Motorhome travelers in Winslow, Arkansas can access multiple campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of town. Located in the Boston Mountains subrange of the Ozarks, the area sits at elevations between 1,300-2,200 feet with steep terrain creating natural valleys and ridges throughout the region. Summer temperatures average 80-90°F while winter nights regularly drop below freezing, affecting water systems at campgrounds that remain open year-round.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Blowing Springs RV Park provides direct trail access for cycling enthusiasts. "This is your basic parking lot campground. Your site is all cement with full hook ups and a picnic table. No green areas to call your own, BUT you have incredible instant access to the trailhead of many singletrack bike and hiking trails," notes Brian S. The park connects to the Back 40 trail system for extended rides.
Hiking options: The Ozark region offers varied hiking experiences with dedicated paths at several campgrounds. At Blowing Springs RV Park, "There are great hiking trails in wooded hills on either side of the campground. I came across a cemetery up on a bluff, and found another small spring. It's easy to get turned around and confused on the trails as they seem to overlap," explains Annie C.
Wine tasting: Campers staying at Grape Country RV Park can explore local wineries. "Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manicured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids. Great wines right up the road," shares Jessica P. The Altus area features several vineyards within short driving distance for day trips.
What campers like
Creek access: Several campgrounds offer water features that campers appreciate. "The RV side is exactly how I envisioned and packed pretty tight. Tent spots were fairly well spread out and in the back of the park. Only downfall, which wouldn't matter in the summer months but the shower was outside and it was a little chilly," reports Kyran P. about Blowing Springs RV Park.
Private tent camping: Campgrounds with separated tent and RV sections provide better experiences for tent campers. "What I like about this campground is that the tent sites are separate from the RV area, and RV's don't have to go through the tents to get to their area," writes Annie C. This setup creates quieter sleeping conditions for tent campers.
Clean facilities: Travelers consistently mention cleanliness as a key factor. At Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, "We arrived after the office closed, but they called to check on our arrival and have our registration ready for us. Clean bathrooms and showers. It's a former KOA campground with all those amenities but older," reports Kerrie C.
What you should know
Cell service challenges: Many Ozark campgrounds have limited connectivity due to mountain terrain. At Southgate RV Park of Fayetteville, "Our timing for our second stay was more expensive. Usually rates are $38 nightly and $34 for Good Sam's members however; there are special event weekends where the rate is $50 for the weekend. Another note is that the WIFI here is very weak and it comes and goes," notes Joe J.
Seasonal price fluctuations: RV parks near major attractions and universities often charge premium rates during special events. "We called about making a reservation and the owner said to call him prior to our arrival and he would give us a site number. When we arrived he drove by and instructed us to put our money (cash or check only) in an envelope and drop it in an outside deposit box," explains Nancy W.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful driving through winding mountain roads. "Very sweet owner who is a one man show. There are pull through sites and full hookups. $38 a night for that. The roads within the park are pretty rough, I was cringing while trying to find my spot," reports Allison N.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families looking for water recreation should consider parks with pools or water features. "We love the well-kept grounds and spacious back in RV sites. The amenities are nice they have a pool, shower house, laundry and meeting room. We only used pool it was clean and they were practicing COVID protocol it was very very nice," shares Allen S. about Wanderlust RV Park.
Playground access: Not all campgrounds offer play structures for children. "This campground is located in a great spot near the Ozarks. The bathrooms were in decent shape and worked well. We arrived late, set up camp and then headed down the road to Pizza Den for some great pizza," explains Daniel D. at Twin Creeks RV Park.
Safety considerations: Campgrounds with varied terrain may present challenges for young children. "There isn't much for kids to do. It's definitely a camp ground to simply stay the night and then go do things in Eureka Springs. The gravel was loose and not great for riding bikes. This is right off the highway. There is no play ground and lots of drop offs around the park," warns Adrienne N.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV parks in the region vary significantly in site spacing. At Hog Valley RV & Treehouse Resort, "Flat Sites, Clean, Nice Amenities, Nice Staff, Little Exposed in heat to Sun. Best shades sites rented in advance. (Site 24-27)," advises Chris A. Reserving specific sites can improve your experience.
Pull-through availability: Larger motorhomes benefit from pull-through sites to avoid difficult backing. "We only stayed the night passing through. It was somewhat tight getting a big rig in and out. And the parking spots are pretty close to each other. Everything was well kept up and maintained," shares Caleb L.
Seasonal considerations: Temperature fluctuations affect campground comfort throughout the year. "We were not prepared for below-freezing conditions so we had to gear up to keep the water lines from freezing," warns Brian C. Travelers should pack appropriate freeze protection equipment during winter months.
