Camping in Arkansas

With 52 state parks and two and a half million acres of national forest, you can soak in hot springs, hunt for diamonds, or cast a line in the Natural State.

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12 top campgrounds in Arkansas

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Bentonville Bike Camp

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Bentonville, Benton
Learn more about this land: Just two miles from the highway and on a very peaceful piece of land. Great for gravel mountain bikers because we are on the gravel road and you can connect to the riding trails from here. We have a total of 10 acres of grass available to choose from; two sites with a 110 hook up. We have fresh well water to fill your tanks and a dump station. There's a bike stand to wash your bikes, community fire pit* to get to know others, clean and well-maintained port a potty, and now with a heated outdoor shower! The creek runs in the spring or after a good rain. Good dogs are always welcome. We are avid mountain bikers and travelers and we live on the property. Don't want to hassle with a tent? We've got a great A-frame... check it out! We've been hosting since May '22 and it has been a blast! We pride ourselves on offering our guest plenty of space and a peaceful, country setting. Biking distant to nearby trails - 2 miles to Slaughter Pen or Handcut Hallow. Less than 1 mile to the Snowbird trailhead, part of the Back 40. *Firepits are also at sites 1-4, as well as one in the meadow for dispersed camping.
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Spa City HipCamp Now

5 sites · RVs5 acres · Hot Springs National Park, Garland
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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Camp Bentonville

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Bentonville, Benton
Welcome to our charming RV and tent site nestled in the heart of Bentonville's blossoming art and outdoor scene! If you're seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of cultural flair, you've found your perfect getaway. Campfires crackle and laughter echoes in the air – you're free to embrace the magic of a flickering firelight under the starlit skies. Our site comes complete with a convenient portable toilet for your comfort and privacy. Bring along your furry friends because pets are more than welcome to join in on the adventure! You'll find potable water available to keep everyone hydrated and happy, and a rustic picnic table where stories and meals can be shared. Stay connected to the digital world while you disconnect from the routine. Enjoy the best of both worlds with reliable WiFi and excellent cell reception, ensuring you can share your unforgettable moments with friends and family. Got wheels? No problem! Our pull-in site accommodates vehicles under 24 feet, making it easy for you to settle in and start making memories. And speaking of memories, you're in for a treat with a plethora of exciting events just around the corner. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of live music, explore the stunning art at the Crystal Bridges American Art Museum, and experience the innovative brilliance at the Momentary. Bentonville isn't just a destination; it's a cultural phenomenon. Rejuvenate your senses as you explore a dozen golf courses and embark on bike excursions that cater to every style. The city's vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty make it a Southern hub for arts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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Red Fern

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · St Paul, Madison
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. Lose yourself in a fairy-tale land. With endless places to explore and amazing natural features at every turn this experience will not disappoint. 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.
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Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

