Lake Camping Near Alma, Arkansas, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

If you want to camp by a lake near Alma, you’ve got over 1,400 options. Prices start at $20 per night, with the average hovering around $35. The top picks? Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews) is a local favorite—expect shady spots, lakeside trails, and plenty of room for your tent. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home (8 reviews) and Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲 (5 reviews) bring quieter, more secluded vibes. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and don’t worry about toilets—they’re available at most sites. Spend your days swimming, spotting wildlife, or exploring on horseback. Lakeside camping here means cool mornings, splashy afternoons, and plenty of space to breathe.

98% (389)

Top-rated campgrounds near Alma

If you want to camp by a lake near Alma, you’ve got over 1,400 options. Prices start at $20 per night, with the average hovering around $35. The top picks? Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews) is a local favorite—expect shady spots, lakeside trails, and plenty of room for your tent. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home (8 reviews) and Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲 (5 reviews) bring quieter, more secluded vibes. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and don’t worry about toilets—they’re available at most sites. Spend your days swimming, spotting wildlife, or exploring on horseback. Lakeside camping here means cool mornings, splashy afternoons, and plenty of space to breathe.

98% (389)

Top-rated campgrounds near Alma

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%

(518)

46mi from Alma · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

This 55 acre park is home of a large sandstone that contains 8 markings believed to have been made by Vikings many years ago. The park features a seasonal waterfall, covered picnic areas, playground, amphitheater with seating, community building, scenic views, gift shop and approximately 2 miles of nature trails. Be advised that most tent sites have a tent pad but a few are primitive mountain terrain (rocky). The one RV site is for 16 ft. or less vehicles and smaller teardrop trailers with limited hook-up and no dump station. Restroom and shower facilities are located within the park. Individual campsites DO NOT have onsite toilets. Forest setting while still close to stores in case of forgotten items. Variety of small wildlife in the area. All sites allow campfires UNLESS we are under a county wide burn ban. *Note moderate cancellation policy for most dates - full refund 3 days before check-in time. * ** Special event camping is a strict no refund policy.

2. Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲

100%

(10)

36mi from Alma · 1 site · Lodging

The Lake Wilson Retreat is our 35 acre private property, peacefully situated atop the wooded mountains near Lake Wilson. On the property is The Shed, a simple campsite where you'll find a fire pit and a simple sleeping cabin with a full size platform bed frame and wood stove to enjoy. An ideal place to clear your head. The Shed comfortably sleep two (2) adults, but you are welcome to bring tents for up to to four (4) other additional campers. We provide a full size platform bed frame, but guests will need to bring their own blow up mattress or camp pads for comfort — as well as all bedding / pillows / towels. About Lake Wilson: Lake Wilson Park is comprised of approximately 320 acres of land with 28 acres of water. Park visitors can experience boating, fishing, nature watching, picnicking, and hiking. The park is also an off-leash dog park with both sunny and shady places for pets to enjoy. The nature trail runs almost entirely through the woods with views of the lake and ancient rock formations. There are also lots of beautiful wildflowers in the spring!

3. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home

94%

(17)

48mi from Alma · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A place carved out of history dating back over 200 years ago. This is where history welcomes you to the Cherokee culture. This land has been handed down for generations and has stayed in the family beginning on my mother’s side of the family, Mary Ann Groundhog, the fourth generation great granddaughter of Sequoyah on the “Dick” side of my family tree. My mother was heavily involved with AIM (American Indian movement). My dad was the last monolingual Cherokee. His name was Mack Vann, he was a man who loved culture and sharing it with visitors and handed down that passion to me. My hip camper site is named after my daddy, I am still a daddy‘s girl. The land originated before Sequoyah. who created the Cherokee syllabary. Sequoyah was my fifth generation great grandfather and I am very proud of my Cherokee heritage, I would love to share my culture, my tradition, and my passion with you. Learn more about this land: Come and experience the authenticity of Tahlequah, Indian country, Oklahoma where almost every resident is Cherokee, Native American, Nature at its most organic state; A place where deer run free, the sunset paints a new picture each evening with glorious colors of warmth and serenity. Away from the hustle and bustle, peaceful, and inviting. Just a short hike or drive to Todd’s access or you can swim, fish, or float down the beautiful Illinois River. Welcome to Oklahoma’s best kept secret. * * * * FREE HIGH SPEED WIFI * * * * Up to 1,000 Mbps upload and download speeds With upload speeds matching download speeds, you can transfer and back up large files with ease. Unlimited data usage, no data caps or throttling. Capacity for all your devices

4. Ozark Lake

87%

(5)

102 sites · Mulberry, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Ozark Lake and its myriad outdoor activities.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

5. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%

(2)

47 sites · Scott, Arkansas

Not to be confused with John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake extends 26 miles along the Arkansas River in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its shoreline is characterized by bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs, open fields, and urban developments. There are oodles of recreational opportunities among four smaller parks, most notably fishing. The fertile waters harbor all kinds of fish native to the state, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocks the lake with striped sea bass and sauger. Year round catch includes catfish, bream, crappie, white and largemouth bass. Multi-purpose trails are also a popular activity.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

