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Waterside Camping

The best lakeside camping in Arkansas

Name: Arkansas
Address: Arkansas
Rating: 4.622

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking to camp by a lake in Arkansas? You're in luck! We offer over 450 options in Arkansas that cater to your lake camping preference. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, we have the perfect spot for you. Check out our top campsites like Bluegill Hill (121 reviews), Fresh Life at Rocky Branch (76 reviews), and Indian Lakes Resort (61 reviews) to see what others have loved about these locations. With popular amenities like pet-friendly spaces, campfire pits, and clean toilets, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And if you're into biking, wind sports, or wildlife watching, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Plus, with an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $9, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. Start planning your lake camping adventure in Arkansas with Hipcamp today!

92% (1.3K) • 6,905 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Arkansas

Pea Ridge Bike Camp

1. Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%

(280)

Pea Ridge, AR · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

**NOTE: If the campground is full, always call to see if I have additional sites. The Pea Ridge Bike Camp has 20 primitive campsites available for visitors to Northwest Arkansas and can accommodate tent campers, campervans, small and large campers and RVs. Even smaller Class A motorhomes (length isn't an issue but weight on a grassy field might be a concern should it rain heavily) We offer large, spacious campsites along with firepits, free firewood and large cable spool tables at each campsite. Potable water, 2 outdoor sinks, 2 outdoor showers, 4 large ADA portable toilets (1 in front and 3 in back), and trash bins are centrally located to most of the areas. There is a large in-ground community firepit, a large canopy, 4 picnic tables on the property, a propane barbecue grill, a bike wash station, 2 hammocks on frames and a vintage phone booth (with phone charging capabilities, visitor information and trail maps) onsite. We have added a school bus with a booth and 3 benches as a hangout during inclimate weather. We are currently providing free firewood for each firepit. Very flexible check in/out times. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is about 7 miles to downtown Bentonville and only 5 miles from Exit 88 and I-49. We are located n the country, yet only 1/8 mile to state highway 72. Restaurants, food trucks, groceries, banking and laundry facilities are only 2 miles away in Pea Ridge. We have 10 designated campsites and 10 dispersed campsite locations that are not in any designated area to allow guests some say as to where they camp. We are very flexible with arrival and departure times. We do offer group camping We will allow low-noise generators to be used in dispersed campsites. ** Please let us know If you are planning to use a generator. Our campsites are large with some being very shady and others in full sun. Great for those equipped with solar power. Since our intention is to provide camping space for visitors to the area, we limited the length-of-stay to 10 days. If you are a VISITOR to the area looking to stay for more than 10 days please notify me and I can lift the length-of-stay. Please call with any questions or concerns.

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FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

2. FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

99%

(73)

Hot Springs, AR · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging

Bike to bathhouse row or the National Park. Walk to Oaklawn Casino or Greenway trail. Gated Park with concrete pads, full hook-ups, free Wi-Fi. Call your friends, leash up the pup, and get ready to enjoy a unique stay in the heart of Hot Springs! At Finish Line RV Park, we offer a premium camping experience with: 🌟 Upscale, Concrete RV Pads 🛁 Immaculate, Spa-Like Bathhouse 🎯 Outdoor Pavilion with Horseshoes & Cornhole 🔥 Fire Pits & Picnic Tables at Every Site 🐶 Large Dog Park with Shade & Room to Run 💻 Free Wi-Fi 🧺 Modern Laundry Facility Enjoy curbside trash pickup, ice, firewood, and yard games delivered right to your site! 📍 Just 1 block from Oaklawn Horse Track & Casino 🚶‍♂️ Only 2 miles to Bathhouse Row and a 5-minute walk to Greenway Trail 📌 Close to 3 mines for digging diamonds, crystals, and gems! Please Note: 🚫 No tents or car camping permitted. ✅ RVs must be in good condition 🛑No homemade RV’s OR Schoolies

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Toilets

Full hookups

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

3. Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%

(174)

Fourche, AR · 1 site

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.   Navigate to the entrance here (https://maps.app.goo.gl/GyC2mifqGSaosHSm7) and you will find the main entrance to both sites: 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.   NOTE: Site 2 can only support tents and small popups. The site 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. Toadsuck Lock and Dam 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 Trailpasses 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-trails

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Campfires

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

4. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%

(37)

National forest in Arkansas · 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.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Greers Ferry Lake

5. Greers Ferry Lake

97%

(18)

Park in Arkansas · 1133 sites

Discover Greers Ferry Lake's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Fresh Life at Rocky Branch

6. Fresh Life at Rocky Branch

96%

(181)

