The best camping near Barling with swimming

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Barling draws swimmers with over 1,500 campsites where you can cool off in rivers, creeks, or spring-fed ponds. Average prices hover around $30 a night, but you’ll find spots as low as $15 if you keep an eye out. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are common, so you won’t have to rough it unless you want to. Fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching round out most days here. Locals head to Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews) for shaded swimming holes and ancient carvings, or Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp (96 reviews) for a quiet stretch of water and deer at dawn. For a more tucked-away swim, try End of the Trail (85 reviews)—just you, the river, and a sky full of stars. Bring a towel, leave your worries, and dive in.

97% (672) 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Barling

Paradise Camp

1. Paradise Camp

100%
(18)
34mi from Barling · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$15
 / night
Heavener Runestone Park

2. Heavener Runestone Park

97%
(520)
34mi from Barling · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Indian Creek Hideaway

3. Indian Creek Hideaway

98%
(33)
40mi from Barling · 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 :)
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$23
 / night
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

4. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%
(3)
Park 128mi from Barling · 47 sites
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
Lake Fort Smith State Park

5. Lake Fort Smith State Park

100%
(4)
State park 27mi from Barling · 40 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
End of the Trail

6. End of the Trail

99%
(176)
41mi from Barling · 5 sites
This property was once home to American Indians and arrowhead are abundant.Learn more about this land:65 acres on the Foursch La Fave river surrounded by Ouachita National Forest.. This property has access to ATV trails, horse back riding, Kayaking, hiking, along with great sunrises and beautiful sunsets. At the property entrance we have a 3 bedroom 2 bath home that is available for rent thru Evolve.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

7. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(133)
41mi from Barling · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night
Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

8. Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%
(22)
46mi from Barling · 1 site
Escape to the Ozarks of Arkansas! This is a perfect location to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. The RV pad is on our small 38 acre farm and ranch. Guests enjoy walking down to the creek, riding the dirt roads, and taking day trips to local hikes. Be prepared to drive down 6 miles of dirt road. This can be inconvnient for some but we believe it's part of the charm.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$41
 / night
Ozark Base Camp

9. Ozark Base Camp

100%
(4)
45mi from Barling · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
In the historic village of Saint Paul, Arkansas, this site is located along highway 23/16. The National Forest and the White River are nearby. While in town, the site is near the library and minor shopping. Local Ahart's beer wine & groceries are great attractions. The Ozark National Forest is an easy walk - only a half mile away. Incredible year round hiking. Even closer is the White River which has great fly fishing and maybe even catch a sighting of river otters.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

10. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Park 28mi from Barling · 94 sites
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
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

11. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%
(37)
National forest 52mi from Barling · 312 sites
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
Devil's Den State Park

12. Devil's Den State Park

100%
(27)
State park 31mi from Barling · 161 sites
Hike past ancient rock formations or take a pedalboat out on the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ouachita National Forest

13. Ouachita National Forest

96%
(25)
National forest 63mi from Barling · 342 sites
The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Morning Light Mountain Lodge