64 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Greenbrier, Faulkner
TOTALITY! Reservations for the 2024 Eclipse now available -- music, arts and science for all. And because we are located right on the Cadron we also offer kayak and canoe rental, guided trips, and shuttle service to various observation points and natural scenic areas. FYI: You'll not find more for less -- limited availability. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park lies within a private nature reserve of hiking trails, waterfalls, bluffs, cascading streams and wildlife -- it is all here. The campground is off the radar -- there are no highway signs or advertisements -- yet offers comfortable and safe refuge to guests whether staying in a tent, camper, RV or one of our cabins. On site you can find swimming, paddling, fishing, hiking, a 6-acre foraging field, and 9-hole Frisbee golf course, a Ninja rope course with zipline and slackline, rope swing, bouldering, climbing, psicobloc and more outdoor pursuits than one has time. And Woolly Hollow State Park, Cove Creek Natural Heritage Area and Greer's Ferry Lake all lie within biking distance. New to camping? Need a flush toilet, kitchen sink and daily shower? Hate bugs, hate thorns, or hate wild critters? Or simply don't like being outside and in a primitive setting? Then this may NOT be the place!! But if you want to sneak away and find a lovely little place to unwind and bathe in a forest under a tall canopy of standing pines and oak trees, then Pinnacle Springs is where you need to be. Pinnacle Springs also offers riverside camping on the banks of the North Fork of Cadron Creek -- central Arkansas' premier whitewater stream -- and is less than an hour's drive from Little Rock (only 15 minutes from Conway and I-40). Camp by the side of a river. Camp at the foot or atop a towering bluff. Camp in a cave. Camp by a waterfall. Camp in a riparian jungle. Camp in total solitude or camp with friends and family. We offer so many choices one can select a site that perfectly fits their needs. And if you want total seclusion -- a real "wilderness experience" and are willing to "hike-in" a couple of hundred paces we can provide that too. No traffic noise here! Rather, you'll be soothed by the sound of cascading water echoing off the bluffs -- great for outdoor sleeping and keeping the air fresh and alive. Many of the camp sites are equipped with a heavy picnic table, fire pit and grill, lamp post and level tent site. And if you like to swing -- we have trees! Hammocks and slacklines are the best no trace tree thing ever! And although Pinnacle Springs Campground lies in an off-the-grid wilderness setting there is good cell phone service, a water hydrant can be found near the front gate behind the store, and electrical outlets for recharging phones and such can be found on the ridge at nearby Camp Toasty. And from March through November hot water showers are freely available. Guests are encouraged to explore any of the trails that criss-cross the property especially if you like waterfalls, scenic views, cascading streams, and goat trail bluffs. The Tanner Pool is especially popular after a heavy rain, Bluff Trail offers a nice perch for viewing the river below, and the 1+ mile "circuit trail" is a great way to start one's day. Our place is a bit rough, rugged and unruly yet we call it home -- a place where everyone regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, political views, religion, national origin, or culture is welcomed to come enjoy nature's marvelous works and wonders. So we invite you to come down to the Cadron and sit a spell. Unwind. Kick back. And enjoy! BTW: Those that find our campground a good fit and leave us a welcoming review are invited to return as a "friend of the Cadron" and receive 20% off on future reservations.
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Crystal Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Mount Ida, Montgomery
The Crystal Camp Campground is a rock hounding paradise and is less than two minutes from the Crystal Vista, Wegner and Avatar Crystal mines. This area of Arkansas produces some of the finest quartz crystals on earth and your chances of finding real treasure at any of the nearby mines is pretty much guaranteed. If your kids like to play in the dirt and hunt for treasure they will fill their pockets with real gems at any of the nearby mines. Please Note: This is a beautiful property and ready for your trip but guests should expect a work in progress as well. The property is newly cleared, we installed new picnic tables and have a weekly maintained porta potty on site. But that's the extent of the amenities right now. This property was basically a 2 acre blackberry patch. About half has been cleared and 4 campsites created but the rest is still in progress. Work will not be performed during your stay. You may see tools and signs of recent work etc.. Located on a paved section of Owley Road in Mount Ida Arkansas. This is a large 2 acre property with four cleared sites that offer plenty of room for any size tent(s). Generators are welcome and pets are too. The property is bordered by old growth national forest and an ice cold spring fed stream is located in the national forest behind the property. Like all wooded areas in Arkansas ticks should be expected while hiking and camping at the Crystal Camp Campground. Please bring tick defense for yourself and pets.
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A quiet nights rest at H & G RV

