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The best camping in Arkansas

Name: Arkansas
Address: Arkansas
Rating: 4.8215

Arkansas is full of surprises, with botanical gardens, ancient cave systems, and massive lakes that draw anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and birders. It’s also a hot spot for rockhounding, with tons of mineral-rich mines and quarries where visitors can hunt for everything from quartz to diamonds. Here you’ll also find one of the most unusual national parks in the country—Hot Springs National Park—where campers can "take the waters" in traditional bathhouses, just as people did more than a century ago. Fishing and birdwatching are popular Arkansas pastimes, and many state campgrounds sit on or near lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, who nest across Arkansas in the winter months.

96% (7.5K) • 9,881 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Arkansas

Bentonville Bike Camp

1. Bentonville Bike Camp

99%

(1102)

Bentonville, AR · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Bentonville Bike Camp; Where Bikers 🚴‍♂️ Come to Relax. We are avid mountain bikers and travelers, and we live on the property. Hipcamp is a platform for property owners to allow campers onto their property. If you're looking for a commercial campground, we are not it. Save money on fees- book directly with us at Bentonvillebikecamp.com Learn more about this land: 2 Indoor Bathrooms and Hot Showers Just two miles from the highway and on a very peaceful piece of land. Great for gravel mountain bikers because we are on the gravel road and you can connect to the riding trails from here. .7miles to The Back 40 trail system 2.3 miles to Slaughter Pen trail system We have a total of 10 acres of grass available to choose from; 9 dispersed sites in "The Meadow" 1 / 50 amp site 8 1 / 30amp site 5 2 / 110 electric sites. (6,9) Potable spring well water to fill your tanks and an RV dump station. There's a bike stand to wash your bikes, community fire pit* to get to know others, clean, flushable toilets, and now with a heated outdoor shower! The creek runs in the spring or after a good rain. Good dogs are always welcome. Don't want to hassle with a tent? We've got Mini A-frames... check them out! We've been hosting since May '22 and it has been a blast! We pride ourselves on offering our guest plenty of space and a peaceful, country setting. (Please, we do not allow generators to run constantly. Please book accordingly.)

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Red Fern

2. Red Fern

97%

(1231)

Witter, AR · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

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Potable water

FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

3. FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

99%

(73)

Hot Springs, AR · 8 sites · RVs, Lodging

Bike to bathhouse row or the National Park. Walk to Oaklawn Casino or Greenway trail. Gated Park with concrete pads, full hook-ups, free Wi-Fi. Call your friends, leash up the pup, and get ready to enjoy a unique stay in the heart of Hot Springs! At Finish Line RV Park, we offer a premium camping experience with: 🌟 Upscale, Concrete RV Pads 🛁 Immaculate, Spa-Like Bathhouse 🎯 Outdoor Pavilion with Horseshoes & Cornhole 🔥 Fire Pits & Picnic Tables at Every Site 🐶 Large Dog Park with Shade & Room to Run 💻 Free Wi-Fi 🧺 Modern Laundry Facility Enjoy curbside trash pickup, ice, firewood, and yard games delivered right to your site! 📍 Just 1 block from Oaklawn Horse Track & Casino 🚶‍♂️ Only 2 miles to Bathhouse Row and a 5-minute walk to Greenway Trail 📌 Close to 3 mines for digging diamonds, crystals, and gems! Please Note: 🚫 No tents or car camping permitted. ✅ RVs must be in good condition 🛑No homemade RV’s OR Schoolies

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

4. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%

(37)

National forest in Arkansas · 312 sites

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

Buffalo National River

5. Buffalo National River

96%

(65)

National park in Arkansas · 292 sites

Discover the free-flowing Buffalo National River in the scenic Ozarks.

