The best cave camping near Shell Knob

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Shell Knob draws campers who want to pitch a tent near caves and cool off in clear Ozark streams. With over 1,000 tent sites that put you close to rocky outcrops and underground hideaways, you won’t run out of places to explore. Expect average rates around $30 a night, with some spots dipping as low as $19. Top picks include Red Fern (518 reviews), a favorite for its shaded sites and easy cave access, Fresh Life at Rocky Branch (115 reviews), and Sunny Dawn Acres (66 reviews). Most sites let you bring pets, light campfires, and offer toilets. Between fishing, horseback riding, and swimming, you’ll find plenty of ways to fill your days above and below ground.

99% (836)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nearby Kings River Falls

1. Red Fern

97%
(1187)
50mi from Shell Knob · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Witter, AR
One of Arkansas' greatest treasures. Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas. This is a remote and rugged campground with caves, bluffs, swimming holes and river a plenty. This campground has a grand exhibition of the same sandstone formation that is responsible for the Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) formation. Clovis like points have been found here, and so one might assume the bluffs and crags here have been inhabited for millennia. This 7 acre property is completely surrounded by Arkansas Natural Heritage-Natural Area. There are miles of trails and cooling waters at every turn. If you like Kings River Falls, get ready to fall in love with this Red Fern Campground. So pack your curiosity, lace up your hiking boots, and let the whispering leaves guide you. Kings River Falls awaits, ready to share its secrets with those who listen. Where time slows down and the modern world fades away. Every turn reveals a new wonder; a hidden waterfall an unnoticed cave or bluff or a moss-covered boulder. It’s not just a place; it’s an experience an invitation to step beyond the ordinary and into a world where magic still thrives and fairy tales come alive. Here, the forest whispers secrets, and the river sings a timeless song. Most of our campsites are just yards away from a public swimming area, which is shared between our property and the Arkansas Natural Area. You should expect local traffic at the main swimming area during your stay. We have a private swimming area on our property which is just a short hike from the developed campsites (Please ask the camphost for directions). There are miles of county maintained bumpy dirt roads leading to the site. Expect your vehicle to get dusty. There is a creek crossing that is required to reach the campsites. We recommend high clearance and/or 4WD or AWD vehicles. If you are unable to cross the creek, you will need to park in the parking area and walk across the creek to reach your site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
Sunset beyond the campfire area

2. Fitzgerald Mountain RV Camp

98%
(45)
40mi from Shell Knob · 2 sites · RVs · Springdale, AR
This land is a six acre slice of property that includes a meadow, wooded areas, a small pine forest, native stones galore, a steep mountain side, giant boulders, a wet weather stream and pond, and 2 old tin barns. From West to East, the property starts flat but then begins to slope upward as it runs from the base of Fitzgerald Mountain Eastward nearly to the top of the mountain. The former homestead was removed within the past 20 years, creating a fantastic spot for the campground. It is located a short distance from Fitzgerald Station, which was a well known stop on Military road (later known as Butterfield stage line) in the 1830’s. The camp is only 2 miles from historic downtown Springdale, which is an area undergoing exciting revitalization. A concrete trail is planned that will connect the camp area to downtown making biking to restaurants and pubs much easier in the near future. The Razorback Greenway runs through downtown, and provides a biking connection to all of Northwest Arknsas.Learn more about this land:Fitzgerald Mountain Van and RV Camp offers 2 RV spots (26' max) with ride in / ride out access to Fitzgerald Mountain's world class trails.  The mountain is home to OZ trails mountain biking and hiking for all levels. (look up OZ trails  - Fitzgerald Mountain)The 2 van camper/RV spots sit at the base of a shade tree and the entry to the “Goat Trail.”  This trail (named for the adjacent goat farm) will lead campers to the campfire area, "Fitzmo Barn", and Butterfield trail.  Fitzmo barn has a map where you can leave your mark by putting a pin in your hometown and signing the wall.  Leave your brand's sticker on the wall so other bikers and hikers can find their way to your hometown spots. The barn has chairs for the fire pit area, and can also provide some shelter if it rains.Butterfield trail crosses the camp area adjacent to Fitzmo Barn.   Head North on Butterfield to connect with blue and black trails including the “best trail ever” and fantastic views from the mountain top.  Head South to connect with trails for all skill levels including a strider course for the kids at Bayyari Park.  Bayyari Park is only 1/3 mile away and has public restrooms that I'm told "remain open until 10:00 PM year round unless there is extreme cold."The only neighbors of the camp have a small farm to the North, and their goats and peacock occasionally visit the camp’s Western field.  Other than these neighbors, the area feels secluded, especially at the fire pit and barn area. Fitzgerald is a historical area.  Fitzgerald station is nearby, and served as a stop on the Butterfield overland stagecoach mail route that was used in the 1800s. Downtown Springdale is 2 miles away, and the pubs and restaurants cater to bikers.  A paved trail is planned for the near future that will provide bike access to downtown.*Note* Backing up to a turn around area will be required for exit from the RV spots.
Pets
from 
$19
 / night
Spoke 'N Tru

