Best Campgrounds near Muldrow, OK

Campgrounds surrounding Muldrow, Oklahoma include several established options along the Arkansas River and nearby reservoirs. The Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA provides full amenities with tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping accommodations, while Corps of Engineers facilities like Short Mountain Cove and Applegate Cove Campground offer more basic facilities. Most campgrounds in this area feature water proximity, either along Robert S. Kerr Reservoir or the Arkansas River, with varying levels of hookups, shower facilities, and recreational amenities. Brushy Lake State Park, about 25 miles north of Muldrow, provides year-round camping with both electric hookups and primitive tent sites.

Access to most camping areas remains consistent year-round, though some Corps of Engineers sites operate seasonally from April through September. "Most sites are electric which worked fine and were needed to plug in our space heater," noted one winter camper at Short Mountain Cove. Campers should be aware that many campgrounds require reservations through recreation.gov, particularly for waterfront sites which tend to book well in advance. Summer brings high temperatures and humidity, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent campers. Several campgrounds experience periodic flooding along the Arkansas River during heavy rain seasons. Road conditions are generally good with paved access to most established campgrounds, though some secondary roads may have potholes or deteriorated sections.

Waterfront camping represents the primary draw for visitors to the Muldrow area, with multiple options for fishing, boating, and water recreation. Many campers specifically seek sites with views of the Arkansas River or Robert S. Kerr Reservoir. A visitor to Short Mountain Cove noted that "mini docks at sites make it nice for fishing. The sites are close to water." The region includes some basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water, though service levels vary significantly between privately-operated and public facilities. Campers frequently mention the opportunity to observe barge traffic on the Arkansas River as an unexpected highlight. For those seeking more isolation, primitive camping options exist but require greater self-sufficiency as these areas typically lack amenities and services. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, particularly for birdwatchers, with several reviews mentioning Eastern bluebirds and waterfowl sightings.

Best Camping Sites Near Muldrow, Oklahoma (156)

    1. Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA

    14 Reviews
    Sallisaw, OK
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 775-2792

    "They also have normal cabin rental and tiny home rentals that were perfectly positioned around campground and fishing pond. My only complaint would be that the sites are really compact."

    "Also hiking trails. Also some tent sites. There is a whole new section for Class A and large 5th wheel campers now."

    2. Springhill

    21 Reviews
    Barling, AR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 452-4598

    $16 - $75 / night

    "We camp here a lot because it's close to home. Very reasonable and easy access to bank fishing. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Offers shaded spots or some that are a little more open."

    "Really nice campground you have two options in the A section you are right one a small river and one the B side it’s more of the wooded option but most sites have the Arkansas rive close by with mountain"

    3. Devil's Den State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    Winslow, AR
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 761-3325

    $20 / night

    "The trails are great and our campsite had a path right down to the river. The water hookup was a bit tricky, it leaks all over the place until you turn it all the way."

    "Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas.  The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen.  The facilities and amenities have been great. "

    4. Riverfront RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Van Buren, AR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 300-8100

    "It is located right along the river and is close to other attractions like Fort Smith and the US Marshall’s Museum (literally down the block)."

    "Campground is adjacent to the Arkansas River (thus the name) and less than 2 miles from the Fort Smith National Historic Site."

    5. Applegate Cove Campground

    5 Reviews
    Mojave River Dam, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 489-5541

    "The ground was a bit hard to drive tent stakes into, but I'm attributing that to the weather and season until I visit again and disprove that."

    "Right off the lake with awesome scenery. Couple who manages the place is really nice and helpful. Would stop here again."

    6. COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground

    4 Reviews
    Barling, AR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 452-4598

    "The campground is set among tall trees adjacent to the John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake and James W. Trimble Lock and Dam of the Arkansas River."

    "I had site B09 which was far away from any other sites, had good shade, and had a view of the river. There are great trails on site for mountain biking or hiking."

    7. Lee Creek Public Use Area

    3 Reviews
    Hartford, AR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (479) 761-3325

    "What it does offer is a level parking pad that is quiet and dark which is surprising given it is surrounded by Fort Smith. It also has a decent view of the Arkansas River."

    8. Short Mountain Cove

    2 Reviews
    Mojave River Dam, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $14 - $24 / night

    9. COE Robert S Kerr Applegate Cove

    2 Reviews
    Mojave River Dam, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 775-4475

    $10 - $50 / night

    "Dump station is quarter of mile outside of campground. Main bathhouse is vented and clean. Lots of mature trees made for a great stay. Kerr lake was amazingly beautiful."

