The best campgrounds near Fort Smith, Arkansas with fishing

Looking to go camping near Fort Smith, Arkansas and enjoy some fishing? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 967 options in the area that cater specifically to fishing enthusiasts, you'll be sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a more comfortable stay, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Red Fern (334 reviews), Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), and Bluegill Hill (121 reviews) for tried and true options. With popular amenities like trash disposal, toilets, and pet-friendly policies, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Plus, you can take advantage of popular activities like boating, exploring historic sites, and of course, fishing. So pack your gear and get ready to reel in some unforgettable memories!

96% (673)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Fort Smith, Arkansas and enjoy some fishing? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 967 options in the area that cater specifically to fishing enthusiasts, you'll be sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a more comfortable stay, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Red Fern (334 reviews), Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), and Bluegill Hill (121 reviews) for tried and true options. With popular amenities like trash disposal, toilets, and pet-friendly policies, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Plus, you can take advantage of popular activities like boating, exploring historic sites, and of course, fishing. So pack your gear and get ready to reel in some unforgettable memories!

96% (673)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%

(515)

33mi from Fort Smith · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Heavener, OK

This 55 acre park is home of a large sandstone that contains 8 markings believed to have been made by Vikings many years ago. The park features a seasonal waterfall, covered picnic areas, playground, amphitheater with seating, community building, scenic views, gift shop and approximately 2 miles of nature trails. Be advised that most tent sites have a tent pad but a few are primitive mountain terrain (rocky). The one RV site is for 16 ft. or less vehicles and smaller teardrop trailers with limited hook-up and no dump station. Restroom and shower facilities are located within the park. Individual campsites DO NOT have onsite toilets. Forest setting while still close to stores in case of forgotten items. Variety of small wildlife in the area. All sites allow campfires UNLESS we are under a county wide burn ban. *Note moderate cancellation policy for most dates - full refund 3 days before check-in time. * ** Special event camping is a strict no refund policy.

2. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%

(128)

44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV · Boles, AR

This beautiful property sits on the banks of the Fourche La Fave (pronounced Foosh La Fay) River. This 151 mile long river was once the grounds of the Caddo Native American Tribe. The river is now home to a wide variety of wildlife, and offers multiple species of fish. Scott County is over 70% public national forest, with thousands of acres of public land available for the outdoor enthusiast. Though this property has the look and feel of woods and river camping, there is actually a 24 hour convenience store less than two miles away just in case you need a midnight snack! Learn more about this land:Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power, LED lighting and a large picnic table. Firepit with added grill for cooking right at the rivers edge. Dedicated hammocking area overlooking the river, or have some friendly competition with a game of Bag-O game (boards provided). This area offers a wide open space for exercising, walking/bike riding along a country road, or just relaxing by riverbank. Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV, and is less than five miles from the Ouachita National Forests' Fourche Mountain Trail. All this but still close to civilization. A 24 hour convenience store is less than two miles from the campsite. This quaint little spot has a lot to offer!

3. End of the Trail

99%

(171)

44mi from Fort Smith · 5 sites · Lodging · Boles, AR

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.

4. Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pettigrew, AR

Learn more about this land:This area is brimming with outdoor activity! The Mulberry River is just a short walk away with all the fishing and paddling you want. There is a public launch with parking just across the road for floating access. Be on the OHT via the Indian Creek spur trail in no time. Byrds Adventure Center is 2 miles down the road for off-road fun, a general store, canoe rentals, and more. *Heads up especially if you are in a small car, it’s usually ok to go down the small hill but in wet weather it may become slick. If you’re not sure about making it back up, there is an area to park by the driveway :)

5. Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%

(21)

50mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · RV · St Paul, AR

Escape to the Ozarks of Arkansas! This is a perfect location to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. The RV pad is on our small 38 acre farm and ranch. Guests enjoy walking down to the creek, riding the dirt roads, and taking day trips to local hikes. Be prepared to drive down 6 miles of dirt road. This can be inconvnient for some but we believe it's part of the charm.

6. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home

94%

(17)

49mi from Fort Smith · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tahlequah, OK

A place carved out of history dating back over 200 years ago. This is where history welcomes you to the Cherokee culture. This land has been handed down for generations and has stayed in the family beginning on my mother’s side of the family, Mary Ann Groundhog, the fourth generation great granddaughter of Sequoyah on the “Dick” side of my family tree. My mother was heavily involved with AIM (American Indian movement). My dad was the last monolingual Cherokee. His name was Mack Vann, he was a man who loved culture and sharing it with visitors and handed down that passion to me. My hip camper site is named after my daddy, I am still a daddy‘s girl. The land originated before Sequoyah. who created the Cherokee syllabary. Sequoyah was my fifth generation great grandfather and I am very proud of my Cherokee heritage, I would love to share my culture, my tradition, and my passion with you. Learn more about this land: Come and experience the authenticity of Tahlequah, Indian country, Oklahoma where almost every resident is Cherokee, Native American, Nature at its most organic state; A place where deer run free, the sunset paints a new picture each evening with glorious colors of warmth and serenity. Away from the hustle and bustle, peaceful, and inviting. Just a short hike or drive to Todd’s access or you can swim, fish, or float down the beautiful Illinois River. Welcome to Oklahoma’s best kept secret. * * * * FREE HIGH SPEED WIFI * * * * Up to 1,000 Mbps upload and download speeds With upload speeds matching download speeds, you can transfer and back up large files with ease. Unlimited data usage, no data caps or throttling. Capacity for all your devices

7. Ozark Base Camp

100%

(4)

47mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Saint Paul, AR

In the historic village of Saint Paul, Arkansas, this site is located along highway 23/16. The National Forest and the White River are nearby. While in town, the site is near the library and minor shopping. Local Ahart's beer wine & groceries are great attractions. The Ozark National Forest is an easy walk - only a half mile away. Incredible year round hiking. Even closer is the White River which has great fly fishing and maybe even catch a sighting of river otters.

8. Hill Top Lodging

100%

(1)

15mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hackett, AR

Learn more about this land: Pull up primitive camp site. Hiking, fishing, and natural beauty of the forest and mountains. Bring your UTV for short excusions to enjoy ridge running near by mountain roads. Ask for details.

9. Wildwoodz

96%

(13)

25mi from Fort Smith · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Mansfield, AR

RV park and campgrounds in Mansfield , Arkansas. Located near highway 378 on Wildwood Road, Wildwoodz RV park and campgrounds deliver convenience to traveling campers. Enjoy the peace and quiet near the National forest, which includes a fire pit, hook-ups with water and electric, a few select sites have sewer, a sewer dump site is available. Trailhead for ATV riding 1.1 miles from campgrounds. Horseback riding or hiking the trials can be accessed from the campgrounds if preferred. See photos

10. Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

37mi from Fort Smith · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Ozark, AR

Camper favorites near Fort Smith

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pettigrew, AR

Learn more about this land:This area is brimming with outdoor activity! The Mulberry River is just a short walk away with all the fishing and paddling you want. There is a public launch with parking just across the road for floating access. Be on the OHT via the Indian Creek spur trail in no time. Byrds Adventure Center is 2 miles down the road for off-road fun, a general store, canoe rentals, and more. *Heads up especially if you are in a small car, it’s usually ok to go down the small hill but in wet weather it may become slick. If you’re not sure about making it back up, there is an area to park by the driveway :)

Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%

(21)

50mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · RV · St Paul, AR

Escape to the Ozarks of Arkansas! This is a perfect location to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. The RV pad is on our small 38 acre farm and ranch. Guests enjoy walking down to the creek, riding the dirt roads, and taking day trips to local hikes. Be prepared to drive down 6 miles of dirt road. This can be inconvnient for some but we believe it's part of the charm.

Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home

94%

(17)

49mi from Fort Smith · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tahlequah, OK

A place carved out of history dating back over 200 years ago. This is where history welcomes you to the Cherokee culture. This land has been handed down for generations and has stayed in the family beginning on my mother’s side of the family, Mary Ann Groundhog, the fourth generation great granddaughter of Sequoyah on the “Dick” side of my family tree. My mother was heavily involved with AIM (American Indian movement). My dad was the last monolingual Cherokee. His name was Mack Vann, he was a man who loved culture and sharing it with visitors and handed down that passion to me. My hip camper site is named after my daddy, I am still a daddy‘s girl. The land originated before Sequoyah. who created the Cherokee syllabary. Sequoyah was my fifth generation great grandfather and I am very proud of my Cherokee heritage, I would love to share my culture, my tradition, and my passion with you. Learn more about this land: Come and experience the authenticity of Tahlequah, Indian country, Oklahoma where almost every resident is Cherokee, Native American, Nature at its most organic state; A place where deer run free, the sunset paints a new picture each evening with glorious colors of warmth and serenity. Away from the hustle and bustle, peaceful, and inviting. Just a short hike or drive to Todd’s access or you can swim, fish, or float down the beautiful Illinois River. Welcome to Oklahoma’s best kept secret. * * * * FREE HIGH SPEED WIFI * * * * Up to 1,000 Mbps upload and download speeds With upload speeds matching download speeds, you can transfer and back up large files with ease. Unlimited data usage, no data caps or throttling. Capacity for all your devices

