The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Fort Smith, Arkansas

If you're looking for an adventurous getaway near Fort Smith, Arkansas and love RV camping by the river, Hipcamp has over 1000 options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a serene spot to watch wildlife or to go horseback riding, our top campsites such as Red Fern (334 reviews), Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), and Petit Jean Farm Orchard (137 reviews) have got you covered. With an average price of $25 per night and options as low as $3, you'll enjoy popular amenities such as trash, campfires, and potable water. Get ready to paddle down the river and enjoy the great outdoors!

96% (543)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking for an adventurous getaway near Fort Smith, Arkansas and love RV camping by the river, Hipcamp has over 1000 options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a serene spot to watch wildlife or to go horseback riding, our top campsites such as Red Fern (334 reviews), Heavener Runestone Park (210 reviews), and Petit Jean Farm Orchard (137 reviews) have got you covered. With an average price of $25 per night and options as low as $3, you'll enjoy popular amenities such as trash, campfires, and potable water. Get ready to paddle down the river and enjoy the great outdoors!

96% (543)

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. 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 :)

4. Jack Creek Mountain Retreat

100%

(1)

33mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Booneville, AR

Welcome to our picturesque mountain retreat, nestled on over 10 acres of scenic beauty. Located on the Northside of a mountain, our property boasts stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. With a cave right on the property and nearby recreational activities at Jack Creek Recreation Area, Petit Jean River, and Mount Magazine State Park, there's no shortage of things to explore and enjoy. Whether you're into hiking, swimming, fishing, or simply taking in the natural beauty, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained. Wildlife abounds on our property, offering a glimpse into the wonders of nature. From deer and squirrels to a variety of birds, there's always something fascinating to observe. In addition to outdoor activities, we invite you to join us for art sessions in our studio, garden outings, or foraging adventures in the woods. And if you'd like to indulge in some delicious home-cooked meals, just let us know in advance, and we'll be happy to accommodate you. Come experience the tranquility and natural splendor of our mountain retreat – we look forward to welcoming you!

5. 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

6. 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.

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. White Oak Mountain

100%

(2)

42mi from Fort Smith · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · West Fork, AR

Solar Eclipse Glasses Available! Enjoy a 2-acre property adorned with lawns, gardens, a creek, towering trees, a grill, a quaint building, and abundant tenting spots. Marvel at the mountain view just across the street. A mere 10-minute stroll will lead you to the tranquil White River, while downtown Fayetteville is a convenient 15-minute drive away.

9. Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

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

10. Old Stagecoach Camp

22mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sallisaw, OK

Very wooded with creek and steep trails

11. Freedom Creek Haven

100%

(1)

27mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · RV · Mansfield, AR

Five-acre private property with septic, electric, and water hookups. Explore the land, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the wildlife. Old Freedom Creek runs across the property, with a short trail leading down to it. Located in a quiet, rural area, yet less than half a mile off Highway 71.

Camper favorites near Fort Smith

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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.

White Oak Mountain

100%

(2)

42mi from Fort Smith · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · West Fork, AR

Solar Eclipse Glasses Available! Enjoy a 2-acre property adorned with lawns, gardens, a creek, towering trees, a grill, a quaint building, and abundant tenting spots. Marvel at the mountain view just across the street. A mere 10-minute stroll will lead you to the tranquil White River, while downtown Fayetteville is a convenient 15-minute drive away.

Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

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

Old Stagecoach Camp

22mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sallisaw, OK

Very wooded with creek and steep trails

Freedom Creek Haven

100%

(1)

27mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · RV · Mansfield, AR

Five-acre private property with septic, electric, and water hookups. Explore the land, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the wildlife. Old Freedom Creek runs across the property, with a short trail leading down to it. Located in a quiet, rural area, yet less than half a mile off Highway 71.

Public campgrounds near Fort Smith

100%

(2)

Springhill Campground

4.2mi from Fort Smith · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

83%

(4)

Clear Creek Campground

13mi from Fort Smith · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark Lake

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%

(27)

Devil's Den Campground

31mi from Fort Smith · 161 sites · Tents, RVs · in Devil's Den State Park

100%

(1)

Aux Arc Campground

32mi from Fort Smith · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark Lake

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(14)

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

33mi from Fort Smith · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(2)

Little Pines Recreation Area

35mi from Fort Smith · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Knoppers Ford Campground

37mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Jack Creek Recreation Area

37mi from Fort Smith · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Stories from the community

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!

S

Sophie

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at White Oak Mountain

Karyn is so kind, and the location has a nice view of the boston mountains!!

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.