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Hazen, Prairie
The property has been in our family for many years.  The location used to be in soybean and wheat fields but now is in hay.  We are located 1.4 miles south of Interstate 40 (Exit 193) in Hazen, Arkansas with easy access.  We have had many great guest come and stay on our property and have been able to recharge for the next days journey.  We have 13 RV hook ups and plenty of room to boondock and camp to get a safe and quiet nights sleep.  We would love to have you come and stay with us!!Learn more about this land:We are a quiet country/farm setting 1 mile south of Interstate 40 off of Exit 193 in Hazen, Arkansas. It’s not fancy but is safe and quiet with close proximity to Interstate 40 and Hwy 70. We are right beside Wattensaw Management Area for hunters. *Hookups are available for 30 amp and 50 amp RVs and Campers. Please add this as an extra (located at the bottom of the listing) for $15 so we can get you setup with the best site available. Hookups are $20 + $15 for $35/night. We are in the heart of deer and duck hunting in the state of Arkansas. It’s a perfect spot to get a good nights sleep to get refreshed to hit the road the next day!
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Sunsets on the Arkansas River

2 sites · Tents13 acres · Fourche, Perry
Learn more about this land:Sitting above the Arkansas River you have an excellent view of the river from two vantage points. With a large almost 2 acre clearing there is plenty of room to roam.  Magical sunsets and more stars than you can count!  When it's a full moon, you can watch it coming up through the trees as you are sitting in front of the fire.  If you are really lucky, sometimes you can watch the searchlight from the river barges as they navigate the big bend in the river.  If you are a nature lover this place has it all.  We try to keep fire wood stocked at the sites, but sometimes it gets used up before we can restock.  If that is the case there is TONS of dead wood all around the site.  If it's on the ground it's fair game.  We only ask that you don't take down live trees.  You guys know the deal, we all love the trees so lets show them some love, cool?  If you find there is no wood around, give us a ring and we will do our best to get some to you.Navigate to the entrance here (tinyurl.com/ArkRiverOverlook) and you will find the main entrance to both sites:Site 1 (tinyurl.com/OverlookSite1)(34.949993, -92.569705) The first of the two that sits at the top of the hill as you enter Rock Island road (this is the name on old county maps).  The narrow entrance is just to the left, right before you start to head down the hill.  It's a bit of a tight squeeze for anything larger than a full-size pickup truck.  Secluded, with stupendous views of the river and Lollie Bottoms on the other side.  If you have a pair of binoculars you can watch the farmers working the fields and count all the cows over in the bottoms.  This site has an 8'x8' deck where you can pitch a tent or just set up some chairs and sit under the stars.  Just above the platform is a small area that has been leveled for a small camper, that measures approximately 12' x 6' in total.  There is also a cabin in the works, so if the weather is really bad you can get in it and out of the rain.  But be warned, it's a metal building so it's LOUD when it's raining.  Eventually this will be a fully furnished cabin with AC, shower, queen size bed, etc.NOTE: Only small campers (like small popups) can fit on this site.  It cannot support campers taller than ~10 feet or longer than ~18 feet.  If you want to use a camper PLEASE contact us ahead of time so we can ensure you won't have any issues.Site 2 (tinyurl.com/OverlookSite2)(34.951358, -92.569561)Is located near the bottom of the road but actually has two views of the river.  It is very secluded and a little more concealed, which can be good on hot days as there are more trees for coverage.   There are a lot more trees on this site so if you don't want to be out in the open this is the one for you.  The canopy protects you from the sun so your tent doesn't get too hot during the day.  NOTE: Site 2 can only support tents and small popups.Both sites will allow for multiple vehicles to be parked, so no problem there.  If you bring any vehicles please do not ride them on the property as they damage the grass, there are lots of good off-road riding to be had in the area.If you have 4wd, then find your way to the Million Dollar lookout (tinyurl.com/MillionDollaView).  It's been a favorite lookout for years, and I promise it will not disappoint!  If you have 4wd or at least a vehicle with decent clearance you can head down to the end of the road (tinyurl.com/DownByTheArkRiver).  At the end of Ledwedge Rd, it becomes an unmaintained road that goes all the way down to the river and crosses the railroad tracks.  If you are really lucky you will get to see a train pass by, up close and personal.  The road is pretty rocky so be warned, you really do need clearance on this road!If you want to fish on Lake Maumelle go to North Shore Landing (tinyurl.com/NorthShoreLanding), it's only 5.8 miles from the property.  North Shore Landing on Lake Maumelle is a beautiful short hike to the edge of the lake, surrounded by wildlife and greeted by an amazing view of the lake.  Set up a picnic and just hang out and fish! A little further and you will come to Crossroads Food Mart convenience store.  They have gas, food, and beverages (some alcoholic ones too), ice, etc.  They can even make a pizza that you can go and pick up if you are in the mood!  They have everything you need to make for a perfect camping trip.  If you want to come to pick up the pizza just call ahead!  (tinyurl.com/CrossRoadsFoodMart)The Rock Island railway is down below next to the river and there are plenty of trails you can ride around on as well.  You aren't far from two National Forests so day trips from here are a breeze.  If you are into gardening or local farm-to-table cuisine you should check out Moss Mountain Farm. Toadsuck Lock and Damn park are about 30 minutes away, and if you need a big Walmart there is one 10 minutes past that.  There is also a big Walmart about 30 minutes in the other direction at the intersection of Chenal Parkway and Cantrell Road.And if you like hiking and climbing then you cannot miss Pinnacle Mountain State Park!  Climb to the top and get the best views in all the area, 360 degrees views up there.  And if you want something a little less steep, the Kingfisher trail at the bottom makes a nice gentle loop next to the Little Maumelle river where you can see absolutely GIANT cypress trees.  Also, the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (tinyurl.com/OuachitaNRT) passes just 5 miles from our place, and it loops around the entire north side of Lake Maumelle.  There is a trailhead and parking near North Shore Landing.There is plenty of mountain biking in the area too.  Here's a link to some of the trails:  mtbproject.com/directory/8007059/pinnacle-mountain-state-park-monument-trailsThere is something for everyone here!
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1440 Dreamland

