The Best Places to Go Camping in Arkansas
Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the best ways to relax and rejuvenate, and The Natural State has just what you need to enjoy a few blissful days and nights outside. Arkansas boasts traditional and even unique camping sites, gorgeous views and plenty of outdoor activities, like mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and chasing waterfalls. And the cool part – all of this is available year-round.
“Arkansas’ vast range of camping options truly enhances the state’s quality of life,” says Arkansas Tourism Director Dalaney Thomas. “From serene getaways to activity-filled destinations, The Natural State offers something for everyone.”
Read on to learn about some of the best places to go camping in Arkansas.
Cool Places to Tent Camp in The Natural State
For a truly rustic camping experience, all you really need is a tent and a few essentials to keep you fed and comfortable. However, these local favorites offer a few more perks that you are sure to love.
Crown Mountain Canvas (Leslie)
For a historic camping experience reminiscent of centuries past, head to Crown Mountain for a stay in a traditional tipi. This allows visitors to lie back, gaze through the open smoke flap at the top of the tent and enjoy a star-filled sky. Crown Mountain is a short walk from Stem Rock Natural Area, which contains a three-quarter-mile trail that leads to beautiful rock formations overlooking hilly vistas.
Petit Jean State Park (Morrilton)
This state park is a favorite among locals and visitors for its scenic beauty – it sits atop Petit Jean Mountain – and historic facilities that date back to the 1930s. Parkgoers love Cedar Falls Trail, which winds down into Cedar Creek Canyon, then follows the water to the 95-foot Cedar Falls, one of the tallest, continuously flowing waterfalls in the state. There are 125 campsites located near Lake Bailey, which is also housed within the park, plus four Rent-A-Yurts.
Mount Magazine State Park (Paris)
Located on Arkansas’ highest peak (2,753 feet), this park provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Ozark-St. Francis National Forest. Mount Magazine State Park offers 14.2 miles of trails, including part of the Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail. Additionally, the park is a popular area for technical rock climbing and is one of only two parks in the state with hang-gliding launch areas. Mountain Magazine State Park has 18 campsites that accommodate tent camping as well as trailers and RVs.
Devil’s Den State Park (West Fork)
In the late 1980s, this park developed the first designated mountain biking trail in the state park system called Fossil Flats. So, in addition to 135 regular campsites, eight spots are designated for cyclists only. Nestled in Lee Creek Valley, the secluded park is known for its interesting rock formations, caves and picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains.
Hot Springs Off-Road Park (Hot Springs)
Thrill-seekers love Hot Springs Off-Road Park, which boasts over 1,200 acres of off-road trails that you can explore. And get ready for some amazing views; you’ll love what you are able to take in on your excursion. In addition to tent camping, the park offers RV spots and cabins.
Where to RV Camp in Arkansas
While being out in nature is wonderful, sometimes, hot showers, meals prepared in a kitchen and an actual bed are must-haves. For those who require an RV as part of their R&R, here are a few places to consider camping in Arkansas.
Byrd’s Adventure Center (Ozark)
Located along the Mulberry River within the Ozark National Forest, Byrd’s provides access to several outdoor activities, including kayaking, canoeing, rafting, hiking, ATV/UTV and motorcycle riding. RV and tent camping sites are available along the Mulberry River.
Lake Ouachita State Park (Mountain Pine)
The crystal-clear water of Lake Ouachita is ideal for boating, fishing and swimming. The historic Three Sisters Springs – or three springs that were said to have healing properties – is located within the park, and Hot Springs Village, a community with plenty of recreation, is nearby. The park has 93 campsites, eight fully equipped cabins and four camper cabins.
Ozark RV Park (Mountain View)
In addition to kayaking and fishing on the White River, this 10-acre park provides access to 50 miles of mountain biking trails, a 9-hole golf course and three 18-hole disc golf courses. Music lovers can head to the nearby downtown square for live jam sessions and even bring their instruments and play along. Each of the park’s campsites includes electrical, water, sewer, Wi-Fi, laundry and a bathhouse among its amenities.
DeGray Lake Resort State Park (Bismarck)
This state park provides a combination of RV-friendly sites and resort amenities like golfing and water activities. The park has a full-service marina, and it offers outings such as snorkeling trips, guided hikes, birding tours and sunset cruises. For mountain bikers, the Iron Mountain Trail is nearby and has more than 30 miles of singletrack.
Merrisach Lake Campground (Tichnor)
With a remote location along the Arkansas Post Canal in the lush forest of eastern Arkansas, visitors can truly get away from it all when they stay at Merrisach Lake Campground. The site is popular for fishing, boating, birdwatching and relaxing. Its campsites are spacious, and many are located along the water. Plus, nearby is the Arkansas Post National Memorial, which marks the spot of the first permanent European settlement in Arkansas.
This article was sponsored by Arkansas Tourism.