The best waterside camping in Arkansas

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Caddo Gap, AR

(116)

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, playing in the river, or just spending quiet one-on-one time with your spouse or significant other. The last 1/2 mile of dirt road is a little rough, so cars with very low ground clearance are not recommended. Campers on Thunder Mountain enjoy the entire property by themselves - including the unique outdoor bathhouse with outdoor tub and shower, impressive multi-level decks, kayaks, grill, trails, hammocks, and tubes - without the cost of the cabin. The cabin on the property will be vacant during camping stays, but you can still enjoy the WiFi and other amenities outside. Pricing: $30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately. Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings for 1 to 2 nights are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show availability (due to cabin cleaning days). We'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out if possible. If the price looks really high (like $999), that is a date that is available at a low price ($30-50) but will have a later check-in or earlier check-out time. Just ask first before booking it and I'll lower the price!

2. Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

99%

(68)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Eureka Springs, AR

We are a small family ranch nestled in the beautiful hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas! The Homestead at Rocky Acres, PMA has a variety of offerings, including "Creek-side Camping" in an open grass field with plenty of shade trees (including a few mulberries...yum!) along side our spring fed creek. The creek offers small swimming holes with fish, crawdads, tadpoles, and frogs, oh my! There is plenty of nature to hike around, including up to the pasture to visit the horses and pony or along the creek-bed to forage. Onsite, we also offer "The Homestead at Rocky Acres" with three cabins for nightly rentals for a comfortable and cozy stay in nature; cabins are available to be rented individually or for your next group event. Our resort area, "The Vue at Rocky Acres", boasts a luxury barn and pool/hot tub with amazing views and would be perfect for your next event be it a wedding, birthday party, family reunion or retreat! Daily passes to "The Vue" are available upon request for use of pool/hot tub/outdoor kitchen, at an additional charge. We also offer "Horse-play at Rocky Acres" which includes horseback riding lessons, custom experiences, camps and trail rides in partnership with Dawson’s Equine Connection! Visit us on Facebook at The Homestead at Rocky Acres for pictures and more details. Please Note: We are a working ranch/farm. With that said, we have free range cows, horses and chickens. We do our best to keep our field clear for campers, however, you may have visitors.

3. Riverdream Camps

95%

(62)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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! 👌🛶🏊‍♂️🎣🏕🌠

4. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%

(37)

312 sites · Farmington, Arkansas

Two distinct forests rolled into one package! That means twice the amount of outdoorsy goodness to explore. The Ozark National Forest covers most of the Ozark Mountains, including the highest peak in the state. It’s awesome here when the dogwood and redbuds bloom in the spring, and when the leaves change color in the fall. The St. Francis National Forest is more diverse, with the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers running through it, as well as lakes, valleys, and tons of wildlife. It’s the only place in the national forest system where you can access the Mississippi River from the shore, so that right there is a must do! The whole expanse of land is filled with multi-use trails, hundreds of campsites, spots for swimming, fishing, and boating, and even some amazing caves to explore. Mother Nature crushing it as usual.

1133 sites · Higden, Arkansas

5. Greers Ferry Lake

96%

(17)

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

342 sites · Mount Ida, Arkansas

6. Ouachita National Forest

96%

(25)

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

7. Devil's Den State Park

161 sites · Winslow, Arkansas

(27)

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

8. Lake Catherine State Park

91 sites · Magnet Cove, Arkansas

(11)

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

9. Dierks Lake

245 sites · Dierks, Arkansas

Discover Dierks Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.

618 sites · St Charles, Arkansas

10. Beaver Lake and Dam

88%

(21)

Discover the serene beauty of Beaver Lake and its majestic dam.

11. Greeson Lake

373 sites · Daisy, Arkansas

(9)

Discover the serene beauty and outdoor adventures at Greeson Lake.

426 sites · Caddo Valley, Arkansas

12. Degray Lake

93%

(7)

Discover DeGray Lake: A Haven for Recreation and Relaxation.