71 sites · RVs, Tents366 acres · Shirley, Van Buren
Become immersed in a natural Ozark dreamland destination at this 366-acre Tent/ Small RV Campground named ‘1440 Dreamland.’ If you love outdoor adventure, this property is for you! Take advantage of the ponds, the hiking trails, and the 5-acre private lake, perfect for fishing and wildlife viewing. Secluded natural decks speckled throughout the forest that boasts sweeping views of the Ozark Mountains exist in the Ridgetop Lake and Upper Bluffs Areas! The Campground Area begins at the front of the property where you enter through the gated area of 1440 Dreamland. Based upon your reservation, you will be directed to your area of choice. Constant contact can be kept through the Hip camp App to assist you through arrival and departure. Our staff prides themselves on delivering an experience to remember. Feel free to ask any questions you have before and after reservations are made. What are you waiting for? Book Now!
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End of the Trail

2 sites · Lodging65 acres · Boles, Scott
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.
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Petit Jean Farm Orchard

2 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Morrilton, Conway
Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your small trailer or RV in a picturesque orchard on the edge of Petit Jean Mountain. You'll have a backdrop of woods and grazing sheep, with the Petit Jean Farmer's Market barn -- offering locally sourced produce, cheese (some made on the premises), baked goods, honey, preserves, meat, and crafts -- only steps away. The market operates on Saturdays, when hot lunches are often served, but it is open on a self-serve basis the rest of the week. Petit Jean State State Park is a very short drive, with spectacular hiking trails, a CCC-built lodge and restaurant, and a lake. Campers are welcome to use the fire pit, grill, and trampoline, and they have access to the half-bath in the barn. They're also more than welcome to help Ed with the chores : ) An electric hookup is $10. Firewood is available for $10.
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Valley of peace campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Pindall, Newton
Learn more about this land: Spring fed stream, small waterfall, can swim in creek or sit and listen to rippling water. Explore national forest or float buffalo river 7 mi away ,climb Sam's throne 13 mi away Enjoy a fishing trip to lake with guide to hot spots where fish are biting [ 4 days notice] fish from boat ever thing provided message for more info. work in process to improve off the beaten path. occasional bald eagle sightings, deer, and other wildlife. These are large camp spots 1&2 are neighbors 3&4 5&6 { Located 7 mi. east of Mount Judea Ar. } For 360 videos of each campsite checkout: https://valleyofpeace.jmrmsite.com/ The site will redirect you back to HIPCAMP for booking
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Camping in Arkansas guide

