Camping in Arkansas with wildlife watching
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.
- Arkansas
96% (3031 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds in Arkansas with wildlife watching
98%
(975)
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.
from
$30
/ night
95%
(50)
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.
from
$20
/ night
98%
(862)
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.
from
$20
/ night
100%
(339)
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
from
$25
/ night
100%
(38)
Jubilee Farms Campground
21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Leola, Hot Spring
James and Jimmilea Berryhill and three other families live on this 80-acre farm. They have been hosting guests for 7 years. They welcome respectful and happy guests to this place where Christian families enjoy the outdoors and where country life is celebrated. There are several children, lots of ducks and chickens, a few guineas, and turkeys. Although we no longer have goats as our, granddaughter is off to college, we do still have goat's milk soaps. We love hospitality and will interact as much or as little as guests desire. We have 4 RV sites, 4 tent sites, and a guest room.
from
$12
/ night
99%
(203)
Ouachita River Haven
22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents14 acres · Pencil Bluff, Montgomery
Welcome to Ouachita River Haven!
Nestled between Ouachita National Forest property and the Ouachita River, our Haven is a peaceful little slice of nature for you to take a break, catch your breath, and enjoy the outdoors! Property has 1000 ft of river access, with canoe & kayak docks, swimming hole, volleyball and tetherball, horseshoes, swings.
We offer hiking, mountain biking, and river shuttles as well as canoe/kayak/tube rentals and shuttles. Such trips should be reserved in advance by messaging us or visiting our website.
Our office sells firewood for $5/bundle. We also have a small array of custom woodwork items from our woodshop, freeze dried snacks and hiking restocks, food from local vendors, and souvenirs!
All primitive sites have a picnic table, fire ring, and campfire grill grate.
Electric sites are 30 amp, if using for tent camping you will need a 3-prong converter (we can rent one to you for $5 if you do not have your own). RV/Camper MAXIMUM length is 28 feet.
Tipi rental is a camping experience only; it does not have electricity, a/c or heat. There are solar lights inside. We do have a Queen Sized outdoor bed and bedding available to add to rental for $10/night.
Bunkhouse is a camping experience - bring your own bedding. A/C, heat, electricity, TV & DVDs, Microwave, and Mini fridge are inside. Guests use campground restrooms
Campground restrooms and showers are a short walk from campgrounds.
We are pet-friendly. Dogs must be leashed at all times that they are not in a tent or camper and friendly with other dogs and people. There is a working dog on the property-he is friendly with all people and dogs.
from
$30
/ night
98%
(88)
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!
from
$25
/ night
97%
(81)
Caddo River River-front Camping
22 sites · Tents15 acres · Caddo Gap, Montgomery
Offseason is Nov 1st - March 31st. We will be unable to host during these dates.
Shaded, semi-primitive , non-defined (first come/first served) camping. You may even score a river front spot, depending on when you arrive. We have 15 beautiful shaded acres, so you'll definitely find a spot. Please note, when you are looking at the map, the numbered areas are RV sites, Not tent camping. Look for the areas on the Campground Map that say "camping".
We have big clean bathrooms and hot showers. Camping areas are both near and far from small rustic cabins and RVs. Choose more secluded locations or new friends. Shared electricity in some places. Bring your long extension cord. We also have a little shop that likely has anything you forgot. A full grocery store is 8 miles away, also. We sell firewood, ice and ice cream, too!
NOTE: If the office is closed, pick a spot and check-in in the morning.
Caddo River Camping and Canoe fulfills our float trips. They can be reached at 870-356-5336.
We're near tons of hiking, biking, OTV trails and surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Diamond and crystal mining and historic Hot Springs, AR.
from
$17
/ night
99%
(355)
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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$25
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(19)
Tranquility on the Arkansas River
3 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Mayflower, Faulkner
Come experience the awe that we get to experience daily. The river is in our backyard and we want to share our slice of heaven with you.
The river is a place for relaxation, as well as being a great place to fish or just hang out with friends. The river also provides an opportunity for learning about nature and wildlife.
The sound of birds is one of the most beautiful sounds on Earth. It is a sign of life, it is a sign of hope. Birds are plentiful along the river and you are sure to enjoy the concert that they have prepared specially for you.
There's no need to drive too far from Little Rock – in fact, you can find a great campsite just across the Arkansas River from P. Allen Smith's famous Moss Mountain farm. This spot is teeming with wildlife, and you may even be able to catch some fish or watch Eagles soar. Stargazing is strongly encouraged here – under a dark sky, the stars appear big and bright.
Please enjoy your stay and help us keep it that way.
No parties and no unsupervised minors.
We are in the country and there are no fences. You may be greeted by neighborhood dogs. We have never experienced any aggression and most of them are happy to get pet by our guests. If they are bothering you, simply provide a stern, "go home" and they usually will leave you be. On the other hand if you pet and feed them they will be your new best friend.
We host on Hipcamp because we love the outdoors. We love traveling across the country, exploring, and experiencing new things. We are fortunate enough to have found our slice of heaven and we're so excited to share it with other travelers from near and far. It often becomes an opportunity to hang out with like minded people and make new friends.
from
$30
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94%
(245)
The Farm Campground and events
60 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Eureka Springs, Carroll
The Farm is backed up to Mark Twain National Forest. Beaver Lake, Table Rock Lake and the White River are all within 5 miles of this location. The White River offers the region’s best Trout Fishing and Beaver Lake is well known for its big Striped & Largemouth Bass. Canoeing is also popular on the White River The blue ribbon Kings River, which is a world class Smallmouth Bass fishery is 12 miles from the venue. The Farm sits about 9 miles outside of historic Victorian town of Eureka Springs Arkansas which offers a wide variety of shopping and nightlife entertainment, This venue offers 360 degree panoramic views of the heart of the Ozarks. In addition to being a campground, the venue also hosts multi-day music festivals, concerts, food competitions and more.
We do have ice and firewood for sale. It is self serve and located by the barn with a payment box (video surveillance)
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$10
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(61)
Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp
7 sites · Lodging, Tents104 acres · Newton
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.
from
$20
/ night
Under $50
Available this weekend
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping in Arkansas with wildlife watching guide
Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for all things camping! If you're looking for a unique outdoor experience in the heart of wildlife watching paradise, look no further than Arkansas. With over 1,200 options specifically tailored to wildlife watching enthusiasts, there's something for everyone. From the stunning Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park (378 reviews), to the serene Red Fern (334 reviews), and the charming Petit Jean Farm Orchard (137 reviews), you're guaranteed to find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature. With popular amenities like potable water, toilets, and pet-friendly locations, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable camping trip. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $5, you can experience the great outdoors without breaking the bank. So why wait? Start planning your wildlife watching adventure in Arkansas today!
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