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The best camping in John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake, AR
100% (3)
100% (3)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
Springhill Campground
1. Springhill Campground
100%
(3)
A convergence of water makes for a fun adventure at Springhill Campground, where you’ll find all kinds of opportunities for getting wet and lovin’ it
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Top-rated campsites near John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake
Fishers Pond at the Treehouse
1. Fishers Pond at the Treehouse
95%
(141)
13mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Fishers Pond at the Tree House was built as a tree house for my son. There is wildlife to view: cranes on the pond, squirrels, deer out the windows. I have seen as many as 6 at one time. Catfishing is great. We have pulled fish as big as 10 lbs. I have trails cut through the woods on my 10 acres for short nature walks
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Indian Lakes Resort
2. Indian Lakes Resort
97%
(259)
20mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Privately owned lake/campground. We offer tent camping with and without electric. We have a swimming area that includes slides, diving boards and swim platforms along with a roped off area for young children. Each camp site comes with a grill, a picnic table and a fire pit. Most campsites have their own dock as well. Note: The security gate to park closes at 8:00pm and opens again at 7:00am. Arrangements can be made for Hipcampers if they need to leave before 8:00am.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Private Arkansas Riverfront RV Site
3. Private Arkansas Riverfront RV Site
100%
(65)
26mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Private Riverfront Camping Minutes from Little Rock
Wake up to birds singing.
Watch the sun set over the water.
End your night under a sky full of stars.
This is your private riverfront escape—just minutes from I40 —but it feels like you’re miles away from everything.
🌅 Why Guests Love It Here
Direct riverfront site – camp right on the Arkansas River
Private setting – only ONE site, no crowded campground feel
Epic sunsets + dark skies – perfect for stargazing
Abundant wildlife – birds, eagles, and peaceful natural surroundings
Dock access – fish, relax, or launch a kayak
Close to Little Rock – convenience without the noise
This is not just a campsite—
it’s a place to slow down, unplug, and breathe.
🚐 The Setup
Water hookup
Electric hookup (30 & 50 amp)
No sewer hookup
Fire pit available (bring wood or purchase from us)
Excellent cell service
🛶 River & Recreation
Fish from the bank or dock
Kayak-friendly (water levels vary)
Local boat launch nearby
Relax by the water
Whether you’re here to fish, float, or just sit and listen to the river…
this place delivers.
🌿 Privacy & Layout
You’ll have one dedicated riverfront site.
Our home is about 70 feet away, but the setup still offers far more privacy than a typical RV park. No rows of campers. No noise. Just space and nature.
🚗 Getting Here
Accessible for most rigs—just take it slow
🐾 Country Living
This is open land—no fences.
You may be greeted by a few friendly neighborhood dogs.
They’re harmless and usually head home with a simple “go home”…
but if you pet them, you may gain a camping buddy.
⚠️ House Rules
No parties
No unsupervised minors
Pack it in, pack it out mindset
We take pride in keeping this place clean, peaceful, and enjoyable for everyone.
🤝 Why We Host
We love the outdoors, traveling, and meeting good people.
This property is something special to us—and sharing it with guests who appreciate it is what makes hosting worth it.
⭐ A Quick Favor
If you enjoy your stay (and we think you will),
we’d truly appreciate you leaving a review.
It helps others discover this hidden spot—and helps us continue creating a great experience.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Sunsets on the Arkansas River
4. Sunsets on the Arkansas River
98%
(173)
28mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Sitting above the Arkansas River you have an excellent view of the river from two vantage points. With a large almost 2 acre clearing there is plenty of room to roam. Magical sunsets and more stars than you can count! When it's a full moon, you can watch it coming up through the trees as you are sitting in front of the fire. If you are really lucky, sometimes you can watch the searchlight from the river barges as they navigate the big bend in the river. If you are a nature lover this place has it all.