    10. Brushy Lake State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Sallisaw, OK
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 775-6241

    "21 RV spots available around a small, family lake. Water and electric hook ups and clean dump station. Small park/play area and two large pavilions. Hiking trail located at the back of the park."

    "Small water shed lake. Clean camp sites. Just updated by City of Sallisaw. Will return as soon opens back up."

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Recent Reviews near Muldrow, OK

606 Reviews of 156 Muldrow Campgrounds


  • R
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Jack Creek Recreation Area

    Great, quiet place

    I have lived in the area for 12 years and this is where we always go. Primitive, but thats the best part about it. You got the creek for water play, bathrooms and picnic tables. A little further down the road is an outdoor gun range. Very peaceful and great place to recharge. Kids love it.

  • Krystal T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Southgate RV Park of Fayetteville

    Perfect for a break

    We stopped here for a two day break from driving and are pleased with the experience. There’s a shower house that is clean but well used, really spacious campsites and full hook ups. We took the bike trail that is super close and saw some beautiful scenery. The owner, Jerry, was super gracious and helpful and a delight to visit with. It’s no frills, but that’s what we enjoy. Would definitely stay here again.

  • Robert N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Aux Arc

    Beautiful Arkansas

    Nice campground, although they are set up to cater to RVers. The RVs are quiet because they are using commercial power and not a generator. Me and my little tent are in the "Land of the Giants". Many fishermen out on Lake Dardanelle. Quiet after Labor Day camping.

  • P
    Aug. 25, 2025

    The River Bluff Cabins

    Beautiful property

    Amazing place! Cleaning bathrooms, beautiful views!

  • Wesley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    County Road D1590 Dispersed

    Deep woods

    Definitely isolated, kind of creepy at night. Drove our 29ft class c to the site,road is mostly small rocks

  • Wesley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    County Road D1590 Dispersed

    Really in the woods

    Took our class c down the narrow road. Pretty good mostly rock.camp site was clean.

  • A
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Marval Camping Resort

    Horrible Manager

    Very disappointed in Marval Resort. The manager is very unprofessional. We have been going there since 2019 for a family reunion. This year was 59th reunion. I get a phone call on July 7, 2025 and was told we would not be welcomed back and when I asked why the manager could not tell me why. All that she said was several reasons. If it was such a big issue, she should have come to me or someone else and addressed the issue face to face instead of waiting until we left. My cousin had called multiply times to try and get this worked out and she would never speak or call back. When no response to phone calls she was emailed and finally responded to an email. The manager didn’t even have the decency for the closing signature on the email. It’s a shame that Marval Resort has someone like this running their resort. Very poor communication. Instead of coming to my camp spot talking to me about some cars parked on the grass and gravel in front of our camp spot out of the way of others she calls me in the middle of a big gathering and tells me they need to be moved because it rained that morning and the grass was wet. No, the grassy lawn area was dry in the heat of the afternoon day. There are so many staff members driving around on their golf carts and not a word was said. She was on her golf cart right by us and could not come face to face and talk about the issue. Now, that’s pretty unprofessional. We have 96 and 86 year old aunts and some others with walking issues. That’s why cars were there. Family was coming from their cabins or campers to the central area for family gathering. And as far as the pavilion parking that we paid money to rent. Again, for some elders and a few trucks hauling fish fry supplies. You booked a band that was playing on the stage right by the pavilion(that we paid for) and people could not communicate very well due to loud music. This also happened last year as well. So, you the manager don’t know who all the cars belong to. They could have been the bands or other guest not in our family. We have a large group that stayed there for 6 years in campers or cabins and spent lots of money there. There is a lot of issues the manager needs to take care of and get off her high horse. I thought this place is supposed to be family oriented. I will miss seeing Wayne(maintenance gentleman) there with his smiling face. He is such a friendly man. And one more thing, always talking about all the improvements they’re working on or going to do. It’s been the same for 6 years now.

  • Kurt G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Lee Creek Off Road Site

    Good pit stop

    Right off the main road (you can still hear the traffic, but it's not a lot of traffic)

    There's a fire pit, some paths to a hiking spot. I don't think a bus would fit but my 21ft. van was mostly a tight fit.

    A good public land spot with just enough space for two car campers

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Riverfront RV Resort

    Beautiful Resort!

    We only stayed here 2 nights on our way to Colorado. Beautifully maintained, sits right on the Arkansas river. Pool is cold but clean and well maintained. The park was not even 1/4 full while we were there. I hope business picks up because it’s nice. A little pricey ($81 per night), but with Good Sam or Military discount, it helps. Ladies in the office were fantastic, each going through their purses to find enough quarters so I could wash and dry a load of clothes! Very nice! It was just TOO HOT to do much outside, especially with dogs.


