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Dardanelle Lake

The best camping in Dardanelle Lake, AR

100% (2)

Discover the allure of Lake Dardanelle's expansive waters and scenic shores.

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Stories from the community

Danyelle

1 week ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

Lovvvved this little get away. We took our rambunctious pups here and they had so much fun (they were sad to leave and made some friends while there were there!). The donkeys were so so sweet and the views were wonderful. Jill and her husband were so sweet to us and we had a great time! 10/10 would recommend!

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

Brooklyn

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

This is an epic site! Everyone working here is so nice and friendly, it really made our time here so much fun. We tent camped on Sunrise Knoll and the views were stunning. 10/10 would recommend!

Austin

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

I can’t say enough good about this property. Endless choices, all with unique views. Incredibly helpful and pleasant staff working at the entrance. I will absolutely return here.

Darren

2 weeks ago

31 ft Class C

With pets

4 nights at Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

This piece of property is geographically unique as when you are camping. There there are no lights from anything, no cell signal, very peaceful, strongly suggest. Going.

Come and meet our Barnyard Rockstar, Hickory.

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Barnyard Camping Experience

Host Sherita is wonderful! Excellent directions to the property. Trailer is fixed up very cute. Bed was comfortable and cozy.

Joy

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

I felt like my dog and I had the entire beautiful property to ourselves. I was traveling across the country and arrived late at night after a long day of travel, but we were able to still easily set up for the night based on the instructions. The sky of stars, without any light pollution, was spectacular! We had a great time and would love to come back!

Gabrielle

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Petit Jean Farm Orchard

Absolutely wonderful camping experience on Ed's land. The most unique part was the camping area was right next to the barn with a small community farmers market. We stayed up late one night with a hankering for ice cream and went right over and bought some. The bathrooms were nice and always clean. We were Tall trees over head, nice amount of space that felt relatively private with trees and fences on pretty much all sides besides the occasional car that drove on the road next to the site.

Barry

2 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Camp 62 on Petit Jean Mountain

Great spot close to the State Park. We will be coming back here!!!

Daren

2 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Valley of peace campground

A beautiful place to get away to. The owner, Walter, is a true local born and raised in the area. The sites are spaced apart nicely and right on a beautiful creek. If you want clear water, clear skies, and peace and quiet, you won’t be disappointed.

Kara

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Southwinds on the Arkansas River

Johnny was a very responsive host and I Absolutely loved this spot!! It was so peaceful and has such a great view. It’s nice having steps to get down to the water too. I found myself thinking, if I owned this land I’d want to build a house here! So glad the owner is instead sharing the spot for others to enjoy too :)

mitch

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class A

With pets

1 night at CAMP TINY our base camp

If you’re going through the Ozark National Forest make this a stop. Full Hook ups and 100 yards off the road. Just a few minutes south of Jasper is a great trail. Then another 5 miles down the road is Kevin’s full set up. He also let me recycle what we had onboard. Thanks Again! Highly recommended!!

Iena

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

It was whimsical and magical. There was hiking trails near by, I do a lot of hiking. The owner was very accommodating.

Sally

3 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Southwinds on the Arkansas River

This is absolutely a beautiful spot. I was right next to the water. There are 3 sites all with great views surrounded by beautiful trees. You won’t be disappointed if you stay here.

Meghan

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

We chose the glamping option which I would recommend. When we arrived, our tent was fully set up with a double high queen mattress, cooking and eating utensils, paper towels, toilet paper, and bottled water. Since the weekend was suppose to be cold, there were tons of blankets and even a propane powered heater provided. The site we were at needed a little more tender, loving care as it was a fresh, new site, but was in a beautiful spot overlooking a lovely, blue swimming hole. The sounds of the river/creek and our crackling fire were magical. Due to unforseen circumstances, (and unexpectedly frigid weather that we were not completely prepared for) we had to cut our trip short, but Sam and Michelle were completely understanding. We love visiting Arkansas and the property was beautiful, especially with the fall leaves in full color. I would definitely recommend this spot and would come back in the future. Also, the directions were clear and easy to follow and any questions or concerns were promptly addressed.

Isabelle

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valley of peace campground

This camping spot is absolutely beautiful! We were able to camp right along the creek/river and the views were absolutely stunning. The site was prepared for us as well, which was a very pleasant surprise!

Antoine

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

This was a beautiful place! Several camp sites of varying views and Rick was great in every way!

Anna

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Valley of peace campground

We loved Walter’s land for tent camping! Beautiful fall scenery and perfect mix of off the grid and amenities!

jennifer

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

This was an oasis of beauty and healing. I was a solo female camper. Mizzy was a great host and I could see her working to maintain the camp to its beauty. I felt very safe. The hippy van was great. The bathroom was clean and I enjoyed all the special nature decor around the camp. Perfect views. Great fire pits. Loved the drive up the gravel road and back it’s breathtaking. Mizzy is there for you if you need her. Will be back. Thank you for letting me heal my heart and nervous system here this weekend! Peak fall leaves! My beagle Liberty enjoyed it too?

