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National Park
The best camping in Fort Smith National Historic Site, AR
94% (8)
94% (8)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fort Smith National Historic Site adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Fort Smith National Historic Site
Ozark Adventures Mountainburg, AR
1. Ozark Adventures Mountainburg, AR
100%
(13)
22mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site
Welcome to our serene retreat, conveniently located near hiking, biking, and back country offroad trails. Located 45 minutes from Fayetteville or Fort Smith.
We offer:
1 cozy tiny home
1 primitive campsite
Explore our established walking trails and check out our fish pond.
Our charming tiny home spans 400 sq ft and includes 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, full-sized appliances, and a 100 sq ft deck overlooking the pond.
The campsite is features a tent platform, picnic table, a fire pit and composting toilet.
Nearby attractions include:
Lake Fort Smith
Buckhorn OHV Trail Backroad Access
BDR-x Waypoint (Jasper to Mountainburg or Mountainburg to Oark)
Ozark-St. Francis National Forest
Devils Den State Park
Devils Canyon
Shores Lake Recreation Area
Fern Recreation Area
Mulberry River
Natural Dam
Illinois River
Mt. Magazine State Park
Fayetteville to Bentonville Bike Trail - Paved trail
University of Arkansas
Please remember, this is mountainous country; black bears, foxes, deer, coyotes, and even feral pigs may be in the area, at any given time.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Barker Gap
2. Barker Gap
100%
(61)
22mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Barker Gap! Opened in August 2024, we offer three beautifully shaded RV/camper spots: two pull-through and one back-in. We have no size or slide-out restrictions, as our spots were built with your comfort in mind. All sites come standard with 50A/30A/110 electric hookups, city water, a BBQ/park grill, a 30-inch fire-pit bowl, and sewage hookups. Wi-Fi is also included for all campers.
Our Accommodations
RV/Camper Sites
3 Shaded Sites: 2 pull-through and 1 back-in.
No Restrictions: No size or slide-out limits.
Full Hookups: 50A/30A/110 electric, water, and sewer.
Amenities: BBQ/park grill, 30-inch fire-pit bowl, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The Bear's Den Cabin
A cozy one-room, one-bathroom cabin built to sleep four. It features:
Sleeping: A spacious queen bed, a cozy twin bed, and an adventure cot stowed under the twin bed, perfect for napping on the deck.
Kitchenette: Mini fridge/freezer, Keurig coffee maker, and microwave.
Bathroom: A metal-wrapped, 22-inch deep soaking tub with a rainfall shower head and a wave-activated hand dryer.
Tech & Comfort: 43-inch Wi-Fi-connected Smart TV and electrical outlets with integrated USB ports.
Outdoor: Includes your own 30-inch fire-pit bowl.
Essentials Provided: Coffee, bedding, towels, and bar soap.
The Cub Cabin
A cozy and inviting rustic retreat in Natural Dam. It features:
Sleeping: A queen/twin bunk bed adorned with bear quilts, plus an "adventure cot" tucked underneath for deck lounging or a fourth guest.
Comfort: Fully equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and heating.
Kitchenette: Mini fridge, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker.
Relaxation: Features a swinging chair for reading and a 43-inch Smart TV.
Outdoor: Includes your own 30-inch fire-pit bowl.
Unique Design: The bathroom features a rainfall shower head and 60-plus-year-old salvaged patchwork wood; the cabin also incorporates weathered metal recycled from our on-site woodworking shop.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to camp at Barker Gap!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Wildwoodz
3. Wildwoodz
96%
(14)
29mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
RV park and campgrounds in Mansfield , Arkansas. Located near highway 378 on Wildwood Road, Wildwoodz RV park and campgrounds deliver convenience to traveling campers. Enjoy the peace and quiet near the National forest, which includes a fire pit, hook-ups with water and electric, a few select sites have sewer, a sewer dump site is available.