14. Morning Light Mountain Lodge

100%
(7)
49mi from Barling · 1 site
Peaceful Cabin with beautiful mountain views adjoining Ouachita National Forest After years of searching, we finally found that one perfect place, our own slice of a mountain with spectacular views and access to so many of our favorite outdoor adventure activities. By the Grace of God, we have made a place we adore. Learn more about this land: Morning Light Mountain Lodge is our 5.7 acre dream come true on the side of Round Mountain in the Ouachita Mountains. We have several beautiful hiking trails and two breathtaking vistas at which to gaze at the picturesque mountains in the distance. “Meandering Trail” takes you to where the property borders the gigantic Ouachita National Forest. Keep going if you please. It’s 1.8 Million acres of wilderness made just for you! A true hunters paradise teeming with deer and other wildlife. The national forest is also accessible via Roger’s Pass and an easement. Bring your ATVs!If you like spectacular sunrises then this is the place for you. Just pray you have enough disk space on your camera! The Legendary Talimena Byway is just a few miles down the road; a 54 mile winding wonderland across the backs of the mighty Winding Stair and Ridge Mountains with dozens of pull-offs and vistas that are a feast for the senses. Plenty of Ouachita’s endless hiking trails can be accessed from the byway. Kayaking the incredible Kiamichi river can also be on your agenda. Check out paddlers websites and forums for details and ideal entry points. Anyone like fishing? Oklahoma’s premier Bass fishing lake, Cedar Lake is a short 20 minute drive. Just wait till you see this lake; the happy little lake you’d expect in a Bob Ross masterpiece. Morning Light Mountain Lodge is a beautiful and wild place with plenty to keep you busy enjoying God’s Creation. It has a remote feel but is easily accessible from Talihina, LeFlore, Wister, Poteau, and Fort Smith, AR. Come and visit this magical place. You’ll be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$139
 / night
Chateau aux Arc RV Park

15. Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%
(30)
33mi from Barling · 14 sites
Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!
Brushy Lake State Park

16. Brushy Lake State Park

State park 112mi from Barling · 14 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Blue Mountain Lake

17. Blue Mountain Lake

100%
(1)
Park 37mi from Barling · 64 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Blue Mountain Lake.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Wister Lake State Park

18. Wister Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 40mi from Barling · 153 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tenkiller Ferry Lake

19. Tenkiller Ferry Lake

50%
(7)
Park 46mi from Barling · 550 sites
Named for the prominent Cherokee family who owned the land and ferry, Tenkiller Ferry Lake is steeped in history and picturesque views. With the clearest body of water in Oklahoma, the lake offers abundant water activities: fishing, scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, the list goes on so be prepared to get wet! Be sure to check out the floating restaurant too! Farm to table? More like lake to table. Off the lake, explore the rocky bluffs and lush vegetation. Get a nice view of the water from the shore, and have your breath taken away with the spectacular sunsets. Tenkiller Ferry Lake is sure to become an annual trip.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Barling draws swimmers with over 1,500 campsites where you can cool off in rivers, creeks, or spring-fed ponds. Average prices hover around $30 a night, but you’ll find spots as low as $15 if you keep an eye out. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly sites are common, so you won’t have to rough it unless you want to. Fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife watching round out most days here. Locals head to Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews) for shaded swimming holes and ancient carvings, or Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp (96 reviews) for a quiet stretch of water and deer at dawn. For a more tucked-away swim, try End of the Trail (85 reviews)—just you, the river, and a sky full of stars. Bring a towel, leave your worries, and dive in.

97% (672) 69 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Barling

Paradise Camp

1. Paradise Camp

100%
(18)
34mi from Barling · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$15
 / night
Heavener Runestone Park

2. Heavener Runestone Park

97%
(520)
34mi from Barling · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Indian Creek Hideaway

3. Indian Creek Hideaway

98%
(33)
40mi from Barling · 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 :)
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$23
 / night
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

4. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%
(3)
Park 128mi from Barling · 47 sites
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
Lake Fort Smith State Park

5. Lake Fort Smith State Park

100%
(4)
State park 27mi from Barling · 40 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
End of the Trail

6. End of the Trail

99%
(176)
41mi from Barling · 5 sites
This property was once home to American Indians and arrowhead are abundant.Learn more about this land:65 acres on the Foursch La Fave river surrounded by Ouachita National Forest.. This property has access to ATV trails, horse back riding, Kayaking, hiking, along with great sunrises and beautiful sunsets. At the property entrance we have a 3 bedroom 2 bath home that is available for rent thru Evolve.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

7. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(133)
41mi from Barling · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night
Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

8. Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%
(22)
46mi from Barling · 1 site
Escape to the Ozarks of Arkansas! This is a perfect location to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. The RV pad is on our small 38 acre farm and ranch. Guests enjoy walking down to the creek, riding the dirt roads, and taking day trips to local hikes. Be prepared to drive down 6 miles of dirt road. This can be inconvnient for some but we believe it's part of the charm.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$41
 / night
Ozark Base Camp

