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Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

The best camping in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, AR

98% (37)

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Stories from the community

Rick

1 week ago

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Barker Gap

The wife and I loved staying here in our RV. The sites are nice, wide and level. Nothing more you could ask for in a campsite. Very close to Buckhorn trails with lots of riding straight from camp. The hosts are the best! Highly recommend staying here if you're in the area or planning to ride Buckhorn.

Eric

1 week ago

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Barker Gap

Once again Brian is a great host! I will be back. The campground is great as well.

Katie

1 week ago

17 ft travel trailer

3 nights at SilverStream Lodging

Red was so kind and accommodating. The bathrooms had plenty of hot water with several people using them and were always well maintained and cleaned. Wonderful overall experience and would come back to Red's place for sure!

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bigfoot County Campgrounds

Found some trees perfect for a hammock, hiked down the rock trail, made a campfire cake, had camp coffee and enjoyed the scenery. It was my kind of party. Camper was in good shape, smelled and looked clean. Having a flushable toilet, a queen size bed to sleep in, and the option to use the stove were all very convenient (especially with a 4 year old). Great place for the price, I enjoyed the atmosphere and it was peaceful and fun. Host was responsive.

Gregg

2 weeks ago

33 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Pea Ridge Bike Camp

Nice place. Loved the outdoor shower after biking.

Park style BBQ grill with a stone fire pit.

Ken

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Barker Gap

Great location, close ride in ~ ride out to the trails. Owners friendly and available to answer questions and provided a map of the trails. I’ll definitely be coming back and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great place to stay. ~ Ken

Tina

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

Great spot! The land is well maintained and we will stay here again.

Creekside field where you can choose your campsite.

Pat

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

Super cozy place to camp! Horses came to visit us and even a very sweet dog. We will absolutely come back again.

Katie

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cold Creek Valley

Site 1 was beautiful and nicely secluded away from the other campsites. The trails were well-marked and the views were lovely with several vistas and benches to sit on along the trails. Everything was clean and well-maintained. Will definitely come back and book again, hopefully after a rain when the creeks are running!

Campsite #2 is has plenty of space for a larger party. Tent and hammocks available to rent.

Sarah

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

Such a great spot! We had a group in Site 2 and there was plenty of room for multiple tents. We went in the fall so the creek was dry but I can’t wait to come back and explore more in the Spring Jill was a great host - met us when we got there to make sure we had what we needed! I hope to be back someday ski !

Andrew

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cold Creek Valley

My wife and I spent a lovely weekend at Site 3! It felt very private and we enjoyed the pond area and all the trails, the outhouse was very nice and clean as well. We definitely want to come back in the spring when the water is flowing.

Jackson

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tin Top Village

We stayed at the Country Cabin and had the most amazing time! Perfect mix of seclusion and safety. Our two dogs had so much fun on their tie outs and we can’t wait to come back!

Audri

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cold Creek Valley

We absolutely loved camping with Mason as a host! Everything was super cared for and clean and we had an amazing time. We will absolutely be booking again soon!

Dana

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Open-air Meditation Sanctuary

We absolutely loved camping here!! This place is magical! Heidi is amazing, the land is so beautiful and everything was so clean. I absolutely loved the dogs roaming around and how the walkways on the meditation trail were covered with moss!! Definitely will stay here again!

T. Mark

2 weeks ago

23 ft Class B

5 nights at Bentonville Bike Camp

Great space, good communication, clean bathrooms and showers. There was firewood available, fresh water for drinking. The camp was close to town, stores and most importantly, good riding. Please remember that the facilities are shared and be respectful of them, try to keep them clean for other campers! This is a reflection of the campers not our great hosts!

Minwoo

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bullwick Farms

I had an amazing stay at Sara’s farm. The property is huge, and I loved being able to choose any spot I wanted for camping. The friendly animals like horses, cows, and alpacas made the whole experience feel extra special and surprisingly relaxing. There’s a small pond on the land that reflected the clouds and sunset in a beautiful way. Overall, I really enjoyed my time here and would love to come back again.