Trailhead for ATV riding 1.1 miles from campgrounds. Horseback riding or hiking the trials can be accessed from the campgrounds if preferred.
See photos
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Heavener Runestone Park
4. Heavener Runestone Park
97%
(541)
35mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
This 55 acre park is home of a large sandstone that contains 8 markings believed to have been made by Vikings many years ago. The park features a seasonal waterfall, covered picnic areas, playground, amphitheater with seating, community building, scenic views, gift shop and approximately 2 miles of nature trails. Be advised that most tent sites have a tent pad but a few are primitive mountain terrain (rocky). The one RV site is for 16 ft. or less vehicles and smaller teardrop trailers with limited hook-up and no dump station. Restroom and shower facilities are located within the park. Individual campsites DO NOT have onsite toilets. Forest setting while still close to stores in case of forgotten items. Variety of small wildlife in the area. All sites allow campfires UNLESS we are under a county wide burn ban.
*Note moderate cancellation policy for most dates - full refund 3 days before check-in time. *
** Special event camping is a strict no refund policy.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bullwick Farms
5. Bullwick Farms
90%
(31)
37mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Bullwick Farms is a 65 acre farm located only 4 miles off I49 at the West Fork exit. Nestled perfectly between the hustle and bustle of the college town (only 15min to Fayetteville) and the quiet serinity of Devils Den State Park (only 15 miles further on 170) our farm has a magnificent hilltop view well worth the hike it takes to get there!
Keep in mind this is a working farm so cows, horses, pigs and goats are all on property and are free range animals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Paradise Camp
6. Paradise Camp
100%
(18)
39mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home
7. Lisa Christiansen’s Childhood Home
94%
(18)
45mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A place carved out of history dating back over 200 years ago. This is where history welcomes you to the Cherokee culture. This land has been handed down for generations and has stayed in the family beginning on my mother’s side of the family, Mary Ann Groundhog, the fourth generation great granddaughter of Sequoyah on the “Dick” side of my family tree. My mother was heavily involved with AIM (American Indian movement).
My dad was the last monolingual Cherokee. His name was Mack Vann, he was a man who loved culture and sharing it with visitors and handed down that passion to me. My hip camper site is named after my daddy, I am still a daddy‘s girl. The land originated before Sequoyah. who created the Cherokee syllabary. Sequoyah was my fifth generation great grandfather and I am very proud of my Cherokee heritage, I would love to share my culture, my tradition, and my passion with you.
Learn more about this land:
Come and experience the authenticity of Tahlequah, Indian country, Oklahoma where almost every resident is Cherokee, Native American,
Nature at its most organic state; A place where deer run free, the sunset paints a new picture each evening with glorious colors of warmth and serenity.
Away from the hustle and bustle, peaceful, and inviting. Just a short hike or drive to Todd’s access or you can swim, fish, or float down the beautiful Illinois River.
Welcome to Oklahoma’s best kept secret.
* * * * FREE HIGH SPEED WIFI * * * *
Up to 1,000 Mbps upload and download speeds
With upload speeds matching download speeds, you can transfer and back up large files with ease.
Unlimited data usage, no data caps or throttling.
Capacity for all your devices
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Indian Creek Hideaway
8. Indian Creek Hideaway
98%
(33)
46mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:This area is brimming with outdoor activity! The Mulberry River is just a short walk away with all the fishing and paddling you want. There is a public launch with parking just across the road for floating access. Be on the OHT via the Indian Creek spur trail in no time. Byrds Adventure Center is 2 miles down the road for off-road fun, a general store, canoe rentals, and more.
*Heads up especially if you are in a small car, it’s usually ok to go down the small hill but in wet weather it may become slick. If you’re not sure about making it back up, there is an area to park by the driveway :)
Pets
Picnic table
Hickman Hideaway
9. Hickman Hideaway
93%
(45)
46mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site
A true Oklahoma hidden gem on the Arkansas River.