Rogers, AR · 1 site · Tent, RV

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. *NOTE* Contrary to popular belief there is no boat dock. Anyone found to be on a dock will be considered as trespassing and may be subject to prosecution. 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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Campfires

Picnic table

Happy Hippy Acres

7. Happy Hippy Acres

99%

(123)

Rogers, AR · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We have 40 acres of woods, tiny 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 that you can bush wack your way through just behind the campground. 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 everyone that 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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Indian Lakes Resort

8. Indian Lakes Resort

97%

(259)

Austin, AR · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

Privately owned lake/campground. We offer tent camping with and without electric. We have a swimming area that includes slides, diving boards and swim platforms along with a roped off area for young children. Each camp site comes with a grill, a picnic table and a fire pit. Most campsites have their own dock as well. Note: The security gate to park closes at 8:00pm and opens again at 7:00am. Arrangements can be made for Hipcampers if they need to leave before 8:00am.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Beaver Lake Glamping & RV Resort

9. Beaver Lake Glamping & RV Resort

88%

(4)

Rogers, AR · 79 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A Relaxed, Nature-Focused Retreat in the Ozarks Modern Amenities, Lake Access, and Pet-Friendly Features in Rogers, Arkansas At Beaver Lake Glamping & RV Resort, you don’t have to choose between nature and convenience — we offer both. From our private boat dock to our sparkling seasonal pool, every feature is here to enhance your outdoor escape. Whether you’re staying a weekend or all season long, our thoughtful amenities keep you comfortable, connected, and carefree.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Ouachita National Forest

10. Ouachita National Forest

96%

(26)

National forest in Arkansas · 342 sites

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

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Mississippi River State Park

11. Mississippi River State Park

100%

(7)

State park in Arkansas · 31 sites

Discover the natural splendor of Mississippi River State Park.

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Toilets

Campfires

Devil's Den State Park

12. Devil's Den State Park

100%

(27)

State park in Arkansas · 161 sites

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

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Toilets

Campfires

Lake Catherine State Park

13. Lake Catherine State Park

100%

(11)

State park in Arkansas · 91 sites

Peace, quiet, and mountain views on the shores of Lake Catherine.

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Toilets

Campfires

Ouachita Campground at Edendell

14. Ouachita Campground at Edendell

96%

(49)

Oden, AR · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Ouachita Campground at Edendell is a great place to stay for outdoor adventures! We offer 26 full hook up rv sites some with free wifi, tent camping, glamping deck, and guest house. We have Kayaks for rent with optional shuttle service. The Ouachita River is 1/2 mile from the property. Near by activities are ATV trails like Wolf Pen Gap, mountain biking, hiking the Womble trail, horseback riding, Lake Ouachita, Twin Creeks Crystal mine, Avant Crystal Mine, and others. Crater of Diamonds mine is 1 hour away. We also have an airsoft battle ground on site for special occasions. Our guest facilities for all campers include bathrooms, showers, laundry, and kitchenette.

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Toilets

Full hookups

Bluegill Hill

15. Bluegill Hill

99%

(233)

Kirby, AR · 1 site · Tent, RV

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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Toilets

Gum Springs RV Park

16. Gum Springs RV Park

100%

(1)

Searcy, AR · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Gum Springs RV Park – Searcy, Arkansas Escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet stay surrounded by nature at Gum Springs RV Park in Searcy, Arkansas. Situated on 117 beautiful acres, our park offers a peaceful basecamp for travelers, anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. What You'll Enjoy • 65 spacious dry camping RV sites • An 8-acre private lake stocked for catch-and-release fishing • More than 100 acres of nature trails perfect for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and exploring • Plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the peace and quiet • Easy access to Highways 67/167 and Interstate 57 • Convenient Location While you'll feel far away from the hustle and bustle, you're only: • 5 minutes from Walmart and everyday necessities • 2 miles from Texas Roadhouse, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Hobby Lobby, and other shopping and dining options • A short drive from Harding University and downtown Searcy Perfect For • RV travelers and road trippers • Boondockers and dry campers • Anglers and outdoor lovers • Birdwatchers and photographers • Families looking for a peaceful weekend getaway • Cyclists and hikers seeking room to roam Whether you're stopping for the night or staying awhile, Gum Springs RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience, open space, and natural beauty that's hard to find.

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Rocky Creek Ranch Voted Best In St.

