Forest camping in Arkansas with campfires

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.

96% (3374 reviews)
96% (3374 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arkansas

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds in Arkansas with campfires

97%
(177)

Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

40 sites · RVs, Tents2500 acres · Jasper, AR
With a lifetime of love for the Ozarks Donny is anxious to share this unique opportunity to experience true wilderness with you. The trails are maintained with respect for the natural growth and inhabitants of the area. You may encounter wild elk and deer. Of course, visiting the property's herd of buffalo is a must.Your camping fees entitle you to hike the trail system.We also offer motorized recreation if you bring your 4 wheeler, side by side, Jeep, dirt bike or bicycle. Additional fees apply to wheeled trail recreation.
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$15
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98%
(1014)

Red Fern

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · St Paul, AR
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.
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$30
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98%
(896)

Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

99 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Greenbrier, AR
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 in a riparian jungle. Camp in total solitude or camp with all your 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 even 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 Trail 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. We love everyone!! 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 always invited to return as a "friend of the Cadron" and receive 10% off on future reservations.
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$20
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99%
(163)

Bluegill Hill

3 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Kirby, AR
Located at the southern foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and the northwestern edge of Lake Greeson, this 6 acre plot of land is part of a gentle hillside that descends into the lake.  Enjoy two trails to Lake Greeson and easily access nearby boat launches, public beaches, parks, and much more!  Come make yourself at home on Bluegill Hill and enjoy the small lake village lifestyle!
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$18
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100%
(61)

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

8 sites · Lodging, Tents104 acres · AR
Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp is far more than your ordinary campground! This 104-acre Ozark Mountain wonderland’s biggest draw would be hard to pin down. We are offering off-the-beaten-path serenity, with huge areas for each rental space, and unmatched hospitality. Sip morning coffee while you lose your cares in the vast mountain views, enjoy the pristine natural beauty that surrounds you in the deer meadow. Hike trails that meander to the seasonal creeks and waterfalls, past ancient walnut and hickory trees, to rest on large rock formations thick with moss, or take the high trails to the top of our bluff where views and natural oddities reward you at every bend, or just lay in the hammocks by the frog pond with a good book. Wildlife abounds on this property, including fox, black bear, deer, chipmunks, groundhogs, bobcat, and tons more. We offer fantastic add-ons like creation stations where tables of art supplies can be laid out for either self-initiated projects or sample projects with instruction by hostess, Mizzy (a working artist with pieces in every continent, save Antarctica). Forage hikes, where you learn about the immense variety of edible plants, guided photo op hikes, cut and make your own walking stick ( and make it your own by wood burning, adding leather and feathers), are just a few of the options we have daily to add to your stay. Close to the Little Buffalo River and the quaint little town of Jasper, where you can shop, eat at the famous Ozark Cafe, or rent a kayak. One-of-a-kind stays include a fully off-grid container tiny house, boondock RV space, super large tent spaces, and coming soon a hippy van sleeper, cordwood log cabin, (we encourage sustainable building questions) we may be farther off the beaten track than those roadside places, but we are so very worth it. Come be Enchanted.
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$20
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Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

3 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Rogers, AR
We have 40 acres of woods, waterfalls, hiking, stargazing, bird watching, and sunset watching for the campers who like primitive camping. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a quiet, natural area to camp in, and destinations to see close by. Private area with sun, and plenty of shade. Blackberry's are available to pick in late June or early July. There are three logging trails you can hike just behind the campground. They lead to a creek you can follow for moderate hike. There are cliffs, and plenty of scenery to enjoy. We are a short drive away from Eureka Springs, Turpentine Creek(big cat sanctuary), War Eagle Cavern, and War Eagle Mill. Hobbs State National Park is close by off Scenic Highway 12, with biking, and walking trails galore! We are also close to many of the NW Arkansas mountain biking trails in the area! Access to Beaver Lake is a short drive or a long hike down the scenic rock roads. Due to the remote, and private location, we want to remind anyone consuming alcohol under the age of 21 will not be tolerated. Safety is very important to us. We are looking forward to seeing you. Happy Camping!
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$28
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97%
(18)

Crystal Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Mount Ida, AR
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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$20
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(1)