Hickman Hideaway offers private, primitive camping right on the river, surrounded by trees, wildlife, sandy shoreline, and wide-open quiet. This is the kind of place where you can wake up to sunrise over the water, spend the day fishing or relaxing in the shade, watch barges drift by, and end the night around a campfire under dark skies.
The campsite is secluded and natural, with oak and pine trees creating privacy and a peaceful forested feel. It is ideal for tent camping, dogs, small groups, overlanding, and campers who prefer space and solitude over crowded campgrounds.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
End of the Trail
10. End of the Trail
98%
(191)
48mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 2 sites
This property was once home to American Indians and arrowhead are abundant.Learn more about this land:65 acres on the Foursch La Fave river surrounded by Ouachita National Forest..
This property has access to ATV trails, horse back riding, Kayaking, hiking, along with great sunrises and beautiful sunsets.
At the property entrance we have a 3 bedroom 2 bath home that is available for rent thru Evolve.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres
11. Illinois River Paradise | 60 Acres
99%
(129)
48mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site
Winding river bottoms, gravel bars, overlooks, waterfalls, & 200+ year old oaks! Walk on the same untouched trails Native Americans took followed later by Civil War soldiers. We've been working hard to create the trails, views, and unique experiences for you to enjoy God's Creation only 10 minutes from a Walmart!
Tired of camping next to people? With 60 acres for your enjoyment and gated entrance, you won’t see anyone else during your whole stay! 15 min from I-49 with Walmarts and gas stations even nearer keeps you close to town. You can choose from multiple campsites, but we will not book anyone else during your stay.
Camp right next to the Illinois River under giant oaks, ash trees, and sycamores with a waterfall behind you and the river in front. Or move up the hill and enjoy the 10 mile view (when leaves are dropped) while watching the sunset. Seriously, it’s the best view west of Fayetteville. The deep shade of the campsite with the breeze coming over river keeps the space surprisingly cool even in extreme heat. Feeling fun? Camp in the old dirt mine with 10’ walls around you shaded by a massive pine growing in the center and oaks around the perimeter.
Hiking trails have been cut for you to enjoy the property. Make sure to check out “Mini Hawksbill Crag”- a rocky outcropping hanging off the cliff side. Another fun trail leads you up a creek bed with multiple small waterfalls.
A couple canoes and kayaks are available to float the river if you desire as an add on. You can go upstream easily in normal water flow!
If you’re looking for fun family time with your kids, I will do whatever I can to help you during your stay to make lasting memories. We’re big believers in families enjoying the outdoors together!
A truck can be driven to riverside campsite when dry or there is a 100 yard walk from a small parking area. More vehicles can be parked on top of hill which is 5 minute walk.
There is a picnic table and fire pit at the riverside campsite. Bald Eagles are seen most days in the winter. Birders will also appreciate the feeder in the campsite.
Fishing poles are available as an add on. You can bring your own too! Catch small mouth, large mouth, bream, crappie, catfish, gar, carp/buffalo and even walleye, but you’re competing with the neighborhood beaver so be on the lookout for him! Please release small mouth bass besides a legal keeper is 14" (6-7 year old fish!) and limit of 2.
Rear wheeled drive vehicles should park at the parking area by old stable
Absolutely no hunting wildlife or foraging mushrooms without prior approval.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
12. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
100%
(150)
48mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 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
Campfires
Full hookups
Sacred Pines
13. Sacred Pines
100%
(49)
49mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Surrounded by thousands of acres of National Forest, enjoy secluded time in nature! Stay in our off-grid treehouses, peaceful campsites, cozy tiny homes, and handcrafted cabins, allowing you to connect with others in the wild. We are located near many hiking trails, kayaking spots, swimming holes, atv and bike trails and so muchg more!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Red Valley RV Park
14. Red Valley RV Park
100%
(2)
7.5mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 2 sites
This is an RV park RIGHT off the junction of interstate 40 and 540 in Van Buren, Arkansas. Best suited for people looking to stay long term or just passing through. There is an onsite laundry available and pets are welcome!