234 sites · Bull Shoals, Arkansas

13. Bull Shoals Lake

88%

(4)

Discover the serene beauty of Bull Shoals Lake.

Public campgrounds in Arkansas

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

(14)

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

(5)

Crystal Campground

161 sites · Tents, RVs · in Devil's Den State Park

(27)

Devil's Den Campground

91 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Catherine State Park

(11)

Lake Catherine Campground

55 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greers Ferry Lake

(5)

Devils Fork Campground

6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Wolf Pen Recreation Area

29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Lake Sylvia Campground

65 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

(2)

Shady Lake Recreation Area

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area and Campground

35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area and Campground

27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Gunner Pool Recreation Area

1 site · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Ozark Highlands Trail

22 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dierks Lake

Blue Ridge Campground

Stories from the community

Creekside field where you can choose your campsite.

P

Pat

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

Super cozy place to camp! Horses came to visit us and even a very sweet dog. We will absolutely come back again.

Ginny

October 2025

Tent

A truly delightful place! So many thoughtful details like a porch swing by the river and adutch door on the rustic john so sunrise can be seen from the rustic throne. The privacy and quiet provided by the entire place being our own was grand. I've taken the baths at Hot Springs bathhouses and the outdoor bath at Thunder Mountain way surpassed them. Communication was great. The trails were wonderful. The entire property is well cared for . We heard two kinds of owls, saw hawks, an eagle and kingfishers. Saw three different kinds of lizards. I caught a large mouth bass and saw lots of fish hanging out in the clear waters.

The dock is available all year, except during or just after flooding. The property extends to both sides of the river for almost 1/3 mile for serene seclusi. The water is cold and blue from Jan-April; Cool and clear May-June; Warm, mostly clear but slightly green July-Sept

J

Juan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

It was an amazing private campsite had all the comforts of home (power and showers). The view was amazing, all the amenities they had were fantastic, the area was private and quiet. Can’t wait to come back.

K

Katie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Absolutely loved our stay! We hope to be back! Bath house was a great addition to the river experience. Water was hot and had good water pressure. My dog loved playing in the river and exploring the property. They had plenty of trails to explore and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

I had this place saved and kept eyeing it and finally pulled the trigger! I wish I could’ve stayed more than one night! I had been exploring and car camping in Arkansas with my pup and definitely was feeling a shower and so glad I ended up here. It was last minute so I really appreciate the host’s quick response and accommodation. I drive a FWD Honda HR-V so not too low to the ground. I didn’t have any trouble except had to back down hill and speed up to get up the last bit getting into site but I made it and worth it! I got in just in time to setup and go jump in the river and grill a steak and asparagus on their propane grill and then shower in the outdoor shower house. Hot and cold water and great water pressure, it was wonderful and same with sink🙌🏼WiFi worked close to cabin, as mentioned. I had no issue with it while in tent which I set up on the deck (was also able to back my car in close to deck to unload). The outhouse and flushable toilet was cherry on top heading out in the morning. Had so many people asking about it from my snaps. So I will definitely be back and possibly even family vacation in the cabin!

T

Tammy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

In all of my 45 years, and after countless camping trips, I can honestly say this is the most extraordinary place I have ever stayed. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had stepped into something rare and unforgettable. The land itself radiates peace and beauty—every view feels like a painting, every sound like part of a calming symphony of nature. What makes this place stand out isn’t just the scenery—it’s the atmosphere. There’s a sense of care, of intention, that you can feel in every detail. It’s as if this spot was created to remind you what camping is supposed to be: restorative, grounding, and awe-inspiring. I have camped in many places across the years, but nowhere has left me with this kind of deep impression. This isn’t just a camping trip—it’s an experience that stays with you. If you’re looking for a place that renews your spirit and sets a new standard for what camping can be, this is it.

K

Kristen

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverdream Camps

The camp setup was perfect for our family of 3. The tent was really comfortable, and the “kitchen” was super convenient. River access was close but not incredibly easy due to the slope of the bank, but the little beach was a perfect spot to hang out, swim and fish. There were other sites nearby and some noise, but nothing too bothersome. I highly recommend this spot for a small family.