Guide to Muldrow

Camping sites near Muldrow, Oklahoma cluster along the Arkansas River and its associated Robert S. Kerr Reservoir, with elevations around 500 feet above sea level. The area's limestone terrain creates distinct fishing habitats where multiple fish species thrive throughout the year. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at night, making electric hookups essential for cold-weather campers using space heaters or other warming equipment.

What to do

Kayaking and paddling opportunities: At Springhill Park, visitors can launch directly from their campsite into Massard Creek. "I have been camping out here for years but never took advantage of the A side. A12-14 are premian spots to camp. I tent camp and the view is amazing. It's in between the Arkansas river and Massard creek. You can go kayaking in Massard creek," reports one camper.

Fishing from mini docks: Several campsites feature private fishing platforms directly at your site. "Mini docks at sites make it nice for fishing. The sites are close to water," notes a visitor about Short Mountain Cove. These small docks allow for convenient fishing access without needing to relocate your gear to a separate fishing area.

Basketball and sports facilities: Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA maintains active recreation options including basketball courts. "Basketball hoop, pool and hot tub, pond with kayaks, and more. Laundry, showers and a decent shop too," writes one reviewer, highlighting the variety of sporting options available beyond water activities.

What campers like

Waterfront access: Devil's Den State Park offers sites with direct water views. As one camper notes, "I felt like we had our own little dock to cast off from. It felt like we had our own little dock to cast off from." This private water access ranks highly among visitor preferences.

Hot showers after outdoor activities: Clean bathroom facilities matter to campers who've spent the day outdoors. A Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA visitor remarked: "Great family owners, best showers ever for a camplground! Fabulous showers." Quality shower facilities are consistently mentioned as a campground highlight.

Level sites for easy setup: Finding flat camping spots can be challenging in this hilly region. At Riverfront RV Resort, campers appreciate the site preparation: "Most sites are concrete pads and even the gravel sites have a concrete pad for the picnic table." This thoughtful design prevents the common frustration of unlevel sites.

What you should know

Water quality varies significantly: Some campgrounds provide remarkably pure water. At Springhill Park, a visitor tested "30 Amp hook up with some of the best water I have ever had. Only 35 ppm on my zero water tester. Bottled water has had more than 75 ppm."

Gate access hours may restrict late arrivals: Many campgrounds implement nighttime closure policies. Corps of Engineers facilities typically have gates that "open at 6AM and close at 10PM" with strictly enforced quiet hours from 10PM to 6AM.

Bathroom closures during off-season: Winter campers should verify facility availability before arrival. At John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground, a visitor noted: "I was dismayed to learn that the restroom in our loop was locked up, likely for the winter... it would have been nice to know this in advance."

Shared water hookups at some sites: At certain campgrounds, adjacent sites share a water connection. "Water was to be shared with neighbor site, so why am I paying full price. Pretty stupid," commented one camper at Robert S. Kerr Applegate Cove, suggesting checking the specific site details before booking.

Tips for camping with families

Look for campgrounds with multiple playgrounds: Applegate Cove Campground offers "Two playgrounds and a clean bath/shower house," making it suitable for families with children of different ages who need diverse play options.

Seek out bounce pads and swimming pools: Some campgrounds offer specialized family-friendly amenities. One visitor to Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA mentioned they "enjoyed the pool, bounce pad & basketball" with their family, creating multiple entertainment options regardless of weather.

Consider accessibility needs: Not all campgrounds accommodate mobility challenges. A visitor noted about Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA: "This campground is nice but not really wheelchair friendly. The road was really large rock that is very bumpy and uncomfortable to wheel over."

Tips from RVers

Site incline varies significantly: At Brushy Lake State Park, "21 RV spots available around a small, family lake" with "water and electric hook ups and clean dump station." However, many campers throughout the region note unlevel sites requiring leveling blocks or jacks.

Full hookup availability limited: Most campgrounds offer electric and water but lack sewer connections. "Full hookups, some shade, a dump station," reports a visitor about available amenities, highlighting the need to plan for dump station visits rather than expecting sewer hookups at your site.

Small general stores provide emergency supplies: While not comprehensive shopping, some campgrounds maintain basic provisions. "The office also has a gameroom, pantry, and propane," notes a Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA visitor, though serious grocery shopping requires a trip to nearby towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Muldrow, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, Muldrow, OK offers a wide range of camping options, with 156 campgrounds and RV parks near Muldrow, OK and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Muldrow, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Muldrow, OK is Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA with a 4.6-star rating from 14 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Muldrow, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Muldrow, OK.

What parks are near Muldrow, OK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 parks near Muldrow, OK that allow camping, notably John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake and Tenkiller Ferry Lake.