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Campfires

Showers

Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

6. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%

(156)

Boles, AR · 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 hiking, ATV/UTV/Jeep riding, and many other activities 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 forgot something or need a midnight snack! Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power,  LED lighting and a large picnic table. New for 2026 is the full custom bathroom! (Toilet, Sink and Hot Shower!) We think you'll love it! There's a firepit, (firewood provided free) with a nice pergola (porch swings too!) There is also a camp style 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 the riverbank.  Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV or Jeep, 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

Toilets

Full hookups

Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

7. Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

97%

(312)

Ponca, AR · 40 sites · Tents, RVs

With a lifetime of love for the Ozarks Donny is anxious to share this unique opportunity to experience true wilderness with you. The trails are maintained with respect for the natural growth and inhabitants of the area. You may encounter wild elk and deer. Of course, visiting the property's herd of buffalo is a must. Your camping fees entitle you to hike the trail system. We also offer motorized recreation if you bring your 4 wheeler, side by side, Jeep, dirt bike or bicycle. Additional fees apply to wheeled trail recreation. We also have side x sides for rent. You can learn more at our website. www.wildernessrider.com

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Campfires

Pea Ridge Bike Camp

8. Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%

(280)

Pea Ridge, AR · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

**NOTE: If the campground is full, always call to see if I have additional sites. The Pea Ridge Bike Camp has 20 primitive campsites available for visitors to Northwest Arkansas and can accommodate tent campers, campervans, small and large campers and RVs. Even smaller Class A motorhomes (length isn't an issue but weight on a grassy field might be a concern should it rain heavily) We offer large, spacious campsites along with firepits, free firewood and large cable spool tables at each campsite. Potable water, 2 outdoor sinks, 2 outdoor showers, 4 large ADA portable toilets (1 in front and 3 in back), and trash bins are centrally located to most of the areas. There is a large in-ground community firepit, a large canopy, 4 picnic tables on the property, a propane barbecue grill, a bike wash station, 2 hammocks on frames and a vintage phone booth (with phone charging capabilities, visitor information and trail maps) onsite. We have added a school bus with a booth and 3 benches as a hangout during inclimate weather. We are currently providing free firewood for each firepit. Very flexible check in/out times. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is about 7 miles to downtown Bentonville and only 5 miles from Exit 88 and I-49. We are located n the country, yet only 1/8 mile to state highway 72. Restaurants, food trucks, groceries, banking and laundry facilities are only 2 miles away in Pea Ridge. We have 10 designated campsites and 10 dispersed campsite locations that are not in any designated area to allow guests some say as to where they camp. We are very flexible with arrival and departure times. We do offer group camping We will allow low-noise generators to be used in dispersed campsites. ** Please let us know If you are planning to use a generator. Our campsites are large with some being very shady and others in full sun. Great for those equipped with solar power. Since our intention is to provide camping space for visitors to the area, we limited the length-of-stay to 10 days. If you are a VISITOR to the area looking to stay for more than 10 days please notify me and I can lift the length-of-stay. Please call with any questions or concerns.

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Campfires

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

9. Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

98%

(195)

Jasper, AR · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp is far more than your ordinary campground! Hipcamp’s Best in State 2025 🙂 This 104-acre Ozark Mountain wonderland’s biggest draw would be hard to pin down. We are offering off-the-beaten-path serenity, with huge areas for each rental space, and unmatched hospitality. Sip morning coffee while you lose your cares in the vast mountain views, enjoy the pristine natural beauty that surrounds you in the deer meadow. Hike trails that meander to the seasonal creeks and waterfalls, past ancient walnut and hickory trees, to rest on large rock formations thick with moss, or take the high trails to the top of our bluff where views and natural oddities reward you at every bend, or just lay in the hammocks by the frog pond with a good book. Wildlife abounds on this property, including fox, black bear, deer, chipmunks, groundhogs, bobcat, and tons more. We offer fantastic add-ons like our new Pixie Hollow woodland platform that can be decked out for you to pop the question, or even have that dreamy micro wedding 🧚‍♀️💕🧚‍♀️. Forage hikes, where you learn about the immense variety of edible plants, guided photo op hikes, cut and make your own walking stick (and make it your own by wood burning, adding leather and feathers), are just a few of the options we have daily to add to your stay. Close to the Little Buffalo River and the quaint little town of Jasper, where you can shop, eat at the famous Ozark Cafe, or rent a kayak. One-of-a-kind stays include a fully off-grid container tiny house, boondock RV space, 2 themed RVs (one a cool Silk Road inspired and the other a romantic vibe), the grooviest authentic hippy van glamper, plus super large tent spaces. We may be farther off the beaten track than those roadside places, but we are so very worth it. Come be Enchanted. Bring your own drinking water. We are off grid water supplied.

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Toilets

Showers

Greers Ferry Lake

10. Greers Ferry Lake

97%

(18)

Park in Arkansas · 1133 sites

Discover Greers Ferry Lake's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Ouachita National Forest

11. Ouachita National Forest

96%

(26)

National forest in Arkansas · 342 sites

The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.