Site #1 complete with bathroom tent, picnic table, and 5 gallon water jug.

Jameson

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

Nice spot to camp out, would absolutely recommend to anyone in the area.

John

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Bentonville Bike Camp

Great spot, super close to trails and town. Would definitely stay again.

2 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

The Handcut Hollow campground was perfect for my brief stay in Bentonville for some mountain biking. The area was well maintained and provided the basics one would need for essentially a tent site: level ground, a clean porta-potty, tables and fire ring. Even in a campervan, the consistent level ground was convenient. The combo-padlock chain at the entrance appears to be a decent enough deterrent for honest campers, not sure how the grounds are monitored and didn't see any cameras. Cell service was 4/5 bars; I'm onT-Mobile. The Traverse connector trails are right next to the grounds and will conveniently lead you to the Handcut trail system/hub. Lastly, as with any wooded area be mindful of ticks. Not so much in the 'groomed' grounds, but the taller grass and shrubs on the perimeter. I'd found one tick under my dog's collar; he's fine luckily. All in all, a great, convenient experience. I was there in mid-November (and luckily timed with 75-degree days!) so it was obviously off-season with only two other boondockers there. In peak-season, YMMV.

Mark

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

Great location with access to the best bike trails.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(14)

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

36mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(3)

Wolf Pen Recreation Area

50mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(3)

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area and Campground

123mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(3)

Gunner Pool Recreation Area

121mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(3)

Ozark Highlands Trail

82mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 1 site · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(3)

Richland Creek Recreation Area

43mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(1)

Redding Recreation Area

59mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(1)

Shores Lake Recreation Area

83mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

100%

(1)

Spring Lake Recreation Area

84mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Long Pool Recreation Area

77mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 40 sites · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

88%

(5)

Bear Creek Lake Recreation Area

228mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Brock Creek Lake Recreation Area

96mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Cove Lake Recreation Area and Campground

73mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Fairview Recreation Area

75mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Huckleberry Mountain Horse Trail

78mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Lake Wedington Campground

0.4mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Moccasin Gap Horse Trail

81mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 17 sites · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Ozone Recreation Area

59mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Top-rated campgrounds

Bentonville Bike Camp

99%

(989)

26mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bentonville, AR

Welcome to Bentonville Bike Camp; Where Bikers 🚴‍♂️ Come to Relax. We are avid mountain bikers and travelers, and we live on the property. Hipcamp is a platform for property owners to allow campers onto their property. If you're looking for a commercial campground, we are not it. Learn more about this land: 2 Indoor Bathrooms and Hot Showers Just two miles from the highway and on a very peaceful piece of land. Great for gravel mountain bikers because we are on the gravel road and you can connect to the riding trails from here. .7miles to The Back 40 trail system 2.3 miles to Slaughter Pen trail system We have a total of 10 acres of grass available to choose from; 9 dispersed sites in "The Meadow" 1 / 50 amp site 8 1 / 30amp site 5 2 / 110 electric sites. (6,9) Potable spring well water to fill your tanks and an RV dump station. There's a bike stand to wash your bikes, community fire pit* to get to know others, clean, flushable toilets, and now with a heated outdoor shower! The creek runs in the spring or after a good rain. Good dogs are always welcome. Don't want to hassle with a tent? We've got Mini A-frames... check them out! We've been hosting since May '22 and it has been a blast! We pride ourselves on offering our guest plenty of space and a peaceful, country setting. (Please, we do not allow generators to run constantly. Please book accordingly.)