Navigate to the entrance here (https://maps.app.goo.gl/GyC2mifqGSaosHSm7) and you will find the main entrance to both sites:
Is located near the bottom of the road but actually has two views of the river. It is very secluded and a little more concealed, which can be good on hot days as there are more trees for coverage. NOTE: Site 2 can only support tents and small popups.
The site will allow for multiple vehicles to be parked, so no problem there. If you bring any vehicles please do not ride them on the property as they damage the grass, there are lots of good off-road riding to be had in the area.
Toadsuck Lock and Dam park are about 30 minutes away, and if you need a big Walmart there is one 10 minutes past that. There is also a big Walmart about 30 minutes in the other direction at the intersection of Chenal Parkway and Cantrell Road.
And if you like hiking and climbing then you cannot miss Pinnacle Mountain State Park! Climb to the top and get the best views in all the area, 360 degrees views up there. And if you want something a little less steep, the Kingfisher trail at the bottom makes a nice gentle loop next to the Little Maumelle river where you can see absolutely GIANT cypress trees. Also, the Ouachita National Recreation Trailpasses just 5 miles from our place, and it loops around the entire north side of Lake Maumelle. There is a trailhead and parking near North Shore Landing.
There is plenty of mountain biking in the area too. Here's a link to some of the trails: mtbproject.com/directory/8007059/pinnacle-mountain-state-park-monument-trails
Pets
Campfires
H&G RV Park
5. H&G RV Park
97%
(106)
32mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
The property has been in our family for many years. The location used to be in soybean and wheat fields but now is in hay. We are located 1.4 miles south of Interstate 40 (Exit 193) in Hazen, Arkansas with easy access. We have had many great guest come and stay on our property and have been able to recharge for the next days journey. We have 13 RV hook ups and plenty of room to boondock and camp to get a safe and quiet nights sleep. We would love to have you come and stay with us!!Learn more about this land:We are a quiet country/farm setting 1 mile south of Interstate 40 off of Exit 193 in Hazen, Arkansas. It’s not fancy but is safe and quiet with close proximity to Interstate 40 and Hwy 70. We are right beside Wattensaw Management Area for hunters. *Hookups are available for 30 amp and 50 amp RVs and Campers. Please add this as an extra (located at the bottom of the listing) for $15 so we can get you setup with the best site available. Hookups are $20 + $15 for $35/night. We are in the heart of deer and duck hunting in the state of Arkansas. It’s a perfect spot to get a good nights sleep to get refreshed to hit the road the next day!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
BJ Ranch
6. BJ Ranch
100%
(14)
33mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
BJ Ranch is a 550 acre livestock ranch and home to the Lerchers. Checkout www.lercher15trails.com for some history and trail information. We offer 16 miles of biking and hiking trails; several campsites; showers/restrooms;fishing; farm raised beef; Ranch tours/ tool demonstrations classes; and cattle roundups at certain times of the year. Walk to Cane Creek which runs through the ranch. Good cell reception. Please respect the Ranch's Dog policy; Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Please read your campsite rules.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Arkansas River Front
7. Arkansas River Front
100%
(12)
38mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Set up camp right on the banks of the Arkansas River and soak in peaceful water views with stunning sunrises and sunsets. This private campsite is perfect for tent campers and RV travelers looking for quiet, space, and nature.
You’ll be conveniently located just 15 minutes from Morrilton and Conway, so it’s easy to grab supplies or explore nearby towns. Boat access to the Arkansas River is only 5 minutes away, making it ideal for fishing, kayaking, or a calm day on the water. If you’re craving adventure or scenic hiking, the breathtaking Petit Jean State Park is only a 35-minute drive.
This is a true off-grid campsite — there are no hookups, toilets, or running water, so please pack in what you need. A fire pit is provided for cozy nights under the stars, and pets are welcome to roam and relax with you.
Whether you fish, stargaze, or simply unwind by the river, this campsite offers a simple and peaceful retreat with nature’s beauty on full display.
Come enjoy quiet waterfront living and big sky views.
