Camping in Arkansas

With 52 state parks and two and a half million acres of national forest, you can soak in hot springs, hunt for diamonds, or cast a line in the Natural State.

94% (6883 reviews)
  1. Arkansas
94% (6883 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arkansas

Top-rated campgrounds

Bentonville Bike Camp

1. Bentonville Bike Camp

99%
(876)
17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Bentonville, AR
Welcome to Bentonville Bike Camp; Where Bikers 🚴‍♂️ Come to Relax. We are avid mountain bikers and travelers, and we live on the property. Hipcamp is a platform for property owners to allow campers onto their property. If you're looking for a commercial campground, we are not it. Learn more about this land: 2 Indoor Bathrooms and Hot Showers Just two miles from the highway and on a very peaceful piece of land. Great for gravel mountain bikers because we are on the gravel road and you can connect to the riding trails from here. .7miles to The Back 40 trail system 2.3 miles to Slaughter Pen trail system We have a total of 10 acres of grass available to choose from; 9 dispersed sites in "The Meadow" 1 / 50 amp site 8 1 / 30amp site 6 3 / 110 electric sites. (4,6,9) Potable spring well water to fill your tanks and an RV dump station. There's a bike stand to wash your bikes, community fire pit* to get to know others, clean, flushable toilets, and now with a heated outdoor shower! The creek runs in the spring or after a good rain. Good dogs are always welcome. Don't want to hassle with a tent? We've got Mini A-frames... check them out! We've been hosting since May '22 and it has been a blast! We pride ourselves on offering our guest plenty of space and a peaceful, country setting. (Please, we do not allow generators to run constantly. Please book accordingly.)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Nearby Kings River Falls

2. Red Fern

97%
(1162)
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Witter, AR
One of Arkansas' greatest treasures. Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas. This is a remote and rugged campground with caves, bluffs, swimming holes and river a plenty. This campground has a grand exhibition of the same sandstone formation that is responsible for the Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) formation. Clovis like points have been found here, and so one might assume the bluffs and crags here have been inhabited for millennia. This 7 acre property is completely surrounded by Arkansas Natural Heritage-Natural Area. There are miles of trails and cooling waters at every turn. If you like Kings River Falls, get ready to fall in love with this Red Fern Campground. So pack your curiosity, lace up your hiking boots, and let the whispering leaves guide you. Kings River Falls awaits, ready to share its secrets with those who listen. Where time slows down and the modern world fades away. Every turn reveals a new wonder; a hidden waterfall an unnoticed cave or bluff or a moss-covered boulder. It’s not just a place; it’s an experience an invitation to step beyond the ordinary and into a world where magic still thrives and fairy tales come alive. Here, the forest whispers secrets, and the river sings a timeless song. Most of our campsites are just yards away from a public swimming area, which is shared between our property and the Arkansas Natural Area. You should expect local traffic at the main swimming area during your stay. We have a private swimming area on our property which is just a short hike from the developed campsites (Please ask the camphost for directions). There are miles of county maintained bumpy dirt roads leading to the site. Expect your vehicle to get dusty. There is a creek crossing that is required to reach the campsites. We recommend high clearance and/or 4WD or AWD vehicles. If you are unable to cross the creek, you will need to park in the parking area and walk across the creek to reach your site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
North side under the rock face. Very scenic.

3. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

98%
(1119)
100 sites · RVs, Tents · Greenbrier, AR
IMPORTANT: Campsites in PINNACLE SPRINGS lie on an island at the bottom of a short but very steep and rough road. If you are risk-averse or driving a car with low clearance or poor traction we STRONGLY encourage you to camp atop the ridge in CAMP TOASTY - all the same joys but none of the fears. Step into your own private wilderness park where hiking trails weave past whispering waterfalls, sunlit bluffs, and crystal-clear streams. We are confidant the Cadron will deliver an exceptional experience. 1) Primitive Camping: Secluded tent sites with access to Cadron creek, natural springs, and wooded areas – many with picnic tables, fire pits, grills, and lamp posts 2) RV Camping: Limited sites, pull-through, up to 30 feet, level, hard gravel base, with basic hookups (electricity, no full sewer) 3) Cabins and Glamping: Rustic cabins and campers with modern comforts (some include AC, heating, and kitchenettes) Activities and amenities include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, a 6-acre foraging field and 9-hole Frisbee golf course, bouldering, zen/meditation deck, climbing, psicobloc and more outdoor pursuits than one has time to pursue. Children can enjoy the Ninja rope course with zipline, slackline, and rope swing and petting Biscuit and Buttercup – our favored Kunekune forest pigs. And, Woolly Hollow State Park, Cove Creek Natural Heritage Area, Persimmon Ridge Resort and Greer's Ferry Lake are a short drive away. We invite you to our little piece of paradise on the Cadron. Bathe in a forest of tall standing pines and oak trees. Sit on the bank of a cascading stream. Embrace nature. And although we lie at the edge of civilization we have good cell phone service and water hydrants and electrical outlets for recharging phones and the such are freely available for our guests to use. From March through November hot water showers are also freely available. Our place is a bit rough, rugged and unruly yet we call it home -- a place where everyone regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, political views, religion, national origin, or culture is welcomed to come enjoy nature's marvelous works and wonders. We love everyone!! So we invite you to come down to the Cadron and sit a spell. Unwind. Kick back. And enjoy!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$15
 / night
Hot Springs Walk to Oaklawn & Baths

7. Hot Springs Walk to Oaklawn & Baths

98%
(24)
17 sites · Lodging, RVs · Hot Springs, AR
Bike to bathhouse row or the National Park. Walk to Oaklawn Casino or Greenway trail. Gated park with concrete pads, full hook-ups. Splash pad and water slide onsite. Call your friends, leash up the pup, and get ready to enjoy a unique stay in the heart of Hot Springs! At Finish Line RV Park, we offer a premium camping experience with: 🌟 Upscale, Concrete RV Pads 🛁 Immaculate, Spa-Like Bathhouse 🎯 Outdoor Pavilion with Horseshoes & Cornhole 🔥 Fire Pits & Picnic Tables at Every Site 🐶 Large Dog Park with Shade & Room to Run 💦 Splash Pad and Water Slide to Cool Off 💻 Free Wi-Fi 🧺 Modern Laundry Facility Enjoy curbside trash pickup, and let our team deliver ice, firewood, and yard games right to your site! Our friendly concierge will greet you and escort you to your weekend getaway. 📍 Just 1 block from Oaklawn Horse Track & Casino 🚶‍♂️ Only 2 miles to Bathhouse Row and a 5-minute walk to Greenway Trail 📌 Close to 3 mines for digging diamonds, crystals, and gems! Please Note: 🚫 No tents or car camping permitted. ✅ RVs must be in good condition. 🛑No homemade RV’s.
Pets
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from 
$20
 / night
Buffalo River Glamping

9. Buffalo River Glamping

98%
(33)
9 sites · Lodging, Tents · Compton, AR
Escape to the heart of Arkansas's natural beauty with Buffalo River Glamping, where luxury meets wilderness. Nestled in the beauty of the rugged Ozark mountains, our glamping sites offer an unparalleled retreat for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those searching for a tranquil getaway. You can embark on nature walks through the surrounding wilderness such as nearby Lost Valley, Hemmed In Hollow and Whitaker Point. You certainly will not want to miss a visit to local waterfalls and trailheads, spend the day kayaking, rafting or canoeing on the Buffalo River or take a dip in one of the local swimming holes along the river. Tucked far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Buffalo River Glamping was meticulously designed to provide an unforgettable retreat. You will be captivated by the harmonious blend of nature and tranquility. As you meander through the trails on the property, you'll be surrounded with vibrant lush greenery. You’ll experience a sense of seclusion, while the distant sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves create a soothing performance that serenades you into a state of relaxation. As the sun sets after a day of fun and adventure, it’s time to relax and unwind at your campsite. As you fire up the grill for a steak, burger or hotdogs, don’t forget to save room for a gooey batch of s'mores toasted over a cozy campfire. After dinner you might want to play a game of cornhole or horseshoes, or just relax by the community firepit and stargaze into the dark night sky. When you are ready to retire for the evening, you will certainly want to enjoy a warm shower in our climate controlled shower house. A comfy bed in your tent awaits you for a quiet relaxing night of rest, but be sure to listen out for the sounds of the whippoorwills, or an occasional owl before drifting off to sleep. While you are awakened by the melodious sound of the birds chirping and singing, and you catch a glimpse of the radiant morning sun, a well stocked coffee bar awaits you for your first cup of coffee for the day. There’s nothing more calming than relaxing on the deck while enjoying your first warm cup of perk me up while breathing in the fresh morning mountain air, and planning your fun and adventure for the day. When your vacation at Buffalo River Glamping comes to an end, and as you venture back home, the memories and adventures that you experienced will give you a profound sense of peace and contentment. We are located in the upper Buffalo River area where within minutes you can venture out to the many astonishing natural attractions in the area. Reserve your tent today and start planning your unforgettable escape to the Arkansas wilderness. We can't wait to welcome you and look forward to having you as our guest! A stay at Buffalo River Glamping is not just a vacation – it's an escape into a truly unforgettable experience that nourishes the soul and rejuvenates the spirit.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Grassy Road Cabins and RV Camping