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

Sherri

October 2025

31 ft Class C

With kids

Weekend Trip to Freedom Creek Haven

I would recommend it as it is a restful, country spot to enjoy. However, check to make sure the water problem has been fixed. We had no water while we were there. Justin was very attentive to our needs and communicated well.

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.

C

Charlotte

September 2025

16 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Heavener Runestone is breathtaking! This is our third time, and not our last! We even golfed at nearby Wolf Mountain, on a very well maintained golf course. Clean bathroom and shower house. We found this campground 4 years ago, and have built it into our travels. Highly recommend!!

Kel

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Indian Creek Hideaway

Lewis was a very accommodating host and his property is beautiful. We will definitely be back!

Emma

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Daniel is a great host. The place was clean and amenities well maintained. Daniel makes it a point to check on his tenants. If you are looking for a relaxing get away.....this is it!

N

Nick

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Indian Creek Hideaway

Enjoyed the short walk to the creek and the Mulberry river! Great little spot not to far off the beaten path. Lewis was nice enough to check in and bring us some extra firewood. Thanks again!

A

Amber

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

The campsite was perfect. Daniel provided firewood and came by to be sure we had everything we needed. Very nice guy! The river was a little low so kayaking was confined a bit. There is a cabin on the property but it was a good ways away and vacant while we were there so we had total privacy. It was very peaceful but I do want to mention that there are animals nearby that made lots of noise. A rooster likes to crow during the day and we heard a donkey in the evenings. Was not annoying to us, but it might be to some so I wanted to mention. But the campsite is worth it with the kitchen area that has a mini fridge and a working sink near the picnic table. Swings and a hammock area set up made it so nice!! We loved it! Would recommend and will go again!!!

J

Jackie

July 2025

33 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

We enjoyed our stay here! The hosts, Daniel and Laura stopped by shortly after we arrived to make sure we had everything and check in went smooth. They were welcoming and friendly. Daniel offered to refill our wood if we should use all that he provided. We had access to a canoe, kayaks, a pavilion with a picnic table, electricity, mini fridge, grilling area for charcoal. The site was well maintained and easy to level. No issues with full hook ups or getting in or out of RV area with our 33ft trailer. Beautiful flowers and sounds of nature throughout the property. Area was surrounded by trees and had plenty of shade or sunny spots to choose from. Neighbors are near by, but it was far enough away and natural barrier of trees made it feel private and secluded. Pet friendly and enough space for our great dane to get out all his zoomies and then cool off in the river. We enjoyed fishing and caught several varieties of fish during our stay. We did spot some Poison Ivy growing up a nearby tree, notified host, & he said he'd have it removed. Host is also in process of building a bath house so that will be an added perk, once it's finished, of an already wonderful piece of property. If we are ever in the area in the future, we'd love to stay here again.

Zack

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Loved tent camping on Daniel’s property! River was beautiful and it was easy to get to with directions.

Kristin

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

This was my second time to camp here. It was just as wonderful as the first time. Amazing place for dogs to be off leash and kids to play all day. Beautiful views very peaceful, it felt like we were the only ones for miles. All three kids have asked to return a couple times a year, they prefer it over other places we have taken them.

Kelsey

July 2025

32 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

I absolutely loved this spot! Our dogs loved being off leash and swimming, the gazebo was wonderful and the water was peaceful. Daniel communicated very well, even went above and beyond warning us of a storm on the way. Will definitely be back! Such a slice of paradise.

A

Abbie

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Indian Creek Hideaway

Wow! What a quiet and peaceful space. Exactly as advertised. We saw some really cool wildlife and liked the proximity to the water. Would highly recommend if you are looking for a quiet and private Ozark campsite.

C

Camden

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

My family absolutely loved camping here! It was secluded enough to be peaceful and relaxing and you could hear all of the wildlife come out at night. We are very picky about where we camp with our dogs because they tend to get overly excited and don’t do well around a bunch of other camp sites, and this was the perfect place for them to be off leash and explore. There are neighbors relatively close to the site, but you couldn’t even tell they were there. The canoes and hammocks were a huge plus, along with the fire pit!! We would love to plan another trip here and stay longer!

E

Elizabeth

June 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Our family of 5 had a great experience camping here. Plenty of shade to hang out under and the river was very refreshing. I loved that he had a pavilion to hang out along with swings and fire pit. My kids had fun kayaking around and catching fish. We also visited the Cossatot Falls (90 min drive), totally worth it!!

B

Brandon

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Indian Creek Hideaway

Lewis’ site was a gem. Loved the privacy and the stream near by was the highlight. He was able to get us firewood that was ready before we arrived and it lasted us our whole stay. Great memories made with me and my 3 boys (and the dog!).