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The best camping in Lake Dardanelle State Park, AR

Discover the scenic beauty of Lake Dardanelle State Park.

The best camping in Lake Dardanelle State Park, AR

Lake Dardanelle Campground

1. Lake Dardanelle Campground

Campground in Lake Dardanelle State Park · 76 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Made up of the Russellville and Dardanelle locations, Lake Dardanelle Campground has plenty to keep you busy

Public campgrounds in Lake Dardanelle State Park are often sold-out.

Southwinds on the Arkansas River

2. Southwinds on the Arkansas River

100%

(54)

14mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$12

/ night

Melson Farms

3. Melson Farms

100%

(19)

17mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

This is real Ozarks camping on a working farm, just 12 minutes (6.9 miles) off I-40, but surrounded by some of the wildest country in Arkansas. Our gated, secure property sits near the Buffalo National River, Big Piney Creek, and the Ozark National Forest, making it a solid basecamp for paddlers, hikers, anglers, and overlanders. The land is quiet, scenic, and easy to access, with wide-open skies and excellent stargazing at night. Once the sun goes down, it’s dark, peaceful, and still. 🏕 Primitive Camping This is primitive, bring-what-you-need camping. We can accommodate tents, vans, and campers of most sizes. No hookups, no frills — just solid ground, fresh air, and space to spread out. 💧 Water & Connectivity Potable water is available from a hand-pump well in the front field (red pump located near the campsites) Cell service is spotty — plan accordingly and enjoy the disconnect 🌊 Creeks, Rivers & Adventure Little Piney Creek runs year-round nearby Bring your own kayaks, fishing gear, and outdoor equipment Quick access to paddling, hiking, backroad exploring, and wildlife viewing 🛒 Supplies Close By Hagarville Grocery — 4 minutes away Breakfast, lunch, ice, and cold drinks Two Dollar General stores within 10 minutes for last-minute supplies 🚜 Working Farm Notice This is an active farm, so you may see people and hear normal farm and equipment noises at times. Campsites themselves remain quiet, open, and peaceful. 🔥 The Experience If you’re looking for rugged Ozark camping without complicated access, a place where you can roll in, set up, and head straight for the river or the woods — this is it. Simple, scenic, and close to the wild. Come prepared. Leave no trace. Enjoy the stars.

Pets

Potable water

from

$35

/ night

Camp 62 on Petit Jean Mountain

4. Camp 62 on Petit Jean Mountain

96%

(12)

20mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

This is a small .62 acre lot in a forested area with privacy and seclusion. Located .1 miles from Museum of Automobiles and 1.5 miles from Petit Jean State Park. A recently completed circle drive allows Class B motorhomes or small trailers to access camping area near unnamed intermittent creek. We are furnishing a 6' picnic table, 3 Adirondack chairs, and 2 wooden camp chairs with table near the creek, along with a horseshoe court and two 10' X 10' walk-in tent pads near the creek. Petit Jean SP is Arkansas' first state park and is the second most visited park in Arkansas. Fabulous day hiking or overnight backpacking in and around the park and fishing in Lake Bailey. Nearby there is also a petting zoo, horseback riding and farmers market and small airport.

Pets

Picnic table

from

$20

/ night

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

5. Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%

(442)

21mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Barnyard Camping Experience

6. Barnyard Camping Experience

100%

(19)

27mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$25

/ night

Arcadia Farmstead

7. Arcadia Farmstead

97%

(16)

33mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 51 sites · Tents, RVs

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...

Pets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

8. Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%

(22)

39mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 1 site

Escape to the Ozarks of Arkansas! This is a perfect location to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. The RV pad is on our small 38 acre farm and ranch. Guests enjoy walking down to the creek, riding the dirt roads, and taking day trips to local hikes. Be prepared to drive down 6 miles of dirt road. This can be inconvnient for some but we believe it's part of the charm.

