The Ozark Mountains surrounding Witts Springs, Arkansas create a distinct landscape for camping with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,300 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures often reaching 90°F while spring and fall maintain comfortable 60-70°F daytime averages. Camping options include established state parks, private campgrounds, and riverside locations offering direct water access.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Choctaw Recreation Area in Clinton provides excellent access to several waterfall hikes within a 20-mile radius. "This Campground is quiet, secluded jewel in Clinton, Arkansas. Tall trees everywhere you look. Every campsite is shaded. Perfectly spaced trees for the hammock lovers," notes Natalie E. from Choctaw.
Rock climbing: Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers world-class climbing opportunities for all skill levels. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit, you won't be disappointed to check it out!" says Luke O. The ranch maintains over 400 established routes on natural sandstone.
Water activities: The convergence of the White and Buffalo Rivers creates prime fishing conditions. "This is an incredible place to camp. Your camp is where the White River and Buffalo rivers merge. If you enjoy fishing this has some of the best trout and bass fishing in the area," explains Bill M. about White Buffalo Resort. Most riverside campgrounds rent kayaks, canoes, and fishing equipment with daily rates between $25-50.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Petit Jean State Park features campgrounds with varying levels of privacy. "We stayed in B loop and grabbed an extra night in A loop on this trip. B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove, easy access to the paved CCC trail, enough space between sites for plenty of privacy," shares Ryan S. The park maintains 125 campsites across four distinct camping areas.
Clean facilities: JP Trading Co. maintains exceptional standards for their bathroom facilities. "The facilities are always super clean and in great condition. Having the on-site store and gas station is awesome as we always forget something and it's loaded with most everything you may need," explains Collin D. Most campgrounds offer shower facilities, though availability may be limited at more primitive sites.
Diverse accommodation options: Luxury glamping near Witts Springs, Arkansas extends beyond traditional camping. "We stayed in one of the platform huts and it was extremely clean. We stayed in the middle of July and the AC was turned off when we arrived but within a few hours the hut was completely cooled down which was awesome," reports Grant J. about JB Trading Co. Platform tents typically cost $45-60 per night and include electricity.
What you should know
Limited services: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal cell service. "No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around," shares Amy & Stu B. about Macks Pines. Download offline maps before arriving and plan for limited connectivity.
Weather considerations: The region experiences rapid weather changes, particularly during spring and fall. "We unfortunately had awful weather but will be back in better weather because the area is gorgeous," mentions Lizabeth T. about Buffalo Outdoor Center. Summer months often bring afternoon thunderstorms between 2-6pm.
Access challenges: Roads leading to mountaintop campgrounds can be difficult to navigate. "Turning off I-40 at Exit 88, Mount Nebo is viewed less than 10 miles southwest…a stand-alone mountain. At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft,'" reports Dave V. about Mount Nebo State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer additional recreation beyond hiking. "Kids loved running around in the well-kept open areas and playing frisbee golf. The bathrooms were EXTREMELY clean..like spotless which isn't always expected at a camp ground," notes Grant J. about JB Trading Co.
Swimming access: Gilbert RV Park provides easy river access for families. "When they advertise a stones throw from the Buffalo river, they mean it. The campground is small and a bit sparse, but the location to the river is unbeatable," shares Kala V. Most sites are within a quarter-mile walk to swimming areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning (6-8am) and evening (6-8pm) offer the best wildlife viewing times throughout the region. "There is a pack of dogs that came through at night. So be sure to put up your trash and food at night. Especially since bears could be around," advises Jackie F. Secure food in vehicles or bear-proof containers overnight.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose campgrounds based on your vehicle size. "We stayed at site 103 in Area D. The staff at the office helped me pick this site for my campervan. The site had water and 30amp service. Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables," explains Fred S. about Petit Jean State Park.
Leveling requirements: Many sites throughout the region require significant leveling. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," notes Ryan S. Bring additional leveling blocks, particularly for mountain campsites.
Hookup configurations: Pay attention to utility placement when booking. "Some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper. It's purely inconvenient and I'm not sure why this is this way. Pay attention when you book your site to campsite photos," advises Ryan S. Most private campgrounds offer full hookups, while state parks typically provide water and electric only.
