The best camping in Nimrod Lake, AR

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Nimrod Lake: A Haven for Anglers and Adventure Seekers.  

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Top-rated campgrounds

Southwinds on the Arkansas River

100%
(53)
20mi from Nimrod Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Atkins, AR
Located on the Arkansas River and just minutes from Interstate 40 in Atkins, this RV/camping site backs right up to a gorgeous view of the Arkansas River and Petit Jean mountain. Water and electricity are located at each site! Just minutes away you have boat access to the Arkansas River at Sweeden Island Park AND Lake Atkins through the Lucky Landing launch site. This site is a sportsman's paradise as it is also conveniently located to the Galla Creek Wildlife Management Area, also just minutes away. Also, we are located right across the river from Petit Jean State Park and a few minutes from quaint downtown Atkins. Whether you're looking for great fishing and hunting or a peaceful respite from the world with a million-dollar view, this is the site for you! The 10 acres are open to explore and include three RV/campsites with water at each location and a gorgeous gully that empties into the Arkansas River. When the river is at a normal level a rock shelf lines the entire length of the river to make fishing and sunbathing, a breeze! If you want to venture out a bit, may we recommend the many offerings of Mount Nebo, Petit Jean Mountain, Mount Magazine, Altus, Russelville, and Conway; all located within 30 minutes to an hour from the campgrounds. While swimming in the river is not advisable, here are some swimming holes you and your family might check out while staying with us: -Atkins City Pool (has a day rate) -Lake Dardanelle -Illinois Bayou -Old Iron Bridge Swimming Hole -Long Pool Bayou -Falling Water Falls
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%
(438)
25mi from Nimrod Lake · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Morrilton, AR
Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your small trailer or RV in a picturesque orchard on the edge of Petit Jean Mountain. You'll have a backdrop of woods and grazing sheep, with the Petit Jean Farmer's Market barn -- offering locally sourced produce, cheese (some made on the premises), baked goods, honey, preserves, meat, and crafts -- only steps away. The market operates on Saturdays, when hot lunches are often served, but it is open on a self-serve basis the rest of the week. Petit Jean State State Park is a very short drive, with spectacular hiking trails, a CCC-built lodge and restaurant, and a lake. Campers are welcome to use the fire pit, grill, and trampoline, and they have access to the half-bath in the barn. They're also more than welcome to help Ed with the chores : ) An electric hookup is $10. Firewood is available for $10.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Fern Dell: Secluded Woodland Glamp

