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Ouachita National Forest

The best camping in Ouachita National Forest, AR

96% (26)

The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.

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Stories from the community

Zach

1 week ago

25 ft campervan

With pets

6 nights at FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

The park was very clean and hosts were very friendly. The hosts went above and beyond to serve Thanksgiving dinner to all of the campers. Great spot to stop while in town visiting Hot Springs National Park.

Graciella

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Absolutely loved our stay at Fox Nook!!! Charles was such a good host. Checked in on us and made sure to have plenty of firewood for us. The campsite felt very secluded. It was a short walk to the lake and was the most perfect spot! Would definitely recommend! And can’t wait to pass through Arkansas again because we will definitely be coming back to stay!

Cory

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Sacred Pines

It was quiet and the grounds were well kept. Beautiful view!

Scott

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pond, River, and Ridge Camping

I loved tent camping on Shelley's land. It is a working cattle ranch, zip line course and concert venue. I camped at site 1 right at the ponds edge. Only 10 minutes to Mena. Very quiet. Very friendly pups. Fishing was fantastic. Lots of stars and a few falling ones too!

Kim

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

Amazing spot. They really made sure there’s everything you could need at the site. The river is beyond beautiful. The pavilion had all the extras one could need and more. We had an amazing time and will be back as soon as possible in Spring. I even had a dead battery in my car as we were trying to leave and Daniel came to the rescue to give me a jump start. Best Hipcamp we’ve been to yet!

Taylor

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

Great experience! Beautiful and peaceful. Our three-year-old loved his first time camping :)

Adelh

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

I stayed in site #14 this past weekend and I loved it! It's by the river, it was secluded. You can still see some of your neighbors but it still felt private. You have your own driveway to your spot. I arrived friday but the next few days I had the place basically to myself. I had my own portable potty and shower so I didn't really use the bathroom the campgrounds had but if you needed to use it, coming from site 14, it'd be a bit of a walk up. Make sure you have adequate light with you. They kept the campground bathroom lit up but going to it, bring your light cz the area is dark at night. It was so peaceful. 2 dogs and a cat came to visit me, each at seperate times but stayed with me for a bit and they were the sweetest pets! You won't regret staying here. At night and waking up you just hear the river. Definitely coming back here!! Thank you.

Ashkan

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

We loved the vibe and our cabin. It might look a bit expensive, but you would get more than what you need.

Dana

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

We loved camping here! The land is beautiful and we felt very secluded in our spot. We forgot to bring a lighter for our fire, and Casey was quick to help us! Thank you!!

Kara

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Southwinds on the Arkansas River

Johnny was a very responsive host and I Absolutely loved this spot!! It was so peaceful and has such a great view. It’s nice having steps to get down to the water too. I found myself thinking, if I owned this land I’d want to build a house here! So glad the owner is instead sharing the spot for others to enjoy too :)

Jessenia

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at FHU Resort in Hot Springs Nat Park

Clean and great place to stay for a few days. I was happy with how close it was to the local attractions and Hot Springs National Park.

Sally

3 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Southwinds on the Arkansas River

This is absolutely a beautiful spot. I was right next to the water. There are 3 sites all with great views surrounded by beautiful trees. You won’t be disappointed if you stay here.

Chance

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

Very nice little campground. Bathrooms were close and very clean.

Justin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sacred Pines

This campground was nothing short of amazing! The owners were incredibly kind, friendly, and helpful despite us staying during Scary Pines Fall Festival. The said festival gave our group plenty of things to do, but even without that the kayaking and hiking that my group did was amazing. All around this place is amazing and I couldn’t recommend it enough!!

Amber

3 weeks ago

22 ft toy hauler

With pets

3 nights at Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

We absolutely loved our stay here! Our three dogs had the best time exploring and going on endless “snifaris” (aka sniffing safaris) — so many new smells, trails, and riverside adventures to enjoy. The campsite itself is stunning — the flowing river is perfect for swimming or just relaxing beside, and we spent the evenings by the firepit grilling and listening to the water. The open-air pavilion with lights and power made cooking and hanging out super comfortable, and the hammocking area overlooking the river was an unexpected favorite. Daniel, the host, was amazing — incredibly responsive and friendly. When we messaged about grabbing a little extra firewood (we’d packed light, knowing some would be available) and mentioned that one of the water faucets wasn’t shutting off fully, he replied right away and had it sorted quickly. Between the peaceful scenery, the great amenities, and how close it is to both trails and a convenience store, this place truly has everything — adventure, comfort, and calm. We can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re coming to unwind by the river or explore the surrounding trails, this is one Hipcamp you don’t want to miss!

