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Gillham Lake: A serene escape with lush landscapes and outdoor fun.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Gillham Lake adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Gillham Lake
Big Coon Creek Campground
1. Big Coon Creek Campground
Swept alongside the area’s swimming beaches and fishing outlets, Big Coon Creek Campground is big on recreational activities
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Cossatot Reefs Campground
2. Cossatot Reefs Campground
Cool off amidst the shady campsites at Cossatot Reefs Campground
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Little Coon Creek Park Campground
3. Little Coon Creek Park Campground
Get ready for some stunning lakeside views at Little Coon Creek Campground
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Top-rated campsites near Gillham Lake
Wellness in the Woods
1. Wellness in the Woods
95%
(10)
22mi from Gillham Lake · 26 sites · Tents, RVs
Private, Adult, and Alcohol-free Grown-up grounding getaway. Beautiful, quiet space in nature. Large pond for kayaking and fishing. Walking trail around the property and sidewalk around the pond. Large parts of the property allow for barefoot walking.
The Big Barn, a 2400 sf building, has a cold water bathroom, and the front of the property has outdoor propane showers and composting toilets.
Enjoy incredible sunrises and sunsets. Just off the Talimena Scenic Byway. Enjoy the property all day, or enjoy the local town of Mena, just minutes away. Walmart will deliver to the front of the property.
Cold-water bathroom in the large building near the campsites with 2 outdoor showers seasonally. Cabin spots, RV with or without power and water, and van spots are available. Grill and firepits on site for use, subject to local burn ban.
420 friendly, keep it legal. If you must smoke, collect all butts to protect wildlife.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Launa Simmons
2. Launa Simmons
96%
(27)
23mi from Gillham Lake · 9 sites
Book your space now for July 4th! There are many different community celebrations in this area! There will be plenty of fireworks shows within a short driving distance! We are 5 miles from Albert Pike to the north and 5 miles from Lake Greeson to the south! THIS PARK IS LOCATED IN LANGLEY, ARKANSAS! THE 911 ADDRESS IS UMPIRE ALTHOUGH WE ARE IN LANGLEY right at the crossroads of 369 and 84! This little park is located on the site of the Langley School, closed since 1968. All that is left is an old 1950 gymnasium which has been restored and is once again a viable part of the Langley community. Our site is self-contained only! Wifi is available onsite as well! This area has cell service but some carriers are better than others. This campground is where you go to truly get away!
Learn more about this land:
An old school site 5 miles south of Albert Pike Recreation Area and 5 miles north of Lake Greeson. Wooded area with hiking trails nearby. 30 minutes from Crater of Diamonds State Park.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Brookside RV Retreat
3. Brookside RV Retreat
92%
(31)
23mi from Gillham Lake · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging
Ready to Retreat? Come discover Brookside RV Retreat, located and surrounded by the beautiful Ouachita Mountains 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Our RV facilities were designed by people who understand you don't want to be crowded. This is
why we have a very limited number of sites, which are spaciously arranged, allowing you as much privacy and solitude as you want.
Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek, a great place to walk or picnic while listening to the sounds of the water. In the warmer months, cool off and take a dip in the crystal clear mountain stream. The creek runs along the backside of a 40 acre plot, all of which you are welcome to explore for swimming holes and waterfalls! In addition, we considered a dark-friendly campground, which means at night, the skies come alive with stars, constellations, and a view of the Milky Way.
Learn more about this land:
We are a new 2021 RV park located in Big Fork, AR, 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida. We have 5 pull-through sites with full hook-ups. Sites are very spacious at 75' x 20' plus picnic, firepit, and seating areas. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek with swimming holes and waterfalls. We are also located near the Wolf Pen Gap ATV trails, and guests can ride directly to the trails from their RV site. Local rental companies are available for anyone not wanting to bring their own ATVs. There is plenty of overflow parking for trailers for those that do bring their own on the property as well.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Bluegill Hill
4. Bluegill Hill
99%
(233)
25mi from Gillham Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located at the southern foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and the northwestern edge of Lake Greeson, this 6 acre plot of land is part of a gentle hillside that descends into the lake. Enjoy two trails to Lake Greeson and easily access nearby boat launches, public beaches, parks, and much more! Come make yourself at home on Bluegill Hill and enjoy the small lake village lifestyle!