Pets
Campfires
Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park
8. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park
98%
(1207)
42mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Step into your own private wilderness park where hiking trails weave past whispering waterfalls, sunlit bluffs, and crystal-clear streams. We are confidant the Cadron will deliver an exceptional experience but having day jobs you are pretty well on your own upon arrival: DIY!
1) Streamside Camping: Secluded tent sites with easy access to Cadron creek – many with picnic tables, fire pits, grills, and lamp posts
2) RV Camping: Limited sites, pull-through, up to 30 feet, level, hard gravel base, with basic hookups (electricity, no full sewer)
3) Dispersed Camping: Outside of the campground there are nearly 100 acres available for camping. If you are up to roughing it a bit we'll point you in the right direction.
3) Cabins and Glamping: For those that like to settle right in we have rustic cabins and campers with modern comforts (some include AC, heating, and kitchenettes)
Activities and amenities include swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, a 6-acre foraging field and 9-hole Frisbee golf course, bouldering, zen/meditation deck, climbing, psicobloc and more outdoor pursuits than one has time to pursue. Children can enjoy the Ninja rope course with zipline, slackline, and rope swing and petting Biscuit and Buttercup – our favored Kunekune forest pigs. And, Woolly Hollow State Park, Cove Creek Natural Heritage Area, Persimmon Ridge Resort and Greer's Ferry Lake are a short drive away.
We invite you to our little piece of paradise on the Cadron. Bathe in a forest of tall standing pines and oak trees. Sit on the bank of a cascading stream. Embrace nature. We lie at the edge of civilization but we have good cell phone service and water hydrants and electrical outlets for recharging phones. And from March through November hot water showers are freely available.
Our place is a bit rough, rugged and unruly yet we call it home -- a place where everyone regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, political views, religion, or culture is welcomed to come enjoy nature's marvelous works and wonders. We love everyone!! So we invite you to come down to the Cadron and sit a spell. Unwind. And enjoy!
WARNING: Road to stream side camps entail a steep rough road. If risk averse, stay atop the ridge in Camp Toasty. Please.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cedar Creek Farms Camp
9. Cedar Creek Farms Camp
100%
(53)
43mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome! We want to note on the front hand that if you decide to stay with us you will be staying in a pasture behind a gate. This is especially important if you are tent camping, because your things will be safe while you explore Hot Springs and surrounding areas unlike a State Park or regular campground!
Our land is home to a plethora of animals that you can visit with or just watch during your stay.
Depending on the time of year and where we are at in our pasture rotation will dictate where the horses and most of the cattle herd are at. If you message me I can let you know! Our goats and a couple of our cows are at the end of the road on the right!
The animals you can see are our cattle (most of their names are on their ear tags), horses, goats (working on getting collars with names), Pickles the mini donkey (he’s with the cows), and chickens (when they go out to free range).
We also have a stocked pond that you can bring your fishing gear and fish! There are bass, catfish and bream!
If you want to love on a cow then Pepper the Holstein is your girl! Pepper knows her name and will come up to talk to you if you call her from the herd.
The horses names are Vivian and Bonnie and they sometimes stay in the pasture with our campers, but they are at a different pasture for now! Vivian is the larger of the two white horses and she loves attention. Bonnie is also white, but she is a bit smaller. She is Viv's sister!
There is also always the opportunity to see several species of wildlife while here.
Part of our land is cleared for pasture and the rest is undisturbed forest. Two different creeks and hundreds of cedars adorn the land, hence the name "Cedar Creek Farms." Come enjoy the sounds of Ouachita Mountain nature and farm life with us!