Christa

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bluegill Hill

We had an absolute blast camping out here this past weekend! Three of us came from St. Louis with two dogs, and met up here with our other two friends driving from Fort Worth. We had two cars, three tents, a ton of chairs and had MORE than enough space. The place was beautiful, primal, and Charles was a very helpful and responsive host. Our pups had the best time running around and rolling in the leaves, and us humans had a great time chilling by the fire and enjoying the view of the changing fall leaves and star-filled night sky! We didn’t have the chance to check out the lake, but we are going to try to make this meet-up a yearly thing at the amazing Fox Nook Campsite! If you are looking for a serene, primal camping experience, look no further than Charles’ place. 1 hour from Hot Springs NP, 10/10 experience, 100% FUN

Brittany

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

We absolutely loved camping at Ouachita River Haven! The campsites were very well maintained and easy to get to while also being secluded! The bathrooms and showers were great. The stars were so bright and the nights were so peaceful. Our whole group the entire time were raving about what a great campground this was. Truly 11/10

Ashley

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ouachita River Haven

Site 14 was exactly what we wanted. It was right on the bluff of the river, private, and near rapids that made for a wonderful sound machine. We had a truck bed tent and the site was great for it. We were pleasantly surprised there was a water hydrant there along with a picnic table and fire ring (rocks) and even a concrete slab with a hinged grill grate. Beautiful land all around. There was no soap in the bath house either day we went- that’s the only complaint!

Polls

November 2025

1 night at Fern Dell: Secluded Woodland Glamp

I reserved the site for an outdoor date. If yall want an easy night to pull up and camp with all the amenities this is the place! Great spot for sunset views, close to cedar glades park and all its hikes, camp fire with wood on site, kitchen, bathroom, hammock, literally easy camping mode and my date loved it. Brought my own food but and there were cooking utensils, oil, some spices, and easy clean up. The host was easy to contact and they answered all my questions.

Eric

November 2025

22 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Southwinds on the Arkansas River

We loved this place. In our top 3 of campsites that we have ever visited. Loved the privacy, lot size, large firepit, being on the river, and so much firewood to use. We seen bald eagles, turtles, a owl, 2 fox, and so many different kinds of water birds along with many just general birds. I guarantee we will come back.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(5)

Crystal Campground

11mi from Ouachita National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Spacious campsites surrounded by cedars.

100%

(6)

Cedar Lake Campground

64mi from Ouachita National Forest · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(3)

Lake Sylvia Campground

46mi from Ouachita National Forest · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Shady Lake Recreation Area

32mi from Ouachita National Forest · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Jack Creek Recreation Area

31mi from Ouachita National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(2)

Little Pines Recreation Area

41mi from Ouachita National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Charlton Recreation Area

14mi from Ouachita National Forest · 58 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp

64mi from Ouachita National Forest · 10 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Winding Stair Campground

62mi from Ouachita National Forest · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

100%

(1)

Knoppers Ford Campground

31mi from Ouachita National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Big Brushy Campground

14mi from Ouachita National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Camp Clearfork Recreation Area

14mi from Ouachita National Forest · 6 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

South Fourche Campground

31mi from Ouachita National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Billy Creek Recreation Area

65mi from Ouachita National Forest · 12 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Ouachita River Haven

98%

(269)

7mi from Ouachita National Forest · 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.

Ouachita Campground at Edendell

95%

(29)

11mi from Ouachita National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Oden, AR

Ouachita Campground at Edendell is a great place to basecamp out of. We offer 26 full hook up rv sites with free wifi, tent camping, glamping deck, and guest house. We have 6 Kayaks for rent with optional shuttle service. Near by activities are ATV trails, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, boating, crystal digging, diamond mine is 1 hour away. We also have an airsoft battle ground on site for special occasions. Our guest facilities for all campers include bathrooms, showers, laundry, and kitchenette.

Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

96%

(116)

17mi from Ouachita National Forest · 126 sites · Tents, RVs · Caddo Gap, AR

We are surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Within an hour or less, you will find hiking and bike trails, 4-wheeling/ATV, crystal mining, diamond mining, historic Hot Springs, museums and so much more. Or, you can just put your chair in the water and hang out on the gravel bar. Arrowhead has been rated as "The Best Swimming Hole in Arkansas" by the Arkansas Times®. Our facilities, located in Caddo Gap, include, cabin rentals, bunkhouse accommodations for 50 (w/separate quarters for boys & girls), screened pavilion with kitchen, RV sites with full-hook-ups and septic, semi-primitive campsites, bathhouse, nearby canoe and kayak rentals, swimming, fishing, basketball court, and tether ball.

Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

100%

(116)

19mi from Ouachita National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Caddo Gap, AR

80+ acres all to yourself!! This beautiful and very secluded property, with river, kayaks, trails, and creeks is offered to only one group at a time to ensure peace, quiet, and seclusion. No other guests will overlap your stay. You will enjoy the peaceful solitude in nature completely alone! It's a great location for romantic getaways, silent personal retreats, yoga, playing in the river, or just spending quiet one-on-one time with your spouse or significant other. The last 1/2 mile of dirt road is a little rough, so cars with very low ground clearance are not recommended. Campers on Thunder Mountain enjoy the entire property by themselves - including the unique outdoor bathhouse with outdoor tub and shower, impressive multi-level decks, kayaks, grill, trails, hammocks, and tubes - without the cost of the cabin. The cabin on the property will be vacant during camping stays, but you can still enjoy the WiFi and other amenities outside. Pricing: $30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately. Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings for 1 to 2 nights are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show availability (due to cabin cleaning days). We'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out if possible. If the price looks really high (like $999), that is a date that is available at a low price ($30-50) but will have a later check-in or earlier check-out time. Just ask first before booking it and I'll lower the price!

Brookside RV Retreat

92%

(25)

24mi from Ouachita National Forest · 7 sites · RVs, Lodging · Mena, AR

Ready to Retreat? Come discover Brookside RV Retreat, located and surrounded by the beautiful Ouachita Mountains 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Our RV facilities were designed by people who understand you don't want to be crowded. This is why we have a very limited number of sites, which are spaciously arranged, allowing you as much privacy and solitude as you want. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek, a great place to walk or picnic while listening to the sounds of the water. In the warmer months, cool off and take a dip in the crystal clear mountain stream. The creek runs along the backside of a 40 acre plot, all of which you are welcome to explore for swimming holes and waterfalls! In addition, we considered a dark-friendly campground, which means at night, the skies come alive with stars, constellations, and a view of the Milky Way. Learn more about this land: We are a new 2021 RV park located in Big Fork, AR, 20 miles east of Mena and 30 miles south of Mt. Ida. We have 5 pull-through sites with full hook-ups. Sites are very spacious at 75' x 20' plus picnic, firepit, and seating areas. Guests have private access to the Big Fork Creek with swimming holes and waterfalls. We are also located near the Wolf Pen Gap ATV trails, and guests can ride directly to the trails from their RV site. Local rental companies are available for anyone not wanting to bring their own ATVs. There is plenty of overflow parking for trailers for those that do bring their own on the property as well.

Launa Simmons

100%

(24)

27mi from Ouachita National Forest · 9 sites · RVs · Umpire, AR

THIS PARK IS LOCATED IN LANGLEY, ARKANSAS! THE 911 ADDRESS IS UMPIRE ALTHOUGH WE ARE IN LANGLEY! This little park is located on the site of the Langley School, closed since 1968. All that is left is an old 1950 gymnasium which has been restored and is once again a viable part of the Langley community. Our site is self-contained only! Wifi is available onsite as well! This area has cell service but some carriers are better than others. This campground is where you go to truly get away! #eclipse2024 Learn more about this land: An old school site 6 miles south of Albert Pike Recreation Area and 5 miles north of Lake Greeson. Wooded area with hiking trails nearby. 30 minutes from Crater of Diamonds State Park.

Yearling Ridge Riverfront Camp

100%

(128)

28mi from Ouachita National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Boles, AR

This beautiful property sits on the banks of the Fourche La Fave (pronounced Foosh La Fay) River. This 151 mile long river was once the grounds of the Caddo Native American Tribe. The river is now home to a wide variety of wildlife, and offers multiple species of fish. Scott County is over 70% public national forest, with thousands of acres of public land available for the outdoor enthusiast. Though this property has the look and feel of woods and river camping, there is actually a 24 hour convenience store less than two miles away just in case you need a midnight snack! Learn more about this land:Beautiful flowing river for swimming, fishing, canoeing. Nice open air pavilion with power, LED lighting and a large picnic table. Firepit with added grill for cooking right at the rivers edge. Dedicated hammocking area overlooking the river, or have some friendly competition with a game of Bag-O game (boards provided). This area offers a wide open space for exercising, walking/bike riding along a country road, or just relaxing by riverbank. Want a little more adventure? This area boasts an expansive network of country dirt roads and trails for your ATV/UTV, and is less than five miles from the Ouachita National Forests' Fourche Mountain Trail. All this but still close to civilization. A 24 hour convenience store is less than two miles from the campsite. This quaint little spot has a lot to offer!