100%
(12)
30mi from Nimrod Lake · 2 sites · Lodging · Hot Springs, AR
Retreat to the forest in a secluded and private glam-camp for two on 16 wooded acres 3 miles from downtown Hot Springs National Park! Prepare full meals in a well equipped woodland kitchen. Hike or bike private onsite trails. Enjoy a crackling fire against the mountain sunset. Star gaze from the 2-person hammock, and sleep soundly in a real queen bed in a cozy canvas tent. READ ON NOTE: This is not a campground. There are only 2 glamps and the owner's personal residence set on 16 acres. Fern Dell sleeps 2 maximum, and is furnished to entertain up to 4 in case friends or family would like to reserve our other 2-person glampsite, Black Fox Den, a short hike or drive away (1/8th mile). Fern Dell is completely set-up with an American-made canvas bell tent, real queen sized platform bed with down alternative pillow top mattress and comfy bedding, covered patio with rocking chairs, covered outdoor kitchen and dining, garden swing, 2-person hammock, fire-ring, propane grill, mini fridge, and ample cookware. All of the get-back-to-nature peace and quiet without all of the loading, unloading, setting up and breaking down of camp! ALL YOU NEED TO PACK: Clothes (layers recommended), footwear suitable for the natural outdoors, warm socks, personal hygiene items, sunscreen, food, drinks and a sense of adventure! 16 FOOT DIAMETER BELL TENT INCLUDES: Queen size down alternative pillow top mattress on a platform bed frame Comfortable pillows and linens Dresser Bedside lamps and ambiance string lighting Bluetooth speaker Multi-device charger and electrical outlets White noise machine Books and board games Portable floor fan(s) in warm months Portable air conditioner when overnight temps are consistently over 72 F Propane heater when overnight temps are consistently under 65 Layers of cozy blankets provided by season Yoga mats Umbrella Exclusive Live Like a Local In-Tent Guide Covered deck with rocking chairs and storage OUTDOOR WOODLAND KITCHEN & DINING: Mini fridge 4-burner stainless steel gas grill Gas burner Sink with running water Granite countertops Pots and pans Plates, bowls, knives, cutting board, cups, mugs, wine glasses, grilling tools & basket, serving utensils, mixing bowls, oven mitts, etc. Salt, pepper, cooking oil, various herbs, spices and rubs Dish soap, hand soap, hand sanitizer, sponge, dish clothes, paper towels, all-purpose cleaner and trash bag(s) provided 2 large overhead fans Glass top table and padded chairs with an incredible view of the mountains Bright lighting over the countertop for meal prep and separate dimmable Italian string lights surrounding the pavilion COFFEE: Pour-over, French press and percolator coffee makers, bean grinder (BYO beans), ground coffee, creamers, sugar/substitute, instant coffees, teas and cocoa FIRE RING: The heart of camp features a decorative fire ring with spark screen centered on local slate surrounded by a ring of large boulders from the area. Chairs and marshmallow roasting sticks are provided for a perfect night under the stars! MISCELLANEOUS: A complementary bundle of firewood provided at camp when you arrive; additional bundles of wood for sale 1 mile of private trails onsite for hiking, mountain biking and e-biking 2 water spigots at camp with hoses for rinsing biking or other gear Outdoor garden swing 2 person hammock Clothes line Gravel fire pit area and pathways designed as a French drain Grid-tied electric off-set by solar Onsite recycling bins Low light pollution and open sky star gazing spots around the property if you want to bring your telescope and/or photography equipment Electric vehicle charging possible at restrooms (discuss with hosts first) Luggage/gear drop off before check-in may be possible on request SHARED CAMP RESTROOMS: Shared campground restrooms are 100 yards away and include a half bath and a separate three-quarter bath with shower, sink, vanity, mirror and toilet. Both bathrooms have running hot and cold water, electricity and septic. Towels, wash cloths, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, hair dryer, toilet paper and various convenience items provided. Bathrooms may be shared by up to 2 other people and are cleaned and sanitized daily. DOG FRIENDLY - NO EXTRA FEES: Well-behaved, house broken dogs of any size and any breed welcomed. Dog(s) must remain under control, leashed and with owners at all times. For their safety, DOGS CANNOT BE LEFT ALONE EVEN IN THE CAR OR TENT even if they are crated or tethered. Doggie day care and pet sitter options are available in Hot Springs if needed. Trails, parks, downtown and many nearby restaurants are dog friendly! Bona fide Service Animals welcomed! Due to the remoteness and ruggedness of the surrounding area, Fern Dell is not a safe or suitable environment for non-dog pets or non-dog emotional support animals. EV: There is a high-speed DC electric car charging station located 3 miles from camp. NOTE FOR COOL WEATHER STAYS (Mid-November - March): Winter in Arkansas can be cold but bearable, and great for hiking/biking and s'mores next to the fire with average highs in the 40s/50s and lows in the 20s/30s. We provide several layers of warm blankets and a propane heater to keep the tent cozy for you overnight. BEFORE YOU RESERVE YOUR ADVENTURE, YOU