- Camping with Hiking
The best camping near Fort Smith with hiking
96% (762) • 1,697 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Smith
Wildwoodz
1. Wildwoodz
96%
(13)
25mi from Fort Smith · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Heavener Runestone Park
2. Heavener Runestone Park
97%
(526)
33mi from Fort Smith · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Paradise Camp
3. Paradise Camp
100%
(18)
37mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$15
/ night
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
4. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
100%
(3)
Park 133mi from Fort Smith · 47 sites
Not to be confused with John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake extends 26 miles along the Arkansas River in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its shoreline is characterized by bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs, open fields, and urban developments.
There are oodles of recreational opportunities among four smaller parks, most notably fishing. The fertile waters harbor all kinds of fish native to the state, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocks the lake with striped sea bass and sauger. Year round catch includes catfish, bream, crappie, white and largemouth bass. Multi-purpose trails are also a popular activity.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Ozark Lake
5. Ozark Lake
87%
(5)
Park 19mi from Fort Smith · 102 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Ozark Lake and its myriad outdoor activities.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Indian Creek Hideaway
6. Indian Creek Hideaway
98%
(33)
44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 :)
Pets
Picnic table
from
$23
/ night
End of the Trail
7. End of the Trail
99%
(179)
44mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
8. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
100%
(134)
44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 hiking, ATV/UTV/Jeep riding, and many other activities 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 forgot something or need a midnight snack!
Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power, LED lighting and a large picnic table. New for 2026 is the full custom bathroom! (Toilet, Sink and Hot Shower!) We think you'll love it! There's a firepit, (firewood provided free) with a nice pergola (porch swings too!) There is also a camp style 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 the riverbank. Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV or Jeep, 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!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$41
/ night
Tin Top Village
9. Tin Top Village
96%
(71)
48mi from Fort Smith · 3 sites
3 private cabins in the country, isolated yet accessible, park-like setting with glamp-camp accommodations!
Great ride for bicyclist or motorcycles.
Less than 10 miles to University of Arkansas Campus.
Near Lake Sequoyah Park, Stonebridge Meadows Golf Course.
Base camp to events and venues across Northwest Arkansas.
Be close to happenings in Fayetteville, yet have a country get-away feel.
Hike the property, enjoy campfire gatherings, relax with all the conveniences of home.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool
10. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool
Park 23mi from Fort Smith · 94 sites
Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam is known for its fishing and swimming beaches. Anglers will be excited about the abundance of bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, and sunfish. Yum! There are also three swimming beaches here, so bring your swimsuit and sunscreen. Got a boat? Bring it! Launch your sailboat, motorboat, or kayak on the refreshing waters and check out the great surrounding views of spring flowers or fall foliage. There’s a short hiking trail in the park if you want to wander around a bit. This park is ideal for campers seeking a quiet, relaxing getaway on the water.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Fort Smith State Park
11. Lake Fort Smith State Park
100%
(4)
State park 28mi from Fort Smith · 40 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Brushy Lake State Park
12. Brushy Lake State Park
State park 107mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
13. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
98%
(37)
National forest 51mi from Fort Smith · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home
14. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home
94%
(17)
49mi from Fort Smith · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$36
/ night
Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals
15. Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals
100%
(23)
50mi from Fort Smith · 1 site
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$41
/ night
Morning Light Mountain Lodge
16. Morning Light Mountain Lodge
100%
(7)
47mi from Fort Smith · 1 site
Peaceful Cabin with beautiful mountain views adjoining Ouachita National Forest
After years of searching, we finally found that one perfect place, our own slice of a mountain with spectacular views and access to so many of our favorite outdoor adventure activities.
By the Grace of God, we have made a place we adore.
