Camping in Arkansas

With 52 state parks and two and a half million acres of national forest, you can soak in hot springs, hunt for diamonds, or cast a line in the Natural State.

94% (6710 reviews)
  1. Arkansas
94% (6710 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arkansas

Camper favorites in Arkansas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Arkansas

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Star Hosts in Arkansas

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12 top campgrounds in Arkansas

99%
(851)

Bentonville Bike Camp

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Bentonville, AR
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. 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 6 3 / 110 electric sites. (4,6,9) 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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from 
$29
 / night
97%
(1149)

Red Fern

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · 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.
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from 
$27
 / night
99%
(136)

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents104 acres · AR
Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp is far more than your ordinary campground! 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 creation stations where tables of art supplies can be laid out for either self-initiated projects or sample projects with instruction by hostess, Mizzy (a working artist with pieces in every continent, save Antarctica). 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, super large tent spaces, and coming soon a hippy van sleeper, cordwood log cabin, (we encourage sustainable building questions) we may be farther off the beaten track than those roadside places, but we are so very worth it. Come be Enchanted.
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from 
$20
 / night
97%
(19)

Hot Springs Oaklawn RV Park in Town

17 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Hot Springs, AR
Bike to bathhouse row or the National Park. Walk to Oaklawn Casino or Greenway trail. Gated park with concrete pads, full hook-ups. Splash pad and water slide onsite. 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 💦 Splash Pad and Water Slide to Cool Off 💻 Free Wi-Fi 🧺 Modern Laundry Facility Enjoy curbside trash pickup, and let our team deliver ice, firewood, and yard games right to your site! Our friendly concierge will greet you and escort you to your weekend getaway. 📍 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.
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$22.50
 / night
98%
(32)

Buffalo River Glamping

9 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Compton, AR
Escape to the heart of Arkansas's natural beauty with Buffalo River Glamping, where luxury meets wilderness. Nestled in the beauty of the rugged Ozark mountains, our glamping sites offer an unparalleled retreat for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those searching for a tranquil getaway. You can embark on nature walks through the surrounding wilderness such as nearby Lost Valley, Hemmed In Hollow and Whitaker Point. You certainly will not want to miss a visit to local waterfalls and trailheads, spend the day kayaking, rafting or canoeing on the Buffalo River or take a dip in one of the local swimming holes along the river. Tucked far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Buffalo River Glamping was meticulously designed to provide an unforgettable retreat. You will be captivated by the harmonious blend of nature and tranquility. As you meander through the trails on the property, you'll be surrounded with vibrant lush greenery. You’ll experience a sense of seclusion, while the distant sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves create a soothing performance that serenades you into a state of relaxation. As the sun sets after a day of fun and adventure, it’s time to relax and unwind at your campsite. As you fire up the grill for a steak, burger or hotdogs, don’t forget to save room for a gooey batch of s'mores toasted over a cozy campfire. After dinner you might want to play a game of cornhole or horseshoes, or just relax by the community firepit and stargaze into the dark night sky. When you are ready to retire for the evening, you will certainly want to enjoy a warm shower in our climate controlled shower house. A comfy bed in your tent awaits you for a quiet relaxing night of rest, but be sure to listen out for the sounds of the whippoorwills, or an occasional owl before drifting off to sleep. While you are awakened by the melodious sound of the birds chirping and singing, and you catch a glimpse of the radiant morning sun, a well stocked coffee bar awaits you for your first cup of coffee for the day. There’s nothing more calming than relaxing on the deck while enjoying your first warm cup of perk me up while breathing in the fresh morning mountain air, and planning your fun and adventure for the day. When your vacation at Buffalo River Glamping comes to an end, and as you venture back home, the memories and adventures that you experienced will give you a profound sense of peace and contentment. We are located in the upper Buffalo River area where within minutes you can venture out to the many astonishing natural attractions in the area. Reserve your tent today and start planning your unforgettable escape to the Arkansas wilderness. We can't wait to welcome you and look forward to having you as our guest! A stay at Buffalo River Glamping is not just a vacation – it's an escape into a truly unforgettable experience that nourishes the soul and rejuvenates the spirit.
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$50
 / night
99%
(92)

Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

3 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Rogers, AR
We have 40 acres of woods, 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 you can hike just behind the campground. They lead to a creek you can follow for moderate hike. 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 anyone 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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$25.20
 / night
99%
(419)

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

2 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Morrilton, AR
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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from 
$25
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

Other options in Arkansas

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

Camping in Arkansas guide

Overview

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.

Where to go

Northwestern Arkansas

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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.