The best waterfall campgrounds near Roland, Oklahoma

In Roland, if chasing waterfalls is your thing, you’re in luck—there are over 240 sites that put you right where the action is. Pitch your tent near fresh cascades, with average nightly rates around $24 and options starting at just $20. Campsites often include showers, toilets, and welcome pets. Fishing, wildlife-watching, and horseback riding are common draws, with trails winding through lush woods and along the riverbanks. Local favorites include Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews), Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres (86 reviews), and Indian Creek Hideaway (25 reviews). Expect tall trees, the steady sound of moving water, and plenty of spots to unwind after a hike. Bring sturdy boots—the ground can be slick near the falls—and don’t forget your fishing rod. If you’re after a spot where you can actually hear the falls as you drift off, ask your host for their best site tips.

95% (520)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Roland, if chasing waterfalls is your thing, you’re in luck—there are over 240 sites that put you right where the action is. Pitch your tent near fresh cascades, with average nightly rates around $24 and options starting at just $20. Campsites often include showers, toilets, and welcome pets. Fishing, wildlife-watching, and horseback riding are common draws, with trails winding through lush woods and along the riverbanks. Local favorites include Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews), Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres (86 reviews), and Indian Creek Hideaway (25 reviews). Expect tall trees, the steady sound of moving water, and plenty of spots to unwind after a hike. Bring sturdy boots—the ground can be slick near the falls—and don’t forget your fishing rod. If you’re after a spot where you can actually hear the falls as you drift off, ask your host for their best site tips.

95% (520)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%

(515)

36mi from Roland · 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. Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

99%

(118)

47mi from Roland · 1 site · Tent · Wheeler, AR

Winding river bottoms, gravel bars, overlooks, waterfalls, & 200+ year old oaks! Walk on the same untouched trails Native Americans took followed later by Civil War soldiers. We've been working hard to create the trails, views, and unique experiences for you to enjoy God's Creation only 10 minutes from a Walmart! Tired of camping next to people? With 60 acres for your enjoyment and gated entrance, you won’t see anyone else during your whole stay! 15 min from I-49 with Walmarts and gas stations even nearer keeps you close to town. You can choose from multiple campsites, but we will not book anyone else during your stay. Camp right next to the Illinois River under giant oaks, ash trees, and sycamores with a waterfall behind you and the river in front. Or move up the hill and enjoy the 10 mile view (when leaves are dropped) while watching the sunset. Seriously, it’s the best view west of Fayetteville. The deep shade of the campsite with the breeze coming over river keeps the space surprisingly cool even in extreme heat. Feeling fun? Camp in the old dirt mine with 10’ walls around you shaded by a massive pine growing in the center and oaks around the perimeter. Hiking trails have been cut for you to enjoy the property. Make sure to check out “Mini Hawksbill Crag”- a rocky outcropping hanging off the cliff side. Another fun trail leads you up a creek bed with multiple small waterfalls. A couple canoes and kayaks are available to float the river if you desire as an add on. You can go upstream easily in normal water flow! If you’re looking for fun family time with your kids, I will do whatever I can to help you during your stay to make lasting memories. We’re big believers in families enjoying the outdoors together! A truck can be driven to riverside campsite when dry or there is a 100 yard walk from a small parking area. More vehicles can be parked on top of hill which is 5 minute walk. There is a picnic table and fire pit at the riverside campsite. Bald Eagles are seen most days in the winter. Birders will also appreciate the feeder in the campsite. Fishing poles are available as an add on. You can bring your own too! Catch small mouth, large mouth, bream, crappie, catfish, gar, and carp/buffalo, but you’re competing with the neighborhood beaver so be on the lookout for him! Please release small mouth besides a legal keeper is 14" (6-7 year old fish!) and limit of 2. Rear wheeled drive vehicles should park at the parking area by old stable Absolutely no hunting wildlife or foraging mushrooms without prior approval.