17. Rocky Creek Ranch Voted Best In St.

100%

(32)

Clinton, AR · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

RCR is 25 acres of natural beauty in the Ozarks. A spring-fed pond on property provides great swimming, fishing and peddle boating. Bring your boat and launch into Greer’s Ferry Lake, 1/2 mile away. Beautiful sunrises and breathtaking sunsets with much to do in between Kayaks available for use on property pond or at the lake Property offers multiple beautiful sites for your RV (boon-docking) or tent and a new glamping tent is available https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8mnmqEE/

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hidden Springs Camping Retreat

18. Hidden Springs Camping Retreat

100%

(16)

Heber Springs, AR · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Escape to a romantic retreat in the heart of nature, where comfort meets adventure. Our spacious RV campsites, thoughtfully designed with plenty of room at 15x45 feet, offer the perfect setting for your getaway. Or, indulge in the ultimate romantic experience with The Gem—our beautiful bell tent, complete with a private hot tub for two. Whether you're cozied up in your RV, soaking in the serenity of your own hot tub, or taking a leisurely stroll down one of our winding trails, every moment at Hidden Springs invites relaxation, exploration, and connection. With its tranquil beauty and intimate atmosphere, Hidden Springs is the perfect destination for you and your loved one to unwind and make lasting memories. Your perfect escape is just a reservation away.

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Campfires

The Lakeside Lounge at Horseshoe

19. The Lakeside Lounge at Horseshoe

100%

(1)

Hughes, AR · 1 site

Private Lakefront Camper/RV Pad w/ Dock Access + Sunset Views. Escape the crowds and experience a peaceful alternative to typical RV parks. Nestled in a quiet residential lakeside neighborhood, this back-in RV pad sits directly on the water, offering front-row views of the lake. Guests have access to a boathouse, making this an ideal spot to bring your own boat and enjoy everything Horseshoe Lake has to offer right from the property. Spend your days fishing, cruising, or exploring the shoreline, then unwind on the large lakefront deck with sweeping water views. The gravel pad includes potable water, 50 and 30 amp electric service, and sewage hookups, providing a comfortable and convenient stay. Enjoy the complementary kayaks, or simply relax by the fire pit and take in the peaceful lake setting. Restaurants near by Stumpy's Dockside Grill https://www.facebook.com/people/Stumpys-Dockside-Grill-at-Kamp-Karefree/100081458351900/ Highwater Landing https://www.facebook.com/highwaterlanding/ Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or a laid-back lakeside escape, The Lakeside Lounge at Horseshoe delivers a one-of-a-kind RV experience. RV Size Fit: This site is best suited for camper vans, Class B and Class C motorhomes, and smaller travel trailers. The pad comfortably accommodates rigs up to approximately 32’ in total length. Total pad size is 50’ x 20’ Due to access and backing geometry, larger Class A motorhomes trailers are not recommended. If you’re unsure about your rig size or fit, feel free to message us before booking — we’re happy to help!

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Full hookups

Adventure on Lake Atkins!

20. Adventure on Lake Atkins!

81%

(27)

Atkins, AR · 29 sites · Tents, RVs

Pitch your tent at Adventure RV Park on 15 peaceful acres beside Lake Atkins. Tent camping is free aside from Hipcamp’s required fees, with a three-night maximum stay. Sites A–E include water and electricity. Enjoy lake access, fishing docks, a boat launch, private pond, pavilion, Wi-Fi, and an on-site bathroom and shower. Bathroom code: 2468.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

That One

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Scraped a few times coming up the road in my lowered 95 camry, didnt do any damage but did have to clear some larger rocks away. Wasn't too bad coming up or down! Beautiful spot. Watched meteor shower and the sunset. Will be back!

Jose

July 2026

Tent

With kids

1 night at Ouachita Campground at Edendell

Joanna was a wonderful host. She was polite, welcoming, and very accommodating with our reserved campsite and arrival time. She took the time to ask about us and our trip, and she provided all the information we needed after meeting us at the guest facility. We also had the pleasure of meeting her husband and son, they are a very lovely family and made us feel even more welcome. The location was quiet, peaceful, and exactly what we were looking for. Although there were two other campers nearby, the sites were spaced far enough apart that we still felt like we had plenty of privacy. The amenities provided were great, and we made use of them during our stay. We also saw fireflies, butterflies, and many other animals, which made the experience even more enjoyable. We truly enjoyed our stay and only wished it had been longer than one night. We would definitely stay here again.

Braden

July 2026

Tent

1 night at Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

Everything was amazing! So thankful to have found this spot! Can't wait to come back!

Nathan

July 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Charles was nothing but amazing and truly put our experience at bluegill hill over the top. Host was extremely helpful and easygoing, couldn’t recommend this spot enough. Great trails to the lake and plenty to do around the area including hikes, boat rentals, good food and more.

