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The best camping in Arkansas

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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.

97% (7.5K) • 9,877 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Arkansas

Bentonville Bike Camp

1. Bentonville Bike Camp

99%
(1106)
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
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Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

2. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

98%
(1211)
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!
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Pea Ridge Bike Camp

3. Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%
(281)
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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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.
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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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Showers
Red Fern

6. Red Fern

97%
(1233)
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
Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

7. Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

97%
(313)
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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Valley of peace campground

8. Valley of peace campground

99%
(649)
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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FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

9. FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

99%
(74)
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
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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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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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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Cold Creek Valley

14. Cold Creek Valley

100%
(140)
Eureka Springs, AR · 3 sites
Cold Creek Valley currently has three secluded, primitive camp sites nestled in 36 acres of rolling hills in the Ozarks. There are five marked/maintained hiking trails on the property. They take you through varying types of terrain and multiple rock features. The creek borders a beautiful meadow and flows during the wetter months. A pond sits near the back of the property and is a great place to spot wildlife. We are located less than 30 minutes from downtown Eureka Springs, as well as under an hour from Branson and the Buffalo National River areas. Northwest Arkansas has something for everyone - from endless outdoor activities to art galleries and high-end dining. Our gated property gives you the peace of mind to leave your camping gear behind and go explore what Eureka Springs has to offer! Follow us on instagram @Coldcreekvalley
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The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

15. The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

93%
(49)
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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Petit Jean Farm Orchard

16. Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%
(452)
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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Ouachita River Haven

17. Ouachita River Haven

97%
(287)
Pencil Bluff, AR · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

18. Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

95%
(120)
Caddo Gap, AR · 43 sites · Tents, RVs
We are surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Within an hour or less, you will find hiking and bike trails, 4-wheeling/ATV, crystal mining, diamond mining, historic Hot Springs, museums and so much more. Or, you can just put your chair in the water and hang out on the gravel bar. Arrowhead has been rated as "The Best Swimming Hole in Arkansas" by the Arkansas Times®. Our facilities, located in Caddo Gap, include, cabin rentals, bunkhouse accommodations for 50 (w/separate quarters for boys & girls), screened pavilion with kitchen, RV sites with full-hook-ups and septic, semi-primitive campsites, bathhouse, nearby canoe and kayak rentals, swimming, fishing, basketball court, and tether ball.
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Full hookups
Spoke 'N Tru

19. Spoke 'N Tru

99%
(50)
Jasper, AR · 1 site · Tent, RV
This remote primitive campground is between Kingston and Compton, Arkansas. in the Ozark Mountains of the Boston plateau. The wooded 15 acres is nestled just above a scenic bluff looking south. You can set your tent on our grassy knoll or find a random spot anywhere under our hardwoods or pines. There is one designated gravel site pad for a mid size trailer. The only roads to Spoken N’ Tru are gravel. I highly recommend taking the gravel route from Kingston. This particular gravel road is 5 miles. If you are pulling a camper this is definitely the best. There is another longer 8 mile option from 412 - south from Dryfork in between Marble and Ozark. The shortest route if from 103 but it has a deep creek crossing and don't recommended unless you have a good 4 wheel vehicle. The best road to Ponca is County Road 1300 which takes you to Highway 43. Please keep in mind that Spoke N’ Tru is a cozy but primitive camping site with no amenities so be ready to check your electronics before heading down our gravel roads. Lastly, please read amenity notes, especially regarding waste.
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Shady Camp on Little Piney Creek

20. Shady Camp on Little Piney Creek

100%
(6)
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.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Arkansas camping 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.

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