comes the wind and less space to stretch out," advises a camper at White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Lake access: Beaver Lake provides swimming and boating opportunities. "This is a large Corps of Engineers run campground with over 100 sites. Some of the sites are by the water-ish and some are up in the woods. I liked the remoteness of the first seven sites- they are away from the water and up in the trees," shares a visitor at Prairie Creek.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "Absolutely the cleanest and most beautiful campground we've been in - in this part of the county yet. Sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery! Would absolutely stay again."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "The road to White Rock Mountain driving south on 79 is a minimally maintained one in a half lane dirt road full of rocks, erosion, bumps and a lot of up and down switch backs. My Subaru outback handled it fine, but it takes a full hour to drive less than 15 miles on this road."
Reservation timing: Most glamping options in West Fork, Arkansas require advance planning. "Make your reservation and learn more https://travelok.com."
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require equipment for leveling. "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads. We are planning to return but definitely not in the same spots we had," advises a camper at COE Beaver Lake Prairie Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "The recreational area with a playground that is updated. Sites have gravel which limits how much dirt/mud you have to deal with."
Site selection for safety: Choose sites based on terrain if traveling with small children. "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous. If you are a parent with small kids, sites 17-20 and sites 2-3 are better."
Swimming options: Look for designated swimming areas. "Facility is on Beaver Lake with good access to the largest launch ramp. Swimming area was very spacious. Nice playground for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: RV sites vary significantly in length. "Very nice park! Did not expect it to be so picturesque! Very well kept. Campground AAA sites (1-20) offer full hook-ups and are spread out for privacy and offer longer pads. Site 4 is my favorite. Camp B sites are quite short but perfect for tent camping."
Hookup availability: Water access varies by campground and loop. "Basically every spot has water hookup EXCEPT the spots in the loop we were in. Not so bad that a few boards would correct the slope. Showers and bathrooms are fine."
Dump station access: Plan for waste management needs. "Dump station has easy access. Sites have electric but not water so fill your tank before you come."
