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.

  1. Arkansas
96% (6878 reviews)

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.

Popular camping styles for Arkansas

Top-rated campgrounds

Bentonville Bike Camp

1. Bentonville Bike Camp

99%
(914)
20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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 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.)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Pea Ridge Bike Camp

3. Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%
(197)
21 sites · RVs, Tents · Pea Ridge, AR
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. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is located 5 miles northeast of Bentonville and most of the bike trails are on the north side of Bentonville. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Camp Bentonville

5. Camp Bentonville

96%
(216)
9 sites · RVs, Tents · Bentonville, AR
This is a Homestead camp like most others in the surrounding area. Welcome to our charming RV and tent site nestled in the heart of Bentonville's blossoming art and outdoor scene! If you're seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of cultural flair, you've found your perfect getaway. Campfires crackle and laughter echoes in the air – you're free to embrace the magic of a flickering firelight under the starlit skies. Our site comes complete with a convenient portable toilet for your comfort and privacy. Bring along your furry friends because pets are more than welcome to join in on the adventure! You'll find potable water available to keep everyone hydrated and happy, and a rustic picnic table where stories and meals can be shared. Stay connected to the digital world while you disconnect from the routine. Enjoy the best of both worlds with reliable WiFi and excellent cell reception, ensuring you can share your unforgettable moments with friends and family. Got wheels? No problem! Our pull-in site accommodates vehicles under 24 feet, making it easy for you to settle in and start making memories. And speaking of memories, you're in for a treat with a plethora of exciting events just around the corner. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of live music, explore the stunning art at the Crystal Bridges American Art Museum, and experience the innovative brilliance at the Momentary. Bentonville isn't just a destination; it's a cultural phenomenon. Rejuvenate your senses as you explore a dozen golf courses and embark on bike excursions that cater to every style. The city's vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty make it a Southern hub for arts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Pets
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from 
$15
 / night
North side under the rock face. Very scenic.

6. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

98%
(1132)
101 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Greenbrier, AR
LABOR DAY WEEKEND SPECIAL OFFER: Cabin Rental: $25/night (3 night minimum) -- Three nights for the price of one! Cabin siting aside one of the best swim holes on the Cadron -- sleeps four comfortably (more details inside). Step into your own private wilderness park where hiking trails weave past whispering waterfalls, sunlit bluffs, and crystal-clear streams. We are confidant the Cadron will deliver an exceptional experience. 1) Primitive Camping: Secluded tent sites with access to Cadron creek, natural springs, and wooded areas – 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) Cabins and Glamping: 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. And although we lie at the edge of civilization we have good cell phone service and water hydrants and electrical outlets for recharging phones and the such are freely available for our guests to use. From March through November hot water showers are also 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, national origin, 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 sit a spell. Unwind. Kick back. And enjoy!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night
Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

7. Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

99%
(150)
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Jasper, AR
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 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, 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.
Pets
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from 
$20
 / night
Nearby Kings River Falls

9. Red Fern

97%
(1169)
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Witter, AR
One of Arkansas' greatest treasures. Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas. This is a remote and rugged campground with caves, bluffs, swimming holes and river a plenty. This campground has a grand exhibition of the same sandstone formation that is responsible for the Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) formation. Clovis like points have been found here, and so one might assume the bluffs and crags here have been inhabited for millennia. This 7 acre property is completely surrounded by Arkansas Natural Heritage-Natural Area. There are miles of trails and cooling waters at every turn. If you like Kings River Falls, get ready to fall in love with this Red Fern Campground. So pack your curiosity, lace up your hiking boots, and let the whispering leaves guide you. Kings River Falls awaits, ready to share its secrets with those who listen. Where time slows down and the modern world fades away. Every turn reveals a new wonder; a hidden waterfall an unnoticed cave or bluff or a moss-covered boulder. It’s not just a place; it’s an experience an invitation to step beyond the ordinary and into a world where magic still thrives and fairy tales come alive. Here, the forest whispers secrets, and the river sings a timeless song. Most of our campsites are just yards away from a public swimming area, which is shared between our property and the Arkansas Natural Area. You should expect local traffic at the main swimming area during your stay. We have a private swimming area on our property which is just a short hike from the developed campsites (Please ask the camphost for directions). There are miles of county maintained bumpy dirt roads leading to the site. Expect your vehicle to get dusty. There is a creek crossing that is required to reach the campsites. We recommend high clearance and/or 4WD or AWD vehicles. If you are unable to cross the creek, you will need to park in the parking area and walk across the creek to reach your site.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

11. The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

100%
(4)
27 sites · RVs, Tents · Bentonville, AR
The Boondock at Handcut Hollow *Self-Contained Only: This is a boondocking experience. You must have your own water, waste disposal, and power. No hookups of any kind are available. But there are 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 serious 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! -Self-Contained Only: This is a boondocking experience. You must have your own water, waste disposal, and power. No hookups of any kind are available. -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!
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Beach to roam around on