Ozark Base Camp

100%

(4)

47mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Saint Paul, AR

In the historic village of Saint Paul, Arkansas, this site is located along highway 23/16. The National Forest and the White River are nearby. While in town, the site is near the library and minor shopping. Local Ahart's beer wine & groceries are great attractions. The Ozark National Forest is an easy walk - only a half mile away. Incredible year round hiking. Even closer is the White River which has great fly fishing and maybe even catch a sighting of river otters.

Hill Top Lodging

100%

(1)

15mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hackett, AR

Learn more about this land: Pull up primitive camp site. Hiking, fishing, and natural beauty of the forest and mountains. Bring your UTV for short excusions to enjoy ridge running near by mountain roads. Ask for details.

Wildwoodz

96%

(13)

25mi from Fort Smith · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Mansfield, AR

RV park and campgrounds in Mansfield , Arkansas. Located near highway 378 on Wildwood Road, Wildwoodz RV park and campgrounds deliver convenience to traveling campers. Enjoy the peace and quiet near the National forest, which includes a fire pit, hook-ups with water and electric, a few select sites have sewer, a sewer dump site is available. Trailhead for ATV riding 1.1 miles from campgrounds. Horseback riding or hiking the trials can be accessed from the campgrounds if preferred. See photos

Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

37mi from Fort Smith · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Ozark, AR

Public campgrounds near Fort Smith

Short Mountain Cove Campground

23mi from Fort Smith · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Applegate Cove Campground

25mi from Fort Smith · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Cowlington Point Campground

26mi from Fort Smith · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

Brushy Lake Campground

28mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Brushy Lake State Park

100%

(1)

Wister Lake Campground

37mi from Fort Smith · 153 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wister Lake State Park

Snake Creek Campground

40mi from Fort Smith · 111 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Chicken Creek Campground

40mi from Fort Smith · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Standing Rock Campground

41mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Elk Creek Landing Campground

41mi from Fort Smith · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Cookson Bend Campground

41mi from Fort Smith · 129 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

100%

(2)

Cherokee Landing Campground

41mi from Fort Smith · 138 sites · Tents, RVs · in Cherokee Landing State Park

Sizemore Landing Campground

42mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tenkiller Ferry Lake

Stories from the community

D

Danyelle

1 week ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

Lovvvved this little get away. We took our rambunctious pups here and they had so much fun (they were sad to leave and made some friends while there were there!). The donkeys were so so sweet and the views were wonderful. Jill and her husband were so sweet to us and we had a great time! 10/10 would recommend!

K

Kim

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Amazing spot. They really made sure there’s everything you could need at the site. The river is beyond beautiful. The pavilion had all the extras one could need and more. We had an amazing time and will be back as soon as possible in Spring. I even had a dead battery in my car as we were trying to leave and Daniel came to the rescue to give me a jump start. Best Hipcamp we’ve been to yet!

site features 2 tent pads with space for a couple other tents. Also has 2 tables and a grill

A

Allison

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

My family and I loved tent camping here! The views were beautiful! We were at site #8, it was very pretty and peaceful. Lots of trees for nice shade and great spot for a hammock. There even happened to be a big event at the overlook one of the days we were there, but there was still enough separation that it wasn’t too loud and we still felt like we had our privacy. The Runestone didn’t disappoint! We thought it was cool. We really enjoyed hiking the trails too.

Campsite is pictured on the right side of the photo.

E

Erick

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Beautiful spot and park! Will definitely visit again.

G

Greg

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

Incredible location, great views, and check-in couldn’t have been easier. Highly recommend a stay here at the park!

Lori

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Heavener Runestone Park

Watching the sunset at this location was breathtaking! The campsite, restroom, grounds, and gift shop were clean and well maintained. Everyone there was friendly and very informative. We came for an educational event that was fun and well organized. My family loved every moment of our stay from hiking, seeing the runestone, and tent camping!

R

Roger

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

The campsite was absolutely lovely! The forest felt more like the Black Hills, SD. I had no idea Oklahoma could look like this. It was SO peaceful I could've been 100 miles from civilization, yet Hevener was nestled beautifully in the valley below. Hearing those spooky train horns every hour or so was neat-my boy couldn't get enough! The short hike to the runestone was fun, and that sweet young lady in the gift shop went outta her way for our yard game. What a cozy Oklahoma spot! Terrain was a bit rough and steep and rocky so be advised.