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Campfires

Mississippi River State Park

12. Mississippi River State Park

100%

(7)

State park in Arkansas · 31 sites

Discover the natural splendor of Mississippi River State Park.

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Campfires

Devil's Den State Park

13. Devil's Den State Park

100%

(27)

State park in Arkansas · 161 sites

Hike past ancient rock formations or take a pedalboat out on the lake.

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Campfires

Valley of peace campground

14. Valley of peace campground

99%

(643)

Mount Judea, AR · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Spring fed stream, small waterfall, can swim in creek or sit and listen to rippling water. Explore national forest or float buffalo river 7 mi away ,climb Sam's throne 13 mi away . work in process to improve off the beaten path. occasional bald eagle sightings, deer, and other wildlife. These are large camp spots 1&2 are neighbors 3&4 5&6 { Located 7 mi. east of Mount Judea Ar.

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Campfires

Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

15. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

98%

(1210)

Greenbrier, AR · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Grand Reopening: Friday October 2, 2026. We will reopen for fall colors and winter solitude on Friday October 2 following improvements to property, campsites and road. Thanks for your patience. Imagine the gentle rush of water over smooth stones, the scent of pine needles drifting through the air, and the warm glow of a campfire under a blanket of stars. Whether you’re here to swim, paddle, fish, hike, or simply relax in a hammock with a good book, this is your chance to reconnect with nature — and each other. While we are confidant you will enjoy your time on the Cadron and its sunlit bluffs, crystal-clear streams and nature's marvelous works and wonders please understand you'll be camping at the edge of a wilderness and we have day jobs. In other words, you are pretty well on your own upon arrival. Think DIY! You have many camping options: 1) Streamside Camping: Secluded tent sites with easy access to Cadron creek – many with picnic tables, fire pits, grills, and lamp posts 2) RV Camping: Limited sites, pull-through, up to 30 feet, level, hard gravel base, with basic hookups (electricity, no full sewer) 3) Dispersed Camping: Outside of the campground there are nearly 100 acres available for camping. If you are up to roughing it a bit we'll point you in the right direction. 3) Cabins and Glamping: For those that like to settle right in we have rustic cabins and campers with modern comforts (some include AC, heating, and kitchenettes) Activities and amenities include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, a 6-acre foraging field and 9-hole Frisbee golf course, bouldering, zen/meditation deck, climbing, psicobloc and more outdoor pursuits than one has time to pursue. Children can enjoy the Ninja rope course with zipline, slackline, and rope swing and petting Biscuit and Buttercup – our favored Kunekune forest pigs. And, Woolly Hollow State Park, Cove Creek Natural Heritage Area, Persimmon Ridge Resort and Greer's Ferry Lake are a short drive away. We invite you to our little piece of paradise on the Cadron. Bathe in a forest of tall standing pines and oak trees. Sit on the bank of a cascading stream. Embrace nature. We lie at the edge of civilization but we have good cell phone service and water hydrants and electrical outlets for recharging phones. And from March through November hot water showers are freely available. Our place is a bit rough, rugged and unruly yet we call it home -- a place where everyone regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, political views, religion, or culture is welcomed to come enjoy nature's marvelous works and wonders. We love everyone!! So we invite you to come down to the Cadron and stay a spell. Unwind. And enjoy!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

16. Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%

(174)