3. Spoke 'N Tru

98%
(31)
38mi from Shell Knob · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Jasper, AR
This remote primitive campground is between Kingston and Compton, Arkansas. in the Ozark Mountains of the Boston plateau. The wooded 15 acres is nestled just above a scenic bluff looking south. You can set your tent on our grassy knoll or find a random spot anywhere under our hardwoods or pines. There is one designated gravel site pad for a mid size trailer. The only roads to Spoken N’ Tru are gravel. I highly recommend taking the gravel route from Kingston. This particular gravel road is 5 miles. If you are pulling a camper this is definitely the best. There is another longer 8 mile option from 412 - south from Dryfork in between Marble and Ozark. The shortest route if from 103 but it has a deep creek crossing and don't recommended unless you have a good 4 wheel vehicle. The best road to Ponca is County Road 1300 which takes you to Highway 43. Please keep in mind that Spoke N’ Tru is a cozy but primitive camping site with no amenities so be ready to check your electronics before heading down our gravel roads. Lastly, please read amenity notes, especially regarding waste.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Beach to roam around on

7. Fresh Life at Rocky Branch

96%
(174)
26mi from Shell Knob · 1 site · Tent, RV · Rogers, AR
This land was purchased in the early 70's as a future family home site. It was never developed. It has been used by family and friends for various holidays and just camp outs. Now you can enjoy it as well. *NOTE* Contrary to popular belief there is no boat dock. Anyone found to be on a dock will be considered as trespassing and may be subject to prosecution. Learn more about this land: Primitive camping on Beaver Lake across from Rocky Branch Marina, Surrounded on three sides by this gorgeous lake. Light rolling hills with mature trees landscape this private lake front hideaway . There are a few residential executive homes nearby. This camp is hosted by Beaver Lake Outdoor Center. Kayak, jet ski rental available upon request. Close to Hobbs State Park Conservation Area, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art(from Rockwell to Warhol and everything in between); War Eagle Mill and Caverns, Museum of Native American History, The Walmart Museum, Eureka Springs, just a short 40min. drive to Bentonville airport (XNA). Please remember if you "pack it in then pack it out", and absolutely no glass.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$45
 / night
Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

8. Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

99%
(68)
20mi from Shell Knob · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Eureka Springs, AR
We are a small family ranch nestled in the beautiful hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas! The Homestead at Rocky Acres, PMA has a variety of offerings, including "Creek-side Camping" in an open grass field with plenty of shade trees (including a few mulberries...yum!) along side our spring fed creek. The creek offers small swimming holes with fish, crawdads, tadpoles, and frogs, oh my! There is plenty of nature to hike around, including up to the pasture to visit the horses and pony or along the creek-bed to forage. Onsite, we also offer "The Homestead at Rocky Acres" with three cabins for nightly rentals for a comfortable and cozy stay in nature; cabins are available to be rented individually or for your next group event. Our resort area, "The Vue at Rocky Acres", boasts a luxury barn and pool/hot tub with amazing views and would be perfect for your next event be it a wedding, birthday party, family reunion or retreat! Daily passes to "The Vue" are available upon request for use of pool/hot tub/outdoor kitchen, at an additional charge. We also offer "Horse-play at Rocky Acres" which includes horseback riding lessons, custom experiences, camps and trail rides in partnership with Dawson’s Equine Connection! Visit us on Facebook at The Homestead at Rocky Acres for pictures and more details. Please Note: We are a working ranch/farm. With that said, we have free range cows, horses and chickens. We do our best to keep our field clear for campers, however, you may have visitors.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Lost Valley View Cabin