Pets
Toilets
Fancy Hill Cabins and RV Park LLC
5. Fancy Hill Cabins and RV Park LLC
100%
(42)
28mi from Gillham Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Slow Down and Unplug at Fancy Hill Cabins and Camping, we offer 6 tent and rv sites with (electric, water, and internet) and 2 primitive sites on the river.
We also offer two rustic handmade unique cabins, Whitetail Cabin at Crystal Ridge our family friendly and pet friendly cabin located on a beautiful ridge with stunning quartz right outside your door.
Lil' Rustic is our couples only cabin that offers a hot tub and is creekside right on the banks of Jack Creek.
Plan your stay with us right here in the heart of The Ouachita National Forest, nearby waterfalls and hiking trails as well as fishing and ATV adventures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Glampin' In Style - Broken Bow
6. Glampin' In Style - Broken Bow
93%
(66)
31mi from Gillham Lake · 4 sites
The Beaver's Bend State Park is within minutes, as it the Broken Bow Lake.
We have owned our property for 12 years, and decided to buy in Hochatown because we had been camping in this area for over 28 years.
This area brings us joy, love, peace, tranquility, and seclusion. We love the nature, the water, animals, and sunshine.
We even love the rain!
Beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
Our little piece of Heaven on Earth.
We are also close to all of the Hochatown events, eateries, wineries, & breweries.
You can go golfing, swimming, get lost in a "secret room" or get a massage, within a 5 minute drive of our location.
Grab your pillow, towels, swimsuits, toiletries and come on to Broken Bow Lake (2 miles) or Beaver's Bend State Park (5 miles) and enjoy the great outdoors, in style!
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Thunder Mountain Private River Camp
7. Thunder Mountain Private River Camp
100%
(133)
36mi from Gillham Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV
80+ acres all to yourself!! This beautiful and very secluded property, with river, kayaks, trails, and creeks is offered to only one group at a time to ensure peace, quiet, and seclusion. No other guests will overlap your stay. You will enjoy the peaceful solitude in nature completely alone! Sorry, children are not allowed.
It's a great location for romantic getaways, silent personal retreats, yoga, playing in the river, or just spending quiet one-on-one time with your spouse or significant other. The last 1/2 mile of dirt road is a little rough, so cars with very low ground clearance are not recommended.
Campers on Thunder Mountain enjoy the entire property by themselves - including the unique outdoor bathhouse with outdoor tub and shower, impressive multi-level decks, kayaks, grill, trails, hammocks, and tubes - without the cost of the cabin. The cabin on the property will be vacant during camping stays, but you can still enjoy the WiFi and other amenities outside. Set up camp by the cabin and bathhouse or hike your equipment down the stairs to the river.
Pricing: $30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately. Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings for 1 or 2 nights are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show availability (due to cabin cleaning days). So feel free to ask about dates you want and we'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sacred Pines
8. Sacred Pines
100%
(49)
36mi from Gillham Lake · 6 sites
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
Showers
Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins
9. Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins
95%
(119)
37mi from Gillham Lake · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Ouachita Campground at Edendell
10. Ouachita Campground at Edendell
96%
(49)
37mi from Gillham Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Ouachita Campground at Edendell is a great place to stay for outdoor adventures! We offer 26 full hook up rv sites some with free wifi, tent camping, glamping deck, and guest house. We have Kayaks for rent with optional shuttle service. The Ouachita River is 1/2 mile from the property. Near by activities are ATV trails like Wolf Pen Gap, mountain biking, hiking the Womble trail, horseback riding, Lake Ouachita, Twin Creeks Crystal mine, Avant Crystal Mine, and others. Crater of Diamonds mine is 1 hour away. We also have an airsoft battle ground on site for special occasions.