Pets
Full hookups
Patriot Airpark & Private Lake
15. Patriot Airpark & Private Lake
100%
(5)
9.2mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
Patriot Airpark spans 400 scenic acres, offering the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and laid-back comfort—with a touch of aviation flair. Explore miles of well-maintained trails by foot, mountain bike, or electric bike, or spend the afternoon gliding across our 1.5-mile-round lake in a kayak, soaking up the peaceful shoreline views.
For aviation enthusiasts and the simply curious alike, our private airstrip offers the occasional excitement of watching small planes come and go—without disrupting the serenity of the campground. Meanwhile, the expansive 10,000-square-foot clubhouse is your social hub and cozy indoor escape, complete with comfortable seating areas and space to gather with friends or fellow campers.
Whether pitching a tent, parking your RV, or rolling in with your camper van, there’s plenty of room to settle in under the starry night sky. Evenings are best spent around the fire pit, recounting the day’s adventures or planning tomorrow’s. Patriot Airpark is your chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy quality amenities, and create unforgettable memories on our wide-open land. Come discover the perfect mix of outdoor fun, comfort, and a little aviation magic!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Star View
16. Star View
14mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site
Experience complete privacy at Star View, a secluded canvas tent retreat located at the highest point of a beautiful property in Muldrow, Oklahoma. As the only campers on-site, you will enjoy exclusive access to hills, valleys, creeks, and a one-mile nature trail.
This location is perfect for those looking to disconnect, as it is situated within the Cherokee reservation in the Nicut Community with limited to no cell service.
The spacious canvas tent is furnished with a comfortable queen-sized bed, linens, and pillows. While there is no electricity, the tent includes a dedicated bathroom system for your convenience.
Outside, you can relax in Adirondack chairs or gather around the picnic table and firepit, with firewood and a large dispenser of drinking water provided for your stay.
Pet-friendly and surrounded by native landscape, Star View offers a serene environment for stargazing and peaceful reflection. Whether you are exploring the local trails or simply enjoying the quiet of the Oklahoma hills, this site provides a unique back-to-nature experience with thoughtful essentials included.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sequoyah's ridge
17. Sequoyah's ridge
78%
(9)
16mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:
Unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature on 30 private, secluded acres of pristine Ozark mountain woodland. Whether you're looking to cozy up in a minimalist A-frame or pitch a tent under a blanket of stars, this off-grid sanctuary offers the ultimate wilderness escape—all just minutes from Interstate 40.
Perfect for birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone craving true peace and quiet.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
High Rock Acres
18. High Rock Acres
100%
(2)
17mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 1 site
High Rock Acres — Your Nature Escape in the Ozarks
Discover peace and privacy at High Rock Acres, a serene retreat in the heart of Arkansas countryside. Perfect for a weekend getaway, a quiet base for outdoor adventures, or simply time to unplug and reconnect with nature.
🌿 Highlights
• Wooded, peaceful setting — Surrounded by forest, offering shade, privacy, and a true “back-to-nature” feel.
• Rustic camping — Spacious, simple sites ideal for self-contained campers and tents.
• Nature at your doorstep — Birds, wildlife, and the sounds of the forest create a calming, restorative atmosphere.
• Explore the Ozarks — A convenient base for local trails, rivers, and scenic drives.
🔎 What to Expect
High Rock Acres is for those who value simplicity and solitude. Facilities are limited, so come prepared, but you’ll enjoy starlit skies, fresh forest air, and genuine tranquility.
🎯 Perfect For
Nature lovers, self-contained campers, and anyone wanting a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
This is a primitive campsite and requires walking to reach it. The trail to the campsite is marked with reflectors and begins behind the barn. Everything will need to be carried to the site which is about 190 paces downhill, a 2 1/2 minute walk.
There is no potable water, electricity, or restrooms. There is a fire pit and plenty of firewood cut for your use. Please carry out any waste/ trash with you.