3. Boston Mountain Arkansas Adventures

100%

(13)

23mi from Roland · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Mountainburg, AR

Welcome to our serene retreat situated on 20 acres! We offer: 1 cozy tiny home 1 primitive campsite Explore our established walking trails and check out our fish pond. Our charming tiny home spans 400 sq ft and includes 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, full-sized appliances, and a 100 sq ft deck overlooking the pond. Campsite 1 is now open and features a tent platform, picnic table, and a fire pit for your enjoyment. Want to try camping and don't have the gear - we have you covered with a four-person tent, queen size air mattress, cooking stove/pots and sleeping bags/blankets. - You don't have to set it up or take it down, we take care of all of it for you! Just ask to add the Glamp It Up Package (a $25-set up/take down fee, plus an additional 20.00 per night fee will be charged for use of all camping equipment. This also helps to cover the cost of waste management, washing gear, dishes, etc. Nearby attractions include: Lake Fort Smith Ozark Highland Trail (OHT) Ozark-St. Francis National Forest Devils Den State Park Devils Canyon Shores Lake Recreation Area Fern Recreation Area Mulberry River Natural Dam Illinois River Mt. Magazine State Park Fayetteville to Bentonville Bike Trail University of Arkansas Please remember, this is mountainous country; black bears, foxes, deer, coyotes, and even feral pigs may be in the area, at any given time.

4. Lake Fort Smith State Park

100%

(4)

40 sites · Chester, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Fort Smith State Park.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. 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

Potable water

Toilets

6. Wilderness Adventure RV Park+Cabins

49mi from Roland · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Proctor, OK

We offer experiences for full time RV-ers all the way to Cabin Glamping. Plenty of nature walks, a wet season fall, 1/2 mile from Illinois river, and fabulous scenic views. We encourage you to appreciate and enjoy this amazing location in Oklahoma. Within an hour drive there are each of the following places to see: Illinois River, WWOKA white water rafting park, Ten killer lake, Lake at Sequoya park, Natural Falls State park(https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/natural-falls-state-park) Fort Gibson Lake.

7. Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

48mi from Roland · 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 :)

8. The Wild Goose

100%

(5)

44mi from Roland · 1 site · Tent · Scraper, OK

Retreat to the beautiful Illinois River!! This lush and spacious 5.5 acres is perfect for camping, floating, fishing, and relaxing! Private and secluded, this river camp site is close to the charming town of Tahlequah NE Oklahoma, but located right ON the river with a large portion of the smooth rock river shore entirely to your self! Primitive camping. Entire property per one reservation/no other guest per booking. Space for multiple campsites/tents. Gated access to 5.5 acres with natural stone steps leading you to the Illinois river. The bank is perfect to swim, fish, float, or lounge off of, all private! Easy shuttle to Todd Public Access for a float. Located on East side of Illinois river. MUCH quieter. Plenty of shade for the day, and perfect camp spot for the evening! Fire pit, with firewood included. Small camper trailer would work, there is a bridge to cross to property. PERFECT location for a Class B RV or Sprinter van! *direct property location given upon booking

9. Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%

(30)

44mi from Roland · 14 sites · Altus, AR

Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!

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Potable water

Toilets

10. 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.

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Camper favorites near Roland

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Wilderness Adventure RV Park+Cabins

49mi from Roland · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Proctor, OK

We offer experiences for full time RV-ers all the way to Cabin Glamping. Plenty of nature walks, a wet season fall, 1/2 mile from Illinois river, and fabulous scenic views. We encourage you to appreciate and enjoy this amazing location in Oklahoma. Within an hour drive there are each of the following places to see: Illinois River, WWOKA white water rafting park, Ten killer lake, Lake at Sequoya park, Natural Falls State park(https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/natural-falls-state-park) Fort Gibson Lake.

Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

48mi from Roland · 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 :)

The Wild Goose

100%

(5)

44mi from Roland · 1 site · Tent · Scraper, OK

Retreat to the beautiful Illinois River!! This lush and spacious 5.5 acres is perfect for camping, floating, fishing, and relaxing! Private and secluded, this river camp site is close to the charming town of Tahlequah NE Oklahoma, but located right ON the river with a large portion of the smooth rock river shore entirely to your self! Primitive camping. Entire property per one reservation/no other guest per booking. Space for multiple campsites/tents. Gated access to 5.5 acres with natural stone steps leading you to the Illinois river. The bank is perfect to swim, fish, float, or lounge off of, all private! Easy shuttle to Todd Public Access for a float. Located on East side of Illinois river. MUCH quieter. Plenty of shade for the day, and perfect camp spot for the evening! Fire pit, with firewood included. Small camper trailer would work, there is a bridge to cross to property. PERFECT location for a Class B RV or Sprinter van! *direct property location given upon booking

Chateau aux Arc RV Park

73%

(30)

44mi from Roland · 14 sites · Altus, AR

Premiere camping in Arkansas' Wine Capital!

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Roland

100%

(4)

Lake Fort Smith Campground

29mi from Roland · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Fort Smith State Park

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(14)

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

36mi from Roland · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(2)

Little Pines Recreation Area

42mi from Roland · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(3)

Richland Creek Recreation Area

45mi from Roland · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(1)

Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp

45mi from Roland · 10 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

Spacious campsites surrounded by cedars.

100%

(6)

Cedar Lake Campground

45mi from Roland · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Knoppers Ford Campground

46mi from Roland · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Jack Creek Recreation Area

46mi from Roland · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Lake Wedington Campground

47mi from Roland · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(1)

Winding Stair Campground

49mi from Roland · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Stories from the community

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

A

Allison

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

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

Campsite is pictured on the right side of the photo.

E

Erick

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

Beautiful spot and park! Will definitely visit again.

G

Greg

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

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

Lori

November 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Heavener Runestone Park

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

R

Roger

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

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

J

Joseph

November 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

Was an amazingly beautiful place and photos do it justice. Was a great time with my family!!

Loreena

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

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

R

Russ

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

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

Joshua

November 2025

13 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Indian Creek Hideaway

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

k

kellimeyer723

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

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

Kathy

November 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Heavener Runestone Park

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

And this isn’t even a pretty sunset! Just wait until you get one while you’re here.

S

Sam

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

My new favorite hipcamp! A wonderfully kept site with many amenities. (chairs, lights, picnic tables, established fire pit, and chiminea), a short private hiking trail, and river accesses. I can't wait to come back in the spring and summer and shuttle our kayaks!

Travis

October 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

Great place on the river with trails on the property and public trails nearby. Convince store is 5 minutes down the road. Host is awesome and very helpful. Perfect place to go and unplug for a few days! Highly recommended!

S

Saul

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

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

Mysty

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

The customer service was outstanding. The view from our spot was amazing camp site #9. Sites and facilities were very clean. Highly recommend!! Thank You for an awesome stay.

K

Kenleigh

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Heavener Runestone Park

We had a great time here! Tent site 2 had beautiful views of the valley below. The facilities were clean and staff were very friendly. The trails inside the park were a pleasant surprise and more scenic than we expected. The only slight drawback is that there is a train that runs in the valley next to the park and it is active at all hours of the night, so we were woken by train horns a few times. Next time I would bring earplugs.

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!

M

Mikaila

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

We had a great time camping with my 3 dogs and my cat! It was sunny the first day and it was wonderful exploring the river with all my animals. Very secluded and private and we didn’t see anyone during our 3 day stay. It did rain A LOT towards the end which made it super muddy and a little hard to get out when we were leaving, but we still had a blast!

S

Seth

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres

Beautiful scenery in NW Arkansas. Tyler's property is close to any amenity you will ever need, but far enough to feel secluded. Be prepared for a hike if it has rained, but nonetheless a beautiful setup for camping. We had three families for our trip. Each family had 3 children ages 2-8 years old. Even with the river high from recent storms, we felt safe with our kids there and near the water. We "fished" all day, went on multiple hikes, and enjoyed family dinners together around the fire. Our kids were filthy and stinky and had a wonderful time. Thanks to Tyler for sharing his property with us.