9. Ozark Base Camp

100%
(4)
45mi from Barling · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
In the historic village of Saint Paul, Arkansas, this site is located along highway 23/16. The National Forest and the White River are nearby. While in town, the site is near the library and minor shopping. Local Ahart's beer wine & groceries are great attractions. The Ozark National Forest is an easy walk - only a half mile away. Incredible year round hiking. Even closer is the White River which has great fly fishing and maybe even catch a sighting of river otters.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night
Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

10. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Park 28mi from Barling · 94 sites
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
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

11. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%
(37)
National forest 52mi from Barling · 312 sites
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
Devil's Den State Park

12. Devil's Den State Park

100%
(27)
State park 31mi from Barling · 161 sites
Hike past ancient rock formations or take a pedalboat out on the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ouachita National Forest

13. Ouachita National Forest

96%
(25)
National forest 63mi from Barling · 342 sites
The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Morning Light Mountain Lodge

14. Morning Light Mountain Lodge

100%
(7)
49mi from Barling · 1 site
Peaceful Cabin with beautiful mountain views adjoining Ouachita National Forest After years of searching, we finally found that one perfect place, our own slice of a mountain with spectacular views and access to so many of our favorite outdoor adventure activities. By the Grace of God, we have made a place we adore. Learn more about this land: Morning Light Mountain Lodge is our 5.7 acre dream come true on the side of Round Mountain in the Ouachita Mountains. We have several beautiful hiking trails and two breathtaking vistas at which to gaze at the picturesque mountains in the distance. “Meandering Trail” takes you to where the property borders the gigantic Ouachita National Forest. Keep going if you please. It’s 1.8 Million acres of wilderness made just for you! A true hunters paradise teeming with deer and other wildlife. The national forest is also accessible via Roger’s Pass and an easement. Bring your ATVs!If you like spectacular sunrises then this is the place for you. Just pray you have enough disk space on your camera! The Legendary Talimena Byway is just a few miles down the road; a 54 mile winding wonderland across the backs of the mighty Winding Stair and Ridge Mountains with dozens of pull-offs and vistas that are a feast for the senses. Plenty of Ouachita’s endless hiking trails can be accessed from the byway. Kayaking the incredible Kiamichi river can also be on your agenda. Check out paddlers websites and forums for details and ideal entry points. Anyone like fishing? Oklahoma’s premier Bass fishing lake, Cedar Lake is a short 20 minute drive. Just wait till you see this lake; the happy little lake you’d expect in a Bob Ross masterpiece. Morning Light Mountain Lodge is a beautiful and wild place with plenty to keep you busy enjoying God’s Creation. It has a remote feel but is easily accessible from Talihina, LeFlore, Wister, Poteau, and Fort Smith, AR. Come and visit this magical place. You’ll be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$139
 / night
Chateau aux Arc RV Park

15. Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%
(30)
33mi from Barling · 14 sites
Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!
Brushy Lake State Park

16. Brushy Lake State Park

State park 112mi from Barling · 14 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Blue Mountain Lake

17. Blue Mountain Lake

100%
(1)
Park 37mi from Barling · 64 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Blue Mountain Lake.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Wister Lake State Park

18. Wister Lake State Park

100%
(1)
State park 40mi from Barling · 153 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tenkiller Ferry Lake

19. Tenkiller Ferry Lake

50%
(7)
Park 46mi from Barling · 550 sites
Named for the prominent Cherokee family who owned the land and ferry, Tenkiller Ferry Lake is steeped in history and picturesque views. With the clearest body of water in Oklahoma, the lake offers abundant water activities: fishing, scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, the list goes on so be prepared to get wet! Be sure to check out the floating restaurant too! Farm to table? More like lake to table. Off the lake, explore the rocky bluffs and lush vegetation. Get a nice view of the water from the shore, and have your breath taken away with the spectacular sunsets. Tenkiller Ferry Lake is sure to become an annual trip.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field