RV parks near Bethel, Oklahoma provide direct access to the Ouachita Mountains and Mountain Fork River. The region experiences four distinct seasons with fall foliage typically peaking in late October to early November. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 500-1,000 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The area surrounding Acorn Campground offers excellent fishing access along the Mountain Fork River. "We were entertained by an otter family and ducks daily. A real gem is the COE access road that runs along the river past the spillway. If you walk far enough down you can view the real 'wild' river with the islands of cypress trees and boulders creating eddies," notes a camper.
Kayaking routes: The Mountain Fork River provides various kayaking options with rental services available at several locations. "The water is cold despite it being in high 90's," reports one visitor to Acorn Campground. Another mentions that Beavers Bend area offers "plenty to do from hiking trails to renting canoes, biking and swimming."
Hiking trails: Beavers Bend State Park maintains multiple well-marked trails suitable for different skill levels. One camper notes, "Enjoyed the hiking in this park. Lots of great cleared trails. Often times I was the only hiker." Another visitor adds, "This campsite provided us with a spot next to the water to fall asleep to the sounds of the running river."
What campers like
Riverside sites: Many campers appreciate locations directly on the Mountain Fork River. "Site was level with the usual amenities all in working order and not too close to neighbors. The river ran directly behind the site," shares one Acorn Campground visitor. This setup allows campers to enjoy water views while maintaining adequate spacing between sites.
Natural setting: The tall cypress trees create distinctive landscapes throughout the region. "Late October and the colors were gorgeous. We were so close, but missed peak fall colors by about a week or so," notes a reviewer at Shady Oaks RV Resort. Another camper adds, "Enjoyed our stay at Shady Oaks! Friendly staff, a playground for the kids, right across the highway from the lake."
Diverse camping options: The area accommodates various camping styles from tent sites to cabins. "This was a spur-of-the-moment trip from NW Arkansas to Port Arthur for a couple of nights...this campground was at about the halfway point. We were surprised at the condition of the bathrooms but found that there are two sets--one for the premium campsites, and another for the lower-cost sites away from the river," explains a visitor at Acorn Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region with many campgrounds having limited or no service. "No Verizon service except at the nature center. You can jump on their wifi, or if I walked to the pavilion behind the store I could get one bar on my phone," reports one Acorn Campground visitor.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during fall foliage season. "We planned our trip and reservation process on the TravelOK.com website which I highly recommend reserving in advance because this place fills up fast," advises a camper.
Humidity levels: Cossatot River RV Park provides access to nearby hiking but visitors should prepare for weather conditions. "We liked our week long visit here. It was off the beaten path. Very quiet and peaceful. It seemed most people were gone during the day, maybe working. We explored the state park down the road and went on some fun drives," notes one camper. Another points out that the area "is green for a reason and very humid during the warmer months."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Bring gear appropriate for multiple outdoor activities. "HUGE place. Cabins, a lodge, restaurant, RV campgrounds, tent only campgrounds, fly fishing, kayaks, hiking. When it isn't COVID they have wagon rides, horse riding, pedal boats, paddle board and kayak rentals and miniature golf," shares one visitor about the Beavers Bend area.
Campsite selection: Premium riverside sites offer better facilities than standard sites at many parks. "By all means, pay up for the premium sites!" advises one camper at Acorn Campground. Another notes that their site consisted of "1 fire pit, 1 picnic table and barbecue pit. The hookups consist of water and 30/50 amp electric."
Family attractions: Broken Bow Inn & RV Park provides access to nearby family-friendly attractions. While one camper noted sites are "waaaay too close together" with a "beautiful lake," the area offers nature centers worth visiting. Another camper mentions, "Definitely worth a visit especially if you have kiddos, and the ranger here is fantastic!"
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Big Cedar Cabins & RV Park accommodates larger vehicles with level sites. "Really nice place, the owners are wonderful!" notes one visitor. At Acorn Campground, a visitor explains, "We ended up reserving a premium RV site 5 in Acorn and our 5th wheel fit perfect. This site is a back in site with the river directly behind the site."
Hookup availability: Most RV parks in the Bethel area provide various hookup options. "The sites are offset a bit, so even with side by side neighbors you felt like you had your own space. There is water and electrical where we were. Not far out of this campground was a dual dump site," explains a camper at Acorn Campground.
Temperature considerations: RVers should note significant seasonal temperature variations. "I highly recommend visiting in early spring or fall the humidity is a hash during summer," advises one camper who visited in August. Another adds that even during hot weather, "The tall cypress trees are incredible."
