Best Camping in and Near Arkansas River

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Discover the Arkansas River - Murray Lock and Dam's serene beauty and activities.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Arkansas River - Murray Lock and Dam

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Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

99 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Greenbrier, AR

We love our guests and we love your pictures. Thank you all so very much. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park lies within a private nature reserve of hiking trails, waterfalls, bluffs, cascading streams and wildlife -- it is all here. The campground is off the radar -- there are no highway signs or advertisements -- yet offers comfortable and safe refuge to guests whether staying in a tent, camper, RV or one of our cabins. On site you can find swimming, paddling, fishing, hiking, a 6-acre foraging field, and 9-hole Frisbee golf course, a Ninja rope course with zipline and slackline, rope swing, bouldering, climbing, psicobloc and more outdoor pursuits than one has time. And Woolly Hollow State Park, Cove Creek Natural Heritage Area, and Greer's Ferry Lake all lie within biking distance. New to camping? Need a flush toilet, kitchen sink and faucet? Hate bugs, thorns or wild critters? Steep rough roads? Dust and gravel? Or simply don't like being outside in the weather and in a primitive setting? Then this is NOT the place for you!! NO! NO! NO! But if you want to sneak away and find a lovely little place to unwind and bathe in a forest under a tall canopy of standing pines and oak trees, then Pinnacle Springs is where you need to be. Pinnacle Springs offers stream side camping on the banks of the North Fork of Cadron Creek -- central Arkansas' premier whitewater stream -- and is less than an hour's drive from Little Rock (only 15 minutes from Conway and I-40). Camp by the side of a river. Camp at the foot or atop a towering bluff. Camp in a cave. Camp in a riparian jungle. Camp in total solitude or camp with all your friends and family. We offer so many choices one can select a site that perfectly fits your needs. And if you want total seclusion -- a real "wilderness experience" and are willing to "hike-in" a couple of hundred paces we can provide that too. FYI: If you are unaccustomed to STEEP dirt roads do NOT reserve a site on the island -- sites atop the ridge in Camp Toasty are much easier to access. No traffic noise here! Rather, you'll be soothed by the sound of cascading water echoing off the bluffs -- great for outdoor sleeping and keeping the air fresh and alive. Many of the camp sites are equipped with a heavy picnic table, fire pit and grill, lamp post and level tent site. And if you like to swing -- we have trees! Hammocks and slacklines are the best no trace tree things ever! And although Pinnacle Springs Campground lies in an off-the-grid wilderness setting there is good cell phone service, a water hydrant can be found near the front gate behind the store, and electrical outlets for recharging phones and such can be found on the ridge at nearby Camp Toasty. And from March through November hot water showers are even freely available. Guests are encouraged to explore any of the trails that criss-cross the property especially if you like waterfalls, scenic views, cascading streams, and goat trail bluffs. The Tanner Pool Trail is especially popular after a heavy rain, Bluff Trail offers a nice perch for viewing the river below, and the 1+ mile "Circuit Trail" is a great way to start one's day. 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, national origin, 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. Kick back. And enjoy! CELL PHONE COVERAGE: While we recommend that you leave your cell phones at home or packed away we also understand the importance of "staying in touch". Overall cell phone coverage throughout the watershed is pretty good BUT there are a few deep bluff-lined valleys on the creek where one may lose a signal from time to time -- either walk around the bend or to higher ground and you'll usually find a signal. Nevertheless our evaluation: VERIZON - Seemingly good signal everywhere. AT&T -- Good in campground but a couple of "weak spots" both upstream and downstream (taller bluffs). T-MOBILE - Good signal atop the ridge but close to nothing on the creek, USCellular - The worst. Those camping close to store are invited to connect to our local area wifi signal -- CadronBoy. BTW: We don't take kindly to folks trashing our property. We are a "LEAVE NO TRACE FACILITY" thus if you bring it, you take it! Best to also leave axes, shovels and hammer and nails at home. Thanks.