12. Fresh Life at Rocky Branch

96%
(167)
1 site · RV, Tent · Rogers, AR
This land was purchased in the early 70's as a future family home site. It was never developed. It has been used by family and friends for various holidays and just camp outs. Now you can enjoy it as well. *NOTE* Contrary to popular belief there is no boat dock. Anyone found to be on a dock will be considered as trespassing and may be subject to prosecution. Learn more about this land: Primitive camping on Beaver Lake across from Rocky Branch Marina, Surrounded on three sides by this gorgeous lake. Light rolling hills with mature trees landscape this private lake front hideaway . There are a few residential executive homes nearby. This camp is hosted by Beaver Lake Outdoor Center. Kayak, jet ski rental available upon request. Close to Hobbs State Park Conservation Area, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art(from Rockwell to Warhol and everything in between); War Eagle Mill and Caverns, Museum of Native American History, The Walmart Museum, Eureka Springs, just a short 40min. drive to Bentonville airport (XNA). Please remember if you "pack it in then pack it out", and absolutely no glass.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Campsite #2 is has plenty of space for a larger party. Tent and hammocks available to rent.

13. Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

99%
(108)
3 sites · Lodging, Tents · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night
Petit Jean Farm Orchard

15. Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%
(425)
2 sites · RVs, Tents · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Buffalo River Glamping

16. Buffalo River Glamping

98%
(33)
9 sites · Lodging, Tents · 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.
Pets
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from 
$50
 / night
Ouachita River Haven

17. Ouachita River Haven

98%
(263)
22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Pencil Bluff, AR
Welcome to Ouachita River Haven! Nestled between Ouachita National Forest property and the Ouachita River, our Haven is a peaceful little slice of nature for you to take a break, catch your breath, and enjoy the outdoors! Property has 1000 ft of river access, with canoe & kayak docks, swimming hole, volleyball and tetherball, horseshoes, swings. We offer hiking, mountain biking, and river shuttles as well as canoe/kayak/tube rentals and shuttles. Such trips should be reserved in advance by messaging us or visiting our website. Our office sells firewood for $5/bundle. We also have a small array of custom woodwork items from our woodshop, freeze dried snacks and hiking restocks, food from local vendors, and souvenirs! All primitive sites have a picnic table, fire ring, and campfire grill grate. Electric sites are 30 amp, if using for tent camping you will need a 3-prong converter (we can rent one to you for $5 if you do not have your own). RV/Camper MAXIMUM length is 28 feet. Tipi rental is a camping experience only; it does not have electricity, a/c or heat. There are solar lights inside. We do have a Queen Sized outdoor bed and bedding available to add to rental for $10/night. Bunkhouse is a camping experience - bring your own bedding. A/C, heat, electricity, TV & DVDs, Microwave, and Mini fridge are inside. Guests use campground restrooms Campground restrooms and showers are a short walk from campgrounds. We are pet-friendly. Dogs must be leashed at all times that they are not in a tent or camper and friendly with other dogs and people. There is a working dog on the property-he is friendly with all people and dogs.
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$26
 / night
Crystal Camp

18. Crystal Camp

91%
(34)
4 sites · RVs, Tents · Mount Ida, AR
The Crystal Camp Campground is a rock hounding paradise and is less than two minutes from the Crystal Vista, Wegner and Avatar Crystal mines. This area of Arkansas produces some of the finest quartz crystals on earth and your chances of finding real treasure at any of the nearby mines is pretty much guaranteed. If your kids like to play in the dirt and hunt for treasure they will fill their pockets with real gems at any of the nearby mines. Please Note: This is a beautiful property and ready for your trip but guests should expect a work in progress as well. The property is newly cleared, we installed new picnic tables and have fire rings, but that's the extent of the amenities right now. This property was basically a 2 acre blackberry patch. About half has been cleared and 4 campsites created but the rest is still in progress. Work will not be performed during your stay. You may see tools and signs of recent work etc.. Located on a paved section of Owley Road in Mount Ida Arkansas. This is a large 2 acre property with four cleared sites that offer plenty of room for any size tent(s). Generators are welcome and pets are too. The property is bordered by old growth national forest and an ice cold spring fed stream is located in the national forest behind the property. Like all wooded areas in Arkansas ticks should be expected while hiking and camping at the Crystal Camp Campground. Please bring tick defense for yourself and pets.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Sunsets on the Arkansas River

20. Sunsets on the Arkansas River

99%
(145)
2 sites · Tents · Fourche, AR
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
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

Camper favorites in Arkansas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Arkansas

Stories from the community

Star Hosts in Arkansas

Under $50

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

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

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.