Pets
Campfires
Hidden Springs Camping Retreat
10. Hidden Springs Camping Retreat
100%
(15)
45mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to a romantic retreat in the heart of nature, where comfort meets adventure. Our spacious RV campsites, thoughtfully designed with plenty of room at 15x45 feet, offer the perfect setting for your getaway. Or, indulge in the ultimate romantic experience with The Gem—our beautiful bell tent, complete with a private hot tub for two. Whether you're cozied up in your RV, soaking in the serenity of your own hot tub, or taking a leisurely stroll down one of our winding trails, every moment at Hidden Springs invites relaxation, exploration, and connection. With its tranquil beauty and intimate atmosphere, Hidden Springs is the perfect destination for you and your loved one to unwind and make lasting memories. Your perfect escape is just a reservation away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Petit Jean Farm Orchard
11. Petit Jean Farm Orchard
99%
(451)
50mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your small trailer or RV in a picturesque orchard on the edge of Petit Jean Mountain. You'll have a backdrop of woods and grazing sheep, with the Petit Jean Farmer's Market barn -- offering locally sourced produce, cheese (some made on the premises), baked goods, honey, preserves, meat, and crafts -- only steps away. The market operates on Saturdays, when hot lunches are often served, but it is open on a self-serve basis the rest of the week. Petit Jean State State Park is a very short drive, with spectacular hiking trails, a CCC-built lodge and restaurant, and a lake. Campers are welcome to use the fire pit, grill, and trampoline, and they have access to the half-bath in the barn. They're also more than welcome to help Ed with the chores : ) An electric hookup is $10. Firewood is available for $10.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Duck hunting in the countryside!
12. Duck hunting in the countryside!
7.7mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
🍀Tiny home with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, half an acre in the quiet countryside of Scott, AR. Well water is the only water source. Restored claw-foot tub and new stainless appliances-a GE stove, Microwave, refrigerator, and LG washer and dryer. Two large loft areas are perfect for storage. A beautiful lake view just around the corner adds to the tranquility of this peaceful retreat. Country charm conveniently located just 15 minutes from Little Rock and north Little Rock. It has a window unit that is AC/Heater combo. The only downfall is the driveway, which gets flooded during the rainy season. Especially where potholes are. Pre-screening is required; when completed, we will send out the application on Turbo Tenant. Proof of income 3 times the rent, and check stubs required 6 months. Proof of identification, 3 former rental references. Pets have to be pre-authorized by landlord. The lawn is maintenance by the tenants. Must pass a background check and submit a one-year lease agreement.🌾☀️
https://turbo.rent/s/1800640p
https://turbo.rent/li/VXNlckRhdGE6NjY2MjMx?s=fb&p=1800640
Rental is available for weekly, monthly, yearly, price does change if it’s not an annual lease agreement.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
L&L Cottage
13. L&L Cottage
17mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
This tiny house has a nice comfortable queen size bed with a brand new mattress. The bedroom has a full dresser and flat screen smart T.V. This cozy home has ceiling fans and WiFi accessible. It has a complete kitchenette with a stove/oven built-in microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker. You have everything you need to cook a small or large meal. Including pots and pans! It is always professionally cleaned and inspected prior to the guest arrival and immediately after guest departure.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Lakeview Hide-away
14. Lakeview Hide-away
21mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Nice little spot with good neighbors in the cabins next door. Very peaceful and quiet area near Lake Conway.
Ideal spot to take a break for a day or 2 to relax, camp out, and do some fishing. It can be a little tricky if you are pulling a RV. We've been able to get a 32-footer (pictured) but there is a particular way to maneuver in there.
Learn more about this land:
Keep it as simple as possible on the edge of the woods. Pitch a tent, do some fishing, or just chill and read your favorite books. Our little Lakeview hide-away is ideal for a quick get-away that's not too far away. Even if you forget to bring something, there a gas station with fishing supplies less than 8 minutes drive.
110 and 220 connections.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Pinnacle Bus Stop~ Blue Bungalow
15. Pinnacle Bus Stop~ Blue Bungalow
100%
(2)
21mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Welcome to the Blue Bungalow! This cozy bus has 1 queen bed & futon, so you can unwind in comfort. Utilize the stovetop (no oven), microwave, & Keurig to whip up your favorite dishes. The bathroom has a shower & toilet. Enjoy the AC, heating, & WiFi during your stay. Outside has a fire pit, chairs, a hammock, baggo set & frisbee golf as well. We hope you enjoy what our place and Little Rock has to offer.