Barn On The Buffalo

19 sites · Tents5 acres · Jasper, AR
Welcome to The Barn on the Buffalo, where adventure awaits along the picturesque shores of the Little Buffalo River. Our tent campsites offer water access, inviting you to bring your kayaks and canoes for endless outdoor fun on the tranquil waters. Conveniently located within three miles of downtown Jasper, Arkansas, our campground puts you within easy reach of charming cafes, eclectic curio shops, a grocery store, and even dollar stores for any last-minute essentials. Immerse yourself in the small-town charm of Jasper, nestled in scenic Newton County, where outdoor enthusiasts will find a paradise of hiking, canoeing, hunting, and fishing opportunities. As our guest at The Barn on the Buffalo, you'll have access to drinkable water and public bathrooms, ensuring your comfort throughout your stay. Whether you're embarking on a thrilling river adventure or simply unwinding by the campfire under the starry sky, our campground provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories and outdoor experiences. Join us at The Barn on the Buffalo for an unforgettable camping getaway in the heart of Arkansas's natural beauty. Explore, relax, and reconnect with nature as you create cherished moments along the banks of the Little Buffalo River.
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96%
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Fresh Life at Rocky Branch

1 site · RV, TentRogers, AR
This land was purchased in the early 70's as a future family home site. It was never developed. It has been used by family and friends for various holidays and just camp outs. Now you can enjoy it as well. Learn more about this land: Primitive camping on Beaver Lake across from Rocky Branch Marina, Surrounded on three sides by this gorgeous lake. Light rolling hills with mature trees landscape this private lake front hideaway . There are a few residential executive homes nearby. This camp is hosted by Beaver Lake Outdoor Center. Kayak, jet ski rental available upon request. Close to Hobbs State Park Conservation Area, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art(from Rockwell to Warhol and everything in between); War Eagle Mill and Caverns, Museum of Native American History, The Walmart Museum, Eureka Springs, just a short 40min. drive to Bentonville airport (XNA). Please remember if you "pack it in then pack it out", and absolutely no glass.
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$30
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Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents81 acres · Glenwood, AR
80+ acres all to yourself!! This beautiful and very secluded property, with river, kayaks, trails, and creeks is offered to only one group at a time to ensure peace, quiet, and seclusion. No other guests will overlap your stay. You will enjoy the peaceful solitude in nature completely alone! It's a great location for romantic getaways, silent personal retreats, yoga, or just spending quiet one-on-one time with your spouse or significant other. Campers on Thunder Mountain enjoy the entire property, including the unique outdoor bathhouse with outdoor tub and shower, amazing multi-level decks, kayaks, grill, trails, hammocks, and tubes - without the cost of the cabin. The cabin will be vacant during camping stays, but you can still enjoy the WiFi and other amenities outside. ($30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately) Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show due to cabin cleaning days. We'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out if possible.
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$50
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Adventure RV on Lake Atkins

120 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Atkins, AR
Welcome to Adventure RV, nestled by the scenic Lake Atkins in Arkansas! Our park spans a serene landscape, offering direct access to world-class fishing in the 752-acre Lake Atkins. Anglers can expect abundant catches of largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, with bass reaching up to 6 pounds. Surrounded by natural beauty, our park is not just a stay but an experience. Enjoy the peaceful environment, relax by our own pond, or explore nearby trails for hiking and picnicking. Just a short drive from modern conveniences, Adventure RV combines the tranquility of nature with the comforts of accessibility. Whether you're here for the fishing legend of Lake Atkins or to unwind in the great outdoors, our park is your gateway to a memorable adventure. Join us and discover why Adventure RV is more than a park; it's a destination for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike!
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$40
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94%
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Riverdream Camps

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Berryville, AR
RiverDream Camps is a small quiet Campground on the Kings River, near Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Featuring Riverside Campsites & Accommodations RV's, Tents, Cabins & Campers Climate Controlled Bathrooms 🚻 Hots Showers 🚿 Pet Friendly 🐕‍🦺👍 And PRIVATE ACCESS to the Kings River! 👌🛶🏊‍♂️🎣🏕🌠
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$40
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Star Hosts in Arkansas

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Forest camping in Arkansas with campfires guide

Overview

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.

Where to go

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.

States near Arkansas

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