Explore
/
United States
/
Arkansas
/
Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

The best camping in Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam, AR

Discover the scenic beauty of Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam.

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Mark

5 days ago

42 ft toy hauler

Weekend Trip to Yoder Outpost RV park

The site was close enough to town but far enough away from traffic. Had a great sunset view. Easily accessible. Would recommend

Vic

2 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Crystalwood Retreat

crystal wood retreat was the perfect place for us to stop for the evening! the hosts were lovely and attentive, the space is cute and the nature is beautiful. they are a work in progress still, but that wasn’t a problem for us :)

Rachel

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

Arrived late and left early while it was still dark so didn’t get to see much but appreciated the ease of booking.

Michael

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

This spot was absolutely perfect. The view was incredible and the directions to get there could t have been clearer. I’m definitely going to be planning another trip here in the future.

kathy

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

I got in after dark and contacted Mark to lead me in. Don't hesitate if you need help. He responded promptly and was welcoming. Very private, quiet and lovely piece of property. Pond, lights, nice gathering spots with seating and fire pits. Heated bathroom and shower!!! Very nice for cold weather campers. Would visit again if I pass this way in the future. May be a stay in the pond side cabin. Thank you Mark!

Anthony

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

Mark was a great host and made me feel welcome the first day of the stay! He allowed me to enter the property later than usual because of my delayed arrival! Made sure to take the time to see me the next morning and have a great chat! Absolutely loved the property and the view! If I’m ever back in town I will definitely be back!

Robb

3 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Jubilee Farms Campground/& Rentals

Great facility with more privacy than most RV camps

Ashtyn

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Booked last minute for a place to rest overnight during our road trip and it did not disappoint! Gorgeous views, not too difficult to find with the host’s instructions, can’t beat it!

Ashley

November 2025

40 ft travel trailer

1 night at Andrew's Residential Retreat

Level, spacious, and nestled under a beautiful old tree! Hookups are on the “wrong side”- power reached no problem but needed our extra length water hose, and Andrew provided extra length to reach septic. Great location, <5 min from town where there’s a Walmart, o’reilley’s, fast food, etc! Would stay again!

Devin

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Cedar Creek Farms Camp

The camp site was great with plenty of choices of where to set up. Amanda and Jordan were amazing hosts and I can't recommend this site enough. So if your wanting to camp in the hot springs AR area consider supporting Jordan and Amanda.

Detrick

October 2025

Tent

1 night at H&G RV Park

Owner was super communicative and understanding. 10/10

Pond on the left, tree house on the right

Ashley

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

Beautiful place from what I could see of it! I came in at night and left in the dark so a super quick trip, but it was a convenient location to the highway. It was a bit challenging to find the address - I drove by a couple of times. And I wasn’t entirely sure where the site was from the instructions or map, but if I had come in the daylight, it would’ve been obvious. Mark was great and communicative so I was super appreciative of that! Bathroom was great. Felt safe as a solo female traveler. For my one quick overnight, it was great and I have no doubt it would be awesome for a longer stay!!

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Absolutely awesome campsite! Secluded with an awesome view.

Nigel

October 2025

23 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Tranquility on the Arkansas River

Extraordinary! One of the most beautiful places we have ever camped. The images can do the talking! The site sits directly next to, and well above, the Arkansas River that - at this point - runs directly West- East giving utterly amazing sunsets and sunrises. Tranquil, with beautiful bird song, friendly dogs, electric and water hook-up, super easy access and lovely host. A small but “top tip” for future campers arriving after dark. Do trust your GPS when it tells you to turn into Easterwood Point Road, to access Jones Lane, a mile or so after leaving the I40. It looked so dark we hesitated, worrying if it would get us into difficulty, but it’s the right route and can accommodate the biggest rigs. Anyhow, bottom line, it’s a brilliant rural riverside campsite and sits conveniently between Little Rock and Conway (a gorgeous College Town worth visiting in its own right)

Nick

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

Great camp sites, beautiful property especially at night well lit up, also the bathroom and showers are really nice would recommend and definitely going to be going back

Ben

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Very unique experience. Great for those who want a primitive option in a great spot

Kevin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to H&G RV Park

Made a last minute reservation and got in, no problem. Easy in and out on a motorcycle, pitched a tent in the back. Was nice and level, would stay here again.

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

We loved this private look out spot. Passing through and wanted to catch this gorgeous sunset. Did not disappoint. Totally worth it!!! Directions made it easy to find. We cannot wait to book again and spend more time camping here.

James

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Happy Campers

Patricia and her husband were great hosts! Very helpful and hospitable. We would stay again. Thank you!!!

It's all about the sunsets! This is on Site 1.