Arkansas is full of surprises, with botanical gardens, ancient cave systems, and massive lakes that draw anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and birders. It’s also a hot spot for rockhounding, with tons of mineral-rich mines and quarries where visitors can hunt for everything from quartz to diamonds. Here you’ll also find one of the most unusual national parks in the country—Hot Springs National Park—where campers can "take the waters" in traditional bathhouses, just as people did more than a century ago. Fishing and birdwatching are popular Arkansas pastimes, and many state campgrounds sit on or near lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, who nest across Arkansas in the winter months.

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest-growing regions of the state, offering a mix of cute towns and Ozark adventure. The largest state park in Arkansas, the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, is here, offering 54 miles of trails and campsites only reachable by mountain bike. Major geological features in the region include the Boston Mountains (part of the southern Ozarks), a forested region full of hiking trails, caves, and springs, particularly in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.

Southwestern Arkansas

Southwest Arkansas is characterized by lakes, wooded forests, and plenty of opportunities to get out and rockhound. Highlights include Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can dig for diamonds and other minerals, and Millwood State Park, a popular spot for fishing, birdwatching, and camping.

Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas is home to the state capital and biggest city, Little Rock. About an hour away sits Hot Springs National Park, with its historic bathhouses, a couple of which invite visitors to soak to this day. Camping opportunities abound—you can rent campsites and cabins year-round at Lake Ouachita State Park or try to nab one of the first-come, first-served sites at Lake Sylvia Recreation Area, celebrated for its 18-acre lake.

Northeastern Arkansas

Northeastern Arkansas offers opportunities for fishing, water sports, and learning about what life was like in this region many years ago. Highlights include the Parkin Archaeological State Park, which preserves 17 acres of what was once a Native American village, and the Hampson Archeological Museum State Park, where you can check out archaeological artifacts from the area.

Southeastern Arkansas

Southeastern Arkansas' Lower Delta Region offers a mix of historic Civil War sites, scenic lakes, and opportunities for bird- and wildlife-watching. Hit Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state, and the Arkansas Post National Memorial, a National Park Service-run living history museum showcasing life on the Grand Prairie in the late 1800s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Arkansas is an excellent destination for camping, with a diverse range of options from state parks to national forests and private campgrounds. The state offers beautiful landscapes, including the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, numerous lakes, rivers, and hiking trails. You can find various camping experiences, such as tent camping, RV parks, and cabin rentals, on Hipcamp. Keep in mind that the best time to go camping in Arkansas is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is more mild and comfortable.

Yes, boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in Arkansas on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). You can find boondocking opportunities in the Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. However, it is essential to follow the guidelines and rules set by these agencies, such as camping at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and trails, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Private land may also offer boondocking opportunities, but you must obtain permission from the landowner first. You can find private land camping options in Arkansas on Hipcamp.

To find free camping in Arkansas, you can explore the state's national forests, where dispersed camping is often allowed. Dispersed camping generally means camping outside of developed campgrounds, with no amenities such as water, restrooms, or picnic tables. In Arkansas, Ouachita National Forest and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are great places to start looking for free camping opportunities. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check the specific regulations for each area before camping. You can visit Hipcamp for more information on camping in Arkansas.

Camping fees at Arkansas State Parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. Prices generally range from around $12 to $42 per night for tent and RV camping. Primitive campsites are typically the least expensive, while sites with electrical and water hookups or full hookups cost more. Some parks may also offer cabin rentals at higher prices. You can find more information about specific Arkansas State Parks and their camping fees at Arkansas State Parks website.

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