Galinda

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Petit Jean Farm Orchard

Love that the market was right beside the camp there’s two bathrooms and two showers all inside the market really nice Mr. Ed & Mrs. Jen are great host!!

Off grid tiny house full of charm and so peaceful

Alison

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

I absolutely loved staying in the container tiny home. I loved that each campsite was pretty private! Mizzy was the absolute best host. I sure hated to leave and cannot wait to come back. The container was decorated so cute!! You can definitely tell this was a labor of love.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Dardanelle Lake

100%

(1)

Piney Bay Campground

10mi from Dardanelle Lake · 67 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dardanelle Lake

100%

(1)

Shoal Bay Campground

4.9mi from Dardanelle Lake · 53 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dardanelle Lake

Old Post Road Campground

20mi from Dardanelle Lake · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dardanelle Lake

Riverview Park Campground

20mi from Dardanelle Lake · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dardanelle Lake

Spadra Park Campground

4.5mi from Dardanelle Lake · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Dardanelle Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

Melson Farms

100%

(18)

12mi from Dardanelle Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Lamar, AR

Nestled at the base of Woods Mountain, in the beautiful Ozark Mountains, Melson Farms awaits your arrival. The property is 'creek-side' to Little Piney Creek and offers endless swimming and fishing opportunities. Our operational farm is loaded with outdoor activities and a stones-throw from the Ozark National Forest, Ozark Highlands Trail, and Buffalo National River.

Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

26mi from Dardanelle Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Pettigrew, AR

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 :)

Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

26mi from Dardanelle Lake · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Ozark, AR

Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%

(22)

27mi from Dardanelle Lake · 1 site · RV · St Paul, AR

Escape to the Ozarks of Arkansas! This is a perfect location to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. The RV pad is on our small 38 acre farm and ranch. Guests enjoy walking down to the creek, riding the dirt roads, and taking day trips to local hikes. Be prepared to drive down 6 miles of dirt road. This can be inconvnient for some but we believe it's part of the charm.

Southwinds on the Arkansas River

100%

(53)

31mi from Dardanelle Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Atkins, AR

Located on the Arkansas River and just minutes from Interstate 40 in Atkins, this RV/camping site backs right up to a gorgeous view of the Arkansas River and Petit Jean mountain. Water and electricity are located at each site! Just minutes away you have boat access to the Arkansas River at Sweeden Island Park AND Lake Atkins through the Lucky Landing launch site. This site is a sportsman's paradise as it is also conveniently located to the Galla Creek Wildlife Management Area, also just minutes away. Also, we are located right across the river from Petit Jean State Park and a few minutes from quaint downtown Atkins. Whether you're looking for great fishing and hunting or a peaceful respite from the world with a million-dollar view, this is the site for you! The 10 acres are open to explore and include three RV/campsites with water at each location and a gorgeous gully that empties into the Arkansas River. When the river is at a normal level a rock shelf lines the entire length of the river to make fishing and sunbathing, a breeze! If you want to venture out a bit, may we recommend the many offerings of Mount Nebo, Petit Jean Mountain, Mount Magazine, Altus, Russelville, and Conway; all located within 30 minutes to an hour from the campgrounds. While swimming in the river is not advisable, here are some swimming holes you and your family might check out while staying with us: -Atkins City Pool (has a day rate) -Lake Dardanelle -Illinois Bayou -Old Iron Bridge Swimming Hole -Long Pool Bayou -Falling Water Falls

Red Fern

97%

(1187)

37mi from Dardanelle Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Camp 62 on Petit Jean Mountain

96%

(12)

37mi from Dardanelle Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Morrilton, AR

This is a small .62 acre lot in a forested area with privacy and seclusion. Located .1 miles from Museum of Automobiles and 1.5 miles from Petit Jean State Park. A recently completed circle drive allows Class B motorhomes or small trailers to access camping area near unnamed intermittent creek. We are furnishing a 6' picnic table, 3 Adirondack chairs, and 2 wooden camp chairs with table near the creek, along with a horseshoe court and two 10' X 10' walk-in tent pads near the creek. Petit Jean SP is Arkansas' first state park and is the second most visited park in Arkansas. Fabulous day hiking or overnight backpacking in and around the park and fishing in Lake Bailey. Nearby there is also a petting zoo, horseback riding and farmers market and small airport.

