The best river, stream, or creek camping near Smithville

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Smithville draws river campers for a reason. You’ll find over 1,600 options right on the water, with sites that let you wake up to the sound of the river and cast a line before your coffee’s cool. Expect prices that start at $20 a night, though most sites land around $40. Top picks include Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews), Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp (96 reviews), and End of the Trail (85 reviews). Most sites are pet-friendly, allow campfires, and have showers—essentials after a day of hiking, fishing, or horseback riding along the riverbanks. If you like your camping with easy river access, Smithville’s got you covered.

98% (740)

Top-rated campgrounds near Smithville

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%
(518)
30mi from Smithville · 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

7. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(129)
40mi from Smithville · 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

8. Buffalo Tree Ranch

100%
(4)
41mi from Smithville · 1 site · Tent
Welcome to Buffalo Tree Ranch, a stunning retreat nestled in the heart of nature, where the wild beauty of the great outdoors meets the comfort of a well-kept haven. This expansive property offers something for every type of adventurer — whether you’re looking to hike through scenic trails, take a refreshing swim, rev your engine on off-road paths, or simply unwind under the stars. Primitive landscape under towering pines, cedars, wildflower meadows, and serene overlooks with breathtaking views. A crystal-clear spring-fed creek sits at the center of the property, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just lounging on the rocky shore. For thrill-seekers, our designated off-road areas feature rugged terrain ideal for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4x4 vehicles. Campsites range from secluded, primitive spots tucked deep into the woods to more accessible areas and RV hookups. At night, the skies open up to a brilliant display of stars, making it the perfect setting for campfires and stargazing. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the peace, or a bit of both — Buffalo Tree Ranch is your perfect escape.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

9. Brookside RV Retreat

92%
(25)
39mi from Smithville · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging
Ready to Retreat? Come discover Brookside RV Retreat, located and surrounded by the beautiful Ouachita Mountains 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Our RV facilities were designed by people who understand you don't want to be crowded. This is why we have a very limited number of sites, which are spaciously arranged, allowing you as much privacy and solitude as you want. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek, a great place to walk or picnic while listening to the sounds of the water. In the warmer months, cool off and take a dip in the crystal clear mountain stream. The creek runs along the backside of a 40 acre plot, all of which you are welcome to explore for swimming holes and waterfalls! In addition, we considered a dark-friendly campground, which means at night, the skies come alive with stars, constellations, and a view of the Milky Way. Learn more about this land: We are a new 2021 RV park located in Big Fork, AR, 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida. We have 5 pull-through sites with full hook-ups. Sites are very spacious at 75' x 20' plus picnic, firepit, and seating areas. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek with swimming holes and waterfalls. We are also located near the Wolf Pen Gap ATV trails, and guests can ride directly to the trails from their RV site. Local rental companies are available for anyone not wanting to bring their own ATVs. There is plenty of overflow parking for trailers for those that do bring their own on the property as well.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

17. Glampin' In Style - Broken Bow

93%
(66)
22mi from Smithville · 5 sites · Lodging
The Beaver's Bend State Park is within minutes, as it the Broken Bow Lake. We have owned our property for 12 years, and decided to buy in Hochatown because we had been camping in this area for over 28 years. This area brings us joy, love, peace, tranquility, and seclusion. We love the nature, the water, animals, and sunshine. We even love the rain! Beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Our little piece of Heaven on Earth. We are also close to all of the Hochatown events, eateries, wineries, & breweries. You can go golfing, swimming, get lost in a "secret room" or get a massage, within a 5 minute drive of our location. Grab your pillow, towels, swimsuits, toiletries and come on to Broken Bow Lake (2 miles) or Beaver's Bend State Park (5 miles) and enjoy the great outdoors, in style!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$110
 / night

20. Bigfoot Basecamp

50mi from Smithville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Bigfoot Basecamp – Panola Mountain, Oklahoma 👣 Welcome to Bigfoot Basecamp — four wild, off-grid acres tucked away on Panola Mountain, Oklahoma. Disconnect from the noise and find your own slice of wilderness where the stars shine brighter and the nights whisper with mystery. Bring your own tent, water, food, camp toilet, and fishing pole — and enjoy access to the Fourche Maline Reservoir right from the property! Note: This land features rugged terrain — it’s for outdoor enthusiasts who want to disconnect and enjoy the wilderness and nature’s beauty. The property sits in a remote location at the top of a mountain with a 28-acre stocked lake connected to it. Wildlife is abundant — deer, coyotes, wolves, and even the occasional bear — so be aware of your surroundings and enjoy your stay! Remember to pack it all out — no hookups, no frills, just nature, peace, and maybe… a footprint or two. 😉 ✨ 4 acres | Primitive camping | Off-grid adventure | Lakeside vibes #BigfootBasecamp #OffGridCamping #OklahomaAdventures #LeaveNoTrace #CampWild #FourcheMaline #PrimitiveCamping #BigfootCountry
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

Smithville draws river campers for a reason. You’ll find over 1,600 options right on the water, with sites that let you wake up to the sound of the river and cast a line before your coffee’s cool. Expect prices that start at $20 a night, though most sites land around $40. Top picks include Heavener Runestone Park (346 reviews), Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp (96 reviews), and End of the Trail (85 reviews). Most sites are pet-friendly, allow campfires, and have showers—essentials after a day of hiking, fishing, or horseback riding along the riverbanks. If you like your camping with easy river access, Smithville’s got you covered.