Loreena

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Excellent campsite for our first time visiting the park! The trails were great and easy to navigate, amenities offered worked well, and the host was communicative too. If you plan to stay at this campsite (or probably anywhere in the park), just be mindful there’s a very active train station below the park so you’ll hear it both day & night—earplugs were an essential for me. However, that doesn’t deter my recommendation. The fall leaves were gorgeous, so we picked the perfect weekend to stay.

R

Russ

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Cool views. #10 spot is a lot more of a upward hike than it lets on. It's too far from the site to your vehicle.

Amber

3 weeks ago

22 ft toy hauler

With pets

3 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

We absolutely loved our stay here! Our three dogs had the best time exploring and going on endless “snifaris” (aka sniffing safaris) — so many new smells, trails, and riverside adventures to enjoy. The campsite itself is stunning — the flowing river is perfect for swimming or just relaxing beside, and we spent the evenings by the firepit grilling and listening to the water. The open-air pavilion with lights and power made cooking and hanging out super comfortable, and the hammocking area overlooking the river was an unexpected favorite. Daniel, the host, was amazing — incredibly responsive and friendly. When we messaged about grabbing a little extra firewood (we’d packed light, knowing some would be available) and mentioned that one of the water faucets wasn’t shutting off fully, he replied right away and had it sorted quickly. Between the peaceful scenery, the great amenities, and how close it is to both trails and a convenience store, this place truly has everything — adventure, comfort, and calm. We can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re coming to unwind by the river or explore the surrounding trails, this is one Hipcamp you don’t want to miss!

Joshua

3 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Indian Creek Hideaway

This was my second time staying here and everything I said in my first review still stands. A great location to explore Ozark National Forest from.

k

kellimeyer723

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

A quaint little park with unique history and the perfect hikes for beginners or those needing an hour to waltz with nature. You're outside of town but not so far away that running back for something you forgot to be a real problem. Campsites are as you would expect, a platform that is just big enough for our large sundome tent (8 person), a firepit and metal grill for each site and a concrete and wood picnic table. They even have shepherd hooks for campers to hang a lantern or lights. The camping area is lit up at night by a string of bulb lights, giving just enough glow to get down to the bathrooms without being a nuisance when trying to sleep. A wonderful setup for a relaxing weekend. My son and I were the only people in the park at one point and it was very peaceful. Crows, woodpeckers, and squirrels abound but not much else in the way of wildlife. A definite for families or someone looking for a quiet place to pitch a tent or hang a hammock.

Kathy

November 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

Wonderful rustic park! First is the runestone, whose conjecture seems entirely plausible and fascinating! Second, the park was developed around 1970 and looks like it’s basically been unchanged. Third, it’s just plain beautiful. The staff are awesome and very responsive. We loved it.

T

Tammy

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

Private. Peaceful. Perfect. The donkeys are very curious and seriously beg for you to pet them. The sound of the river was very soothing! We stopped by the pottery place at the beginning of the dirt road. What a gem! So much to explore! Not enough time.

C

Carrick

October 2025

Weekend Trip to End of the Trail

It was a great spot right above the river, plenty of privacy!

G

Gent

October 2025

1 night at End of the Trail

Great place to camp especially if your on a motorcycle

D

David

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

This is a beautiful spot with complete privacy. All the services were easy to access and worked well. The covered pavilion was wonderful touch, and access to the river was easy. The host was very attentive, responding to questions almost immediately. We would recommend this to everyone!

S

Saul

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Amazing spot! We stayed through the weekend! Great views! Amazing amenities, ZJ helped us get power to our camping spot (Overlook Pavilion). Kiddos loved the scavenger hunt and the different hikes. Over all we will be coming back soon! Thank you to all the staff!

C

Charles

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

This is a great spot ti get away. If your wanting remote with amenities this is it.

O

Oliver

October 2025

2 nights at End of the Trail

This place is always great. I bring my dog and she loves running down to the river and through the field. You can see the stars super well on the right nights and sunsets are always awesome. There’s a gas station about 5 minutes down the road where you can restock and a Walmart in Mena is about 30 minutes away. If you want an easy hike, Southern Loop Trail is a good pick around Mena — it’s part of the Earthquake Ridge Trail system just west of town, right off U.S. Highway 270 and only took about 45 mins to do.