6. Pink Paddler Place

49mi from Alma · 13 sites · Tents

Welcome to Pink Paddler Place, a hidden gem spanning 50 acres and nestled on the picturesque Piney Bay. This waterfront property offers a plethora of primitive camping sites, each boasting breathtaking views from elevated bluffs. Some camping sites can be driven to while others will require walking into them. This also depends on size of vehicle. Fresh faucet water is on property.Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you explore three miles of scenic hiking trails, paddle along the Piney Bay, Little Piney River, and Big Piney River, all of which converge into the bay. As night falls, indulge in the awe-inspiring experience of camping under the clear skies. Whether you're an avid angler, a passionate birdwatcher, or simply seek to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, Pink Paddler Place promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Come and discover the enchanting charm of Arkansas Bay at Pink Paddler Place. For more information about the stand-up paddle adventure groups offered by our host. Moreover, the Ozark Highland Trail and the Ozark Overland Adventure Trail are conveniently located nearby for off-road enthusiasts. Mountain bikers will also relish the exhilarating Ludwig and Mt. Nebo mountain bike trails. With more than 50 acres of primitive campsites to choose from you are sure to find your perfect spot. Pink Paddler Place is not just a place for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a sanctuary for those seeking peace and quiet. This hidden gem allows you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. As you sit by your campfire, roasting marshmallows and stargazing, you'll feel all your worries melt away. In addition, Pink Paddler Place is a great destination for families and friends looking for a unique bonding experience. Spend quality time together as you explore the trails, learn how to stand-up paddle, or simply relax by the bay. 13 miles from Russellville

7. Red Lick RV Park

100%

(7)

43mi from Alma · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Reconnect with nature during your stay at the Red Lick RV Park. Each site is 20x50 and has full water, sewer & 30/50 amp electric hookups. Nestled in the woods near Lake Ludwig and Red Lick MTB trailhead. Bring your ATV or SXS to explore miles of trails in the mountains. 8 miles from downtown Clarksville.

8. Lake Fort Smith State Park

100%

(4)

40 sites · Chester, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

9. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%

(37)

312 sites · Farmington, Arkansas

Two distinct forests rolled into one package! That means twice the amount of outdoorsy goodness to explore. The Ozark National Forest covers most of the Ozark Mountains, including the highest peak in the state. It’s awesome here when the dogwood and redbuds bloom in the spring, and when the leaves change color in the fall. The St. Francis National Forest is more diverse, with the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers running through it, as well as lakes, valleys, and tons of wildlife. It’s the only place in the national forest system where you can access the Mississippi River from the shore, so that right there is a must do! The whole expanse of land is filled with multi-use trails, hundreds of campsites, spots for swimming, fishing, and boating, and even some amazing caves to explore. Mother Nature crushing it as usual.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

10. Devil's Den State Park

100%

(27)

161 sites · Winslow, Arkansas

Hike past ancient rock formations or take a pedalboat out on the lake.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Brushy Lake State Park

14 sites · Slick, Oklahoma

Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

94 sites · Brent, Oklahoma

Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam is known for its fishing and swimming beaches. Anglers will be excited about the abundance of bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, and sunfish. Yum! There are also three swimming beaches here, so bring your swimsuit and sunscreen. Got a boat? Bring it! Launch your sailboat, motorboat, or kayak on the refreshing waters and check out the great surrounding views of spring flowers or fall foliage. There’s a short hiking trail in the park if you want to wander around a bit. This park is ideal for campers seeking a quiet, relaxing getaway on the water.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Ouachita National Forest

96%

(25)

342 sites · Mount Ida, Arkansas

The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Blue Mountain Lake

100%

(1)

64 sites · Blue Mountain, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Blue Mountain Lake.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

15. Dardanelle Lake

100%

(2)

209 sites · Morrison Bluff, Arkansas

Discover the allure of Lake Dardanelle's expansive waters and scenic shores.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Alma

83%

(4)

Clear Creek Campground

4.6mi from Alma · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark Lake

100%

(2)

Springhill Campground

11mi from Alma · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%

(4)

Lake Fort Smith Campground

15mi from Alma · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Fort Smith State Park

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(14)

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

20mi from Alma · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(27)

Devil's Den Campground

20mi from Alma · 161 sites · Tents, RVs · in Devil's Den State Park

100%

(1)

Aux Arc Campground

22mi from Alma · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark Lake

100%

(3)

Richland Creek Recreation Area

27mi from Alma · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Brushy Lake Campground

34mi from Alma · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brushy Lake State Park

Short Mountain Cove Campground

34mi from Alma · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

100%

(3)

Wolf Pen Recreation Area

35mi from Alma · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Applegate Cove Campground

35mi from Alma · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Cowlington Point Campground

37mi from Alma · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

B

Brandon

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Clean campsites. Nice views. Warm shower available at park.

O

Olivia

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲

The property was gorgeous! The area felt really safe and the neighbors were very friendly. The shed was very cozy. Be sure to bring a mattress/bedding and some extra fire wood. Overall, it was the weekend we were looking for!