Fourche, AR · 1 site

Sitting above the Arkansas River you have an excellent view of the river from two vantage points. With a large almost 2 acre clearing there is plenty of room to roam.  Magical sunsets and more stars than you can count!  When it's a full moon, you can watch it coming up through the trees as you are sitting in front of the fire.  If you are really lucky, sometimes you can watch the searchlight from the river barges as they navigate the big bend in the river.  If you are a nature lover this place has it all.   Navigate to the entrance here (https://maps.app.goo.gl/GyC2mifqGSaosHSm7) and you will find the main entrance to both sites: Is located near the bottom of the road but actually has two views of the river.  It is very secluded and a little more concealed, which can be good on hot days as there are more trees for coverage.   NOTE: Site 2 can only support tents and small popups. The site will allow for multiple vehicles to be parked, so no problem there.  If you bring any vehicles please do not ride them on the property as they damage the grass, there are lots of good off-road riding to be had in the area. Toadsuck Lock and Dam park are about 30 minutes away, and if you need a big Walmart there is one 10 minutes past that.  There is also a big Walmart about 30 minutes in the other direction at the intersection of Chenal Parkway and Cantrell Road. And if you like hiking and climbing then you cannot miss Pinnacle Mountain State Park!  Climb to the top and get the best views in all the area, 360 degrees views up there.  And if you want something a little less steep, the Kingfisher trail at the bottom makes a nice gentle loop next to the Little Maumelle river where you can see absolutely GIANT cypress trees.  Also, the Ouachita National Recreation Trailpasses just 5 miles from our place, and it loops around the entire north side of Lake Maumelle.  There is a trailhead and parking near North Shore Landing. There is plenty of mountain biking in the area too.  Here's a link to some of the trails:  mtbproject.com/directory/8007059/pinnacle-mountain-state-park-monument-trails

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Campfires

The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

17. The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

93%

(47)

Bentonville, AR · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

The Boondock at Handcut Hollow *Self-Contained Only: This is a boondocking experience. You must have your own water & and power. No hookups of any kind are available. But there are Fire Pits, toilet's and garbage dumpsters on site. This is a open site camping option. Feel free to set up in any site that is open when you arrive. For those who want more privacy check out the back field! No hookups here; this is pure, unadulterated boondocking for the self-sufficient adventurer. Your Adventure Hub in the Mountain Biking Capital of the World! Calling all shredders! Nestled right in the heart of the legendary Bentonville trail systems, including the renowned Hand Cut Hollow, our property offers the ultimate no-frills overnight spot for all mountain bikers. Forget crowded campgrounds and long drives – you'll be steps away from world-class singletrack the moment you wake up. What to Expect: Unbeatable Location: Direct access to the Bentonville trail network, including Hand Cut Hollow. Ride in, ride out! -Maximize Trail Time: Spend less time setting up camp and more time shredding the gnar. Ready to experience the Mountain Biking Capital of the World like a local? Book your spot at The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow and get ready to ride!

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Toilets

Campfires

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

18. Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%

(451)

Morrilton, AR · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your small trailer or RV in a picturesque orchard on the edge of Petit Jean Mountain. You'll have a backdrop of woods and grazing sheep, with the Petit Jean Farmer's Market barn -- offering locally sourced produce, cheese (some made on the premises), baked goods, honey, preserves, meat, and crafts -- only steps away. The market operates on Saturdays, when hot lunches are often served, but it is open on a self-serve basis the rest of the week. Petit Jean State State Park is a very short drive, with spectacular hiking trails, a CCC-built lodge and restaurant, and a lake. Campers are welcome to use the fire pit, grill, and trampoline, and they have access to the half-bath in the barn. They're also more than welcome to help Ed with the chores : ) An electric hookup is $10. Firewood is available for $10.

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Toilets

Campfires

Shady Camp on Little Piney Creek

19. Shady Camp on Little Piney Creek

100%

(4)

Hagarville, AR · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape to a private creekside campsite on Little Piney Creek, just north of Hagarville, Arkansas. This shaded campsite offers a peaceful setting with a beautiful swimming hole, easy car access, and direct access to nature right at your doorstep. The property borders the Ozark National Forest to the west, giving you the feeling of a secluded mountain retreat while still being conveniently close to local attractions and supplies. Spend your days swimming, relaxing by the creek, floating downstream from nearby access points, or exploring some of the best scenery in the Ozarks. Located near Hwy 123 and CR 5550, you’ll be close to popular spots like Union Schoolhouse, Bub’s Cabin, Beaver Slide, Pilot Rock, Pam’s Grotto, and countless hiking and off-road trails—far more than you could cover in a single weekend. The campsite is family-friendly and includes a slide and swing set for kids, plenty of shade, and room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors. Pets are welcome off-leash as long as they are friendly and under control. You’ll also be only about 10 minutes from the Hagarville grocery store and Skyking Pizza for supplies or a quick meal. Located at Hwy 123 and CR 5550. All photos in this listing were taken directly on the property.