Our guest facilities for all campers include bathrooms, showers, laundry, and kitchenette.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
11. Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp
100%
(156)
38mi from Gillham Lake · 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
Toilets
Full hookups
Cabin in the Woods
12. Cabin in the Woods
100%
(11)
39mi from Gillham Lake · 1 site
Cabin in the Woods near the Charming town of Glenwood!
Welcome to our tiny cabin-style home privately situated on one acre off a gravel county road, surrounded by woods on three sides, giving you a sense of seclusion while still providing you easy access to nearby amenities.
There are no other homes on this one acre property; this will be your private retreat during your stay.
500 sq ft of rustic charm with a covered deck in both the front and back. This tiny home has two comfortable queen size beds plus a queen air mattress, two nap mats, and three sleeping bags available.
There is a ½ bath off the hallway, with a separate shower with privacy glass in the back bedroom.
Note the back bedroom does not have a privacy door, but rather a privacy curtain.
In keeping with the spirit of allowing you to fully unplug, the home does not provide Wi-Fi. Instead, guests are invited to browse a curated DVD library—a nostalgic, intentional entertainment feature that encourages shared experiences and relaxation for families and couples alike.
Actual conversation around the firepit, a DVD player for rainy days, and discovering rocks and crystals in the yard after it rains. Cell service still works, so you're reachable if it matters — you just won't be tempted to scroll instead of being here. (data sometimes works but it’s not 100% reliable)
The kitchen is designed for full meal preparation, featuring an array of appliances and utensils; you have all the basics needed for making homecooked meals in your private retreat.
Note that the kitchen has a dorm sized fridge and an additional dorm sized deep freezer.
EXPLORING THE AREA
Travel Time Guide
Lucky’s Canoe Rental: 1 mile
Downtown Glenwood: 2 miles (The local grocery store sells ice, and John Plyler Home Center sells firewood during the winter months.)
Free access to the Caddo River off 3rd Street: 2 miles (Locals call it Trestle Park)
Wegner Crystal Mine in Mt. Ida: 18 miles (Regional favorite for crystal hunting)
Crater of Diamonds State Park: 29 miles
Ouachita Mountains Hiking Trails: 38 miles
Hot Springs National Park: 32 Miles
City of Hot Springs for a wide variety of restaurants: 32 miles
Check availability and secure your dates at Graham’s Getaway today for a 10/10 cozy stay in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains!
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Ouachita River Haven
13. Ouachita River Haven
97%
(286)
42mi from Gillham Lake · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Heaven's Gate RV and Retreat
14. Heaven's Gate RV and Retreat
96%
(27)
43mi from Gillham Lake · 2 sites
Nestled in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, National Forest and adjacent to the ever changing Billy Creek. Equestrians, Hikers and ATVers love the countless, diversified trails, ranging from wide, winding, logging roads, numerous water crossings, challenging ascents, descents and creek bottom wandering paths. No matter which trail you choose or what level you are, there is something for everyone with unlimited panoramic views, unusual rock formations, and always the perfect photo opportunity. Come explore the peace and beauty of our mountains. Dip your toes in Billy Creek or dive into the refreshing Blue Hole after a day on the trails.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Four Bears Grove
15. Four Bears Grove
100%
(2)
16mi from Gillham Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover the convenience and coziness of Four Bears, nestled on 28 acres predominantly covered with trees. Situated along a main highway on the front side and bordered by a dirt county road at the back, the property provides easy access to various destinations. Rivers, lakes, hiking trails, ATV trails, and state parks are mere minutes away, offering a myriad of outdoor activities in almost every direction. Additionally, enjoy fishing in the onsite pond, adding to the allure of this versatile and nature-rich location.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
KOA Mena/ Ouachita National Forest
16. KOA Mena/ Ouachita National Forest
100%
(3)
22mi from Gillham Lake · 73 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are family-owned, operated, and UTV-friendly! Stop hauling and start riding. Roll out of the driveway and hit the trails in seconds, with Wolf Pen Gap access right across the street. The Ouachita wilderness is waiting!