Pinnacle Mtn ~ 3 min
Rattlesnake Nature Conservatory ~ 5 min
Eating & shopping ~ 5 min
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Hilltop Getaway
16. Hilltop Getaway
100%
(2)
34mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Discover your own private retreat on our expansive 1 1/2 acre property, boasting a serene landscape with abundant trees and easy access for your convenience. Settle onto the primarily flat gravel pad designed for your camper, offering a smooth and level surface for your stay. With full hookups available, including 30, 50 amp, and 120 volt receptacles, as well as sewer and city water connections, all utilities are included in the price of your stay.
Unwind around the fire pit, perfect for enjoying cozy campfires when permitted, and take in the tranquil surroundings. Situated just a short drive from the city of Conway and the scenic Woolly Hollow State Park, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside.
It is recommended to exit onto Hilltop Dr and drive back down JR Cir
Pets
Full hookups
The Oasis @ Todd Farms
17. The Oasis @ Todd Farms
36mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Welcome to The Oasis @ Todd Farms, where nature meets luxury. Nestled in a serene countryside setting, our glamping retreat offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Guests can unwind in our beautifully appointed luxury RV lodging, complete with modern amenities and cozy comforts, or immerse themselves in nature while staying in our charming Bell Tents, designed to provide a unique and stylish camping experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation under the stars or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, The Oasis @ Todd Farms promises an unforgettable getaway for adventurers and tranquility-seekers alike.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Andrew's Residential Retreat
18. Andrew's Residential Retreat
100%
(7)
37mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Stuttgart is knows as the "Rice and Duck Capital of the World". Rice fields and irrigation reservoirs entice the annual migration of ducks and geese on the Mississippi Flyway to linger, making the area nationally renowned among waterfowl hunters. This property is located in town on a quiet side street. Enjoy relaxing in the shade under a 100 year old oak tree or make s'mores over the fire pit. Visit our local Museum of the Grand Prairie and learn about the area's rich German history and agricultural significance!
Pets
Full hookups
Gum Springs RV Park
19. Gum Springs RV Park
100%
(1)
38mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Gum Springs RV Park – Searcy, Arkansas
Escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet stay surrounded by nature at Gum Springs RV Park in Searcy, Arkansas. Situated on 117 beautiful acres, our park offers a peaceful basecamp for travelers, anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy the outdoors.
What You'll Enjoy
• 65 spacious dry camping RV sites
• An 8-acre private lake stocked for catch-and-release fishing
• More than 100 acres of nature trails perfect for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and exploring
• Plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the peace and quiet
• Easy access to Highways 67/167 and Interstate 57
• Convenient Location
While you'll feel far away from the hustle and bustle, you're only:
• 5 minutes from Walmart and everyday necessities
• 2 miles from Texas Roadhouse, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Hobby Lobby, and other shopping and dining options
• A short drive from Harding University and downtown Searcy
Perfect For
• RV travelers and road trippers
• Boondockers and dry campers
• Anglers and outdoor lovers
• Birdwatchers and photographers
• Families looking for a peaceful weekend getaway
• Cyclists and hikers seeking room to roam
Whether you're stopping for the night or staying awhile, Gum Springs RV Park offers a unique blend of convenience, open space, and natural beauty that's hard to find.
Pets
Campfires
Paron Private Paradise
20. Paron Private Paradise
40mi from John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake · 1 site
Located in Paron, AR, our Paron Private Paradise RV Space (and our home) sits on two beautiful woodland acres. The property is bordered on three sides by the Ouachita National Forest and the Winona Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Lake Winona is just 2.6 miles away and does not offer RV camping — you won’t find anything closer to the lake to park your RV!
We’re your one-stop spot for hunting and fishing enthusiasts, hikers, bikers, and side-by-side or four-wheeler adventurers. The Ouachita National Forest offers hundreds of miles of nearby trails, and we’re the gateway to several surrounding National Parks within 30 miles.