14. Lost Valley View Cabin

100%
(23)
42mi from Shell Knob · 4 sites · Lodging · Compton, AR
This is located on the land my grandfather Clifford Clark purchased. The original property line stretched down into what is now Lost Valley State Park. The front door of the cabin is closer to Eden Falls than the trail head itself, located in the Boxley Valley. We welcome you to join us on the farm!Learn more about this land:Enjoy this cozy cabin nestled in the heart of the Ozarks. With a magnificent view of Lost Valley, you may not want to leave the farm. While remotely located just off of Fire Tower road, it still places you just minutes away from Ponca, Lost Valley, and other amenities of the Ozarks, (the front door of the cabin is closer to Eden Falls than the trailhead itself, located in the Boxley Valley). This cabin comes with a yard of your own, a fire pit, an ice maker, a smart TV with free WiFi, a grill, and modern plumbing to make this little cabin your home away from home. Directions- Take Firetower Rd off of Highway 43. Go exactly 3.5 miles and turn left on Stoverville Road. Pass Crossroads church and stay straight (do not turn left directly after the church, it takes you to Ponca the back way, down the mountain). Cabin will be on the left just past the third cattle guard. It is exactly one mile from Firetower Road. Just open the gate and make yourself at home. Contact us for any questions! 
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$130
 / night

Shell Knob draws campers who want to pitch a tent near caves and cool off in clear Ozark streams. With over 1,000 tent sites that put you close to rocky outcrops and underground hideaways, you won’t run out of places to explore. Expect average rates around $30 a night, with some spots dipping as low as $19. Top picks include Red Fern (518 reviews), a favorite for its shaded sites and easy cave access, Fresh Life at Rocky Branch (115 reviews), and Sunny Dawn Acres (66 reviews). Most sites let you bring pets, light campfires, and offer toilets. Between fishing, horseback riding, and swimming, you’ll find plenty of ways to fill your days above and below ground.

99% (836)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nearby Kings River Falls

1. Red Fern

97%
(1187)
50mi from Shell Knob · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Witter, AR
One of Arkansas' greatest treasures. Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas. This is a remote and rugged campground with caves, bluffs, swimming holes and river a plenty. This campground has a grand exhibition of the same sandstone formation that is responsible for the Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) formation. Clovis like points have been found here, and so one might assume the bluffs and crags here have been inhabited for millennia. This 7 acre property is completely surrounded by Arkansas Natural Heritage-Natural Area. There are miles of trails and cooling waters at every turn. If you like Kings River Falls, get ready to fall in love with this Red Fern Campground. So pack your curiosity, lace up your hiking boots, and let the whispering leaves guide you. Kings River Falls awaits, ready to share its secrets with those who listen. Where time slows down and the modern world fades away. Every turn reveals a new wonder; a hidden waterfall an unnoticed cave or bluff or a moss-covered boulder. It’s not just a place; it’s an experience an invitation to step beyond the ordinary and into a world where magic still thrives and fairy tales come alive. Here, the forest whispers secrets, and the river sings a timeless song. Most of our campsites are just yards away from a public swimming area, which is shared between our property and the Arkansas Natural Area. You should expect local traffic at the main swimming area during your stay. We have a private swimming area on our property which is just a short hike from the developed campsites (Please ask the camphost for directions). There are miles of county maintained bumpy dirt roads leading to the site. Expect your vehicle to get dusty. There is a creek crossing that is required to reach the campsites. We recommend high clearance and/or 4WD or AWD vehicles. If you are unable to cross the creek, you will need to park in the parking area and walk across the creek to reach your site.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night
Sunset beyond the campfire area

