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Gillham Lake

The best camping in Gillham Lake, AR

Gillham Lake: A serene escape with lush landscapes and outdoor fun.

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Stories from the community

Graciella

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Absolutely loved our stay at Fox Nook!!! Charles was such a good host. Checked in on us and made sure to have plenty of firewood for us. The campsite felt very secluded. It was a short walk to the lake and was the most perfect spot! Would definitely recommend! And can’t wait to pass through Arkansas again because we will definitely be coming back to stay!

Cory

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Sacred Pines

It was quiet and the grounds were well kept. Beautiful view!

Scott

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pond, River, and Ridge Camping

I loved tent camping on Shelley's land. It is a working cattle ranch, zip line course and concert venue. I camped at site 1 right at the ponds edge. Only 10 minutes to Mena. Very quiet. Very friendly pups. Fishing was fantastic. Lots of stars and a few falling ones too!

Kim

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Amazing spot. They really made sure there’s everything you could need at the site. The river is beyond beautiful. The pavilion had all the extras one could need and more. We had an amazing time and will be back as soon as possible in Spring. I even had a dead battery in my car as we were trying to leave and Daniel came to the rescue to give me a jump start. Best Hipcamp we’ve been to yet!

Taylor

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Great experience! Beautiful and peaceful. Our three-year-old loved his first time camping :)

Adelh

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

I stayed in site #14 this past weekend and I loved it! It's by the river, it was secluded. You can still see some of your neighbors but it still felt private. You have your own driveway to your spot. I arrived friday but the next few days I had the place basically to myself. I had my own portable potty and shower so I didn't really use the bathroom the campgrounds had but if you needed to use it, coming from site 14, it'd be a bit of a walk up. Make sure you have adequate light with you. They kept the campground bathroom lit up but going to it, bring your light cz the area is dark at night. It was so peaceful. 2 dogs and a cat came to visit me, each at seperate times but stayed with me for a bit and they were the sweetest pets! You won't regret staying here. At night and waking up you just hear the river. Definitely coming back here!! Thank you.

Ashkan

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

We loved the vibe and our cabin. It might look a bit expensive, but you would get more than what you need.

Dana

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

We loved camping here! The land is beautiful and we felt very secluded in our spot. We forgot to bring a lighter for our fire, and Casey was quick to help us! Thank you!!

Chance

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

Very nice little campground. Bathrooms were close and very clean.

Justin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

This campground was nothing short of amazing! The owners were incredibly kind, friendly, and helpful despite us staying during Scary Pines Fall Festival. The said festival gave our group plenty of things to do, but even without that the kayaking and hiking that my group did was amazing. All around this place is amazing and I couldn’t recommend it enough!!

Amber

3 weeks ago

22 ft toy hauler

With pets

3 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

We absolutely loved our stay here! Our three dogs had the best time exploring and going on endless “snifaris” (aka sniffing safaris) — so many new smells, trails, and riverside adventures to enjoy. The campsite itself is stunning — the flowing river is perfect for swimming or just relaxing beside, and we spent the evenings by the firepit grilling and listening to the water. The open-air pavilion with lights and power made cooking and hanging out super comfortable, and the hammocking area overlooking the river was an unexpected favorite. Daniel, the host, was amazing — incredibly responsive and friendly. When we messaged about grabbing a little extra firewood (we’d packed light, knowing some would be available) and mentioned that one of the water faucets wasn’t shutting off fully, he replied right away and had it sorted quickly. Between the peaceful scenery, the great amenities, and how close it is to both trails and a convenience store, this place truly has everything — adventure, comfort, and calm. We can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re coming to unwind by the river or explore the surrounding trails, this is one Hipcamp you don’t want to miss!

Christa

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

We had an absolute blast camping out here this past weekend! Three of us came from St. Louis with two dogs, and met up here with our other two friends driving from Fort Worth. We had two cars, three tents, a ton of chairs and had MORE than enough space. The place was beautiful, primal, and Charles was a very helpful and responsive host. Our pups had the best time running around and rolling in the leaves, and us humans had a great time chilling by the fire and enjoying the view of the changing fall leaves and star-filled night sky! We didn’t have the chance to check out the lake, but we are going to try to make this meet-up a yearly thing at the amazing Fox Nook Campsite! If you are looking for a serene, primal camping experience, look no further than Charles’ place. 1 hour from Hot Springs NP, 10/10 experience, 100% FUN

Brittany

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

We absolutely loved camping at Ouachita River Haven! The campsites were very well maintained and easy to get to while also being secluded! The bathrooms and showers were great. The stars were so bright and the nights were so peaceful. Our whole group the entire time were raving about what a great campground this was. Truly 11/10

Ashley

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

Site 14 was exactly what we wanted. It was right on the bluff of the river, private, and near rapids that made for a wonderful sound machine. We had a truck bed tent and the site was great for it. We were pleasantly surprised there was a water hydrant there along with a picnic table and fire ring (rocks) and even a concrete slab with a hinged grill grate. Beautiful land all around. There was no soap in the bath house either day we went- that’s the only complaint!