Enjoy direct trail access to Wolf Pen Gap—no trailering, just ride! A gated campground helps keep you, your family, your toys, and your tools safe.
Welcome to Mena / Ouachita National Forest KOA Journey—your basecamp for RV camping, cabins, and outdoor adventure in the Ouachita Mountains of Mena, Arkansas. Enjoy shady, spacious full-hookup RV sites, cozy cabins, tent sites, and extended or monthly stays—all designed for comfort and easy arrivals. Family-friendly amenities include a seasonal pool, stocked fishing lake, playground, clean facilities, Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly spaces.
Ride straight from camp to the Wolf Pen Gap trails—no trailering required. Explore nearby highlights like Queen Wilhelmina State Park, scenic hiking trails, and local attractions.
Whether you're here for UTV/ATV riding, a family getaway, or a peaceful mountain retreat, this KOA delivers safe, convenient, and memorable camping in the heart of the Ouachitas.
Campground Amenities
COMING SOON! Watercraft rentals and an activity room!
• Shady, big-rig-friendly RV sites with full hookups: 50-amp and 30-amp service
• Full water, sewer, and electric hookups
• Pull-through sites (up to 75 feet)
• Affordable extended-stay availability
• Cozy cabin rentals in the Ouachita Mountains with comfortable beds, linens, and climate-controlled comfort
• 30 acres of grassy and wooded areas
• Fire rings and picnic tables
• Seasonal swimming pool
• Stocked fishing lake (bass, crappie, perch, and bream)
• Playground
• Pet-friendly campground with a dog park
• Clean restrooms and hot showers
• Laundry facilities
• Free high-speed fiber Wi-Fi
• Firewood and ice sales
• Propane fill station
• Dump station
•Friendly on-site staff
• Three storm shelters for guest safety
• Direct access to Wolf Pen Gap Trails—just 200 feet from the front gate
• Wolf Pen Gap OHV trails with ride-from-camp access
• UTV- and side-by-side-friendly; UTV rentals can be delivered to your campsite from Mena
• Access to the Ouachita National Forest
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Boudreaux Run RV Park
17. Boudreaux Run RV Park
23mi from Gillham Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Boudreaux Run RV Park is located between Langley AR and Albert Pike Park in the Ouachita mountains. We have spaces for primitive tent camping and pop ups as well as spaces without hook ups.
Hike the trails or climb the mountains, fish in the Little Missouri River, many different hiking trails. Such as Little Missouri trail, Winding stairs trail, Eagle Rock Loop, East Caney creek trail, Viles Branch Equestrian Trail, Shady Lake Trail.
From our park you can ride your atv to all areas in the Ouachita Mtn Including Wolfpen Gap.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Cozy Broken Bow RV
18. Cozy Broken Bow RV
31mi from Gillham Lake · 1 site
32’ Newer RV located in Hocatown RV Park near Broken Bow, OK and Beaver’s Bend State Park. Sleeps up to 8, fully stocked with kitchen/bath/bedding, Private master bedroom with a queen bed and private back bedroom with bunk beds. Outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and wifi.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Ouachita Mountain Retreat
19. Ouachita Mountain Retreat
100%
(4)
33mi from Gillham Lake · 60 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our slice of paradise in the picturesque Black Springs, where the wonders of nature converge to create an unforgettable experience. Our expansive 50-acre property nestled in the majestic Ouachita Mountains offers a retreat like no other.
Conveniently located just 45 minutes west of Hot Springs, our haven provides easy access to a multitude of natural attractions, including the stunning Lake Ouachita, the mesmerizing Little Missouri Falls, and the tranquil Caddo River. Whether you're craving adventure or seeking serenity, our location ensures that every desire is within reach.
Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of our pristine, flat land, adorned with three inviting ponds stocked with bass and crappie, offering ample opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to indulge in their passion. As day turns to night, marvel at the breathtaking sunsets and sunrises that grace our horizon, setting the stage for an unparalleled stargazing experience.