2. Fitzgerald Mountain RV Camp

98%
(45)
40mi from Shell Knob · 2 sites · RVs · Springdale, AR
This land is a six acre slice of property that includes a meadow, wooded areas, a small pine forest, native stones galore, a steep mountain side, giant boulders, a wet weather stream and pond, and 2 old tin barns. From West to East, the property starts flat but then begins to slope upward as it runs from the base of Fitzgerald Mountain Eastward nearly to the top of the mountain. The former homestead was removed within the past 20 years, creating a fantastic spot for the campground. It is located a short distance from Fitzgerald Station, which was a well known stop on Military road (later known as Butterfield stage line) in the 1830’s. The camp is only 2 miles from historic downtown Springdale, which is an area undergoing exciting revitalization. A concrete trail is planned that will connect the camp area to downtown making biking to restaurants and pubs much easier in the near future. The Razorback Greenway runs through downtown, and provides a biking connection to all of Northwest Arknsas.Learn more about this land:Fitzgerald Mountain Van and RV Camp offers 2 RV spots (26' max) with ride in / ride out access to Fitzgerald Mountain's world class trails.  The mountain is home to OZ trails mountain biking and hiking for all levels. (look up OZ trails  - Fitzgerald Mountain)The 2 van camper/RV spots sit at the base of a shade tree and the entry to the “Goat Trail.”  This trail (named for the adjacent goat farm) will lead campers to the campfire area, "Fitzmo Barn", and Butterfield trail.  Fitzmo barn has a map where you can leave your mark by putting a pin in your hometown and signing the wall.  Leave your brand's sticker on the wall so other bikers and hikers can find their way to your hometown spots. The barn has chairs for the fire pit area, and can also provide some shelter if it rains.Butterfield trail crosses the camp area adjacent to Fitzmo Barn.   Head North on Butterfield to connect with blue and black trails including the “best trail ever” and fantastic views from the mountain top.  Head South to connect with trails for all skill levels including a strider course for the kids at Bayyari Park.  Bayyari Park is only 1/3 mile away and has public restrooms that I'm told "remain open until 10:00 PM year round unless there is extreme cold."The only neighbors of the camp have a small farm to the North, and their goats and peacock occasionally visit the camp’s Western field.  Other than these neighbors, the area feels secluded, especially at the fire pit and barn area. Fitzgerald is a historical area.  Fitzgerald station is nearby, and served as a stop on the Butterfield overland stagecoach mail route that was used in the 1800s. Downtown Springdale is 2 miles away, and the pubs and restaurants cater to bikers.  A paved trail is planned for the near future that will provide bike access to downtown.*Note* Backing up to a turn around area will be required for exit from the RV spots.
Pets
from 
$19
 / night
Spoke 'N Tru

3. Spoke 'N Tru

98%
(31)
38mi from Shell Knob · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Jasper, AR
This remote primitive campground is between Kingston and Compton, Arkansas. in the Ozark Mountains of the Boston plateau. The wooded 15 acres is nestled just above a scenic bluff looking south. You can set your tent on our grassy knoll or find a random spot anywhere under our hardwoods or pines. There is one designated gravel site pad for a mid size trailer. The only roads to Spoken N’ Tru are gravel. I highly recommend taking the gravel route from Kingston. This particular gravel road is 5 miles. If you are pulling a camper this is definitely the best. There is another longer 8 mile option from 412 - south from Dryfork in between Marble and Ozark. The shortest route if from 103 but it has a deep creek crossing and don't recommended unless you have a good 4 wheel vehicle. The best road to Ponca is County Road 1300 which takes you to Highway 43. Please keep in mind that Spoke N’ Tru is a cozy but primitive camping site with no amenities so be ready to check your electronics before heading down our gravel roads. Lastly, please read amenity notes, especially regarding waste.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Beach to roam around on