10. Grassy Road Cabins and RV Camping

98%
(77)
23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Marshall, AR
Welcome to Grassy Road Cabins and Camping. Here you will find 23 acres of rolling pasture accented by patches of forest and at the center a large recreational fishing pond. Placed perfectly in between two popular Buffalo National River Access Points: South Maumee and Spring Creek. Grassy Road currently offers: three tiny house cabins, 3 tent sites with 20 amp electric, 3 more primitive tent sites, and 9 RV sites that are full water/sewer hookups with 20/30/50 amp service. Two of these pull through RV sites are Big Rig friendly designed for a class A motorhomes. There is a private two unit bathhouse with hot showers! This campground is designed to operate remotely through partners like Hipcamp without owners or managers always on site. All check-ins and check-outs will be done self service. The owners have kayaks and life jackets that are available to borrow they ask that you message them before and be sure to return them in good condition. There is firewood for sale provided by a neighboring friend. There are several trails that criss-cross the property, and we encourage everyone to explore just be safe and try to give other vacationers their privacy. Our close proximity to the Buffalo National gives you easy access for an awesome experience! South Maumee and Spring Creek access points are less than 10 miles away, and Dillard's Ferry is less than 14 miles. For hiking, the Buffalo River Trail passes right over South Maumee Rd, and leads to several seasonal waterfalls! Fishing is allowed on site, and in the Buffalo River with an Arkansas fishing license. The towns of Marshall and Leslie are close by with good restaurant options such as: Skylark Cafe, and the Red River Cafe. Blanchard Springs Caverns is a must-see, and at 30 miles in distance makes a great option for a day trip.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$22
 / night
Pea Ridge Bike Camp

12. Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%
(190)
21 sites · RVs, Tents · Pea Ridge, AR
The Pea Ridge Bike Camp has 20 primitive campsites available for visitors to Northwest Arkansas and can accommodate tent campers, campervans, small and large campers and RVs. Even smaller Class A motorhomes (length isn't an issue but weight on a grassy field might be a concern should it rain heavily) We offer large, spacious campsites along with firepits, free firewood and large cable spool tables at each campsite. Potable water, 2 outdoor sinks, 2 outdoor showers, 4 large ADA portable toilets (1 in front and 3 in back), and trash bins are centrally located to most of the areas. There is a large in-ground community firepit, a large canopy, 4 picnic tables on the property, a propane barbecue grill, a bike wash station, 2 hammocks on frames and a vintage phone booth (with phone charging capabilities, visitor information and trail maps) onsite. We have added a school bus with a booth and 3 benches as a hangout during inclimate weather. We are currently providing free firewood for each firepit. Very flexible check in/out times. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is about 7 miles to downtown Bentonville and only 5 miles from Exit 88 and I-49. We are located n the country, yet only 1/8 mile to state highway 72. Restaurants, food trucks, groceries, banking and laundry facilities are only 2 miles away in Pea Ridge. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is located 5 miles northeast of Bentonville and most of the bike trails are on the north side of Bentonville. We have 10 designated campsites and 10 dispersed campsite locations that are not in any designated area to allow guests some say as to where they camp. We are very flexible with arrival and departure times. We do offer group camping We will allow low-noise generators to be used in dispersed campsites. ** Please let us know If you are planning to use a generator. Our campsites are large with some being very shady and others in full sun. Great for those equipped with solar power. Since our intention is to provide camping space for visitors to the area, we limited the length-of-stay to 10 days. If you are a VISITOR to the area looking to stay for more than 10 days please notify me and I can lift the length-of-stay. Please call with any questions or concerns.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Southwinds on the Arkansas River