End of the Trail

99%

(171)

29mi from Ouachita National Forest · 5 sites · Lodging · Boles, AR

This property was once home to American Indians and arrowhead are abundant.Learn more about this land:65 acres on the Foursch La Fave river surrounded by Ouachita National Forest.. This property has access to ATV trails, horse back riding, Kayaking, hiking, along with great sunrises and beautiful sunsets. At the property entrance we have a 3 bedroom 2 bath home that is available for rent thru Evolve.

Fern Dell: Secluded Woodland Glamp

100%

(12)

29mi from Ouachita National Forest · 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!

Bluegill Hill

99%

(219)

29mi from Ouachita National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Kirby, AR

Located at the southern foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and the northwestern edge of Lake Greeson, this 6 acre plot of land is part of a gentle hillside that descends into the lake. Enjoy two trails to Lake Greeson and easily access nearby boat launches, public beaches, parks, and much more! Come make yourself at home on Bluegill Hill and enjoy the small lake village lifestyle!

Sacred Pines

100%

(46)

29mi from Ouachita National Forest · 17 sites · Tents, Lodging · Boles, AR

Surrounded by thousands of acres of National Forest, enjoy secluded time in nature! Stay in our off-grid treehouses, peaceful campsites, cozy tiny homes, and handcrafted cabins, allowing you to connect with others in the wild. We are located near many hiking trails, kayaking spots, swimming holes, atv and bike trails and so muchg more!

Pond, River, and Ridge Camping

95%

(55)

31mi from Ouachita National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Mena, AR

We are located East of Mena, Arkansas. Our farm has been in the family since 1897 and is listed as a Century Farm with the state of Arkansas. It is a working cattle farm on 160 beautiful acres with frontage along the Irons Fork River in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. Our adjoining property is our zipline and amphitheater facilty, The Blue; zipline and Farm. Venture off the farm to take advantage of the plethora of things to do; canoeing, boating, ATV trails, hunting, state parks, National Forest, antiquing, rock hounding, and more. Our new shower house is finished and has hot water on demand. (We're autism friendly, hence the name Blue) There is no digging or metal detecting allowed on the property.

The best camping in Ouachita National Forest, AR guide

Overview

About

This National Forest delivers year-round. Spring and summer mean lush vegetation and wildflowers, and fall brings you fiery leaves and bright colors everywhere. You’ll find killer views of mountain ranges, places to paddle on the rivers, solid camping options, and good times for all.

Water seekers should check out Shady Lake recreation area, a 25-acre lake with ample swimming options. There’s even a dam that forms a scenic waterfall. Wilderness junkies will find sweet thru-hiking opportunities, and multi-use trails for all modes of transport, so you can lose yourself in the wild. The 192 mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail spans every type of terrain. For those with a little less time on their hands, there are plenty of shorter trails to choose from.

When you’ve had your fill of recreating, head over to the town of Hot Springs to soak off the day’s activities.

96%

26 ratings · 5 reviews

Recommends

· August 2025

14 ft travel trailer ·

Lake Sylvia Campground

This campground is incredibly well maintained. The campsites almost all have access to power and water which would make it super easy to be out there with a trailer for an extended period of time. The area is beautiful. We brought our trailer and standup paddle boards to get around the lake. There’s also a really pretty hike with a trailhead at the back of the campground.

Lindsey C.

6 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

The Natural State

Great trails. Cold Little Missouri River for all the fun, bathing and dishes.. usually in that order.. best camping close to home.

Alex B.

3 reviews

Recommends

· March 2022

Camp Clearfork Recreation Area

Just a fantastic get-away camp for all ages with spring fed lake nestled down into the surrounding hills. Used to go on memorial day fat tire mtb festivals each year for next to free, 3-5 days of blissful peace and nonstop recreation in a mess camp setting with folks from all over to enjoy and suffer slightly with on the many bike adventures. Folk from nearby Ark. would organize, plan for and provide so much joy for so little in asking they quit after 5-6 yrs. Dallas-Ft. Worth people took it up to reserve the weekend for many more.. a little out of the way but alot of good times to be had hiking, trekking, digging crystals and boating, fishing or paddling only a stone throw, great places to discover by bicycle and clean spring waters abound

Tony T.

3 years on Hipcamp

July 2019

Charlton Recreation Area

We had a wonderful time here last year! Our grandchildren loved playing in the creek by the bridge and swimming in the dammed off area! Chasing lightning bugs was a big hit! We saw several deer right outside the door of our camper. Very peaceful and serene area (after the grands went home). Plan on coming back here every year!