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

95%
(30)

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. 
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$30
 / night
100%
(2)

The Ponds

5 sites · Lodging, 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.
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$35
 / night
100%
(6)

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.
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$25
 / night
Booked 16 times

Branching Willow Estate

17 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.
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$10
 / night
Booked 14 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.
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$10
 / night
100%
(41)

Jubilee Farms Campground/& Rentals

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Leola, AR
James and Jimmilea Berryhill are delighted to offer 5 RV camping sites with water and electric service; 7 tent campsites; Shalom Suite Guest Room, Yachov Tiny House, Ahava House (apt), and The Dove, a luxury RV. The Berryhills have been hosting guests for 8 years with 295 excellent reviews. They welcome respectful and happy guests to this place where Christian families enjoy the outdoors and where country life is celebrated. There are ducks chickens, and guineas. Guests receive a sample of the lovely bars of goat's milk soaps made with the finest oils and goat's milk from their granddaughter's prize-winning goats. James and Jimmilea enjoy hosting their guests and will offer as much or as little interaction as guests prefer. Summer catch-and-release fishing, hiking, and enjoying the small dipping pool, playground, game court, and a large fire pit by the pond are just a few of the things that help make a stay at Jubilee Farms special. Picnic tables and charcoal grills provide for family enjoyment. The farm is surrounded on three sides by timber and the camping and lodging sites are situated away from the road making it a quiet and restful place.
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from 
$12
 / 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.
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$50
 / night
90%
(5)

Jds Farm

48 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!
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$25
 / night
100%
(1)

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
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$20
 / night
99%
(72)

Erwin Estate High Point

2 sites · RVs, Tents250 acres · Malvern, AR
Welcome to the Erwin Estate! We've been located here in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas for almost 40 years. Located on our 250 acres is a very unique spot in Arkansas. We call it "High Point" and it is the southernmost highest altitude point in the state. We have a 180+ degree view overlooking Benton to Malvern to Greater Hot Springs. Located at High Point is a lookout tower.
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$300
 / night
100%
(21)

Royal Berry Farm

1 site · RV32 acres · Royal, AR
Along the foothills of the Ouachita National Forest, the acreage has been a working farm and homestead since the 1960s and was the site of an 1800s homestead. The farm later came to UPick blueberries and remains so today as the Royal Berry Farm. We have beautiful sunsets from your site , no city lights so you can see the night sky of stars! Owl calls can often be heard in the evening, as well as red shouldered hawks. Turkeys are nearby in the forest. Bluebirds, cardinals and many other are farm residents, along with woodchuck, road runner, rabbit and deer. Park your RV under our old oak trees on a working berry farm located along a pine covered Ouachita Mountain ridge. This private camp with water/electric is a 5 minute walk to the main house, and you will enjoy views of pasture, forest and walks to the creek or National Forest. Walking access to the Ouachita National Forest. We are dog friendly. Woof 💕 Close by are marina, boat launch, fishing, swimming and paddling on Lake Ouachita. Historic Hot Springs National Park is a unique must see sightseeing destination 20 minutes away.
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$39
 / night
87%
(15)

Camp Geneva

1 site · RV1 acre · Hot Springs, AR
I purchased this property for a nice getaway camp and it is a nice place to getaway to with the live creek its very relaxing. And I would like to share that with othersLearn more about this land:Nice flowing creek with primiatave camping available as well as a full hook up spot for a rv. Not far from town nice country setting. Lake and boat ramp closePrimitive camping is $12.00 a night
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from 
$35
 / 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.

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