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Barefoot Gardens Camp & Learning

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Vilonia, AR

Back in 2018, when the land was FIRST acquired, there was only a water spigot and a 14x14 structure that was basically a glorified shed... Now we refer to it as the Gallery Cabin. Its slowly gaining local art work pieces for display and purchasing... Now, 7 years later, we have created many fun spaces and built many structures for our many hobbies and passions. We have built a small workshop, a rock cutting/shaping/soil mixing area, Shipping Container workshop and decked out a shed with a work station and a long marble countertop. We have built a 3-level treefort with a crow's nest and a 10x12 screened Bungalow in the woods. This is a great spot to have less chance of bugs at night, still have electricity for Lights and phone charging. We have also created a large garden with 9 beds, using various aspects of Permaculture, including several Hugelculture beds. We created a comfortable and private outside shower in the upper corner of the garden, that is perfect after a long day of having our hands in the soil! (Named the "Flower Shower" as we grow various seasonal flowers, Sage and some beautiful Poppies that can be seen from the shower.) It's now equipped with Propane heat for optional warm showers year long. Because this is Arkansas, and we live at the top of a ridge, our topsoil is mainly clay and rocks... so one of the first endeavors we started was creating a 5 bin mass composting system to build up our soil for our gardens. We found grocery stores and coffee shops to donate hundreds of pounds of old produce and coffee grounds. Since our arrival we have made over 6000+ lbs of beautiful compost and continue to do so today! We are a pet friendly place. We also get rare bookings being a SnifSpot ( Dog Park) But all dogs must be leashed or proven ( caretaker onsite approval) of being off leash trained. The only Exception is Miguel-dog. He has been on the property with us for 3+ years. Very gentle and calm. He usually needs to greet you, then you can be free. He can be separated if need. (Aggressive dogs are NOT allowed. Thanks.) We have planted 10 fruit and nut trees and started a 'Berry Orchard'. We also have a small vineyard consisting of about 15 trained Muscadine vines. Closer to the house is a wonderful Herb Spiral that showcases of up to 20 medicinal and cooking herbs and we have a dozen more herbs in the other garden and around our land as well. We also have been planting a food forest outside the garden area, growing PawPaw trees, Gooseberries, Jerusalem Artichokes and Opossum grapes for the critters... so they may leave our actual garden alone, but they can still come close to get a tasty snack. We also built a large chicken coop for 4 egg layer chickens, 4 ducks and 3 guineas that free range our yard during the day. Our numbers vary year to year. There is over a mile plus of trails through our woods, criss-crossing over our seasonal springs that we have built bridges over. Our trails go up and down the mossy topped valleys and ridges with many places to comfortably stop and rest along the way. One aspect about all this that we are extremely proud of, is that we have built 75% or more out of RECLAIMED MATERIALS and RECLAIMED LUMBER (and made it look good!) -- Learn more about this land: -- We are located only 12 miles from I-40, just north of Vilonia. Our Homestead Farm: Barefoot Gardens, is on 8 acres of hardwood forest, where we use various Permaculture techniques to grow over 140+ varieties of various herbs, fruits, vegetables, trees and flowers! The nights here are peaceful and filled with the soothing sounds of treefrogs. Fireflies dance in the night air as the stars peak thru the leaves overhead! (We commonly camp in our own yard for this exact same reason!) Besides multiple camping locations and a beautiful forest, we also host over a dozen Educational Workshops and Homestead Demonstrations! Small Retreats and events are also being brought forth. Most all workshops/demonstrations are kid friendly as well! (Workshops are listed below in this description. They are also listed in the 'Extras' section of our HC profile.) Here at Barefoot Gardens, you will find many fun and interesting places to explore and enjoy! Here is a list of some of our favorites! - A 10x12 secluded, screen enclosed, roofed platform (10x12) is available for camping in the forest. This location is 600 ft. from parking area. Electricity is provided (No A/C or heat, please!) A firepit with a metal cooking grill are also provided. A compost toilet is attached to the backside of the platform as well. Multiple hiking trails intersect near and around this area! - Tent camping is available in various locations throughout the yard and forest, with available access to electricity and water (No A/C or heat, please!) - Plenty of great places to hang up hammocks! (Including our 3 level Treefort!) - RV's and pull behind camper's welcome! (up to 30 feet only please) Only very QUIET generators are allowed! If you need to run your A/C or heat for extended periods of time, while hooked into our electricity, please add $10 onto each day you stay with us! And NO... you cannot empty your black water tank here. [7 day maximum stay, please!] - Fire Pits available next to campsite locations, the bungalow or at the community area by our Rocketshop. - An outside heated shower located in the large garden AKA 'The Flower Shower" (warm season only.) - Over a mile of hiking trails, with bridges that cross over seasonal springs and moss covered ridges. Trails go up and down several valleys and ridges, so there are several rest spots along the way. (Trails have been marked with Blue trail markers, for easy navigation!) - A large Herb Spiral featuring 15+ medicinal/cooking herbs and over a dozen more in our main garden and yard as well! - Fresh picked greens, veggies, berries and Farm Fresh Chicken eggs from our chickens are available for purchase too! (Located in the 'GOODS' section of our HipCamp profile! (Fruit/Veggie/Egg availability change depending on time of year.) Besides all the beauty, trails and fun here at Barefoot Gardens... we also host multiple informative and educational workshops! More info about these can be found in the 'EXTRAS' section of our HipCamp profile! ** Although we don't have a swim hole on site... there is a Beautiful Secret Swimhole only a short drive away! Or you can rent the use of our small pools.