7. Fresh Life at Rocky Branch

96%
(174)
26mi from Shell Knob · 1 site · Tent, RV · Rogers, AR
This land was purchased in the early 70's as a future family home site. It was never developed. It has been used by family and friends for various holidays and just camp outs. Now you can enjoy it as well. *NOTE* Contrary to popular belief there is no boat dock. Anyone found to be on a dock will be considered as trespassing and may be subject to prosecution. Learn more about this land: Primitive camping on Beaver Lake across from Rocky Branch Marina, Surrounded on three sides by this gorgeous lake. Light rolling hills with mature trees landscape this private lake front hideaway . There are a few residential executive homes nearby. This camp is hosted by Beaver Lake Outdoor Center. Kayak, jet ski rental available upon request. Close to Hobbs State Park Conservation Area, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art(from Rockwell to Warhol and everything in between); War Eagle Mill and Caverns, Museum of Native American History, The Walmart Museum, Eureka Springs, just a short 40min. drive to Bentonville airport (XNA). Please remember if you "pack it in then pack it out", and absolutely no glass.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$45
 / night
Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

8. Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

99%
(68)
20mi from Shell Knob · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Eureka Springs, AR
We are a small family ranch nestled in the beautiful hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas! The Homestead at Rocky Acres, PMA has a variety of offerings, including "Creek-side Camping" in an open grass field with plenty of shade trees (including a few mulberries...yum!) along side our spring fed creek. The creek offers small swimming holes with fish, crawdads, tadpoles, and frogs, oh my! There is plenty of nature to hike around, including up to the pasture to visit the horses and pony or along the creek-bed to forage. Onsite, we also offer "The Homestead at Rocky Acres" with three cabins for nightly rentals for a comfortable and cozy stay in nature; cabins are available to be rented individually or for your next group event. Our resort area, "The Vue at Rocky Acres", boasts a luxury barn and pool/hot tub with amazing views and would be perfect for your next event be it a wedding, birthday party, family reunion or retreat! Daily passes to "The Vue" are available upon request for use of pool/hot tub/outdoor kitchen, at an additional charge. We also offer "Horse-play at Rocky Acres" which includes horseback riding lessons, custom experiences, camps and trail rides in partnership with Dawson’s Equine Connection! Visit us on Facebook at The Homestead at Rocky Acres for pictures and more details. Please Note: We are a working ranch/farm. With that said, we have free range cows, horses and chickens. We do our best to keep our field clear for campers, however, you may have visitors.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Lost Valley View Cabin

14. Lost Valley View Cabin

100%
(23)
42mi from Shell Knob · 4 sites · Lodging · Compton, AR
This is located on the land my grandfather Clifford Clark purchased. The original property line stretched down into what is now Lost Valley State Park. The front door of the cabin is closer to Eden Falls than the trail head itself, located in the Boxley Valley. We welcome you to join us on the farm!Learn more about this land:Enjoy this cozy cabin nestled in the heart of the Ozarks. With a magnificent view of Lost Valley, you may not want to leave the farm. While remotely located just off of Fire Tower road, it still places you just minutes away from Ponca, Lost Valley, and other amenities of the Ozarks, (the front door of the cabin is closer to Eden Falls than the trailhead itself, located in the Boxley Valley). This cabin comes with a yard of your own, a fire pit, an ice maker, a smart TV with free WiFi, a grill, and modern plumbing to make this little cabin your home away from home. Directions- Take Firetower Rd off of Highway 43. Go exactly 3.5 miles and turn left on Stoverville Road. Pass Crossroads church and stay straight (do not turn left directly after the church, it takes you to Ponca the back way, down the mountain). Cabin will be on the left just past the third cattle guard. It is exactly one mile from Firetower Road. Just open the gate and make yourself at home. Contact us for any questions! 
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$130
 / night

Camper favorites near Shell Knob

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Shell Knob

Stories from the community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field