Red Fern

97%

(1187)

46mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Witter, AR

One of Arkansas' greatest treasures. Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas. This is a remote and rugged campground with caves, bluffs, swimming holes and river a plenty. This campground has a grand exhibition of the same sandstone formation that is responsible for the Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) formation. Clovis like points have been found here, and so one might assume the bluffs and crags here have been inhabited for millennia. This 7 acre property is completely surrounded by Arkansas Natural Heritage-Natural Area. There are miles of trails and cooling waters at every turn. If you like Kings River Falls, get ready to fall in love with this Red Fern Campground. So pack your curiosity, lace up your hiking boots, and let the whispering leaves guide you. Kings River Falls awaits, ready to share its secrets with those who listen. Where time slows down and the modern world fades away. Every turn reveals a new wonder; a hidden waterfall an unnoticed cave or bluff or a moss-covered boulder. It’s not just a place; it’s an experience an invitation to step beyond the ordinary and into a world where magic still thrives and fairy tales come alive. Here, the forest whispers secrets, and the river sings a timeless song. Most of our campsites are just yards away from a public swimming area, which is shared between our property and the Arkansas Natural Area. You should expect local traffic at the main swimming area during your stay. We have a private swimming area on our property which is just a short hike from the developed campsites (Please ask the camphost for directions). There are miles of county maintained bumpy dirt roads leading to the site. Expect your vehicle to get dusty. There is a creek crossing that is required to reach the campsites. We recommend high clearance and/or 4WD or AWD vehicles. If you are unable to cross the creek, you will need to park in the parking area and walk across the creek to reach your site.

The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow

98%

(22)

24mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · Bentonville, AR

The Boondock at Handcut Hollow *Self-Contained Only: This is a boondocking experience. You must have your own water, waste disposal, and power. No hookups of any kind are available. But there are toilet's and garbage dumpsters on site. This is a open site camping option. Feel free to set up in any site that is open when you arrive. For those who want more privacy check out the back field! No hookups here; this is pure, unadulterated boondocking for the self-sufficient adventurer. Your Adventure Hub in the Mountain Biking Capital of the World! Calling all shredders! Nestled right in the heart of the legendary Bentonville trail systems, including the renowned Hand Cut Hollow, our property offers the ultimate no-frills overnight spot for serious mountain bikers. Forget crowded campgrounds and long drives – you'll be steps away from world-class singletrack the moment you wake up. What to Expect: Unbeatable Location: Direct access to the Bentonville trail network, including Hand Cut Hollow. Ride in, ride out! -Self-Contained Only: This is a boondocking experience. You must have your own water, waste disposal, and power. No hookups of any kind are available. -Maximize Trail Time: Spend less time setting up camp and more time shredding the gnar. Ready to experience the Mountain Biking Capital of the World like a local? Book your spot at The Boondock at Hand Cut Hollow and get ready to ride!

Rustic Ridge

13mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 39 sites · RVs, Lodging · Gentry, AR

A Charming RV Park in Northwest Arkansas with RV Sites, Cabins, & Glamping Tents Located in booming Northwest Arkansas (NWA) just outside of historic Siloam Springs, Rustic Ridge is one of the most serene RV parks in Arkansas for escaping the hustle and bustle of life. Truly, it's a place where you can get away without really having to disconnect. Our unique wooded RV retreat is nestled on 5 acres less than a mile from the beautiful and tranquil City Lake. Our area includes fun outdoor activities such as mountain biking and hiking trails, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, a pump track, frisbee golf, and much more. Rustic Ridge also provides rentals and pre-order items for our guests’ convenience. Visit our enchanting RV park in your rig, stay in one of our beautiful cabins, or coming soon, enjoy one of our glamping tents! Our Glamping Tents Our glamping tents at Rustic Ridge blend the charm of outdoor living with the comforts of home, creating a one-of-a-kind retreat in a tranquil forest setting. Whether you're seeking quiet solitude or a cozy base for adventure, our thoughtfully furnished tents offer a relaxing escape for every kind of traveler. Enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort! Our Cabins Our cabins at Rustic Ridge provide all the conveniences you need to remain comfortable in a peaceful forest setting. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle or reconnect with nature, our accommodations offer a serene retreat for all types of travelers. Starlink WiFi now in the White River and Black River Cabins! Our RV Sites Here at Rustic Ridge, we have 27 comfortably shaded RV sites near Siloam Springs that provide a serene retreat. We have plenty of room for smaller travel trailers to mid-sized toy haulers to big rigs with multiple slide-outs. With full hookups, including 30/50 amps and city water, and plenty of activities on site and nearby, our RV park allows you to comfortably embrace the joy of outdoor living and create cherished memories.

