The best waterfall campgrounds near Alma, Arkansas

Looking to go camping near Alma, Arkansas? Hipcamp has you covered with over 560 options to choose from. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin rentals, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your outdoor adventure. With an average price per night of $26 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Looking for recommendations? Check out these top campsites: Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), Petit Jean Farm Orchard (137 reviews), Bentonville Bike Camp (110 reviews). Plus, popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water are readily available. And if you're into surfing, wind sports, or snow sports, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in Alma, Arkansas!

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Alma

Looking to go camping near Alma, Arkansas? Hipcamp has you covered with over 560 options to choose from. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin rentals, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your outdoor adventure. With an average price per night of $26 and options as low as $5, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Looking for recommendations? Check out these top campsites: Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), Petit Jean Farm Orchard (137 reviews), Bentonville Bike Camp (110 reviews). Plus, popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water are readily available. And if you're into surfing, wind sports, or snow sports, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favorite activities. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in Alma, Arkansas!

95% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Alma

1. Red Fern

97%

(1187)

45mi from Alma · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

2. Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

99%

(119)

41mi from Alma · 1 site · Tent

Winding river bottoms, gravel bars, overlooks, waterfalls, & 200+ year old oaks! Walk on the same untouched trails Native Americans took followed later by Civil War soldiers. We've been working hard to create the trails, views, and unique experiences for you to enjoy God's Creation only 10 minutes from a Walmart! Tired of camping next to people? With 60 acres for your enjoyment and gated entrance, you won’t see anyone else during your whole stay! 15 min from I-49 with Walmarts and gas stations even nearer keeps you close to town. You can choose from multiple campsites, but we will not book anyone else during your stay. Camp right next to the Illinois River under giant oaks, ash trees, and sycamores with a waterfall behind you and the river in front. Or move up the hill and enjoy the 10 mile view (when leaves are dropped) while watching the sunset. Seriously, it’s the best view west of Fayetteville. The deep shade of the campsite with the breeze coming over river keeps the space surprisingly cool even in extreme heat. Feeling fun? Camp in the old dirt mine with 10’ walls around you shaded by a massive pine growing in the center and oaks around the perimeter. Hiking trails have been cut for you to enjoy the property. Make sure to check out “Mini Hawksbill Crag”- a rocky outcropping hanging off the cliff side. Another fun trail leads you up a creek bed with multiple small waterfalls. A couple canoes and kayaks are available to float the river if you desire as an add on. You can go upstream easily in normal water flow! If you’re looking for fun family time with your kids, I will do whatever I can to help you during your stay to make lasting memories. We’re big believers in families enjoying the outdoors together! A truck can be driven to riverside campsite when dry or there is a 100 yard walk from a small parking area. More vehicles can be parked on top of hill which is 5 minute walk. There is a picnic table and fire pit at the riverside campsite. Bald Eagles are seen most days in the winter. Birders will also appreciate the feeder in the campsite. Fishing poles are available as an add on. You can bring your own too! Catch small mouth, large mouth, bream, crappie, catfish, gar, and carp/buffalo, but you’re competing with the neighborhood beaver so be on the lookout for him! Please release small mouth besides a legal keeper is 14" (6-7 year old fish!) and limit of 2. Rear wheeled drive vehicles should park at the parking area by old stable Absolutely no hunting wildlife or foraging mushrooms without prior approval.

3. Heavener Runestone Park

97%

(515)

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.

4. Lake Fort Smith State Park

100%

(4)

40 sites · Chester, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. 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

6. Boston Mountain Arkansas Adventures

100%

(13)