H

Hannah

September 2025

Tent

With pets

I loved tent camping here! We were having a road trip from mn to New Orleans and this was the perfect place to relax…and the kayaks were so much fun!

T

Terry

August 2025

14 ft pop-up camper

With pets

We loved thunder mountain it was beautiful place. Loved the outside shower and bath. Swimming in the creek was nice. Love to come back soon.

S

Shannon

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Wonderful private location with all of the indoor features outdoors! Perfect for tent camping. So easy to upgrade to glamping with running water, electricity, wifi, and deck after deck each with unique views of river and mountains. Blissful tranquility.

D

Darby

July 2025

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

I’ve tent camped here before and it is just wonderful :) this go around I brought my teardrop camper and due to my own problems had difficulty and couldn’t stay the whole time BUT I will MOST DEFINITELY be back!! These hosts are 1000/10, 5 star, totally recommend. A great stay right outside of Eureka Springs, beautiful views, and a great camp site over all!

B

Brooke

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

Absolutely beautiful and peaceful place! I ended up solo camping here as a last-minute halfway stop, and it did not disappoint. The pictures and reviews are spot on—this place is just as amazing as everyone says. Quiet, scenic, and the perfect spot to recharge or have fun, because they really did think of everything! Totally worth the stop! Definitely would be a great family get together camp!

S

Stephanie

July 2025

Tent

2 nights at Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

Amazing view, amazing host, ask host for good places to eat. We made the mistake and ate horrible food that made my husband and myself sick. She then gave a list of places to go. Also she can recommend things to do if you don’t already know.

D

Dallas

July 2025

Tent

Really cool place to stay. The river was super chill and relaxing. The whole place was comfortable, bath house area was lovely and convenient. Several trails to explore. Host was very responsive and welcoming. I would love to stay there again!

Colby

June 2025

18 ft campervan

The host has seriously thought of everything here. From the outdoor games, comforts in nature, vintage soda machine, and watercrafts available, it is awesome. We absolutely loved our stay! We enjoyed the private site, pedal boating, swimming with our dogs, and the luxurious shower house. Taking a bath while overlooking the water was stunning! It was amazing to have comforts like a bathtub, shower, and flushing toilet while camping! We can't wait to go back.

K

Kristin

June 2025

With kids

1 night at Riverdream Camps

We only stayed one night. We went as a quick family trip for Father’s Day. It rained the entire time. This is, of course, completely out of the control of the owner/host. So we do not hold it against them haha. We did have about an hour break in the rain that evening and we took that opportunity to do a little fishing right on the bank of Kings River and grill some burgers and turkey dogs. The only thing that was “inconvenient”, if I had to pick something, is that the grill was actually a grate over the fire pit. Which really wasn’t an inconvenience so much as it was just unexpected. If I had known this beforehand, I would have brought along some cast iron, or at the very least, aluminum foil. The food still turned out great and we had plenty of firewood. We purchased an extra bundle and didn’t even need it since the host graciously supplied the first one. I can’t speak on the actual bathrooms because we didn’t use them. They were back up the hill from the yurt. However, there is a porta potty located at about the middle of the 3 surrounding spots. As well as a fully functioning sink in the kitchen areas. The bed was comfortable. The fan felt great. We stayed completely dry even though it rained the whole time. The yurt and the site were very clean. I also MUST mention, the water was so crystal clear. I could see my daughters feet and every rock she was standing on FROM THE BANK! It was beautiful! Just remember, Glamping is still camping!!! We will definitely ‘Glamp’ again!!!

S

Stephen

June 2025

Tent

Absolutely lovely stay at thunder mountain. They have thoughtfully provided every necessity and even most luxuries you wouldn't expect in the Backcountry. My wife and I loved the bathhouse, what a unique addition to an already perfect cabin getaway. Thank you!

D

Dena

May 2025

Tent