Pets
Campfires
Old Stagecoach Camp
19. Old Stagecoach Camp
18mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Very wooded with creek and steep trails
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
StoneWind Retreat - Luxury Yurts
20. StoneWind Retreat - Luxury Yurts
100%
(7)
23mi from Fort Smith National Historic Site · 8 sites
Perched on the edge of the National Forest in the breathtaking Boston Mountains of Arkansas, StoneWind Retreat offers a serene escape with expansive mountain and forest views. Our eight elegantly designed yurts, each set on a private 40' x 40' deck, provide the perfect blend of comfort and nature.
Each spacious 709 sq. ft. yurt is thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities, including:
- A fully furnished kitchen with basic condiments
- A bathroom with a two-person shower
- Central HVAC and a seasonal gas log-flame stove
- Smart TV with Blu-ray player
- Free WiFi
- A gas BBQ grill (with propane provided)
- Your own private hot tub, perfect for soaking under the stars
Guests at StoneWind Retreat enjoy hiking our 1.5-mile walking trail, exploring nearby state parks, or simply unwinding in the peace and beauty of their mountaintop getaway. If you're in the mood for adventure, spend the day shopping, dining, or exploring museums and cultural attractions in nearby Fort Smith or Fayetteville, then return to your private retreat for a quiet evening under the stars.
Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a quiet escape, or a place to reconnect with nature, StoneWind Retreat offers an unforgettable experience.
Book your stay today and discover the magic of the mountains!
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jo
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
It's such a great campsite for family and friends. We stayed over the fourth of july weekend and had a blast! We did a lot of floating and fishing was great! Very private, didn't even see anyone on the river the whole weekend this time.
Thank you Tyler! We love this place so much. We will be back!
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F
Frank
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
Group trip
My favorite place to camp! Gets better every time!
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D
David
3 weeks ago
Tent
Host was great had it all laid out for us. Will do it again!!
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B
Blake
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Nice quiet place on the river, host is super polite and helpful. Had some cool emu’s that like to say hello.
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H
Heather
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Awesome camp site! We have been several times now and love it everytime! There is everything you need there already! Makes things so much easier! Beautiful scenery! You have the whole place to yourself!
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B
Blake
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Nice quiet place to get away. Kids and I enjoyed the stay, trail down to the river spot is a nice addition in my opinion. Tight in some areas but I was able to get my full size duramax no problem definitely would recommend a 4x4. Had a nice breeze all 3 days which is nice in June weather.
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C
Cynthia
June 2026
Weekend Trip to Barker Gap
Clean, clean, clean! Such a nice property. The hosts were very accommodating. They reccomened places of interest in the area. And even gave us a small history lesson of the area. The cabin was so well kitted out! Games for kids and adults, too. Lots of extras! They plan on adding a dish washing station and a camp store.
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M
Martha
June 2026
Tent
With pets
Daniel as always had the site ready for us! Thank you for letting us visit again! It was a great peaceful place. Can't wait to visit again!
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R
Rebecca
June 2026
Tent
With kids
I really loved this park with rich Viking history! Great free hot showers for campers! Wonderful views and awesome trails! A phenomenal park host! If you need anything she's always around being very friendly and helpful! Would definitely come back!!
See moreW
Will
June 2026
28 ft travel trailer
This was our second visit to Yearling Ridge and won’t be our last. Unfortunately our stay was cut short due to weather, but that’s camping!
We’ll be back this fall - I can’t recommend this place enough!
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Samantha
June 2026
28 ft travel trailer
Hosts were accomodating and very quick with communication. Camping spot was pretty level and hookups were obvious and logically placed (for example, sewer hookup was near where most rv sewers tend to be…no Tetris skills, stretching of sewer hose, or praying needed😅)
I chose it for price and distance to freeway. Price can’t be beat in that area for rvs. A smidge awkward getting there, lots more turns than I expected… but really not an issue overall. For an overnight it was perfect.