Mallorie

July 2026

Tent

2 nights at Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

Thunder Mountain is hands down the best place we have ever camped. Every detail of this property was impeccably thought out and it was truly a trip we will never forget. Though we experienced some rain during our stay, we were able to stay comfortable the entire time. We loved catching fish, swimming in the cool river, using the outdoor bathhouse, and grilling/watching the sunset with a glass of wine. It is clear that this property is well loved by the host. Todd was incredibly accommodating and his communication throughout the trip was top notch. We will definitely return to Thunder Mountain!

Heather

July 2026

Tent

2 nights at Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

Absolutely love this place. But them stairs are a workout 😫 the 100+ stairs was well worth it once we got to the river! 💙 can’t wait to return.

Erin

July 2026

8 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Pea Ridge Bike Camp

This is an ideal paid camp location. Damon has included every extra you could want and more you hadn’t thought of! It was quiet, tidy, and pristine clean, with daylong shade in our site #2. It was a short drive to all mountain biking trail networks. We could wash our bikes in the bike cleaning station and take hot showers after every riding session. And the thing I loved the most was the fully plumbed double sink area with dishsoap and draining rack provided. I could wash my hands with soap and running water after using the exceptionally clean large portalets. These features were better than any paid canping I have done in recent memory.

Maggie

July 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Really nice spot! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a secluded getaway!

Campsite 4 has morning and late afternoon shade

Gary

July 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pea Ridge Bike Camp

Damon is such a great host and knocks himself out making sure you're stay is as enjoyable as possible! Site 4 was perfect. Well shaded and a short walk to the bathroom and shower. This campsite is well protected and I feel very safe staying there.

K.A.

July 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Adventure on Lake Atkins!

Enjoyed the camping trip! Being able to light fireworks on premise with family was a blast. Enjoyed the nearby fireworks show. Would do campsite again!

Addison

July 2026

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rocky Creek Ranch Voted Best In St.

Michelle was a very helpful and accommodating host. We came down on a holiday weekend and despite that she was very attentive to our needs. It rained a lot while we were down but that did not hurt the experience. The water toys and water on property were so fun!

Anthony

July 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ouachita Campground at Edendell

My group and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Ouachita Campgrounds. We had a relatively private campsite, that included a table & chairs, swings to lounge in and a fire pit (with wood provided). Although the site was at a bit of a slant, we made it work. We arrived on July 4th and had the opportunity to get to know the property owners, engage with other campers, and watch the fireworks show that the hosts provided. The hosts were personable, attentive, and engaging. The whole property gives the feel of camping on a botanical garden, with well maintained campsites, phenomenal landscaping, gorgeous ponds to relax by. We took the opportunity to use the laundry room, as we are camping cross-country, as well as the showers. It was so lovely to have access to facilities. Hoping we get the opportunity to camp here again soon!

Amanda

July 2026

18 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

If you’re even thinking about booking this, you should! The host has everything you can think of, and you can tell they put a lot of thought into this place. Walking trials are nice, outdoor seating, outdoor bathroom, river, all perfect! There is quite a bit of stairs to get to the river, be ready for the trek. Even if you stay at the top and sit at the patio, it’s a beautiful view! The host was also very accommodating to dogs, which is a must in my world. Thank you again!!

Shane

June 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Campsite is Clean, close to water, owner is awesome, and it’s pet friendly!

Dot

June 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Ouachita Campground at Edendell

Lovely grounds and the hosts are responsive, gracious, and kind. Had a great overnight rest on my road trip. Thanks again!

It's all about the sunsets! This is on Site 1.

Art

June 2026

Tent

1 night at Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Privacy and view were fantastic!! Highly Recommended.

Scott

June 2026

23 ft truck camper

With pets

1 night at Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

Todd’s place was great. We had intended to camp but the weather had us choose the cabin, which was perfect to listen to the storms on the roof. The river rises quickly with heavy rain so be aware of that, but it’s a beautiful spot to play by the water and the views from the cabin are top notch. Definitely will be saving this for future travels

Jennifer

June 2026

37 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Rustic Ridge

Great place to stay, very clean and great host! We will stay here again.

The bus onsite houses pamphlets for trails, restaurants, etc all local to the area. Yard games, table games. Also has lego table for littler people. Plenty of chairs if you forgot your own! Horseshoes, disc golf all sorts of stuff!

Serri

June 2026

14 ft rooftop tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pea Ridge Bike Camp

Absolutely amazing place to stay at! Owner is very friendly and accommodating. Will stay here again for sure! Not too far from Bentonville/ Rogers area. The nights were very peaceful! If you forgot something walmart drone delivery is available to come right to you at this camp. Highly HIGHLY recommend!