98% (740)

Top-rated campgrounds near Smithville

1. Heavener Runestone Park

97%
(518)
30mi from Smithville · 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

7. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%
(129)
40mi from Smithville · 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

8. Buffalo Tree Ranch

100%
(4)
41mi from Smithville · 1 site · Tent
Welcome to Buffalo Tree Ranch, a stunning retreat nestled in the heart of nature, where the wild beauty of the great outdoors meets the comfort of a well-kept haven. This expansive property offers something for every type of adventurer — whether you’re looking to hike through scenic trails, take a refreshing swim, rev your engine on off-road paths, or simply unwind under the stars. Primitive landscape under towering pines, cedars, wildflower meadows, and serene overlooks with breathtaking views. A crystal-clear spring-fed creek sits at the center of the property, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just lounging on the rocky shore. For thrill-seekers, our designated off-road areas feature rugged terrain ideal for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4x4 vehicles. Campsites range from secluded, primitive spots tucked deep into the woods to more accessible areas and RV hookups. At night, the skies open up to a brilliant display of stars, making it the perfect setting for campfires and stargazing. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the peace, or a bit of both — Buffalo Tree Ranch is your perfect escape.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

9. Brookside RV Retreat

92%
(25)
39mi from Smithville · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging
Ready to Retreat? Come discover Brookside RV Retreat, located and surrounded by the beautiful Ouachita Mountains 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Our RV facilities were designed by people who understand you don't want to be crowded. This is why we have a very limited number of sites, which are spaciously arranged, allowing you as much privacy and solitude as you want. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek, a great place to walk or picnic while listening to the sounds of the water. In the warmer months, cool off and take a dip in the crystal clear mountain stream. The creek runs along the backside of a 40 acre plot, all of which you are welcome to explore for swimming holes and waterfalls! In addition, we considered a dark-friendly campground, which means at night, the skies come alive with stars, constellations, and a view of the Milky Way. Learn more about this land: We are a new 2021 RV park located in Big Fork, AR, 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida. We have 5 pull-through sites with full hook-ups. Sites are very spacious at 75' x 20' plus picnic, firepit, and seating areas. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek with swimming holes and waterfalls. We are also located near the Wolf Pen Gap ATV trails, and guests can ride directly to the trails from their RV site. Local rental companies are available for anyone not wanting to bring their own ATVs. There is plenty of overflow parking for trailers for those that do bring their own on the property as well.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$35
 / night

17. Glampin' In Style - Broken Bow

93%
(66)
22mi from Smithville · 5 sites · Lodging
The Beaver's Bend State Park is within minutes, as it the Broken Bow Lake. We have owned our property for 12 years, and decided to buy in Hochatown because we had been camping in this area for over 28 years. This area brings us joy, love, peace, tranquility, and seclusion. We love the nature, the water, animals, and sunshine. We even love the rain! Beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Our little piece of Heaven on Earth. We are also close to all of the Hochatown events, eateries, wineries, & breweries. You can go golfing, swimming, get lost in a "secret room" or get a massage, within a 5 minute drive of our location. Grab your pillow, towels, swimsuits, toiletries and come on to Broken Bow Lake (2 miles) or Beaver's Bend State Park (5 miles) and enjoy the great outdoors, in style!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$110
 / night

20. Bigfoot Basecamp

50mi from Smithville · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Bigfoot Basecamp – Panola Mountain, Oklahoma 👣 Welcome to Bigfoot Basecamp — four wild, off-grid acres tucked away on Panola Mountain, Oklahoma. Disconnect from the noise and find your own slice of wilderness where the stars shine brighter and the nights whisper with mystery. Bring your own tent, water, food, camp toilet, and fishing pole — and enjoy access to the Fourche Maline Reservoir right from the property! Note: This land features rugged terrain — it’s for outdoor enthusiasts who want to disconnect and enjoy the wilderness and nature’s beauty. The property sits in a remote location at the top of a mountain with a 28-acre stocked lake connected to it. Wildlife is abundant — deer, coyotes, wolves, and even the occasional bear — so be aware of your surroundings and enjoy your stay! Remember to pack it all out — no hookups, no frills, just nature, peace, and maybe… a footprint or two. 😉 ✨ 4 acres | Primitive camping | Off-grid adventure | Lakeside vibes #BigfootBasecamp #OffGridCamping #OklahomaAdventures #LeaveNoTrace #CampWild #FourcheMaline #PrimitiveCamping #BigfootCountry
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Smithville

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field