13. Southwinds on the Arkansas River

100%
(42)
3 sites · RVs, Tents · Atkins, AR
Located on the Arkansas River and just minutes from Interstate 40 in Atkins, this RV/camping site backs right up to a gorgeous view of the Arkansas River and Petit Jean mountain. Water and electricity are located at each site! Just minutes away you have boat access to the Arkansas River at Sweeden Island Park AND Lake Atkins through the Lucky Landing launch site. This site is a sportsman's paradise as it is also conveniently located to the Galla Creek Wildlife Management Area, also just minutes away. Also, we are located right across the river from Petit Jean State Park and a few minutes from quaint downtown Atkins. Whether you're looking for great fishing and hunting or a peaceful respite from the world with a million-dollar view, this is the site for you! The 10 acres are open to explore and include three RV/campsites with water at each location and a gorgeous gully that empties into the Arkansas River. When the river is at a normal level a rock shelf lines the entire length of the river to make fishing and sunbathing, a breeze! If you want to venture out a bit, may we recommend the many offerings of Mount Nebo, Petit Jean Mountain, Mount Magazine, Altus, Russelville, and Conway; all located within 30 minutes to an hour from the campgrounds. While swimming in the river is not advisable, here are some swimming holes you and your family might check out while staying with us: -Atkins City Pool (has a day rate) -Lake Dardanelle -Illinois Bayou -Old Iron Bridge Swimming Hole -Long Pool Bayou -Falling Water Falls
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

14. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(119)
1 site · RV, Tent · Boles, AR
This beautiful property sits on the banks of the Fourche La Fave (pronounced Foosh La Fay)  River. This 151 mile long river was once the grounds of the Caddo Native American Tribe. The river is now home to a wide variety of wildlife, and offers multiple species of fish. Scott County is over 70% public national forest, with thousands of acres of public land available for the outdoor enthusiast. Though this property has the look and feel of woods and river camping, there is actually a 24 hour convenience store less than two miles away just in case you need a midnight snack!   Learn more about this land:Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power,  LED lighting and a large picnic table. Firepit with added grill for cooking right at the rivers edge.  Dedicated hammocking area overlooking the river, or have some friendly competition with a game of Bag-O game (boards provided).  This area offers a wide open space for exercising, walking/bike riding along a country road, or just relaxing by riverbank.  Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV, and is less than five miles from the Ouachita National Forests' Fourche Mountain Trail. All this but still close to civilization. A 24 hour convenience store is less than two miles from the campsite. This quaint little spot has a lot to offer!  
Pets
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from 
$32
 / night
Barker Gap

19. Barker Gap

100%
(17)
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Natural Dam, AR
Welcome to Barker Gap! Opened in August 2024 we offer 3 beautifully shaded rv/camper spots, 2 pull thru spots and 1 back in. We have NO size or slide out restrictions, our spots were built with your comfort in mind. All spots come standard with 50A/30A/110 electric hookup, city water, Bbq/park grill, stone fire pit and sewage hookup at every campsite. Wi-Fi is also included for all campers. At this time we do not have bathrooms available to tent camping or any primitive style camping. The BEAR'S DEN cabin is a 1 room 1 bathroom cabin. Built to sleep 4 with a spacious queen bed perfect for falling asleep on, a cozy twin bed for reading/sleeping, and stowed under the twin bed is an adventure cot for that outside nap on the deck. The cabin is equipped with a mini fridge/freezer, a Keurig coffee maker, and a microwave) inverter. In the bathroom we have a metal wrapped 22" deep soaking tub equipped with a rainfall shower head to wash the stress away. No glamping cabin would be complete without a wave activated hand dryer a 43" Wi-Fi connected smart TV and the latest plug ins with USB ports included so you can forget that charging box at home. Coffee, bedding, towels, bar soap, provided. So what are you waiting for? It's time to camp!
Pets
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from 
$37
 / night
Campsite #2 is has plenty of space for a larger party. Tent and hammocks available to rent.

20. Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

99%
(101)
3 sites · Lodging, Tents · Rogers, AR
We have 40 acres of woods, waterfalls, hiking, stargazing, bird watching, and sunset watching for the campers who like primitive camping. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a quiet, natural area to camp in, and destinations to see close by. Private area with sun, and plenty of shade. Blackberry's are available to pick in late June or early July. There are three logging trails you can hike just behind the campground. They lead to a creek you can follow for moderate hike. There are cliffs, and plenty of scenery to enjoy. We are a short drive away from Eureka Springs, Turpentine Creek(big cat sanctuary), War Eagle Cavern, and War Eagle Mill. Hobbs State National Park is close by off Scenic Highway 12, with biking, and walking trails galore! We are also close to many of the NW Arkansas mountain biking trails in the area! Access to Beaver Lake is a short drive or a long hike down the scenic rock roads. Due to the remote, and private location, we want to remind anyone consuming alcohol under the age of 21 will not be tolerated. Safety is very important to us. We are looking forward to seeing you. Happy Camping!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night

Camper favorites in Arkansas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Arkansas

Stories from the community

Star Hosts in Arkansas

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Arkansas guide

Overview

Arkansas is full of surprises, with botanical gardens, ancient cave systems, and massive lakes that draw anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and birders. It’s also a hot spot for rockhounding, with tons of mineral-rich mines and quarries where visitors can hunt for everything from quartz to diamonds. Here you’ll also find one of the most unusual national parks in the country—Hot Springs National Park—where campers can "take the waters" in traditional bathhouses, just as people did more than a century ago. Fishing and birdwatching are popular Arkansas pastimes, and many state campgrounds sit on or near lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, who nest across Arkansas in the winter months.

Where to go

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest-growing regions of the state, offering a mix of cute towns and Ozark adventure. The largest state park in Arkansas, the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, is here, offering 54 miles of trails and campsites only reachable by mountain bike. Major geological features in the region include the Boston Mountains (part of the southern Ozarks), a forested region full of hiking trails, caves, and springs, particularly in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.

Southwestern Arkansas

Southwest Arkansas is characterized by lakes, wooded forests, and plenty of opportunities to get out and rockhound. Highlights include Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can dig for diamonds and other minerals, and Millwood State Park, a popular spot for fishing, birdwatching, and camping.

Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas is home to the state capital and biggest city, Little Rock. About an hour away sits Hot Springs National Park, with its historic bathhouses, a couple of which invite visitors to soak to this day. Camping opportunities abound—you can rent campsites and cabins year-round at Lake Ouachita State Park or try to nab one of the first-come, first-served sites at Lake Sylvia Recreation Area, celebrated for its 18-acre lake.

Northeastern Arkansas

Northeastern Arkansas offers opportunities for fishing, water sports, and learning about what life was like in this region many years ago. Highlights include the Parkin Archaeological State Park, which preserves 17 acres of what was once a Native American village, and the Hampson Archeological Museum State Park, where you can check out archaeological artifacts from the area.

Southeastern Arkansas

Southeastern Arkansas' Lower Delta Region offers a mix of historic Civil War sites, scenic lakes, and opportunities for bird- and wildlife-watching. Hit Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state, and the Arkansas Post National Memorial, a National Park Service-run living history museum showcasing life on the Grand Prairie in the late 1800s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Arkansas is an excellent destination for camping, with a diverse range of options from state parks to national forests and private campgrounds. The state offers beautiful landscapes, including the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, numerous lakes, rivers, and hiking trails. You can find various camping experiences, such as tent camping, RV parks, and cabin rentals, on Hipcamp. Keep in mind that the best time to go camping in Arkansas is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is more mild and comfortable.

Yes, boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in Arkansas on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). You can find boondocking opportunities in the Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. However, it is essential to follow the guidelines and rules set by these agencies, such as camping at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and trails, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Private land may also offer boondocking opportunities, but you must obtain permission from the landowner first. You can find private land camping options in Arkansas on Hipcamp.

To find free camping in Arkansas, you can explore the state's national forests, where dispersed camping is often allowed. Dispersed camping generally means camping outside of developed campgrounds, with no amenities such as water, restrooms, or picnic tables. In Arkansas, Ouachita National Forest and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are great places to start looking for free camping opportunities. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check the specific regulations for each area before camping. You can visit Hipcamp for more information on camping in Arkansas.

Camping fees at Arkansas State Parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. Prices generally range from around $12 to $42 per night for tent and RV camping. Primitive campsites are typically the least expensive, while sites with electrical and water hookups or full hookups cost more. Some parks may also offer cabin rentals at higher prices. You can find more information about specific Arkansas State Parks and their camping fees at Arkansas State Parks website.