Learn more about this land:
Morning Light Mountain Lodge is our 5.7 acre dream come true on the side of Round Mountain in the Ouachita Mountains. We have several beautiful hiking trails and two breathtaking vistas at which to gaze at the picturesque mountains in the distance. “Meandering Trail” takes you to where the property borders the gigantic Ouachita National Forest. Keep going if you please. It’s 1.8 Million acres of wilderness made just for you! A true hunters paradise teeming with deer and other wildlife. The national forest is also accessible via Roger’s Pass and an easement. Bring your ATVs!If you like spectacular sunrises then this is the place for you. Just pray you have enough disk space on your camera! The Legendary Talimena Byway is just a few miles down the road; a 54 mile winding wonderland across the backs of the mighty Winding Stair and Ridge Mountains with dozens of pull-offs and vistas that are a feast for the senses. Plenty of Ouachita’s endless hiking trails can be accessed from the byway. Kayaking the incredible Kiamichi river can also be on your agenda. Check out paddlers websites and forums for details and ideal entry points. Anyone like fishing? Oklahoma’s premier Bass fishing lake, Cedar Lake is a short 20 minute drive. Just wait till you see this lake; the happy little lake you’d expect in a Bob Ross masterpiece. Morning Light Mountain Lodge is a beautiful and wild place with plenty to keep you busy enjoying God’s Creation. It has a remote feel but is easily accessible from Talihina, LeFlore, Wister, Poteau, and Fort Smith, AR. Come and visit this magical place. You’ll be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$139
/ night
Ozark Base Camp
17. Ozark Base Camp
100%
(4)
47mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Chateau aux Arc RV Park
18. Chateau aux Arc RV Park
73%
(30)
37mi from Fort Smith
Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!
Ouachita National Forest
19. Ouachita National Forest
96%
(25)
National forest 67mi from Fort Smith · 342 sites
The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wister Lake State Park
20. Wister Lake State Park
100%
(1)
State park 37mi from Fort Smith · 153 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
96% (762) • 1,697 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Smith
Wildwoodz
1. Wildwoodz
96%
(13)
25mi from Fort Smith · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Heavener Runestone Park
2. Heavener Runestone Park
97%
(526)
33mi from Fort Smith · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Paradise Camp
3. Paradise Camp
100%
(18)
37mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$15
/ night
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
4. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
100%
(3)
Park 133mi from Fort Smith · 47 sites
Not to be confused with John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake extends 26 miles along the Arkansas River in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its shoreline is characterized by bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs, open fields, and urban developments.
There are oodles of recreational opportunities among four smaller parks, most notably fishing. The fertile waters harbor all kinds of fish native to the state, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocks the lake with striped sea bass and sauger. Year round catch includes catfish, bream, crappie, white and largemouth bass. Multi-purpose trails are also a popular activity.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Ozark Lake
5. Ozark Lake
87%
(5)
Park 19mi from Fort Smith · 102 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Ozark Lake and its myriad outdoor activities.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Indian Creek Hideaway
6. Indian Creek Hideaway
98%
(33)
44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 :)
Pets
Picnic table
from
$23
/ night
End of the Trail
7. End of the Trail
99%
(179)
44mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
8. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
100%
(134)
44mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · Tent, RV
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 hiking, ATV/UTV/Jeep riding, and many other activities 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 forgot something or need a midnight snack!
Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power, LED lighting and a large picnic table. New for 2026 is the full custom bathroom! (Toilet, Sink and Hot Shower!) We think you'll love it! There's a firepit, (firewood provided free) with a nice pergola (porch swings too!) There is also a camp style 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 the riverbank. Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV or Jeep, 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!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$41
/ night
Tin Top Village
9. Tin Top Village
96%
(71)
48mi from Fort Smith · 3 sites
3 private cabins in the country, isolated yet accessible, park-like setting with glamp-camp accommodations!
Great ride for bicyclist or motorcycles.
Less than 10 miles to University of Arkansas Campus.
Near Lake Sequoyah Park, Stonebridge Meadows Golf Course.
Base camp to events and venues across Northwest Arkansas.
Be close to happenings in Fayetteville, yet have a country get-away feel.