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Petit Jean Farm Orchard

2 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · 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.

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Batesville Mountain Campground

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Guy, AR

The ECLIPSE is on!! And we are dead center in the totality -- over 4 minutes of darkness. The celebration is on and sites are going fast. We only have 2-3 more perches from which to watch the eclipse in all its celestial glory and what great perches they are -- right at the edge of southern exposed bluffs with the river below and the skies above. Once in a lifetime! Moreover guests are invited to mosey over to nearby Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park -- another Hipcamp property -- to enjoy four days of live music, seminars and lectures, good food, guided trips, and great springtime paddling. Limited availability, competitive pricing and going fast. Plus will be even more expensive after March 1. Meanwhile ..... Privacy! Scenery! And the extraordinary Cadron Creek! Batesville Mountain Campground is about "getting away from it all" with nary another soul in sight. . There are only four campsites on the entire property so you are nearly always out of sight and hearing of any other campers -- you can even upgrade for $10/night and have the entire place to yourself! It is that special!! And absolutely jaw-dropping beautiful! Sparky, the stone mason who quarried, cut and stacked every rock on every trail within the campground, has created a wondrous place to come camp and explore. We are now restoring Sparky's original homestead -- the one room Green Cabin (soon to be our new "romantic retreat" with outdoor kitchen and shower, chicken house, and two-hole traditional Swedish "utedass"–or privy. As to where to sleep ... well you may lay your head anywhere -- under the stars, atop a pinnacle, out in a field or sheltered in the woods by the river. FYI: The infamous Cadron Boy slept in a rock crevice on the property hidden from view for months before he was discovered. This is "DIY" camping -- as we have day jobs we are unable to cater to your every whim and you will have to be able to "depend on yourself" to negotiate the campground, set up your campsite and secure needed resources. Thus if there is any concern or question you really should stay at one of our other properties -- Camp Toasty or Pinnacle Springs Recreational Camp. Most people camp in 1) Sparky's Garden -- it is easily accessible, level, soft, and open to the stars. Plus the rock walls and banisters provide for a homey, safe feeling. And because it is close to privy and electrical charging station it is an obvious favorite. However, one of our favorite spots is atop 2) Deer Stand Rock which is literally perched atop a rock pinnacle -- great views but a long fall, be careful; this is NOT a place for "sleepwalkers". But you can also camp atop the bluff just up the hill from Deer Stand (and closer to your car) and still have some great sunset views. This site even has a picnic table, fire pit and level tent site (and trees for hammocks). As for privacy then we suggest 3) Piney Hideaway -- a campsite hidden from view in the stand of a large grove of pine trees west of Sparky's cabin. This campsite is so hidden we tempt you to even find it! You'll like it. And lastly, we have the new 4) River Camp -- a small campsite just above the flood plain and down close to the creek with the bluffs as your backdrop. This is your "summer station" when one needs an escape from the heat. Trails from Sparky's Cabin lead in all directions. The best trail -- the one to the creek -- descends over 100 feet to the creek and breaks out onto an overlook as you edge your way along the bluff and then descend a set of steps through a crack in the rocks. The trails from the campsites offer access to hiking, swimming, fishing and paddling. We'll be offering more info and pictures soon but wanted to get this posted if anyone wants a place far removed from everyone. You'll find no better place to "forest bathe".

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Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Little Rock, AR

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

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Jubilee Farms Campground/& Rentals

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Leola, AR

James and Jimmilea Berryhill are delighted to offer 5 RV camping sites with water and electric service; 7 tent campsites; Shalom Suite Guest Room, Yachov Tiny House, Ahava House (apt), and The Dove, a luxury RV. The Berryhills have been hosting guests for 8 years with 295 excellent reviews. They welcome respectful and happy guests to this place where Christian families enjoy the outdoors and where country life is celebrated. There are ducks chickens, and guineas. Guests receive a sample of the lovely bars of goat's milk soaps made with the finest oils and goat's milk from their granddaughter's prize-winning goats. James and Jimmilea enjoy hosting their guests and will offer as much or as little interaction as guests prefer. Summer catch-and-release fishing, hiking, and enjoying the small dipping pool, playground, game court, and a large fire pit by the pond are just a few of the things that help make a stay at Jubilee Farms special. Picnic tables and charcoal grills provide for family enjoyment. The farm is surrounded on three sides by timber and the camping and lodging sites are situated away from the road making it a quiet and restful place.