10mi from Alma · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to our serene retreat situated on 20 acres! We offer: 1 cozy tiny home 1 primitive campsite Explore our established walking trails and check out our fish pond. Our charming tiny home spans 400 sq ft and includes 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, full-sized appliances, and a 100 sq ft deck overlooking the pond. Campsite 1 is now open and features a tent platform, picnic table, and a fire pit for your enjoyment. Want to try camping and don't have the gear - we have you covered with a four-person tent, queen size air mattress, cooking stove/pots and sleeping bags/blankets. - You don't have to set it up or take it down, we take care of all of it for you! Just ask to add the Glamp It Up Package (a $25-set up/take down fee, plus an additional 20.00 per night fee will be charged for use of all camping equipment. This also helps to cover the cost of waste management, washing gear, dishes, etc. Nearby attractions include: Lake Fort Smith Ozark Highland Trail (OHT) Ozark-St. Francis National Forest Devils Den State Park Devils Canyon Shores Lake Recreation Area Fern Recreation Area Mulberry River Natural Dam Illinois River Mt. Magazine State Park Fayetteville to Bentonville Bike Trail University of Arkansas Please remember, this is mountainous country; black bears, foxes, deer, coyotes, and even feral pigs may be in the area, at any given time.

7. Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

31mi from Alma · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land:This area is brimming with outdoor activity! The Mulberry River is just a short walk away with all the fishing and paddling you want. There is a public launch with parking just across the road for floating access. Be on the OHT via the Indian Creek spur trail in no time. Byrds Adventure Center is 2 miles down the road for off-road fun, a general store, canoe rentals, and more. *Heads up especially if you are in a small car, it’s usually ok to go down the small hill but in wet weather it may become slick. If you’re not sure about making it back up, there is an area to park by the driveway :)

8. Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%

(30)

27mi from Alma · 14 sites

Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!

9. 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

Public campgrounds near Alma

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%

(3)

Richland Creek Recreation Area

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

100%

(3)

Wolf Pen Recreation Area

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

100%

(2)

Jack Creek Recreation Area

38mi from Alma · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Knoppers Ford Campground

38mi from Alma · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Cove Lake Recreation Area and Campground

38mi from Alma · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Lake Wedington Campground

42mi from Alma · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(2)

Little Pines Recreation Area

44mi from Alma · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Ozone Recreation Area

45mi from Alma · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(1)

Redding Recreation Area

45mi from Alma · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail

46mi from Alma · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

L

Luke

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

Perfect secluded property for camping with off leash dogs. Tyler’s instructions on accessing the property were clear and he was quick to respond to any inquiries. Nice hiking trail to explore and enjoy the solitude and views. Will definitely visit again.

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!

Meghan

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

We chose the glamping option which I would recommend. When we arrived, our tent was fully set up with a double high queen mattress, cooking and eating utensils, paper towels, toilet paper, and bottled water. Since the weekend was suppose to be cold, there were tons of blankets and even a propane powered heater provided. The site we were at needed a little more tender, loving care as it was a fresh, new site, but was in a beautiful spot overlooking a lovely, blue swimming hole. The sounds of the river/creek and our crackling fire were magical. Due to unforseen circumstances, (and unexpectedly frigid weather that we were not completely prepared for) we had to cut our trip short, but Sam and Michelle were completely understanding. We love visiting Arkansas and the property was beautiful, especially with the fall leaves in full color. I would definitely recommend this spot and would come back in the future. Also, the directions were clear and easy to follow and any questions or concerns were promptly addressed.

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.

J

Joseph

November 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

Was an amazingly beautiful place and photos do it justice. Was a great time with my family!!

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.

Joshua

November 2025

13 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Indian Creek Hideaway

This was my second time staying here and everything I said in my first review still stands. A great location to explore Ozark National Forest from.

J

Joshua

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Red Fern

Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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.

And this isn’t even a pretty sunset! Just wait until you get one while you’re here.

S

Sam

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

My new favorite hipcamp! A wonderfully kept site with many amenities. (chairs, lights, picnic tables, established fire pit, and chiminea), a short private hiking trail, and river accesses. I can't wait to come back in the spring and summer and shuttle our kayaks!

A

Alyson

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Red Fern

Great site! Had the whole area to ourselves. Was peaceful, quiet and beautiful!

Travis

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

Great place on the river with trails on the property and public trails nearby. Convince store is 5 minutes down the road. Host is awesome and very helpful. Perfect place to go and unplug for a few days! Highly recommended!

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!

k

kris

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

Nice spot. I would go back again. Make sure you have AWD or 4WD.

Mysty

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

The customer service was outstanding. The view from our spot was amazing camp site #9. Sites and facilities were very clean. Highly recommend!! Thank You for an awesome stay.