Hike the property, enjoy campfire gatherings, relax with all the conveniences of home.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool
10. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool
Park 23mi from Fort Smith · 94 sites
Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam is known for its fishing and swimming beaches. Anglers will be excited about the abundance of bass, crappie, catfish, walleye, and sunfish. Yum! There are also three swimming beaches here, so bring your swimsuit and sunscreen. Got a boat? Bring it! Launch your sailboat, motorboat, or kayak on the refreshing waters and check out the great surrounding views of spring flowers or fall foliage. There’s a short hiking trail in the park if you want to wander around a bit. This park is ideal for campers seeking a quiet, relaxing getaway on the water.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Fort Smith State Park
11. Lake Fort Smith State Park
100%
(4)
State park 28mi from Fort Smith · 40 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Brushy Lake State Park
12. Brushy Lake State Park
State park 107mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
13. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests
98%
(37)
National forest 51mi from Fort Smith · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home
14. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home
94%
(17)
49mi from Fort Smith · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$36
/ night
Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals
15. Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals
100%
(23)
50mi from Fort Smith · 1 site
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$41
/ night
Morning Light Mountain Lodge
16. Morning Light Mountain Lodge
100%
(7)
47mi from Fort Smith · 1 site
Peaceful Cabin with beautiful mountain views adjoining Ouachita National Forest
After years of searching, we finally found that one perfect place, our own slice of a mountain with spectacular views and access to so many of our favorite outdoor adventure activities.
By the Grace of God, we have made a place we adore.
Learn more about this land:
Morning Light Mountain Lodge is our 5.7 acre dream come true on the side of Round Mountain in the Ouachita Mountains. We have several beautiful hiking trails and two breathtaking vistas at which to gaze at the picturesque mountains in the distance. “Meandering Trail” takes you to where the property borders the gigantic Ouachita National Forest. Keep going if you please. It’s 1.8 Million acres of wilderness made just for you! A true hunters paradise teeming with deer and other wildlife. The national forest is also accessible via Roger’s Pass and an easement. Bring your ATVs!If you like spectacular sunrises then this is the place for you. Just pray you have enough disk space on your camera! The Legendary Talimena Byway is just a few miles down the road; a 54 mile winding wonderland across the backs of the mighty Winding Stair and Ridge Mountains with dozens of pull-offs and vistas that are a feast for the senses. Plenty of Ouachita’s endless hiking trails can be accessed from the byway. Kayaking the incredible Kiamichi river can also be on your agenda. Check out paddlers websites and forums for details and ideal entry points. Anyone like fishing? Oklahoma’s premier Bass fishing lake, Cedar Lake is a short 20 minute drive. Just wait till you see this lake; the happy little lake you’d expect in a Bob Ross masterpiece. Morning Light Mountain Lodge is a beautiful and wild place with plenty to keep you busy enjoying God’s Creation. It has a remote feel but is easily accessible from Talihina, LeFlore, Wister, Poteau, and Fort Smith, AR. Come and visit this magical place. You’ll be glad you did!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$139
/ night
Ozark Base Camp
17. Ozark Base Camp
100%
(4)
47mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Chateau aux Arc RV Park
18. Chateau aux Arc RV Park
73%
(30)
37mi from Fort Smith
Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!
Ouachita National Forest
19. Ouachita National Forest
96%
(25)
National forest 67mi from Fort Smith · 342 sites
The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wister Lake State Park
20. Wister Lake State Park
100%
(1)
State park 37mi from Fort Smith · 153 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Evan
2 weeks ago
Tent
Loved Heavener Runestone! Fantastic views from the cliffside campsite. Very close to town.
See more
E
Elizabeth
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Everyone is friendly, there's a cute little gift shop with a lot of necessities. The campground and facilities are very clean and well maintained. The sunset was stunning! There are several neat trails for hiking. The area is very wooded, and we were able to hang up hammocks to relax in. Our only problem was our tent didn't fit on the pad, but that's because the tent is enormous (18 ft bell tent), but we made it work. We would definitely come again.
See more
K
Kyle
2 weeks ago
Tent
What a gem of a camp spot! Just about the perfect halfway point between St. Louis and Houston.
See more
C
Colby
2 weeks ago
30 ft travel trailer
Amazing place! Quiet and peaceful! Jill was super nice and helpful. We'll definitely go back!
See more
S
Sarah
March 2026
2 nights at End of the Trail
This place is off the beaten path and it shows in the connection to nature. The cabin is pretty basic so we set up a tent inside but it was quite lovely and worth the drive!
See more
T
Toby
March 2026
Tent
Had a great time! Easy to find, private location and being so close to the river was awesome! Will definitely be back.