Pets

Happy Hippy Acres

20. Happy Hippy Acres

99%

(123)

Rogers, AR · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We have 40 acres of woods, tiny waterfalls, hiking, stargazing, bird watching, and sunset watching for the campers who like primitive camping. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a quiet, natural area to camp in, and destinations to see close by. Private area with sun, and plenty of shade. Blackberry's are available to pick in late June or early July. There are three logging trails that you can bush wack your way through just behind the campground. There are cliffs, and plenty of scenery to enjoy. We are a short drive away from Eureka Springs, Turpentine Creek(big cat sanctuary), War Eagle Cavern, and War Eagle Mill. Hobbs State National Park is close by off Scenic Highway 12, with biking, and walking trails galore! We are also close to many of the NW Arkansas mountain biking trails in the area! Access to Beaver Lake is a short drive or a long hike down the scenic rock roads. Due to the remote, and private location, we want to remind everyone that consuming alcohol under the age of 21 will not be tolerated. Safety is very important to us. We are looking forward to seeing you. Happy Camping!

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Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Park style BBQ grill with a stone fire pit.

Ralph

1 day ago

36 ft toy hauler

With pets

7 nights at Barker Gap

Coming in an RV? No need to camp in a parking lot. Many RV campsites with gorgeous mountain views and privacy

Zoe

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

Easy to find and to navigate coming in on main road. 75 miles of dirtbike trail! Will be coming back for another stay.

Olivia

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

The property was beautiful and the directions were easy to follow, we loved it

Bring Your Van... RV... Or Tent to enjoy BaseCamp.

Matthew

2 weeks ago

8 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to SilverStream Lodging

Clean and well maintained property. Everything is just as you would expect. Bathhouse was air conditioned and very clean! I road my mountain bike on the short but fun trail around the property. Everyone I encountered was friendly. Got nice and quiet at night for a great nights sleep.

Shael

2 weeks ago

18 ft Class B

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

What an absolute gem! Already booked the next camp date!

Detlef

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

Incredible place! My kids and I love camping and riding UTV here. The star lit skies and solitude is second to none. Incredible and accommodating hosts.

Shelby

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Valley of peace campground

Mulberry hill is the perfect place to get away! The yurt was amazing! We always tent camp so it was so nice not having to worry about setting everything up and just relax! The stargazing was incredible, we could see a bit of the Milky Way and saw 4 shooting stars! We will definitely be back!

Christopher

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Spoke 'N Tru

Adam has some beautiful property, and it was super easy to get to using his directions. I went to camp and watch a meteor shower, and wasn't disappointed. Not sure if I'll ever be back this way, but if I am I'd definitely stay again.

That One

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Scraped a few times coming up the road in my lowered 95 camry, didnt do any damage but did have to clear some larger rocks away. Wasn't too bad coming up or down! Beautiful spot. Watched meteor shower and the sunset. Will be back!

Blue Box

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

Awesome spot! The outhouses we saw were filled with trash, I don't blame the host though, I blame the lazy campers who don't respect nature. Hope they can get them cleaned up a touch before next time. Swimming hole was amazing!

Richard

3 weeks ago

50 ft travel trailer

3 nights at FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

Very well kept, new RV park close to the racetrack and historic downtown Hot Springs!

KC Fitness

3 weeks ago

10 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Valley of peace campground

This site lives up to its name! It rained hard the first night and Walter came down to instruct us to move to another site under the trees. It was awesome! Listening to the rain on the water put us right to sleep. Clear sunny skies the next two days and so much nature to explore. I even had vehicle trouble and Walter helped out. Above and beyond!

Michael

3 weeks ago

Tent

6 nights at Bentonville Bike Camp

Great spot, top notch amenities and good location for trail access. I would definitely recommend.

Madeline

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Red Fern

This site is beautiful!! You are very far from gas or phone service, so make sure to fill up your tank before you get too far out there. The creek crossing was just fine in my Subaru outback, but I would definitely make sure to get out and check the water levels first. This is definitely a site made for off-roading vehicles, I would not test it in a smaller car. Overall the site was a 10/10 time, though! There is so much to find when you hike around the area, we wish we had more time to spend out there to take it all in! Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful land with us, we will definitely be back in the future!

Brayden

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Perfect secluded spot on the river that has everything you need to make your camping trip so much easier!

Matthew

August 2026

Tent

With pets

1 night at Red Fern

We enjoyed a quiet night tent camping by the creek! The night sounds were fantastic with the trickling of the water and the frogs chirping. Site 5 was secluded and we barely came across another soul save for a pair of dogs that were friendly, just tell them to go home and they will!