Justin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Great for a basecamp to explore surrounding areas. Clean campsite. Great view. Will be back.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

Tar Campground

2.7mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

Top-rated campgrounds

Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

97%

(130)

18mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%

(154)

46mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 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

Jubilee Farms Campground/& Rentals

98%

(96)

38mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Leola, AR

.Jubilee Farm offers 5 spacious RV sites with water and electric hookups, 10 peaceful tent campsites, and two lodging options: The Yachov, a cozy 2-bedroom tiny home, and The Cottage, a comfortable 3-bedroom farmhouse. Now under the ownership of Court and Jennifer Callahan, Jubilee Farm continues the Berryhill family’s beloved tradition of providing a quiet, wholesome, family-friendly place to enjoy God’s creation. With over 300 excellent reviews earned over the past eight years, the spirit of community, respect, and country living remains at the heart of this farm. Guests can enjoy ducks, chickens, guineas, goats, and two gentle cows who love attention. Summer highlights include catch-and-release fishing, shaded hiking trails, a refreshing dipping pool, playground, game court, and a large shared firepit by the pond. Additional firepit areas are located near the RV sites, tent sites, The Yachov, and The Cottage. Picnic tables and charcoal grills make family meals easy and enjoyable. Surrounded on three sides by timber, and with campsites set back from the road, Jubilee Farm is a quiet and restful place where families can slow down, reconnect, and celebrate the simple joy of country life.

Yoder Outpost RV park

100%

(1)

35mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Stuttgart, AR

Escape to the quiet and peaceful prairie at Yoder Outpost RV Park — a 2-acre slice of open space just on the outskirts of town, where kids can run free and you can relax and breathe. Nestled in the heart of the Arkansas Grand Prairie, our property offers wide-open views with wildlife just steps away. Ducks and geese often appear within 100 feet of your camper and soar overhead throughout the day. It’s the perfect spot to unplug, unwind, and let nature set the pace. We have two easy RV/tent sites that accommodate vehicles up to 45 ft. Each site features: • Full hookups (water, sewer, and electric) plus Wi-Fi • A fire pit and asphalt pad for evenings under the stars • Pet-friendly space — bring your four-legged partner! • Close proximity to town for easy access to local shops and dining Whether you’re passing through or staying awhile, Yoder Outpost offers a relaxed base in a friendly, natural setting. Gather around the fire, watch the prairie sky shift at sunset, and let the calm of the Grand Prairie work its magic.

Cedar Creek Farms Camp

100%

(30)

44mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 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.

H&G RV Park

97%

(97)

40mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

Tranquility on the Arkansas River

100%

(57)

44mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 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.

Barefoot Gardens Camp & Learning

99%

(73)

50mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Vilonia, AR

Back in 2018, when the landwas 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, ears 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 counter top. We have built a 3-level tree fort 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 a resident, neutered male cat named, Hikari aka "Ari." He is dog friendly. However if your dog chases cats, please keep your dog leashed. 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 Tree fort!) - 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 Swim hole only a short drive away! Or you can rent the use of our small pools.

Crystalwood Retreat

100%

(2)

36mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 4 sites · RVs · Benton, AR

Welcome to Crystalwood Retreat – a cozy, family-run getaway tucked in the woods just outside Benton, Arkansas. With only five RV sites, our small forested retreat offers plenty of peace and privacy beneath the trees. We’ve decorated the property with natural crystal clusters, giving a unique touch of Arkansas' wonders to your stay. Each site includes 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups as well as water. Please note: no septic is available, so plan accordingly. Located just off Dawson Road, Crystalwood Retreat is only minutes from the Saline River—a perfect spot for floating, fishing, swimming, or picnicking. You’ll also be close to local restaurants, shops, and parks in downtown Benton, with Hot Springs National Park just a 40-minute drive away for hiking, soaking, or sightseeing. Whether you’re stopping by for a quiet night under the trees or using us as a base to explore central Arkansas, we’re here to offer a warm welcome and a restful stay.

Happy Campers

100%

(2)

44mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 1 site · Tent, RV · Conway, AR

4 RV full hook ups, access to pond, quiet area to stay.

Indian Lakes Resort

97%

(249)

44mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 91 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Hot Springs Campground & RV Park

90%

(5)

51mi from Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam · 55 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, AR

Welcome to Hot Springs Campground! Located just a 4 miles from downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas, Hot Springs Campground & RV Park is the perfect destination for RV enthusiasts seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and convenient access to the city’s vibrant attractions. Nestled in the heart of the scenic Ouachita Mountains, our campground offers a serene and picturesque setting for your camping adventures. Hot Springs National Park: Situated in the heart of the city, Hot Springs National Park is renowned for its therapeutic thermal waters. Immerse yourself in the soothing hot springs, which have been enjoyed for centuries for their healing properties.

The best camping in Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam, AR guide

Overview

About

Posted up 10 miles west of Tucker, the Pool 5 Lock and Dam area has an overnight campground six miles east of Redfield. The main draw to these parts is bank fishing, specifically six miles east of Jefferson. Chances are, if you’re visiting this area, you’re coming up from Pine Bluff, but if not, make the drive for The Arts and Science Center and annual events such as Harbor City Gumbo Festival, Smoke on the Water Barbecue Festival, Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends, and Boo on the Bayou Halloween Celebration. All are worth checking out for a taste of the regional flavor.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be chilly, making it less ideal for outdoor adventures.

Know before you go

Check water safety guidelines before engaging in any river activities.
Be aware of the local wildlife and follow guidelines to ensure a safe encounter.
Verify the operational hours of locks and dams for uninterrupted travel.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for fishing or hunting in the area.
Visit the official website for the latest information on closures and accessibility.

Be the first to review

Share your experience here to help other campers.