Carrick

October 2025

Weekend Trip to End of the Trail

It was a great spot right above the river, plenty of privacy!

Gent

October 2025

1 night at End of the Trail

Great place to camp especially if your on a motorcycle

David

October 2025

16 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

This is a beautiful spot with complete privacy. All the services were easy to access and worked well. The covered pavilion was wonderful touch, and access to the river was easy. The host was very attentive, responding to questions almost immediately. We would recommend this to everyone!

Ginny

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

A truly delightful place! So many thoughtful details like a porch swing by the river and adutch door on the rustic john so sunrise can be seen from the rustic throne. The privacy and quiet provided by the entire place being our own was grand. I've taken the baths at Hot Springs bathhouses and the outdoor bath at Thunder Mountain way surpassed them. Communication was great. The trails were wonderful. The entire property is well cared for . We heard two kinds of owls, saw hawks, an eagle and kingfishers. Saw three different kinds of lizards. I caught a large mouth bass and saw lots of fish hanging out in the clear waters.

Micah

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Sacred Pines

We loved our stay at Sacred Pines! We stayed in one of the tiny home cabins. Beautifully constructed, had everything we needed and more. The grounds surrounding us were a beautiful spot to walk our puppies around. Super peaceful and close to so many awesome hiking trails. Not great cell service out there (it’s the country, duh. We loved it, really made us more present and hangout with each other rather than be on screens) Perk: our tiny cabin had an awesome pizza oven that we used to make some home made pizza after a long hike! Thank you Miranda for creating such an awesome space, we will be back

Ariel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita Campground at Edendell

We had such a lovely time. Everything was clean bathrooms and kitchen. We can not wait to be back with our kids. Thank you for hosting us.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Gillham Lake

Big Coon Creek Campground

7.4mi from Gillham Lake · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gillham Lake

Cossatot Reefs Campground

2.3mi from Gillham Lake · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gillham Lake

Little Coon Creek Park Campground

2mi from Gillham Lake · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gillham Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

Launa Simmons

100%

(24)

22mi from Gillham Lake · 9 sites · RVs · Umpire, AR

THIS PARK IS LOCATED IN LANGLEY, ARKANSAS! THE 911 ADDRESS IS UMPIRE ALTHOUGH WE ARE IN LANGLEY! 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! #eclipse2024 Learn more about this land: An old school site 6 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.

Brookside RV Retreat

92%

(25)

22mi from Gillham Lake · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mena, AR

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.

Bluegill Hill

99%

(219)

25mi from Gillham Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Kirby, AR

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!

Pond, River, and Ridge Camping

95%

(55)

27mi from Gillham Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Mena, AR

We are located East of Mena, Arkansas. Our farm has been in the family since 1897 and is listed as a Century Farm with the state of Arkansas. It is a working cattle farm on 160 beautiful acres with frontage along the Irons Fork River in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. Our adjoining property is our zipline and amphitheater facilty, The Blue; zipline and Farm. Venture off the farm to take advantage of the plethora of things to do; canoeing, boating, ATV trails, hunting, state parks, National Forest, antiquing, rock hounding, and more. Our new shower house is finished and has hot water on demand. (We're autism friendly, hence the name Blue) There is no digging or metal detecting allowed on the property.

Glampin' In Style - Broken Bow

93%

(66)

31mi from Gillham Lake · 5 sites · Lodging · Broken Bow, OK

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!

Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

100%

(116)

36mi from Gillham Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Caddo Gap, AR

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! 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. Pricing: $30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately. Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings for 1 to 2 nights are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show availability (due to cabin cleaning days). We'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out if possible. If the price looks really high (like $999), that is a date that is available at a low price ($30-50) but will have a later check-in or earlier check-out time. Just ask first before booking it and I'll lower the price!

Sacred Pines

100%

(46)

36mi from Gillham Lake · 17 sites · Tents, Lodging · Boles, AR

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!

Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

96%

(116)

36mi from Gillham Lake · 126 sites · Tents, RVs · Caddo Gap, AR

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.

Ouachita Campground at Edendell

95%

(29)

36mi from Gillham Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oden, AR

Ouachita Campground at Edendell is a great place to basecamp out of. We offer 26 full hook up rv sites with free wifi, tent camping, glamping deck, and guest house. We have 6 Kayaks for rent with optional shuttle service. Near by activities are ATV trails, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, boating, crystal digging, diamond 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.

End of the Trail

99%

(171)

37mi from Gillham Lake · 5 sites · Lodging · Boles, AR

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.

Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%

(128)

38mi from Gillham Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Boles, AR

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 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 need a midnight snack! Learn more about this land:Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power, LED lighting and a large picnic table. Firepit with added 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 riverbank. Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV, 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!

Ouachita River Haven

98%

(269)

41mi from Gillham Lake · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pencil Bluff, AR

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

The best camping in Gillham Lake, AR 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.