Jaden

August 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

Great remote site next to a picturesque creek. No real signage, but not difficult to find.

Carley

August 2026

32 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Flatwoods Mountain RV Park

Small, cute and quiet campground. Very friendly and accommodating. I would highly recommend!

August 2026

42 ft fifth wheel

Weekend Trip to Carver Ridge Camp Buffalo River

Ease of access, clean nice bath house and showers.

Kristen

August 2026

Weekend Trip to Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

If you're looking for some peace and quiet and not afraid to get in touch with nature, this is the place to be. If you're a "glamper" you should probably not stay here. The campground is clean (dirt and bugs are considered normal) and well maintained. We stayed at the cabin and it was everything we needed. Will definitely come back, if given the chance.

Arkansas camping guide

Where to go

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest-growing regions of the state, offering a mix of cute towns and Ozark adventure. The largest state park in Arkansas, the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, is here, offering 54 miles of trails and campsites only reachable by mountain bike. Major geological features in the region include the Boston Mountains (part of the southern Ozarks), a forested region full of hiking trails, caves, and springs, particularly in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.

Southwestern Arkansas

Southwest Arkansas is characterized by lakes, wooded forests, and plenty of opportunities to get out and rockhound. Highlights include Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can dig for diamonds and other minerals, and Millwood State Park, a popular spot for fishing, birdwatching, and camping.

Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas is home to the state capital and biggest city, Little Rock. About an hour away sits Hot Springs National Park, with its historic bathhouses, a couple of which invite visitors to soak to this day. Camping opportunities abound—you can rent campsites and cabins year-round at Lake Ouachita State Park or try to nab one of the first-come, first-served sites at Lake Sylvia Recreation Area, celebrated for its 18-acre lake.

Northeastern Arkansas

Northeastern Arkansas offers opportunities for fishing, water sports, and learning about what life was like in this region many years ago. Highlights include the Parkin Archaeological State Park, which preserves 17 acres of what was once a Native American village, and the Hampson Archeological Museum State Park, where you can check out archaeological artifacts from the area.

Southeastern Arkansas

Southeastern Arkansas' Lower Delta Region offers a mix of historic Civil War sites, scenic lakes, and opportunities for bird- and wildlife-watching. Hit Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state, and the Arkansas Post National Memorial, a National Park Service-run living history museum showcasing life on the Grand Prairie in the late 1800s.

Top camping destinations around Arkansas

Ouachita National Forest

96 campgrounds

Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

101 campgrounds

North side under the rock face. Very scenic.

McGehee

6 campgrounds

Devil's Den State Park

102 campgrounds

Monticello

7 campgrounds

Buffalo National River

97 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arkansas good for camping?

Yes, Arkansas is an excellent destination for camping, with a diverse range of options from state parks to national forests and private campgrounds. The state offers beautiful landscapes, including the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, numerous lakes, rivers, and hiking trails. You can find various camping experiences, such as tent camping, RV parks, and cabin rentals, on Hipcamp. Keep in mind that the best time to go camping in Arkansas is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is more mild and comfortable.

Is boondocking legal in Arkansas?

Yes, boondocking, or dispersed camping, is legal in Arkansas on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). You can find boondocking opportunities in the Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. However, it is essential to follow the guidelines and rules set by these agencies, such as camping at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and trails, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Private land may also offer boondocking opportunities, but you must obtain permission from the landowner first. You can find private land camping options in Arkansas on Hipcamp.

How do I find free camping in Arkansas?

To find free camping in Arkansas, you can explore the state's national forests, where dispersed camping is often allowed. Dispersed camping generally means camping outside of developed campgrounds, with no amenities such as water, restrooms, or picnic tables. In Arkansas, Ouachita National Forest and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are great places to start looking for free camping opportunities. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check the specific regulations for each area before camping. You can visit Hipcamp for more information on camping in Arkansas.

How much does it cost to camp at Arkansas state parks?

Camping fees at Arkansas State Parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities provided. Prices generally range from around $12 to $42 per night for tent and RV camping. Primitive campsites are typically the least expensive, while sites with electrical and water hookups or full hookups cost more. Some parks may also offer cabin rentals at higher prices. You can find more information about specific Arkansas State Parks and their camping fees at Arkansas State Parks website.