Natural Falls State Park sits at the Oklahoma-Arkansas border near Watts, offering campers easy access to a 77-foot waterfall in a dense Ozark forest setting. The park's glamping options provide upscale accommodation within the region's unique ecosystem, where elevation ranges from 950 to 1,150 feet. Tent camping, RV sites, and cabins are available throughout the area, with both private resorts and public campgrounds offering varied experiences throughout all seasons.
What to do
Disc golf course play: Natural Falls State Park offers an impressive 18-hole disc golf course that winds through the forested landscape. One visitor to Natural Falls State Park Campground noted, "Loved the falls, big campsites, hiking trails and 18 hole disc golf."
Hiking trail exploration: Multiple hiking trails of varying difficulty levels connect campgrounds with natural features. A camper at Horseshoe Bend Rec Area & Campground shared, "We spent the day visiting this pretty park and hiking down to the falls. Nice reprieve from a hot day! The park host was very pleasant and professional and informative."
Float trips on Illinois River: Several outfitters offer kayak, canoe, and raft rentals for river adventures. At Diamondhead Resort, you can access the Illinois River directly from camp. According to one reviewer, "Right on the Illinois river. This place is great and the staff are awesome. They also have great music festivals like Diamond Stone every year."
Wildlife observation: The area hosts diverse wildlife with opportunities for animal watching on trails. Horseshoe Bend campers mentioned, "Deer roaming around throughout," creating opportunities for wildlife viewing during morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Many campgrounds offer sites directly on lakes or rivers. A visitor to Eagle Bluff Resort appreciated the water access: "This is a great set up especially later in the season when other places are closed. We camped along the river mid October and had plenty of privacy and campsites to choose from."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities are common across several campgrounds. A camper at Blowing Springs commented, "Modern bathrooms and area is very clean and supportive staff. You camp here for the access and not the amenities."
Seasonal camping options: The area provides year-round opportunities with varying experiences. "If you want to take your family or scout troop, do it on a weekday. Otherwise, you will be delivering narration to a live screening of Girls--and Boys--Gone Wild," advised an Eagle Bluff Resort visitor, highlighting the importance of timing your trip.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds feature playground equipment and recreational areas. At Prairie Creek, "There are nice recreational areas with play equipment, pavilions and beach volley ball. There is an area for swimming as well."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven pads that require preparation. At Prairie Creek, one camper warned, "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer modern facilities while others are more rustic. A camper at Sequoyah State Park reported, "The showers will cost you, so bring quarters. Plus, the ones we saw looked like they had black mold all around."
Weather considerations: Heavy rain can affect camping conditions and river activities. An Eagle Bluff Resort visitor noted, "Be aware of weather, as they will close as a flooding precaution during and after heavy rainfall."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds can get loud, particularly on weekends and holidays. A camper at Sequoyah State Park mentioned, "Additionally the quiet hours were not enforced," which may affect those seeking a peaceful experience.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility features: Some trails accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. One visitor to Sparrow Hawk Camp highlighted accessibility features: "You can take your wheelchair on some of the trails and look at the Falls. There's a steep hike down to the falls for those who can walk it."
Safety equipment: Life vests are required for children under 12 when on the water. An Eagle Bluff Resort reviewer advised, "Children under the age of 12 require a life vest at all times."
Seasonal special events: Some parks offer holiday-themed activities for families. A Sequoyah State Park visitor shared, "In October, they do trick or treating every weekend - which is fun!"
Water protection gear: Rocky river bottoms can be hard on feet during float trips. "Recommended: get yourself some water shoes. Those rocky bottoms can hurt!" suggested an Eagle Bluff Resort camper.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for holidays and summer weekends. A visitor to Blowing Springs RV Park explained, "Spots are a little close together," indicating the importance of early booking to secure preferred sites.
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots away from busy areas. At Natural Falls State Park, a camper noted, "Our site was really private on the outside loop. Loved it."
Hookup variations: Verify what utilities are available at your specific site before arrival. A Prairie Creek camper advised, "Campsites come with various services so check yours to ensure you have what you need. Some have no services, some with electric only, all the way up to full services."
Off-season advantages: Consider camping during shoulder seasons for less crowded experiences. One reviewer at Elephant Rock Nature Park appreciated "beautiful breathtaking views. Especially sunsets and rises," which can be more enjoyable with fewer people around during off-peak times.
