The best river, stream, or creek RV parks near Fort Smith

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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% (547) 54 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Smith

Heavener Runestone Park

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%
(519)
33mi from Fort Smith · 17 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
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

2. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(129)
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 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!  
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night
Paradise Camp

3. Paradise Camp

100%
(18)
37mi from Fort Smith · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$15
 / night
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

4. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%
(3)
47 sites · Scott, Arkansas
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)
102 sites · Mulberry, Arkansas
Discover the serene beauty of Ozark Lake and its myriad outdoor activities.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Freedom Creek Haven

6. Freedom Creek Haven

100%
(1)
27mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · RV
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Indian Creek Hideaway

7. 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
White Oak Mountain

8. White Oak Mountain

100%
(2)
42mi from Fort Smith · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home

9. 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
Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

10. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

94 sites · Brent, Oklahoma
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
Brushy Lake State Park

11. Brushy Lake State Park

14 sites · Slick, Oklahoma
Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Devil's Den State Park

12. Devil's Den State Park

100%
(27)
161 sites · Winslow, Arkansas
Hike past ancient rock formations or take a pedalboat out on the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

13. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%
(37)
312 sites · Farmington, Arkansas
Two distinct forests rolled into one package! That means twice the amount of outdoorsy goodness to explore. The Ozark National Forest covers most of the Ozark Mountains, including the highest peak in the state. It’s awesome here when the dogwood and redbuds bloom in the spring, and when the leaves change color in the fall. The St. Francis National Forest is more diverse, with the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers running through it, as well as lakes, valleys, and tons of wildlife. It’s the only place in the national forest system where you can access the Mississippi River from the shore, so that right there is a must do! The whole expanse of land is filled with multi-use trails, hundreds of campsites, spots for swimming, fishing, and boating, and even some amazing caves to explore. Mother Nature crushing it as usual.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark Base Camp

14. 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
Hill Top Lodging

15. Hill Top Lodging

100%
(1)
15mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Old Stagecoach Camp

16. Old Stagecoach Camp

22mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Very wooded with creek and steep trails
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$38
 / night
Jack Creek Mountain Retreat

17. Jack Creek Mountain Retreat

100%
(1)
33mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
Chateau aux Arc RV Park

18. Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%
(30)
37mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites
Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!
Ouachita National Forest

19. Ouachita National Forest

96%
(25)
342 sites · Mount Ida, Arkansas
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)
153 sites · Wister, Oklahoma
Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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% (547) 54 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Smith

Heavener Runestone Park

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%
(519)
33mi from Fort Smith · 17 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
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

2. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(129)
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 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!  
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$32
 / night
Paradise Camp

3. Paradise Camp

100%
(18)
37mi from Fort Smith · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$15
 / night
John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

4. John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake

100%
(3)
47 sites · Scott, Arkansas
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)
102 sites · Mulberry, Arkansas
Discover the serene beauty of Ozark Lake and its myriad outdoor activities.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Freedom Creek Haven

6. Freedom Creek Haven

100%
(1)
27mi from Fort Smith · 1 site · RV
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.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Indian Creek Hideaway

7. 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
White Oak Mountain

8. White Oak Mountain

100%
(2)
42mi from Fort Smith · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home

9. 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
Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

10. Arkansas River - Robert S. Kerr Pool

94 sites · Brent, Oklahoma
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
Brushy Lake State Park

11. Brushy Lake State Park

14 sites · Slick, Oklahoma
Discover the serene beauty of Brushy Lake State Park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Devil's Den State Park

12. Devil's Den State Park

100%
(27)
161 sites · Winslow, Arkansas
Hike past ancient rock formations or take a pedalboat out on the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

13. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%
(37)
312 sites · Farmington, Arkansas
Two distinct forests rolled into one package! That means twice the amount of outdoorsy goodness to explore. The Ozark National Forest covers most of the Ozark Mountains, including the highest peak in the state. It’s awesome here when the dogwood and redbuds bloom in the spring, and when the leaves change color in the fall. The St. Francis National Forest is more diverse, with the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers running through it, as well as lakes, valleys, and tons of wildlife. It’s the only place in the national forest system where you can access the Mississippi River from the shore, so that right there is a must do! The whole expanse of land is filled with multi-use trails, hundreds of campsites, spots for swimming, fishing, and boating, and even some amazing caves to explore. Mother Nature crushing it as usual.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ozark Base Camp

14. 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
Hill Top Lodging

15. Hill Top Lodging

100%
(1)
15mi from Fort Smith · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Old Stagecoach Camp

16. Old Stagecoach Camp

22mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Very wooded with creek and steep trails
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$38
 / night
Jack Creek Mountain Retreat

17. Jack Creek Mountain Retreat

100%
(1)
33mi from Fort Smith · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
Chateau aux Arc RV Park

18. Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%
(30)
37mi from Fort Smith · 14 sites
Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!
Ouachita National Forest

19. Ouachita National Forest

96%
(25)
342 sites · Mount Ida, Arkansas
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)
153 sites · Wister, Oklahoma
Discover the natural splendor of Lake Wister State Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field