See more
D
Derick
February 2026
With pets
This was our first time staying at the cabin. We usually stay in the camper. Very clean throughout the cabin beds are comfortable. Enjoyed having the TV and Wi-Fi. It was nice having the screened in front porch and the fire pit was awesome. Vickie is always available during our stays if we have questions. She’s an excellent host highly recommend staying at her properties.
See moreB
Ben
February 2026
2 nights at End of the Trail
Amazing sites. Super private and plenty to do or beautiful place to do nothing.
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Tyler
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Tin Top Village
Such a cute little tiny house. 10 minutes from a grocery store but still very rural feeling. Stars were big and bright. The host even setup sticks in the fire pit so that starting a fire took like 2 minutes. Host was also very responsive to messages when I had a question about WiFi. One thing to be careful about: if you don’t already want a tiny home going in, you will by the time you leave.
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Cynthia
February 2026
34 ft Class A
With pets
Absolutely Wonderful! This was our second "winter months" stay at Yearling Ridge, and it was amazing. We love the location, the privacy, the size of the property and the views and sounds of the river...beautiful even in winter. We did have some cold temperatures and some ice, but we never lost power, which was great!. Daniel is such a wonderful host! We spent 30 plus days here, and Daniel checked in on us every few days making sure we had wood for fires but also making sure we were doing okay and enjoying our stay. Our dog Deacon loved exploring the property freely, and loved seeing Daniel as well :) Daniel has added a shower house , and has also made WiFi available. These are thoughtful additions to enhance every kind of camper's stay! Thank you to Daniel and Laura for opening up this piece of paradise to these two Northwest Ohio folks, hoping to find our own mountain retreat.
Anyone choosing to stay here will not be disappointed
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Dave
February 2026
With pets
Highly recommend, this was an amazing spot. If you’re even remotely close definitely spend time here.
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Leeann
January 2026
With pets
Amazing area to camp by the river. It’s unique to find a camp site that can be enjoyed in all four seasons. I visited for the beginning of the new year…2026! Additionally, It’s the first hip camp that I have been able to let my dogs off leash. It’s been three days since arriving home and they are still recovering from all the freedom and fun. We also enjoyed having a campfire, grill and picnic table. The shelter was spacious and overlooked the river. I was looking for a place to pray, hike, bike and kayak. I found all the plus the the quiet and peace at the End of the Trail. Wentz was a great host who answered all of my questions and provided many ideas for other adventures. It’s an incredible value financially considering you also get to kayak as much as you want as provided as part of the Hipcamp shelter. It only took five hours to get away from
Kansas City. Immediately , I got to enjoy the river and explore the Ouachita national forest. My favorite part of the day was watching the sunset over the mountains. I was double blessed with a full moon and numerous stars. I hope to come back and share my love of this site with my Grandson. If you enjoy nature, camping and adventure, you will love the End of the Trail!
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Ryan
January 2026
Weekend Trip to End of the Trail
Great spot! Calming river noise through the night. Not far from hiking spots. A fantastic getaway!
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Brandi
December 2025
Weekend Trip to End of the Trail
This is a magical place!!! It is in a very secluded area. Had to pass a small creek which I was scared to do in my car that’s low to the ground, but it probably could have made it. Great place to have a fire and look at the stars. The only thing I wish is that we had more time!!! It was peaceful listening to the river at night. Also saw deer.
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Meredith
December 2025
15 ft campervan
We enjoyed our stop at Heavener Runestone Park. The terrain is hilly and scenic. Our highlight was watching the sun set from the scenic overlook. The amenities are a bit faded, but functional. This was a comfortable place to spend the night on our way south. It was fun to learn about this odd bit of history, too!
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Robert
December 2025
2 nights at End of the Trail
Nice place to get away from it all for a bit. Will try to visit again in spring or summer to enjoy the river access.
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Jeffrey
December 2025
Tent
Very nice clean camp site beautiful view shower was a nice surprise
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Robert
December 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great little spot that you won’t have to share with many or any others. You’re right on the Fourche La Fave river. You have a fire pit basically on the river with a nice gazebo adorned with warm string lights. 20/30/50 amp power worked flawlessly and you have water as well. Great spot. The hosts are super nice. 10/10 would camp here again!
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Brandon
December 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Clean campsites. Nice views. Warm shower available at park.
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Danyelle
November 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
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!
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