The graveled RV space, shaded by a 200-plus-year-old white oak tree, offers generous room for your RV or motorhome, slide-outs, one vehicle, side-by-side or four-wheeler, and bikes. Hunters and all guests have direct access from the property into the Winona Wildlife Management Area, home to deer, turkey, squirrels, and the occasional wild hog or black bear.
Lake Winona — a designated protected water source surrounded by the National Forest — offers a dam, park area, hiking and biking trails, fishing, and a secluded boat launch for small fishing boats. Swimming, water skiing, and jet skis are not allowed. For swimming and water sports, Lake Sylvia (16 miles away) is a great alternative.
RV amenities include:
• Full hookups (50-amp electric, water, and septic)
• A quartz rock-bordered grassy garden with a 100-year-old outdoor fireplace
• Wi-Fi access at the fireplace
• Outdoor deck and dining area
• Security light at the top of the driveway adjacent to the RV pad
The grassy garden area also serves as a privacy buffer between the RV space and our home. Please note: we do not offer septic dumping privileges due to septic size limitations.
Nearby amenities:
• Public ice station in Paron (7 miles)
• Williams Junction Convenience Store and fuel (15 miles)
• Pinnacle Mountain State Park (21 miles)
• Petit Jean State Park (24 miles)
• Hot Springs, Lake Catherine, Lake Hamilton, and Lake Ouachita — all within 30 miles
Rules & Policies:
• Adults only (must be 21+)
• No smoking
• No public intoxication
• Pet-friendly: Pets must be on a leash while outdoors and approved before booking
Pets
Full hookups
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Tracey
1 day ago
40 ft Class A
With pets
We had such a great experience staying here. The hosts were kind, accommodating, and quick to respond to any questions. The site was beautiful, right on the river with amazing views! Thanks Jason and family for a wonderful Hipcamp stay!!
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L
Laura
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We camped at Peachy Beach (camp #3), which had a firepit and a nice flat area to pitch the tent. The whole area is beautiful and serene. Our kids loved the zipline at the Adventure Playground and swimming in the creek. The one caution I would give is that the road is very steep and narrow and partially washed out/not level in places with a steep drop off on one side. We have a Chrysler Pacifica and we bottomed out several times, both on the way in and out, and fishtailed/lost traction quite a bit on the way out/up. I personally would not do it again without a vehicle that's significantly higher off the ground, preferably something with 4WD. Other than that, our stay was great!
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G
Gabriel
2 weeks ago
Tent
Absolutely loved the land and the host was nothing but kind. Had to leave early because of a thunderstorm, but the host offered us a free night on them.
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T
Tina
2 weeks ago
15 ft campervan
With pets
Omg! This is the perfect place. Bring your fishing poles and enjoy a nice size Lake on 100 acres with a creek. Me and my fur baby thoroughly enjoyed our stay while passing through on our way to Arizona. We will be staying again on our way back to Georgia. Logan is a wonderful host and the place is immaculate!
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Emily
2 weeks ago
16 ft car
With pets
Stopped for a night on my way across the country, I wish I could have stayed longer! Ed and his wife, Jen were so welcoming and helpful, I love what they’re doing with their community/farmer’s market and it’s such a beautiful spot. Petit Jean State Park is just 5-10 minutes down the road and was a fun park to explore. Will definitely come back to visit next time I’m back in the area!
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A
Art
3 weeks ago
Tent
Privacy and view were fantastic!! Highly Recommended.
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S
Sharon
3 weeks ago
22 ft toy hauler
The hosts were absolutely wonderful! Super helpful and wonderful to talk with. The area was beautiful and peaceful.
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Z
Zora
3 weeks ago
Tent
Super kind host and a beautiful patch of land! If you’re tent camping come prepared to battle the bugs, but other than that amazing experience!