Travis

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲

Very convenient and easy to get to, while still being away from everything and quiet. Everything was set up nicely. The host was very friendly and easy to contact. You can watch the sun rise from the deck in the morning. Perfect place for a quiet getaway! Thanks!

site features 2 tent pads with space for a couple other tents. Also has 2 tables and a grill

A

Allison

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

My family and I loved tent camping here! The views were beautiful! We were at site #8, it was very pretty and peaceful. Lots of trees for nice shade and great spot for a hammock. There even happened to be a big event at the overlook one of the days we were there, but there was still enough separation that it wasn’t too loud and we still felt like we had our privacy. The Runestone didn’t disappoint! We thought it was cool. We really enjoyed hiking the trails too.

Campsite is pictured on the right side of the photo.

E

Erick

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Beautiful spot and park! Will definitely visit again.

G

Greg

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

Incredible location, great views, and check-in couldn’t have been easier. Highly recommend a stay here at the park!

Lori

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Heavener Runestone Park

Watching the sunset at this location was breathtaking! The campsite, restroom, grounds, and gift shop were clean and well maintained. Everyone there was friendly and very informative. We came for an educational event that was fun and well organized. My family loved every moment of our stay from hiking, seeing the runestone, and tent camping!

R

Roger

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

The campsite was absolutely lovely! The forest felt more like the Black Hills, SD. I had no idea Oklahoma could look like this. It was SO peaceful I could've been 100 miles from civilization, yet Hevener was nestled beautifully in the valley below. Hearing those spooky train horns every hour or so was neat-my boy couldn't get enough! The short hike to the runestone was fun, and that sweet young lady in the gift shop went outta her way for our yard game. What a cozy Oklahoma spot! Terrain was a bit rough and steep and rocky so be advised.

Loreena

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Excellent campsite for our first time visiting the park! The trails were great and easy to navigate, amenities offered worked well, and the host was communicative too. If you plan to stay at this campsite (or probably anywhere in the park), just be mindful there’s a very active train station below the park so you’ll hear it both day & night—earplugs were an essential for me. However, that doesn’t deter my recommendation. The fall leaves were gorgeous, so we picked the perfect weekend to stay.

R

Russ

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Cool views. #10 spot is a lot more of a upward hike than it lets on. It's too far from the site to your vehicle.

k

kellimeyer723

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

A quaint little park with unique history and the perfect hikes for beginners or those needing an hour to waltz with nature. You're outside of town but not so far away that running back for something you forgot to be a real problem. Campsites are as you would expect, a platform that is just big enough for our large sundome tent (8 person), a firepit and metal grill for each site and a concrete and wood picnic table. They even have shepherd hooks for campers to hang a lantern or lights. The camping area is lit up at night by a string of bulb lights, giving just enough glow to get down to the bathrooms without being a nuisance when trying to sleep. A wonderful setup for a relaxing weekend. My son and I were the only people in the park at one point and it was very peaceful. Crows, woodpeckers, and squirrels abound but not much else in the way of wildlife. A definite for families or someone looking for a quiet place to pitch a tent or hang a hammock.

Kathy

November 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

Wonderful rustic park! First is the runestone, whose conjecture seems entirely plausible and fascinating! Second, the park was developed around 1970 and looks like it’s basically been unchanged. Third, it’s just plain beautiful. The staff are awesome and very responsive. We loved it.

S

Saul

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Amazing spot! We stayed through the weekend! Great views! Amazing amenities, ZJ helped us get power to our camping spot (Overlook Pavilion). Kiddos loved the scavenger hunt and the different hikes. Over all we will be coming back soon! Thank you to all the staff!

C

Charlotte

September 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Heavener Runestone is breathtaking! This is our third time, and not our last! We even golfed at nearby Wolf Mountain, on a very well maintained golf course. Clean bathroom and shower house. We found this campground 4 years ago, and have built it into our travels. Highly recommend!!

J

Jeffrey

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Great views. Nice Gift Shop. Knowledgeable and friendly staff! Thoroughly enjoyed the stay.

A

Ashley

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Such a wonderful campsite! The view was breathtaking. Such well maintained bathrooms and showers. Everything was perfect!

J

Joetta

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

The walk to the campsite isn't long or difficult, and it's nice being off the road a little bit. The cliff has a small wall so there's no danger of falling.

S

Sophia

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲

My partner and I loved the location. Easy to find and private. Really nice set up.

B

Brandon

June 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With kids

9 nights at Red Lick RV Park

Rv Campground overall was great with plenty of room & was secluded. With it being a new park the ground was still very soft. Tick & fleas were a major problem that probably should be addressed for future adventures within the campground area anyways. We would stay again & the owners we’re were very accommodating.

B

Bryan

June 2025

30 ft fifth wheel

With pets

9 nights at Red Lick RV Park

Great secluded campground with access to the mountain trails and the lake. If you have a big rig make sure you come from highway 21. We have a 65ft rig and made it no problem. We had a tornado warning during our week and half stay here and the host offered to let us get in his safe room if the need came. Great cam and a great host!!