Pea Ridge Bike Camp

99%

(234)

27mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · Pea Ridge, AR

**NOTE: If the campground is full, always call to see if I have additional sites. The Pea Ridge Bike Camp has 20 primitive campsites available for visitors to Northwest Arkansas and can accommodate tent campers, campervans, small and large campers and RVs. Even smaller Class A motorhomes (length isn't an issue but weight on a grassy field might be a concern should it rain heavily) We offer large, spacious campsites along with firepits, free firewood and large cable spool tables at each campsite. Potable water, 2 outdoor sinks, 2 outdoor showers, 4 large ADA portable toilets (1 in front and 3 in back), and trash bins are centrally located to most of the areas. There is a large in-ground community firepit, a large canopy, 4 picnic tables on the property, a propane barbecue grill, a bike wash station, 2 hammocks on frames and a vintage phone booth (with phone charging capabilities, visitor information and trail maps) onsite. We have added a school bus with a booth and 3 benches as a hangout during inclimate weather. We are currently providing free firewood for each firepit. Very flexible check in/out times. Pea Ridge Bike Camp is about 7 miles to downtown Bentonville and only 5 miles from Exit 88 and I-49. We are located n the country, yet only 1/8 mile to state highway 72. Restaurants, food trucks, groceries, banking and laundry facilities are only 2 miles away in Pea Ridge. We have 10 designated campsites and 10 dispersed campsite locations that are not in any designated area to allow guests some say as to where they camp. We are very flexible with arrival and departure times. We do offer group camping We will allow low-noise generators to be used in dispersed campsites. ** Please let us know If you are planning to use a generator. Our campsites are large with some being very shady and others in full sun. Great for those equipped with solar power. Since our intention is to provide camping space for visitors to the area, we limited the length-of-stay to 10 days. If you are a VISITOR to the area looking to stay for more than 10 days please notify me and I can lift the length-of-stay. Please call with any questions or concerns.

Happy Hippy Acres Wooded Wonderland

99%

(116)

32mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Rogers, AR

We have 40 acres of woods, tiny waterfalls, hiking, stargazing, bird watching, and sunset watching for the campers who like primitive camping. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a quiet, natural area to camp in, and destinations to see close by. Private area with sun, and plenty of shade. Blackberry's are available to pick in late June or early July. There are three logging trails that you can bush wack your way through just behind the campground. There are cliffs, and plenty of scenery to enjoy. We are a short drive away from Eureka Springs, Turpentine Creek(big cat sanctuary), War Eagle Cavern, and War Eagle Mill. Hobbs State National Park is close by off Scenic Highway 12, with biking, and walking trails galore! We are also close to many of the NW Arkansas mountain biking trails in the area! Access to Beaver Lake is a short drive or a long hike down the scenic rock roads. Due to the remote, and private location, we want to remind everyone that consuming alcohol under the age of 21 will not be tolerated. Safety is very important to us. We are looking forward to seeing you. Happy Camping!

Sunset Mountain

100%

(124)

33mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Noel, MO

Sunset Mountain is an exclusive reservation only 18+ clothing optional/nudist campground located on my working cattle farm. (Please do not drive up to our gate and try to get in. Please make a reservation in advance.) Although we cater to adults only we follow TNSF and AANR guidelines for social nude recreation. If you are not familiar with TNSF or AANR you can do a quick internet search and see some basic guidelines for social nude recreation. Sunset Mountain does typically operate as a blind service venue meaning we do business online and we and or our maintenance team may not be seen during your stay. We have a good team in place to help your stay be enjoyable please just understand we don’t operate like some of the clubs you may be used to. Sunset Mountain is a nice quiet place to relax and work on your tan. We have RV sites, tent camping areas a bus, container and camper available as lodging options. The campground has a bathroom facility with indoor shower and outdoor showers. We have a hot tub guests can use along with hiking trails and a propane grill. Sunset Mountain is near the Elk River in Noel Missouri and close to Northwest Arkansas where there are mountain biking trails, museums and many other activities. Sunset Mountain is listed on the Monarch Butterfly Waystation registry as well. Come stay on the buff bluff! We are located 1.2 miles away from the Noel city park that has free Elk River access, 4 miles to Mt. Shira free Elk River access near Shady Beach and 5.2 miles to the free Elk River access in Pineville, MO near Shady Beach Pineville.

