Camping spots near Winslow, Arkansas cluster around the Ozark National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F with high humidity, while winter brings frequent freezing conditions between December and February. Many campgrounds close shower facilities during winter months but maintain year-round toilet access regardless of season.
What to do
Hike the Rim Trail: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area offers a circular trail with multiple viewing platforms. "The Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season," notes one visitor who also spotted "a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock. Only time in 40+ years I've seen a bear in the wild in Arkansas."
Explore Lake Fort Smith: The state park maintains water recreation areas with equipment rentals. "There is a marina where you can rent boats and an awesome pool with a waterslide for the kids to play. This is where you can have the best of both worlds. An amazing outdoors experience with the comforts of home," says a Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground visitor.
Float the Mulberry River: The 55-mile river offers multiple access points for kayaking and tubing. According to a Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures camper, "The mulberry river is a ridden gem the runs through the Ozarks. It's just a quiet beautiful place to camp, ride ATVs, float the river or just hangout with friends and families."
Off-road on maintained trails: Several campgrounds maintain ATV trails on private land. "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," notes a visitor at Byrd's Adventure Center.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Redding Campground offers widely spaced sites with creek access. "Camp spots are nicely spaced out. Water available. No electric. Had cell service for the most part. Bathrooms well kept. Pretty secluded area," says one camper at Redding Campground.
Mountain views: Several campgrounds offer panoramic vistas of the Ozark mountains. A recent visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area noted: "January 31-Feb 3 2025. White Rock is a great little campground. With only 8 tent camp sites it is very quaint. Sites 5-8 are smaller with smaller tent pads and the view from these sites is AMAZING!"
Clean facilities: Most established campgrounds maintain regular bathroom cleaning schedules. "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!" reported a visitor to Lake Fort Smith.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds provide shoreline fishing without permits. "The lake offers opportunities to fish and boat," noted one camper about Shores Lake, adding "This is a clean and quiet campground."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that the last hour of the drive is only 20 miles. Make sure to stop for gas! It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other," warns a visitor to White Rock Mountain.
Seasonal closures affect facilities: Campgrounds limit services during winter. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" notes a Devil's Den State Park Campground visitor.
Cell service is limited: Coverage varies by campground location. "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services," explains a Devil's Den camper.
Bugs are prevalent: Summer months bring insects, particularly at water sites. "The bugs are pretty bad in the hot weather, especially around the lake," warns a visitor to Shores Lake, while another camper noted: "Note: there are snakes and ticks. A lot of ticks. Take a flashlight with you in the dark and be cautious."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple locations offer swimming alternatives to hiking. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" shares a visitor to Devil's Den.
Site selection for safety: Choose level sites away from drop-offs with small children. A visitor to Southgate RV Park of Fayetteville notes: "There is a big field in the back where people were playing with their dogs and there are gazebo picnic areas. It's only a few minutes from the city."
Playground access: Some campgrounds maintain designated play areas. "Recreational area with a playground that is updated. Sites have gravel which limits how much dirt/mud you have to deal with," notes a visitor about Lake Fort Smith, though they caution "the playground requires that you drive to it which is inconvenient."
Wildlife education: Many sites offer ranger programs during summer months. "We have only stayed at this campground one time, but was very impressed! The whole park was beautifully maintained. All the sites seemed level and were not extremely close to one another," shares a camper about Lake Fort Smith.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Select campgrounds offer complete services. "I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park," advises a visitor to Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Road navigation concerns: Some campgrounds have tight entry roads. "If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space. If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)," cautions a Devil's Den visitor.
Campsite leveling: Ground conditions vary significantly throughout the region. "It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all," reports a Lake Fort Smith camper, while another notes that "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings."
