The best camping in Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam, AR

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100% (3)

Discover the scenic beauty of Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River.  

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Tranquility on the Arkansas River

100%
(57)
8.6mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry 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.
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from 
$40
 / night

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%
(154)
8.9mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry 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
Pets
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from 
$25
 / night

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%
(438)
19mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam · 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
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Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Barefoot Gardens Camp & Learning

99%
(73)
19mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry 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.
Pets
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from 
$10
 / night

Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

98%
(1154)
20mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · Greenbrier, AR
SECURITY CAMERAS are on site -- both at the entrances and exits and outside the store. Hipcamp requires that security cameras be placed in public areas only and that their existence is made known to guests in the property description before a booking is made. 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. 1) Primitive Camping: Secluded tent sites with access to Cadron creek, natural springs, and wooded areas – 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) Cabins and Glamping: 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. And although we lie at the edge of civilization we have good cell phone service and water hydrants and electrical outlets for recharging phones and the such are freely available for our guests to use. From March through November hot water showers are also 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, 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!
Pets
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from 
$16
 / night

Batesville Mountain Campground

90%
(34)
23mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam · 5 sites · Tents · Guy, AR
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".
Pets
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from 
$25
 / night

Barnyard Camping Experience

100%
(18)
25mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hattieville, AR
Right in the heart of Conway County, AR, our 7 campsites are perfect for deer hunters, families and couples. With deer hunting and fall upon us, come experience the best of the season in the Barnyard. We're located within an hour of Conway, Little Rock, Morrilton, Petit Jean Mountain, and only 1-2 hours from Hot Springs, AR, Memphis, TN, and other accessible cities and sites. We're an animal lovers haven with our barn-yard crew of goats, chickens, ducks, guinea, cats, dogs, and Rockstar horse, Hickory! We’re close to fishing and fun. Our sites are perfect for couples, families, and solo campers. Dogs are welcome, but must remain on leash, because our pet-friendly dogs roam to protect our free-range birds and property. For your convenience, we’re just 13 miles off Interstate 40, and less than 12 miles from Lake Overcup, one of Arkansas’ coveted fishing lakes. We're only 27 minutes from the Museum of Automobiles, and 11 minutes from the Movie House Winery and several eateries. Plus, you're only 20 minutes from the Wal-Mart Super Center, where you can pick up a few groceries and other items to make your trip complete.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Southwinds on the Arkansas River

100%
(53)
26mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam · 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
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Campfires
from 
$28
 / night

Arcadia Farmstead

97%
(16)
27mi from Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · Cleveland, AR
Small family farm and homestead on 80+ acres in the beautiful Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas. We currently have about five level, open acres available for primitive camping. We're right off Highway 95 in Cleveland, AR - 30 minutes south of Clinton and Greers Ferry Lake, 30 minutes north of Morrilton and Petit Jean Mountain, 45 minutes from Conway, an hour from the Buffalo National River, and 5 minutes from the Cleveland Corner Store. Bring your RV, skoolie, van, truck, or tent and enjoy some peace and quiet in the country. Plenty of wide open space to the view the stars at night or experience the upcoming solar eclipse. Visit the farm stand for farm fresh eggs, veggies, fruit, herbs, cut flowers, baked goods, plants, and other farm products, as available. Farm tours and you-pick coming soon! Find us on IG and FB @arcadiafarmstead, website coming soon...
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from 
$30
 / night

The best camping in Arkansas River - Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam, AR guide

Overview

About

A cool feature and awesome camping destination situated along the scenic Arkansas River, Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam forms good-looking pools that are the stuff of any water lover’s dreams. Boat ramps, fishing opportunities, and picnicking are all readily available here. With the Ozark Mountains to one side and the Ouachita range to the other, the views can’t be beat! What’s more, any nature or photography buff will be spoiled for choice when it comes to picturesque area foliage and flowering fauna (including dogwood, wild plum, and redbud). Spring and fall are ideal times to witness colorful natural transformations of the landscape. Paved access roads make getting around easy.

When to go

The best time to visit Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam is during spring or fall. Spring brings a flourish of wildflowers, while fall transforms the landscape into a canvas of vibrant colors. Summer offers full access to activities, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter can be less ideal due to cooler temperatures and potential facility closures.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast and water conditions before your visit to ensure a safe experience.
  • Be aware of park operating hours and any seasonal closures that may affect your trip.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with paved roads leading to various facilities for convenience.
  • Remember to pack out your trash and respect the natural environment.
  • For any inquiries or assistance, contact the Russellville Site Office at (501) 340-1762.
100%
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