AGREE: No infants, toddlers or other children under 10 permitted. No more than 2 people total and 1 must be an adult. Dogs must be with owner(s) on a leash at all times. No undisclosed animals. No illegal activities. No events. No parties. No fireworks. No smoking in the tent, but it's okay outside. No open flame candles indoors or out; battery operated are OK. No fire arm discharge, hunting, trapping, archery or similar. No motorized vehicles on private onsite trails except e-bikes Unregistered daytime guests must be discussed with us in advance. Guests who violate these rules will be asked to leave immediately without a refund. YOU ALSO UNDERSTAND: Air conditioning is only provided when overnight lows are consistently over 72 degrees. Contact us to confirm A/C if you are uncertain. Propane heating is only provided when overnight temperatures are consistently under 65 degrees. Layers of cozy blankets provided by season. Contact us to confirm the availability of heating if you are uncertain. Bathroom facilities are 100 yards from camp. No internet, wi-fi, cable or TV provided. It is a packed gravel drive to/from the campsite; not paved. We drive our Honda Accord back and forth with no problem. 4-wheel drive is not needed. NATURE: There is still camp in the glamp! You may encounter bugs, wind, rain, wildlife... we strive to make sure our guests are comfortable, but Fern Dell is purposely situated in nature and nature is part of the package. The 16 acre property includes the hosts' home and a second 2-person glampsite (Black Fox Den - 1/8th mile away). Bathrooms may be shared with up to 2 people staying at Black Fox Den, and are cleaned and sanitized daily when both glampsites are occupied. Firewood, free ranging chicken eggs and seasonal vegetables available for sale onsite. Park right at your site. Walk or bike 1 mile of easy, private trails on the property. Hike or bike 36 miles of Cedar Glades Park and Northwoods Trails NEXT DOOR to camp! 3 miles / 7 minute drive to downtown Hot Springs shopping & restaurants, spas, galleries, theaters, bathhouse row, the National Park, Convention Center, Majestic Ball Fields, and other attractions. 20 minute drive to Mid-America Science Museum, Garvan Woodland Gardens, crystal digging sites, and lakes Ouachita, Hamilton and Catherine. Less than an hour from Crater of Diamonds State Park and Lake DeGray. Hosts Max and Michelle live onsite and are available on request, but otherwise respect the privacy of guests. Fern Dell feels like it's in the middle of nowhere, but it's only 3 miles / 7 minute scenic drive to Hot Springs National Park visitor's center, bathhouse row, the convention center, and downtown restaurants, spas, shopping, theaters, galleries and attractions! There is a mile of private trails onsite for easy hiking, mountain biking or e-biking. Camp is across the road from 30+ miles of world-class IMBA designed mountain biking and hiking trails at the Northwoods Trails - voted the Best Trails in Arkansas by riders. Green, blue and black single track, multi-track, flow trails, jump lines and the Lucky 13 expert section. From the Northwoods, connect to the National Park’s Sunset Trail of stunning views (11 miles hiking only) –or- the Pullman Trail to downtown/Park Avenue (.65 mile moderate hiking/biking). Catch a trail head at Cedar Glades Park adjacent to camp with 10 more miles of trails for mountain biking or hiking connecting to the Northwoods, a bike skills park, 18 holes of disc golf, 3-story tree house, kite flying field, amphitheater, picnic pavilion, playground, remote control airfield and car track. 20 minute drive to Mid-America Science Museum, Magic Springs Water Park, Garvan Woodland Gardens, quartz crystal digging sites, and Lakes Hamilton, Catherine, DeGray and Ouachita. Approximately 1 hour drive to Crater of Diamonds State Park. Private parking available right at your site a few steps from the tent. Uber and taxi services are available to pick up and drop off at the camp driveway entrance - 500 yard walk to Fern Dell or leave your car parked next to the driveway. From camp-adjacent Cedar Glades Park trails connecting to the Northwoods trails, you can bike or hike the Pullman Trail into the walkable and bikeable Uptown Park Avenue neighborhood, 1 mile north of downtown. Public transportation is not available at Fern Dell, but is available Monday - Saturday downtown. Hot Springs Memorial Field Airport (HOT) is a 20 minute drive from camp with Southern Airlines daily direct flights to/from Dallas (DFW) and Memphis (MEM) with Enterprise rental car onsite. Little Rock (LIT) airport is a 1 hour drive with all major rental car companies and airlines. If you'd like to consider booking our second glampsite so family or friends can join your glamp adventure, ask about our very secluded, off-grid Black Fox Den listing a short walk, 1/8th of a mile, from Fern Dell. A Live Like a Local guidebook of our favorite restaurants, trails, theaters, events, daily activities, lakes, spas, theaters, live music venues, sightseeing spots, gift shopping, and plenty of area brochures and maps are provided. We want you to fall in love with Hot Springs as much as we have. Let us know how we can help you plan your perfect getaway to our beautiful town!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$171
 / night