Barker Gap

100%

(32)

26mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Natural Dam, AR

Welcome to Barker Gap! Opened in August 2024 we offer 3 beautifully shaded rv/camper spots, 2 pull thru spots and 1 back in. We have NO size or slide out restrictions, our spots were built with your comfort in mind. All spots come standard with 50A/30A/110 electric hookup, city water, Bbq/park grill, stone fire pit and sewage hookup at every campsite. Wi-Fi is also included for all campers. At this time we do not have bathrooms available to tent camping or any primitive style camping. The BEAR'S DEN cabin is a 1 room 1 bathroom cabin. Built to sleep 4 with a spacious queen bed perfect for falling asleep on, a cozy twin bed for reading/sleeping, and stowed under the twin bed is an adventure cot for that outside nap on the deck. The cabin is equipped with a mini fridge/freezer, a Keurig coffee maker, and a microwave) inverter. In the bathroom we have a metal wrapped 22" deep soaking tub equipped with a rainfall shower head to wash the stress away. No glamping cabin would be complete without a wave activated hand dryer a 43" Wi-Fi connected smart TV and the latest plug ins with USB ports included so you can forget that charging box at home. Coffee, bedding, towels, bar soap, provided. So what are you waiting for? It's time to camp!

Open-air Meditation Sanctuary

96%

(197)

43mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eureka Springs, AR

This 10-acre wilderness park is the perfect place for a contemplative camp, walking, sitting meditation, picnic lunch or for nature play and education with your children. Even the furry members of your family are welcome. I have 3 campsites, 3 retreat houses, an outdoor shower, composting toilet and a 1 mile walking trail with meditation sites. The campsites are private. you will not see or hear other campers. The OMS is also a beautiful and magical place for wedding ceremonies, team building, school outings and other special events. Please contact me to schedule group events. The OM Sanctuary is a quiet, inviting and trust worthy place where your Soul can show itself and speak it's truth. Go gently and respectfully and expect to be moved, refreshed and surprised.

Cold Creek Valley

100%

(123)

48mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 3 sites · Tents · Eureka Springs, AR

Cold Creek Valley currently has three secluded, primitive camp sites nestled in 36 acres of rolling hills in the Ozarks. There are five marked/maintained hiking trails on the property. They take you through varying types of terrain and multiple rock features. The creek borders a beautiful meadow and flows during the wetter months. A pond sits near the back of the property and is a great place to spot wildlife. We are located less than 30 minutes from downtown Eureka Springs, as well as under an hour from Branson and the Buffalo National River areas. Northwest Arkansas has something for everyone - from endless outdoor activities to art galleries and high-end dining. Our gated property gives you the peace of mind to leave your camping gear behind and go explore what Eureka Springs has to offer! Follow us on instagram @Coldcreekvalley

SilverStream Lodging

94%

(18)

27mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rogers, AR

We are located on 11 acres on Historic US Highway 62, about 15 minutes from the I-49 Exit 86 at Hudson Road... We are on the edge of Rogers on the route to Eureka Springs which is only 127 Turns Away... We have two large RV Sites with full hookups, and eight smaller RV/Camper/Tent Sites with Power and Water... The property has four Modern Shower Houses for guest use... Two Fire Pits and a Gunners Run... Hiking and Mountain Biking Trail... SilverStream Lodging is located close to Outdoor and Historic/Cultural Sites... From Mountain Biking, Hiking, Kayaking, Fishing on Lakes and Rivers to the venues such as Crystal Bridges and the Momentary... Or you can take in a Musical or Broadway play... Or, just get out and explore the wonders of Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri.

