The best camping in Lake Charles State Park, AR

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Williams Camp : Eleven Point River

98%
(30)
47mi from Lake Charles State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · MO
Learn more about this land: You'll have a private place of your own, with access to some of Missouri states most hidden springs, rivers, waterfalls, fishing, hunting, hiking, (some of the best) horseback riding trails, and historic landmarks.  Rather you're after solitude or sport, this area has you covered.  Kayak, canoe, and shuttle rental, service is available at hufstedlers.com and is a short 11.5 mile drive.  Beautiful eleven point river offers blue, red, and white ribbon, spring fed trout/walleye water.  If you're looking to float the river, be sure to research the many springs on the way down your trip and the historic mill communities that once flourished there.  These are perfect opportunities to take a break, eat a meal, and explore the area.  Most also will have public bathrooms.  Unless there are multiple reservations, you will be allowed to hookup/stay at whichever site is the easiest for you to get parked at.  Maps of the area and things to do will continue to be updated as they are developed.  In the mean time, a great resource is MissouriScenicRivers.com. We do not live near this site so this is an exclusively non-hosted listing.
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from 
$35
 / night

Robert's Redneck Retreat, LLC

100%
(13)
40mi from Lake Charles State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Doniphan, MO
Robert's Redneck Retreat is located on about 16 acres of pasture and 58 acres of forested land with a creek and trails running through it. Our property also adjoins 1200 acres of the Mark Twain National Forest, dotted with springs, trails, rivers, lakes, ponds and breathtaking views. We have three small cabins on the property that are spaced out for privacy. There are also potential for tent camp sites.My husband and I love nature, farming, gardening, and sharing time with like-minded individuals. Our dream is small scale hobby farming adjoined with cabin rentals, allowing trees to regrow in places that were once pasture in order to do our part to help maintain habitat for wild animals and plants. It is a balance that we love and it is our pleasure to share this property with you. We are new here, but we are not new to the camping world; we have been helping campers have positive experiences since 2013 and already have over 170 positive reviews on Airbnb. We would love for Hip Campers to come experience our brand of cabin camping, with farm and forest experiences.A little history of the surrounding area: The Mark Twain National Forest was stripped by loggers in the 1800's and was purchased by the government as a preserve. Since then, it has regrown into hardwood forest, dotted with remnants of pine. It feels wild and untouched, despite knowing it's history. And within it, it harbors all manner of waterways, wildlife, plants, and fungi beyond your imagination. We love southern Missouri and hope you come catch a taste of the wildness that is the Forest. Disconnect, unplug, lose your cell signal, and come find yourself in the woods :)
Pets
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from 
$45
 / night

Scott Family Farm & Retreat

100%
(12)
32mi from Lake Charles State Park · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · Batesville, AR
Remote and secluded, this beautiful valley 12 miles from Batesville AR provides the primitive camping retreat that you’re looking for. Located on our 140 acre family farm, you will cross a low-level creek to access this property. (Truck or SUV is recommended, 4wd during rainy conditions.) Sites have composting toilet/outhouses available as well as access to fishing, swimming and kayaking in Polk Bayou, with beautiful water views of Sullivan creek. Enjoy the hiking trails and take in the beautiful scenery of the Ozark Hills during your stay. Pets that are leashed and well behaved are welcome, but we must be notified that you will be bringing them. •NO ALCOHOL or drugs, unreasonable noise, violent behaviour, or displaying/discharging of firearms or other weapons are permitted on the property.
Pets
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from 
$15
 / night

River Rock Farm

100%
(10)
22mi from Lake Charles State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hardy, AR
Please join us at our beautiful farm located on the lower Spring River just outside Hardy, AR. We have a 3+ acre river lot for dry camping or boondocking. We also have 20+ acres of adjoining land with beautiful river views. Come fish or float the beautiful Spring River with take-out or put-in from our property. Fish for small mouth bass from the banks of our property. If you don't have your own boat, kayak, or canoe there are outfitters in our area who will be happy to assist. Hunters will also love staying at our property as we neighbor the wildlife management area and many other local hunting spots. We are located close to the mouth of the Spring River at Mammoth Spring State Park. Use us a base camp to explore the Ozark National Forest, Lake Norfork, Blanchard Springs Caverns, the Mark Twain National Forest, and many other lakes, rivers, and streams. We look forward to hosting you in your next adventure!
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from 
$50
 / night

Cedar Ridge South Fork River

100%
(3)
30mi from Lake Charles State Park · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Hardy, AR
Unplug, unwind, and immerse yourself in nature at Cedar Ridge. We offer the perfect blend of the outdoors and comfort for your next adventure. Discover serenity along South Fork Spring River, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Welcome to your Arkansas, remote, off-grid getaway in the foothills of the Ozarks! Discover the beauty of Cedar Ridge, your ultimate destination for outdoor adventure. Situated along the South Fork Spring River, our campground offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and exhilarating outdoor experiences. Whether you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape, you will have a memorable stay. Cedar Ridge is a remote and intimate off-grid glamping experience. Located on nearly 20 acres of forested hillside with an extensive riverfront on the South Fork Spring River. Immerse yourself in nature while also enjoying some creature comforts in one of our fully furnished canvas bell tents or tiny homes. Unwind on a front porch or kick back in a hammock and take a deep breath…..you can finally relax. All the fun of camping without the work or frustration. Take a hike down one of our nature trails, fish for smallmouth or perch, plan a kayak float trip on the South Fork Spring River, go for a swim, or enjoy some outdoor games on the lawn by the river.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$79
 / night

Other options near Lake Charles State Park

The best camping in Lake Charles State Park, AR guide

Overview

About

Modern lakeside camping, a sweet nature center, and world class fishing? Ya, Lake Charles State Park has all of that for you and they aren’t shy about it either. Stunning woodland trails like the Butterfly and Blooms trail, yurts for those who want to glamp, and all the fishing, boating and lake swimming you can handle are just the highlights of what the park has to offer. And let’s not forget the orange-pink sunsets, friendly rangers, and the best...a party barge lake tour! “I didn’t have fun on the party barge”, said no one ever. Amp up your adventure with your whole crew or take a solo trek for some quiet reflection at Lake Charles, you simply can’t go wrong here.

Notable campgrounds

  • Class AAA Campsites - Enjoy waterfront camping with full hookups, including water, 50 amp electric, and sewer services.
  • Rent-A-Yurt - Experience a unique stay in a fully-furnished YURT, perfect for those looking for a different kind of camping adventure.
  • Class B Campsites - Ideal for smaller setups, these sites offer water and 30 amp electric, close to the park's natural beauty.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your preferred spot, especially during peak season from March to November.
  • Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a site.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Charles State Park is from March to November when the visitor center is open daily and all amenities are available. Winter months offer a quieter visit but with limited services. Always check for seasonal closures before planning your trip.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
  • Remember, there is no lifeguard on duty at the swim beach - swim at your own risk.
  • Visitor center hours vary by season, so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Water is not available at the campgrounds from December to February.
  • For a hassle-free visit, familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations.
100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews