🌝 2024 Solar eclipse: Book now for 4/8

The best camping near Lake Catherine State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Catherine adventure.

100% (10 reviews)
100% (10 reviews)

Peace, quiet, and mountain views on the shores of Lake Catherine.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Lake Catherine State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Catherine State Park

Booked 3 times

The Ponds

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents12 acres ¡ Malvern, AR
Welcome to our secluded paradise nestled on 12 acres of pristine countryside. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for your RV or a charming retreat in our Studio tiny house, our tranquil oasis offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With four RV sites to choose from, each equipped with a table, firepit, 30 amp service, water, and sewer hookup, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Our back-in sites can accommodate campers up to 26 feet in length, and tents are also welcome for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Situated just 30 minutes from the renowned Hot Springs and 40 minutes from the vibrant city of Little Rock, our location offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Whether you're exploring the natural wonders of Hot Springs National Park, taking in the sights and sounds of downtown Little Rock, or simply unwinding amidst the tranquil beauty of our property, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Accessing our slice of paradise is easy, with just a short drive down a 4/10 mile gravel road, located 3.5 miles from I-30. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the peace and serenity of our private oasis, where the only sounds you'll hear are the gentle rustle of leaves and the sweet melody of birdsong. Escape the ordinary and experience the beauty of rural Arkansas at our secluded retreat. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, you'll find it all here amidst the natural splendor of our 12-acre paradise. We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of heaven.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Booked 11 times

Wooded spot close to downtown

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ Hot Springs National Park, AR
Have owned since 2019Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent in our semi wooded area. Close to downtown hot springs. This property is close the the road & sits beside my sons driveway. There is also some highway construction going on during the weekdays. Pets are allowed, just please keep them close & clean up after them. We have an area with a few basic cooking supplies. We have a charcoal BBQ grill, & chairs on site. There is a trash can & private camping toilet/sink. Although the neighbors are close, This area is wooded and has all the outdoor bugs. Although we treat the camp area. Bring your repellants for fleas, tics, chiggers, mosquitoes, ect. Just in case.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$10
 / night
94%
(26)

Spa City HipCamp Now

5 sites ¡ RVs5 acres ¡ Hot Springs National Park, AR
Welcome to Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas! Are you looking for a convenient space to rest your RV, motor home or tent for a night or two? You’ve come to the right place 😊. Let my space be your space! Welcome to my beautiful oasis with 5 acre blessed with trees, pond and creek. Conveniently located just right outside city limits. Close to everything yet secluded enough to have privacy , peace and quite. It has green grass most of the year with lots of lightning bugs at night, abundant wildlife: deers, bunnies, possums, raccoons and squirrels 😁. Very well spaced out mature trees that provides shade and fresh air. Well house for water supply in property as well but no hookups of any kind in place at the moment. Also has concrete custom made swimming hole that freshly feeds off the pond and streams but may be dry right now due to extreme heat and no rain in forecast. My space is suited best for well prepared campers as I don’t offer any amenities on site at this time. Land is close to everything Hot Springs, Arkansas has to offer. 1.3 miles away from Magic Springs 2.5 miles from Gulpha Gorge 4.9 miles from Oaklawn Racing & Gaming 6.1 miles from Hot Springs mall 3.6 miles from historic downtown Hot Springs and Arlington Hotel. 
Pets
Trash
from 
$20
 / night
Booked 14 times

Branching Willow Estate

25 sites ¡ RVs, Tents13 acres ¡ Bismarck, AR
Branching Willow Estate offers a tranquil escape amidst lush forests and abundant wildlife, inviting you to bask in the serenity of nature and take in the stunning mountain views. Here, you have easy access to nearby waterfalls and a plethora of exciting outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, biking, and rafting. If you ever tire of cooking over the grill, there are also charming restaurants just a stone's throw away, ensuring you never run out of dining options. As the sun sets, gather around the campfire and enjoy moonlit nights in this idyllic natural setting. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and relaxation.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night
50%
(3)

Camp Cedar Creek

1 site ¡ RV, Tent10 acres ¡ Fountain Lake, AR
Camp Cedar Creek is on 10 beautiful acres nestled in Hot Springs National Park. We have 2 spring fed ponds stocked with feisty bass and crawdads in the creek! Paddle boats and a canoe awate in both ponds. We are approx. 10 min from Magic Springs amusement park and 15 min from all of the wonderful amenities offered by Hot Springs National Park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(3)

Cedar Creek Farms Eclipse Camping

5 sites ¡ Tents30 acres ¡ Lonsdale, AR
Our land is home to a plethora of animals along with my husband and I. During your stay you can visit with or just watch our cattle, horses, goats, donkeys, chickens and turkeys along with several species of wildlife. Also, the camping area is behind a gate so you don’t have to worry about your things if you decide to explore the area, unlike a state park or other campground! Part of our land is cleared for pasture and the rest is undisturbed forest. Three different creeks and hundreds of cedars adorn the land, hence the name "Cedar Creek Farms." Come enjoy the sounds of Ouachita Mountain nature and farm life with us.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Booked 15 times

Possum kingdom farm

13 sites ¡ Tents40 acres ¡ Jessieville, AR
Open fields with horses. Trails to hike. Running creek to set along side or wade. Hill top cramping you can see pinnacle mountain from. Lake ouachita 1/2 mile down the road to the south. 30 acres of wood land to camp and have camp fires with several different wildlife creatures. In the early summer we have Chantelle mushrooms you can pick (I will show you how to identify). Several hundred acres of USFS timberland to explore I recommend bringing a portable GPS.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Saved 30 times

Peaceful Lakefront Campsite

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ Lake Hamilton, AR
Pitch your tent or park your motor-home among beautiful oak trees on Lake Hamilton. Learn more about this land:Back-in site with concrete pad for pitching a tent. Full utilities for your RV on Lake Hamilton. Included are Wi-Fi, cable, electricity, water and wastewater hookups. Your vehicle must fit through a 10' wide gate. 
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$27
 / night
Saved 1 time

Old Bear Campground

7 sites ¡ RVs, Tents9 acres ¡ Royal, AR
Open just in time for the solar ecolpse, 95% blackout Primitive camping, no electricity or restroom facilities. Campers must bring their own camping toilet or self contained camper Nestled on 9 acres bordering the Ouachita National forest. Spring fed pond. Minutes away from Lake Ouachita 10 miles from Hot Springs Very secluded and wooded Plenty of Deer and other wild life Owls hoot in the evenings Firewood available
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(9)

Panther Creek WaySide

2 sites ¡ RVs22 acres ¡ Rockport, AR
There is one RV spot located on 22 acres. The RV spot is near the road for easy access. We offer water and 50amp electric hookups. Unfortunately, I cannot offer sewage hookup, but there is a Love's Truck stop that has a dump station 5 minutes away. Also, Lake Catherine State Park has a dump station and is 17 minutes away.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(2)

Eclipse Day Event

5 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs1 acre ¡ Hot Springs, AR
This is a wonderful off-grid get-together in the city surrounded by a forest! Great place to come back to after camping in the surrounding natural amenities and enjoy a healing and peaceful city with a long history of healing. What we don't provide, we make up for with a great price. You may park your RV or camper on our property for and 23 hour period around the eclipse but you MUST leave after 23 hours, no RV hookups available. This property has a composting toilet and wash basin no modern plumbing. Host can provide once a day housekeeping. Unit has camping stove that must be used with ventilation, camper must provide for all their off-grid electrical and charging needs. Linen provided.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$199
 / night

Jds Farm

29 sites ¡ RVs, Tents100 acres ¡ Benton, AR
Welcome to JD's Farm, where we offer a wide array of awesome activities, sights, and experiences! Our expansive property spans over 50 acres, providing breathtaking views of the beautiful southern sky—ideal for witnessing the April 08, 2024 solar eclipse! In addition to our stunning celestial views, we are privileged to have the magnificent Northfork Saline River meandering through our property, offering fantastic opportunities for floating or fishing. While we don't provide tents, we offer ample space for you to bring your own and set up camp. For your convenience, we have two portable toilets and a family-size outhouse available. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, venture to the top of the hill, where you'll be greeted by a breathtaking vista overlooking the town. Complete with picnic tables and more, this spot is perfect for enjoying the mystical southern sky sunsets. Come and join us at JD's Farm for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Lake Catherine State Park guide

Overview

About

Set on the shores of the vast Lake Catherine and framed by the forested slopes of the Ouachita Mountains, Lake Catherine State Park is an idyllic spot to escape from it all. Rent a pedal boat, kayak, or canoe to explore the lake, try your luck fishing, or cool off at the swimming beach. Away from the water, hike to Falls Branch Falls, enjoy a horseback ride along the mountain trails, or take a day trip to nearby Hot Springs National Park. When it’s time to camp, take your pick of RV sites, yurts, and cabins, some right by the lakeside.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for RVs: Lake Catherine State Campground has Class AAA (with full hookups) and Class B (with 30-amp electric hookups) sites, all with picnic tables and fire rings. 
  • Best for family camping: The Lake Catherine Cabins offer 20 heated and air-conditioned cabins ranging from rustic to duplex, with queen beds and wood-burning fireplaces.
  • Best for glampers: Rent-A-Yurt has a single yurt with bunk beds, basic furniture, a stove, and an ice chest.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve campsites, yurts, and cabins online via the Arkansas State Parks website. Weekend reservations require a minimum stay of two nights or three nights for holiday weekends.
  2. Online reservations can be made up to one year in advance. 
  3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially for holiday weekends, so book at least three months in advance.

When to go

Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day is peak season in Lake Catherine State Park, when Lake Catherine is the ideal spot to cool off from Arkansas’s summer heat. The marina is closed out of season, but you can still take to the water to fish and boat free from the summer crowds. The park’s campground, cabins, and yurts stay open year-round. 

Know before you go

  • Lake Catherine State Park is located along the Ouachita River, 55 miles southwest of Little Rock or about a 1-hour drive. The towns of Hot Springs and Rockport are both about a 20-minute drive away, where you can fill up on gas or stock up on groceries.
  • There are no entrance fees for Arkansas State Parks, but campsite booking fees apply. 
  • Facilities at Lake Catherine include a Visitor Center, camp store, gift shop, restrooms, and picnic areas. There’s also a boat launch, boat and canoe rentals, and a full-service marina open in summertime. 
  • There are accessible restrooms, picnic areas, and campsites at Lake Catherine State Park.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.