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%

(438)

38mi from Dardanelle Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

CAMP TINY our base camp

100%

(11)

40mi from Dardanelle Lake · 3 sites · RVs · Jasper, AR

My wife & I love RV traveling, we are part time RVers! We are from Louisiana and created Camp Tiny as our base camp. We plan to explore all over Northwest Arkansas & Southern Missouri. We have this extra RV spot we want to share with our family, friends and fellow campers. Come enjoy the beautiful Ozark mountains. Camp Tiny has this full hook up RV lot which is on Scenic Hwy 7 near Jasper, Arkansas. The peaceful, wooded camp area adjoins Ozark National Forest. Minutes away you can hike many trails and see waterfalls and enjoy floating the Buffalo River. Hike, float, or chill! Camp Tiny - is our base camp for Big Adventure!

Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

97%

(288)

42mi from Dardanelle Lake · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · Jasper, AR

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.

Barnyard Camping Experience

100%

(18)

42mi from Dardanelle Lake · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hattieville, AR

Right in the heart of Conway County, AR, our 7 campsites are perfect for deer hunters, families and couples. With deer hunting and fall upon us, come experience the best of the season in the Barnyard. We're located within an hour of Conway, Little Rock, Morrilton, Petit Jean Mountain, and only 1-2 hours from Hot Springs, AR, Memphis, TN, and other accessible cities and sites. We're an animal lovers haven with our barn-yard crew of goats, chickens, ducks, guinea, cats, dogs, and Rockstar horse, Hickory! We’re close to fishing and fun. Our sites are perfect for couples, families, and solo campers. Dogs are welcome, but must remain on leash, because our pet-friendly dogs roam to protect our free-range birds and property. For your convenience, we’re just 13 miles off Interstate 40, and less than 12 miles from Lake Overcup, one of Arkansas’ coveted fishing lakes. We're only 27 minutes from the Museum of Automobiles, and 11 minutes from the Movie House Winery and several eateries. Plus, you're only 20 minutes from the Wal-Mart Super Center, where you can pick up a few groceries and other items to make your trip complete.

Griffin Ridge Camp

99%

(105)

43mi from Dardanelle Lake · 2 sites · Tents · Kingston, AR

Built on a hill top…I wanted to give families a safe place to enjoy nature. This campsite is on a hillside because it’s the top of our 6 acres, yet allows the best winter time views of the valley, beautiful Fall leaves. The extra amenities for a primitive site are a trade for the hillside. Personal one single campsite for privacy. Perfect spot to travel Madison and Newton Counties, Buffalo River and fabulous hikes. Water features are a short drive away. Learn more about this land: Platform for tent 12x16, 2nd mulched ground tent area., gazebo, table and chairs, charcoal grill stand, propane grill under cover, dry wood for fire pit for purchase. New outhouse only used by Griffin Ridge. Bolder rock fire pit. Water tank for boiling and cleaning. Please bring personal drinking water.

The best camping in Dardanelle Lake, AR guide

Overview

About

Grab your camera, your tent, and a life vest because sunsets out on the water at Dardanelle Lake are not something you want to miss! Of course the tent is for a night around the campfire, and the parks surrounding this 40,000 water oasis offer prime camping and modern amenities for those looking to soak in some peace and quiet. Days can be spent picnicking along trails or out on the water catching catfish the size of small dogs (no joke). Soak up some rays in a canoe or laze about on the beach; marinas and boat launches dot the shoreline and make it easy to cool off in these crystal clear waters quicker than a cannon ball! But wait for that sunset, it will seriously wow you along with the rest of this Ozark gem. Don’t forget to press the shutter button, Dardanelle Lake is where lifelong memories are made.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Dardanelle is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, while winter draws eagle watchers. Avoid peak holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit, as the area is subject to seasonal changes that could impact your plans.
Ensure you have a valid fishing license if you plan to fish, and be aware of local regulations.
Boat rental services are available, offering a convenient way to explore the lake's vastness.
Wildlife enthusiasts should bring binoculars for a chance to spot the American Bald Eagle, especially from late fall to early spring.
Accessibility varies across different areas, so inquire ahead if you require specific accommodations.

100%

2 ratings · 3 reviews

September 2023

Riverview Park Campground

This Core of Engineer campground has been permanently closed due to damage from the 2019 Arkansas River flood. It has been converted to a day use only park. No overnight camping is allowed.

Communik8r

2 years on Hipcamp

June 2021

Old Post Road Campground

Beautiful area, with shaded camp areas. Camp sites are nicely spaced out with lots of grassy area to enjoy nature. Nice Showers and dump station. At the time the water to clean out when dumping was not on but they do have it, not sure why it was not on, kind of inconvenient. No dump sites at campsites but water and electricity was good. No accessible swimming area, but it is right beside the Arkansas River so not sure i would want to even swim in the Arkansas river., but great for fishing and boat ramp to launch. If your looking for a nice quiet area to fish and just get away this is perfect. Highly recommend.

Dana Bill B.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2020

Piney Bay Campground

Best campground on Lake Dardanelle! There are a lot of waterfront sites with places to tie off your boat. The facilities are very clean but they are quite a walk from some sites. I highly recommend this place. And there’s a cute cafe about 5 min up the road with great food