With near-zero light pollution and unobstructed views of the night sky, our property serves as a celestial sanctuary, where the brilliance of the stars illuminates the darkness in a mesmerizing display. And if you're planning to witness the eclipse, look no further — we're situated in the path of totality, ensuring an optimal viewing experience that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Our property offers a sanctuary where the beauty of the natural world unfolds before your eyes. Join us for an unforgettable journey where every moment is infused with wonder and awe.
Pets
Campfires
Diamond Glamping
20. Diamond Glamping
87%
(43)
35mi from Gillham Lake · 17 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Diamond Glamping, Murfreesboro, Arkansas's premier luxury outdoor retreat, nestled in the scenic beauty of nature and just a stone's throw away from the world-renowned Crater of Diamonds State Park. Here, we offer a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it the perfect getaway for those seeking both excitement and relaxation.
4 Cabins
4 Tents
2 Treehouses
BYOT Option (Bring Your Own Tent)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Shael
2 weeks ago
18 ft Class B
Group trip
What an absolute gem! Already booked the next camp date!
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Brayden
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Perfect secluded spot on the river that has everything you need to make your camping trip so much easier!
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K
Kim
August 2026
25 ft travel trailer
Have stayed here several times and will be back several times. Wonderful place.
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J
Jose
July 2026
Tent
With kids
Joanna was a wonderful host. She was polite, welcoming, and very accommodating with our reserved campsite and arrival time. She took the time to ask about us and our trip, and she provided all the information we needed after meeting us at the guest facility. We also had the pleasure of meeting her husband and son, they are a very lovely family and made us feel even more welcome.
The location was quiet, peaceful, and exactly what we were looking for. Although there were two other campers nearby, the sites were spaced far enough apart that we still felt like we had plenty of privacy. The amenities provided were great, and we made use of them during our stay. We also saw fireflies, butterflies, and many other animals, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
We truly enjoyed our stay and only wished it had been longer than one night. We would definitely stay here again.
See moreR
Richard
July 2026
16 ft campervan
Group trip
Took Teenage boys and our Campervan. Had an amazing time together enjoying the river. The Bathhouse is a game changer. The Host Has outdone himself on this awesome site 😎
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S
Scooby
July 2026
Tent
With pets
Nice place. Great up kept and kind speedy response
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L
Lena
July 2026
With kids
We stayed in this cute little cabin in the woods near Glenwood and used it as a perfect base camp for exploring the area. The cabin is small, yet the floor plan is thoughtfully laid out so the space feels maximized. In addition to the two queen beds, we used the two sleeping mats for extra sleeping space and found them quite comfortable. Having a small fridge and freezer plus a washer was a big help, and since it was summer I hung our laundry on the provided clothesline to dry (a dryer is available too).
The location is quiet—there are neighbors on the road, but the summer foliage completely hid them from view and we never heard a sound.
One of my sons especially loved hunting for quartz and gemstones in the yard and put together a sparkling little collection.
We explored the Saturday Farmers Market, the Mercantile downtown with its local goods, and spent time swimming and fishing on the nearby Caddo River.
We’d recommend this place if you want a rustic camping vibe but still appreciate a locking door, real beds, a shower, and a spot to store and cook your food.
Great little getaway!
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B
Braden
July 2026
Tent
Everything was amazing! So thankful to have found this spot! Can't wait to come back!
See moreT
Taylor
July 2026
Tent
With kids
Wonderful & beautiful location. Anything you need available to make camping comfortable. Camp site perfect and host was awesome. Will be back for sure.
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A
Andi
July 2026
Weekend Trip to Ouachita Campground at Edendell
Thanks Edendell for the relaxing stay. Host was communicative and gave us clear directions for how to find the glamping spot. Spot was cozy and guest facilities provided at the shared facility space were sufficient. All the plants were a bonus enjoyment factor. Great views.