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Tranquility on the Arkansas River

3 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Mayflower, AR

Come experience the awe that we get to experience daily. The river is in our backyard and we want to share our slice of heaven with you. The river is a place for relaxation, as well as being a great place to fish or just hang out with friends. The river also provides an opportunity for learning about nature and wildlife. The sound of birds is one of the most beautiful sounds on Earth. It is a sign of life, it is a sign of hope. Birds are plentiful along the river and you are sure to enjoy the concert that they have prepared specially for you. There's no need to drive too far from Little Rock – in fact, you can find a great campsite just across the Arkansas River from P. Allen Smith's famous Moss Mountain farm. This spot is teeming with wildlife, and you may even be able to catch some fish or watch Eagles soar. Stargazing is strongly encouraged here – under a dark sky, the stars appear big and bright. Please enjoy your stay and help us keep it that way. No parties and no unsupervised minors. We are in the country and there are no fences. You may be greeted by neighborhood dogs. We have never experienced any aggression and most of them are happy to get pet by our guests. If they are bothering you, simply provide a stern, "go home" and they usually will leave you be. On the other hand if you pet and feed them they will be your new best friend. We host on Hipcamp because we love the outdoors. We love traveling across the country, exploring, and experiencing new things. We are fortunate enough to have found our slice of heaven and we're so excited to share it with other travelers from near and far. It often becomes an opportunity to hang out with like minded people and make new friends.

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Indian Lakes Resort

91 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Austin, AR

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.

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A quiet nights rest at H & G RV

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Hazen, AR

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!

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RV Park foothills of Petit Jean Mt.

17 sites · RVs2 acres · Morrilton, AR

Beautiful property Learn more about this land: Located at the foothill of Petit Jean Mt. next to the AR River. We’re 6 miles from Petit Jean State Park. The RV Park is shady and quite. 17 RV sites with full hookup. We have a private boat ramp for easy access to the AR River for great fishing or duck hunting. Full bathroom with tub/shower. Coming soon laundry room.

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Adventure RV on Lake Atkins

37 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Atkins, AR

Welcome to Adventure RV, nestled by the scenic Lake Atkins in Arkansas! Our park spans a serene landscape, offering direct access to world-class fishing in the 752-acre Lake Atkins. Anglers can expect abundant catches of largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, with bass reaching up to 6 pounds. Surrounded by natural beauty, our park is not just a stay but an experience. Enjoy the peaceful environment, relax by our own pond, or explore nearby trails for hiking and picnicking. Just a short drive from modern conveniences, Adventure RV combines the tranquility of nature with the comforts of accessibility. Whether you're here for the fishing legend of Lake Atkins or to unwind in the great outdoors, our park is your gateway to a memorable adventure. Join us and discover why Adventure RV is more than a park; it's a destination for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts alike!

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Hidden Springs Camping Retreat

73 sites · RVs, Tents78 acres · Heber Springs, AR

Elevate your camping experience at our spacious Rv campsites, thoughtfully designed at 15+45 feet to accommodate Rvs and travel trailers of various sizes. these generously sized sites provide a comfortable base for your home on wheels offering ample room to stretch out and relax or take a stroll down one of our winding trails and explore all Hidden Springs has to offer

The best camping near Arkansas River - Murray Lock and Dam guide

Overview

About

One of 17 locks and dams on the Arkansas River, Murray Lock and Dam includes six recreation areas. Several of them are amenable to boating or fishing, and for the trailblazers there’s a plethora of multipurpose trails that are only a quick drive from Little Rock proper. The Big Dam Bridge here is touted as the longest pedestrian bridge in the world, so you’ll definitely want to cross that, and under the bridge lies a secret 110-foot tunnel. While that isn’t open to the public, have an inside look here. If you follow the river west, make a pit spot in the small farming community of Natural Steps, named for a geological formation that seems meant to be.

When to go

The ideal time to visit the Arkansas River - Murray Lock and Dam is during the spring and fall when mild temperatures create perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth and longer days, ideal for fishing and picnics, but be prepared for the heat. Winters can be chilly, with fewer visitors, offering a peaceful solitude by the river.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of the local wildlife and follow guidelines to observe them responsibly.
Wear appropriate footwear for walking along the riverbanks and trails.
Bring along sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the elements.
Stay informed about the dam's operation schedule as it may affect water levels and accessibility.