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Alice
3 weeks ago
Tent
This was a great camping experience. Beautiful spot right on the bank of the river and not too near anybody’s house. Kyle was kind and checked on us but gave us plenty of space.
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Joseph
3 weeks ago
1 night at BJ Ranch
This place is very cool. If you are a fan of Hip-Camps that are located off the beaten trail this one is totally for you! It had a fridge and freezer, washer and dryer and two AC units. The outside is misleading because the inside is really nice. There is a good chance I'll be staying here again! The only thing id say that is not a positive in the long drive from the road to the cabin itself thats gravel, dirt and grass. Not ideal of motorcycles. But id still give it a high rating!
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S
Shannon
3 weeks ago
Tent
Had to come back with my kid and enjoy the quiet. We spent time exploring the trails and creek bed.
See moreT
Trey
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
My brother-in-law and I just spent two fantastic nights camping here, and we honestly couldn't have asked for a better spot. The vibe is incredibly cool and laid-back. We loved having access to the farmer's market right on site, which was a real treat, and it's only a couple minutes away from great hiking, caves, and a waterfall in the area. A special shout-out to Ed, our host, who was absolutely wonderful, he personally showed us around to help us find the perfect spot before we set up camp. There was also plenty of space for my son to run around, and he had a blast on the trampoline. I'd highly recommend this place to anyone looking to camp in the area!
See moreb
brian
3 weeks ago
Tent
We were passing through on our way to Texas. Stay the night at site two. It was beautiful.
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T
Thomas
June 2026
25 ft Class B
With pets
We just did a quick overnight stay and they couldn’t have been more welcoming… Great host and a beautiful place to spend the night… Highly recommend!
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Rusty
June 2026
19 ft rooftop tent
Beautiful spot on the Arkansas river. Host communicated very well and will definitely be back
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e
edna
June 2026
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
Host Gary was sweet and easy to communicate with. Loved the place and I've added this site to our camping favorites list for future plans.
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J
Jenny
June 2026
Tent
Beautiful grounds and friendly service. Even though the slides were not open due to the low water level, we had a blast on the diving boards! Will definitely be back.
See moreL
Laura
June 2026
Tent
With kids
Very close to many trailheads of Petit Jean State Park. Bathroom with shower you are welcome to use. Best part is the farmer's market you are camping right next to owned by the hosts who are wonderful people. There is a trampolin younger kids will love. Ed and his wife are also not shy or annoyed at being asked a million questions by the little ones. My boys hung out while they tended to their garden in front of the market. They also made friends with the friendly sheep and were visiting the bunnies. The market had produce, jams of all sorts, soda and water, sheep milk ice cream and cheese, very nice wooden rocking chairs, eggs, pies, candies, and even some rice meals to cook up. Ed and his wife also mentioned they were venturing into using some native plants to make tinctures, and also starting up making some soaps.
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Natasha
June 2026
Tent
With pets
Amazing view!!! Tucked away near the river, hiking nearby. The road is rutted due to water runoff so I would recommend knowing how to maneuver a lower car or bring something a little more ground clearance. I was able to get my 2007 Chevy Thomas 5 window bus up there with no issues but TAKE IT SLOW.
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A
Alex
June 2026
Tent
With pets
Such a gorgeous place! Will definitely return when the heat isn’t quite so bad!
See moreJohn Paul Hammerschmidt Lake camping guide
Overview
About
Not to be confused with John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake extends 26 miles along the Arkansas River in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. Its shoreline is characterized by bottomland hardwood timber banks, steep bluffs, open fields, and urban developments.
There are oodles of recreational opportunities among four smaller parks, most notably fishing. The fertile waters harbor all kinds of fish native to the state, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocks the lake with striped sea bass and sauger. Year round catch includes catfish, bream, crappie, white and largemouth bass. Multi-purpose trails are also a popular activity.
Reviews for John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Campgrounds
100%
3 ratings · 1 review
Beautiful site, flat and new bathrooms and showers
P
Paul L.
1 year on Hipcamp
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