Camp Bentonville

95%

(234)

26mi from Ozark-St. Francis National Forests · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Bentonville, AR

This is a Homestead camp like most others in the surrounding area. Welcome to our charming RV and tent site nestled in the heart of Bentonville's blossoming art and outdoor scene! If you're seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of cultural flair, you've found your perfect getaway. Campfires crackle and laughter echoes in the air – you're free to embrace the magic of a flickering firelight under the starlit skies. Our site comes complete with a convenient portable toilet for your comfort and privacy. Bring along your furry friends because pets are more than welcome to join in on the adventure! You'll find potable water available to keep everyone hydrated and happy, and a rustic picnic table where stories and meals can be shared. Stay connected to the digital world while you disconnect from the routine. Enjoy the best of both worlds with reliable WiFi and excellent cell reception, ensuring you can share your unforgettable moments with friends and family. Got wheels? No problem! Our pull-in site accommodates vehicles under 24 feet, making it easy for you to settle in and start making memories. And speaking of memories, you're in for a treat with a plethora of exciting events just around the corner. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of live music, explore the stunning art at the Crystal Bridges American Art Museum, and experience the innovative brilliance at the Momentary. Bentonville isn't just a destination; it's a cultural phenomenon. Rejuvenate your senses as you explore a dozen golf courses and embark on bike excursions that cater to every style. The city's vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty make it a Southern hub for arts and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The best camping in Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, AR guide

Overview

About

Two distinct forests rolled into one package! That means twice the amount of outdoorsy goodness to explore. The Ozark National Forest covers most of the Ozark Mountains, including the highest peak in the state. It’s awesome here when the dogwood and redbuds bloom in the spring, and when the leaves change color in the fall. The St. Francis National Forest is more diverse, with the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers running through it, as well as lakes, valleys, and tons of wildlife. It’s the only place in the national forest system where you can access the Mississippi River from the shore, so that right there is a must do! The whole expanse of land is filled with multi-use trails, hundreds of campsites, spots for swimming, fishing, and boating, and even some amazing caves to explore. Mother Nature crushing it as usual.

98%

37 ratings · 7 reviews

Recommends

· November 2017

Wolf Pen Recreation Area

This is a flash flood zone so check the weather before staying here at night!

Tara V.

8 years on Hipcamp

July 2017

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

I stayed here while hiking the OHT and the fresh water and snacks offered at the check in station were a godsend after the hike up the mountain. It was particularly hot that day and it is a steep hike with gear. Nice drive in campsites too and I think a couple of cabins to rent.

Chuck P.

9 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2017

Spring Lake Recreation Area

A nice surprise in Arkansas. You can hike all along the river canyon and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I went in the spring and it was amazing.

Callie P.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2017

Shores Lake Recreation Area

This is one of my favorite car camping spots. They have a swim beach and fishing. Its not a well known spot so you can expect some peace and quiet. Interested hikers can take a 7mi loop up to White Rock (which is well worth the trek). This is again black bear country and while its not required to hang your food the onsite ranger will ask you to please not feed the bears.

Gabi T.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2017

Ozark Highlands Trail

There are several places to camp along the OHT. Do your research and get a guidebook (and even some terrain maps) before taking off on this one. Its not exceptionally difficult but does require some preparation. The trail is poorly maintained and overgrown in several places because all trail maintenance is volunteer through the Ozark Highlands Association. All together the trails winds its way 220 miles through the Ozarks and St. Francis National Forest. You can expect lots of nice waterfalls, old home/building sites, old railways, lovely mountain top views and and beautiful foliage.

Gabi T.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· March 2017

White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Campground

The drive up is steep and rocky so take a vehicle that can handle it. Also this is black bear country so keep a look out on your drive up and if you do any camping or hiking in the surrounding forest remember to hang a bear bag.

Gabi T.

8 years on Hipcamp

July 2015

Gunner Pool Recreation Area

Be sure to check if the water is running when you set up camp. Last time we were there, it wasn't working. (It's supposed to work.) Fortunately we had enough water, but it could have been difficult.