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N
Nathan
July 2026
Tent
Charles was nothing but amazing and truly put our experience at bluegill hill over the top. Host was extremely helpful and easygoing, couldn’t recommend this spot enough. Great trails to the lake and plenty to do around the area including hikes, boat rentals, good food and more.
See moreM
Martha
July 2026
Tent
With pets
Love tent camping on this little slice of heaven. Always clean and well maintained. Friendly host Always there when you need him. Will always be worth the drive!
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L
Lara
July 2026
Tent
Group trip
We loved our stay at site #12! Views were great and Joanna was wonderful showing us around. Will definitely stay here again if we are back in the area!
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M
Mallorie
July 2026
Tent
Thunder Mountain is hands down the best place we have ever camped. Every detail of this property was impeccably thought out and it was truly a trip we will never forget. Though we experienced some rain during our stay, we were able to stay comfortable the entire time. We loved catching fish, swimming in the cool river, using the outdoor bathhouse, and grilling/watching the sunset with a glass of wine. It is clear that this property is well loved by the host. Todd was incredibly accommodating and his communication throughout the trip was top notch. We will definitely return to Thunder Mountain!
See moreK
Kasee
July 2026
26 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Definitely worth the visit so beautiful! Joanna was an amazing host!
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H
Heather
July 2026
Tent
Absolutely love this place. But them stairs are a workout 😫 the 100+ stairs was well worth it once we got to the river! 💙 can’t wait to return.
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Maggie
July 2026
Tent
With pets
Really nice spot! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a secluded getaway!
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A
Anthony
July 2026
Tent
With pets
My group and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Ouachita Campgrounds. We had a relatively private campsite, that included a table & chairs, swings to lounge in and a fire pit (with wood provided). Although the site was at a bit of a slant, we made it work.
We arrived on July 4th and had the opportunity to get to know the property owners, engage with other campers, and watch the fireworks show that the hosts provided. The hosts were personable, attentive, and engaging.
The whole property gives the feel of camping on a botanical garden, with well maintained campsites, phenomenal landscaping, gorgeous ponds to relax by.
We took the opportunity to use the laundry room, as we are camping cross-country, as well as the showers. It was so lovely to have access to facilities.
Hoping we get the opportunity to camp here again soon!
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D
Danyel
July 2026
Weekend Trip to KOA Mena/ Ouachita National Forest
We stayed in cabin one and it was an absolute blast.They go above and beyond to make sure you have an amazing experience. We had a wonderful time and we'll definitely be returning. Clean and well ran with wonderful hosts.
See moreK
Kayla
July 2026
Weekend Trip to Cabin in the Woods
We love this cabin we visit 2 to 3 times a year. enjoyed quiet peaceful cabin. Love the special little touches they put into the place The Rock work and the fire pit. Just minutes from town, 5 minutes from Lucky's.
See moreGillham Lake camping guide
Overview
About
Called the “bright spot on the Cossatot”, Gillham Lake is a gorgeous gateway to outdoor fun! Chill fireside at modern campgrounds along the shoreline. Those staying overnight will snag the best fish, beach spots, and the first waves in the morning. Or hop in the Cossatot River for a cool down. A fly fisherman’s paradise, there’s also ample whitewater for river rats and calmer rides for those wanting to tube or canoe...just don’t forget the brews! Autumn is a great time to hike amongst the brilliant colors or try a lakeside picnic shelter for a day of grillin’ and chillin’ with your friends. Gillham certainly is a bright spot, so come soak it all in, that shiny smile will be hard to wipe off.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early to secure your spot at this popular outdoor destination.
- Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability.
- Explore nearby camping options for additional choices if Gillham Lake is fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Gillham Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings more visitors and warmer temperatures, ideal for water activities. Winters can be quiet and chilly, less suitable for camping.
Know before you go
- Always check the weather forecast and prepare for changing conditions.
- Be aware of any park closures or special advisories before your visit.
- Accessibility varies across the park, so plan according to your needs.
- Remember to pack essentials, as amenities may be limited in certain areas.
- Practice water safety and be mindful of lake levels and conditions.
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