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A
Alex
May 2026
Tent
With pets
the hosts are so incredibly sweet and helpful! the location was very easy to find as well. great experience all around
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T
Tyler
May 2026
Weekend Trip to End of the Trail
By far the best HipCamp yet! Private, convenient, has everything you could need or want! We had a great weekend and would love to come back.
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D
Dylan
May 2026
Tent
Group trip
Great spot if you want to be secluded, shaded area and plenty of room. Little bit of a steep hike to get to but they mention that on their website
See moreV
Victor
May 2026
13 ft travel trailer
We loved camping at Yearling Ridge with our camper. We will definitely be back.
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R
Rick
May 2026
36 ft travel trailer
With pets
Another great stay at Barker Gap!!! The best place to stay for Buckhorn trails and one of our favorite places to stay in Arkansas!
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E
Eric
May 2026
4 nights at Barker Gap
Excellent and friendly host, very clean and well organized campground and cabin! Highly recommend.
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G
Gehan
May 2026
Weekend Trip to End of the Trail
The views were beautiful, the water was cold, rejuvenating and refreshing to swim in, and the energy truly felt sacred and powerful. My partner and I identified over 30 types of birds, saw salamanders, a variety of butterflies, and even some deer while we were exploring the land. We had a campfire every night, espresso in the mornings by the lull of the river and didn’t even know the other site nearby was reserved as well until we crossed paths on the river. Loved the direct water access at the campsite and multiple spots as options to put the tent up as well as the sheltered area on site! The star-lit sky was bright every night and it felt amazing to get out of the city and lose ourselves in Mother Nature. Will absolutely be back and highly recommend for anyone!
Being out here forces you to slow down, and be present within yourself and your surroundings.. After backpacking, camping and exploring nature for over 15 years as a hobby, this is by far one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever stayed.
See moreE
Emma
May 2026
With pets
Very quiet and peaceful! Plenty of room for my dogs to run around without getting themselves into any trouble. Second time staying and it rained 3/5 days we were there, but it was still enjoyable. A little bit of rain got in the shelter, but nothing too bad. Only had 1 odd run in with someone floating down the river who needed to get out at our camp site, but other than that, this has quickly become one of my favorite camping spots.
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J
Jo
May 2026
Tent
This campsite is beautiful and such a private area. Your friends and family will love it. No problem extending our trip to include an extra night.
Clear and fast communication. Great place to learn how to float. Easy to paddle up river. Will definitely be booking again. Thank you for hosting a wonderful place!
See moreFort Smith National Historic Site camping guide
Overview
About
See what life was like on the wild outskirts of Indian Territory at Fort Smith. In the 1800s, this outpost saw a stream of ruthless outlaws and rugged lawmen. Today, it's a fascinating park that takes you through the early days of America.
The park's brick barracks have a dark history. Start with the exhibits on the U.S. Marshals. These men hunted desperate criminals throughout the Indian Territory. In the courtroom, see where Judge Isaac C. Parker prosecuted the captured men. In the basement jail—"hell on the border"—you can almost feel the outlaws' presence. Don't miss the reconstructed gallows, a chilling reminder of the 86 men who perished there. Check the calendar for ranger-led tours, or pick up an audio tour.
While you're at Fort Smith, learn about the Trail of Tears. Interpretive signs explain how Native Americans were forced from their homeland and into Indian Territory. Outside, follow the same path as thousands of displaced Choctaw, Chickasaw, Muscogee Creek, and Seminole. An overlook offers views of the river route that the Cherokee people took the west.
Near the park, you'll find campgrounds along the Arkansas River. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there are plenty of comfortable, well-maintained sites.
Reviews for Fort Smith National Historic Site Campgrounds
94%
8 ratings · 2 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
So fun
A
Ashley Randolph M.
3 reviews
Recommends
· September 2025
***
P
Paul P.
5 reviews
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