Spa City HipCamp Now

95%
(47)
33mi from Nimrod Lake · 5 sites · RVs · Hot Springs National Park, AR
Welcome to Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas! Are you looking for a convenient space to rest your RV, motor home or tent for a night or two? You’ve come to the right place 😊. Let my space be your space! Welcome to my beautiful oasis with 5 acre blessed with trees, pond and creek. Conveniently located just right outside city limits. Close to everything yet secluded enough to have privacy , peace and quite. It has green grass most of the year with lots of lightning bugs at night, abundant wildlife: deers, bunnies, possums, raccoons and squirrels 😁. Very well spaced out mature trees that provides shade and fresh air. Well house for water supply in property as well but no hookups of any kind in place at the moment. Also has concrete custom made swimming hole that freshly feeds off the pond and streams but may be dry right now due to extreme heat and no rain in forecast. My space is suited best for well prepared campers as I don’t offer any amenities on site at this time. Land is close to everything Hot Springs, Arkansas has to offer. 1.3 miles away from Magic Springs 2.5 miles from Gulpha Gorge 4.9 miles from Oaklawn Racing & Gaming 6.1 miles from Hot Springs mall 3.6 miles from historic downtown Hot Springs and Arlington Hotel. 
Pets
Trash
from 
$30
 / night

Cedar Creek Farms Camp

100%
(30)
33mi from Nimrod Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Lonsdale, AR
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. There are our cattle (their names are on their ear tags), horses, goats (working on getting collars with names), Pickles the mini donkey, and our 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! The horses names are Vivian and Bonnie and they normally stay in the pasture with our campers. 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 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
from 
$25
 / night

Ouachita River Haven

98%
(269)
34mi from Nimrod 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night

FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

98%
(50)
34mi from Nimrod Lake · 55 sites · RVs, Lodging · Hot Springs, AR
Bike to bathhouse row or the National Park. Walk to Oaklawn Casino or Greenway trail. Gated Park with concrete pads, full hook-ups. Splash pad and water slide onsite. (Closed after Labor Day) Call your friends, leash up the pup, and get ready to enjoy a unique stay in the heart of Hot Springs! At Finish Line RV Park, we offer a premium camping experience with: 🌟 Upscale, Concrete RV Pads 🛁 Immaculate, Spa-Like Bathhouse 🎯 Outdoor Pavilion with Horseshoes & Cornhole 🔥 Fire Pits & Picnic Tables at Every Site 🐶 Large Dog Park with Shade & Room to Run 💦 Splash Pad and Water Slide to Cool Off (closed after Labor Day) 💻 Free Wi-Fi 🧺 Modern Laundry Facility Enjoy curbside trash pickup, and let our team deliver ice, firewood, and yard games right to your site! Our friendly concierge will greet you and escort you to your weekend getaway. 📍 Just 1 block from Oaklawn Horse Track & Casino 🚶‍♂️ Only 2 miles to Bathhouse Row and a 5-minute walk to Greenway Trail 📌 Close to 3 mines for digging diamonds, crystals, and gems! Please Note: 🚫 No tents or car camping permitted. ✅ RVs must be in good condition. 🛑No homemade RV’s OR Schoolies (owner will not accept them)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%
(154)
38mi from Nimrod Lake · 2 sites · Tents · Fourche, AR
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
from 
$25
 / night

Tranquility on the Arkansas River

100%
(57)
40mi from Nimrod Lake · 3 sites · RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

The best camping in Nimrod Lake, AR guide

Overview

About

Cradled between the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains, Nimrod Lake attracts boaters, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Ask any local around these parts, and they’ll tell you that fishing is the thing to do here. With just a little skill and a lot of luck, You’ll easily snag crappie, largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and white bass from the lake’s depths. There are four modern campgrounds around the lake, a short interpretive hiking trail, and three family-friendly swimming beaches. Whether you’re in it for the fishing, the swimming, or the s’mores round the fire, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better wild getaway than Nimrod Lake.

Notable campgrounds

  • Revel in the tranquility of tall pines at one of Nimrod Lake's modern campgrounds, complete with amenities for a comfortable stay.
  • Set up your tent or park your RV by the water's edge, with easy access to boat launching ramps and fish cleaning stations.
  • Enjoy family-friendly facilities including playgrounds and hot showers, ensuring a memorable and convenient outdoor experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early through the National Recreation Reservation Service to secure your ideal spot at Nimrod Lake.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies and last-minute openings for spontaneous getaways.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding the perfect campsite.

When to go

The best time to visit Nimrod Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers a bustling atmosphere but can be quite warm. Winter months may be less ideal due to cooler temperatures and limited services.

Know before you go

  • Check the current lake elevation and weather conditions before setting out for your adventure at Nimrod Lake.
  • Remember that in-season hunting is restricted to certain areas; familiarize yourself with the designated zones.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with provisions for mobility-impaired visitors to enjoy hunting and other activities.
  • For a smooth visit, review the rules and regulations, including permits for geocaching and metal detecting.
  • Ensure you have all necessary permits for fishing and hunting, and be aware of safety guidelines while on the water.
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