Pets

Full hookups

from

$41

/ night

Indian Creek Hideaway

9. Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

40mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land:This area is brimming with outdoor activity! The Mulberry River is just a short walk away with all the fishing and paddling you want. There is a public launch with parking just across the road for floating access. Be on the OHT via the Indian Creek spur trail in no time. Byrds Adventure Center is 2 miles down the road for off-road fun, a general store, canoe rentals, and more. *Heads up especially if you are in a small car, it’s usually ok to go down the small hill but in wet weather it may become slick. If you’re not sure about making it back up, there is an area to park by the driveway :)

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$23

/ night

CAMP TINY our base camp

10. CAMP TINY our base camp

100%

(11)

42mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites

My wife & I love RV traveling, we are part time RVers! We are from Louisiana and created Camp Tiny as our base camp. We plan to explore all over Northwest Arkansas & Southern Missouri. We have this extra RV spot we want to share with our family, friends and fellow campers. Come enjoy the beautiful Ozark mountains. Camp Tiny has this full hook up RV lot which is on Scenic Hwy 7 near Jasper, Arkansas. The peaceful, wooded camp area adjoins Ozark National Forest. Minutes away you can hike many trails and see waterfalls and enjoy floating the Buffalo River. Hike, float, or chill! Camp Tiny - is our base camp for Big Adventure!

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Full hookups

from

$32

/ night

Paradise Camp

11. Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

42mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

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Toilets

Full hookups

from

$15

/ night

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

12. Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%

(161)

43mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 2 sites

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

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Tranquility on the Arkansas River

13. Tranquility on the Arkansas River

100%

(57)

45mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites

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.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

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from

$40

/ night

Valley of peace campground

14. Valley of peace campground

99%

(580)

46mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 38 sites · Tents, RVs

Spring fed stream, small waterfall, can swim in creek or sit and listen to rippling water. Explore national forest or float buffalo river 7 mi away ,climb Sam's throne 13 mi away Enjoy a fishing trip to lake with guide to hot spots where fish are biting. Plan ahead [ 4 days notice] fish from boat ever thing provided message for more info. work in process to improve off the beaten path. occasional bald eagle sightings, deer, and other wildlife. These are large camp spots 1&2 are neighbors 3&4 5&6 { Located 7 mi. east of Mount Judea Ar.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$27

/ night

Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

15. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

98%

(1158)

46mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 101 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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) Dispersed Camping: Outside of the campground there are nearly 100 acres available for camping. If you are up to roughing it a bit we'll point you in the right direction. 3) Cabins and Glamping: For those that like to settle right in we have 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

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$16

/ night

Eden Springs

16. Eden Springs

100%

(22)

47mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We would like to invite you to our privately owned 136 acres where “Eden springs”. Our unique property offers scenic views that inspires personal tranquility. We have 100 foot cliffs, seasonal 60 foot water falls, hiking trails, and guided cave tour. Take a dip in the cave fed 3 feet deep pool, with limestone bottom that offers a small sandy beach. Perfect location to unplug, reconnect with your family, or to replenish your soul. Various camping sites offered for those who are new too camping or for those who are looking for a more solitude and off-grid experience. Fires are allowed when weather permits and wood is included. We do offer a charging station, water access at the main entrance, and have a communal outhouse/bathroom close to camp site. Our property is off the beaten path, so please plan your transportation accordingly. We are located 3 miles off highway 7, and 15 mins outside of Jasper, AR. We look forward to sharing our Eden with you.

Pets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

17. Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

99%

(170)

47mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp is far more than your ordinary campground! Hipcamp’s Best in State 2025 🙂 This 104-acre Ozark Mountain wonderland’s biggest draw would be hard to pin down. We are offering off-the-beaten-path serenity, with huge areas for each rental space, and unmatched hospitality. Sip morning coffee while you lose your cares in the vast mountain views, enjoy the pristine natural beauty that surrounds you in the deer meadow. Hike trails that meander to the seasonal creeks and waterfalls, past ancient walnut and hickory trees, to rest on large rock formations thick with moss, or take the high trails to the top of our bluff where views and natural oddities reward you at every bend, or just lay in the hammocks by the frog pond with a good book. Wildlife abounds on this property, including fox, black bear, deer, chipmunks, groundhogs, bobcat, and tons more. We offer fantastic add-ons like creation stations where tables of art supplies can be laid out for either self-initiated projects or sample projects with instruction by hostess, Mizzy (a working artist with pieces in every continent, save Antarctica). Forage hikes, where you learn about the immense variety of edible plants, guided photo op hikes, cut and make your own walking stick (and make it your own by wood burning, adding leather and feathers), are just a few of the options we have daily to add to your stay. Close to the Little Buffalo River and the quaint little town of Jasper, where you can shop, eat at the famous Ozark Cafe, or rent a kayak. One-of-a-kind stays include a fully off-grid container tiny house, boondock RV space, 2 themed RVs (one a cool Silk Road inspired and the other a romantic vibe), the grooviest authentic hippy van glamper, plus super large tent spaces. We may be farther off the beaten track than those roadside places, but we are so very worth it. Come be Enchanted.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$20

/ night

Red Fern

18. Red Fern

97%

(1189)

47mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

from

$27

/ night

Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

19. Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

97%

(291)

49mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 40 sites · Tents, RVs

With a lifetime of love for the Ozarks Donny is anxious to share this unique opportunity to experience true wilderness with you. The trails are maintained with respect for the natural growth and inhabitants of the area. You may encounter wild elk and deer. Of course, visiting the property's herd of buffalo is a must.Your camping fees entitle you to hike the trail system.We also offer motorized recreation if you bring your 4 wheeler, side by side, Jeep, dirt bike or bicycle. Additional fees apply to wheeled trail recreation.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$15

/ night

Carver Ridge Camp Buffalo River

20. Carver Ridge Camp Buffalo River

99%

(35)

50mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

We are excited to welcome you to Carver Ridge Campground by the Buffalo National River! Rv's and Tents are welcome. We have a picturesque site less than 1/4 mile to the Buffalo National River. You can spend the day swimming with the locals at the Blue Hole or floating the Buffalo from several different access points. To finish the evenings, you can grill hamburgers, build a big campfire, and roast marshmallows. Open skies allow for plenty of star gazing and listening to the native wildlife in the area. We have a big, covered pavilion with picnic tables that is perfect for hosting family members and friends alike. Every site is complete with a large charcoal grill and a big fire ring. We offer full hook ups (water, electric and sewer) for both 30 and 50 am service. We also offer a full-service Bathhouse (4 Restrooms and 2 showers on site). Did I mention we also have top of the of the line WIFI? Come spend the night with us and let us show you what country living is all about here in the Ozarks.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$40

/ night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Dardanelle State Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Dardanelle State Park

Southwinds on the Arkansas River

100%

(54)

14mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

$12

/ night

Melson Farms

100%

(19)

17mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Potable water

from

$35

/ night

Camp 62 on Petit Jean Mountain

96%

(12)

20mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Picnic table

from

$20

/ night

Petit Jean Farm Orchard

99%

(442)

21mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Barnyard Camping Experience

100%

(19)

27mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$25

/ night

Arcadia Farmstead

97%

(16)

33mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 51 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

from

$30

/ night

Little Mulberry Vacation Rentals

100%

(22)

39mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 1 site

Pets

Full hookups

from

$41

/ night

Indian Creek Hideaway

98%

(33)

40mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

from

$23

/ night

CAMP TINY our base camp

100%

(11)

42mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites

Pets

Full hookups

from

$32

/ night

Paradise Camp

100%

(18)

42mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$15

/ night

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

98%

(161)

43mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 2 sites

Pets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Tranquility on the Arkansas River

100%

(57)

45mi from Lake Dardanelle State Park · 3 sites

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$40

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Harleigh

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

2 nights at Southwinds on the Arkansas River

We had an absolute blast! The campsite was very nice with a great view of the river and mountains in the back. The hosts leave plenty of firewood out so no need to go searching for some. Our host made sure we had everything we needed and made sure we knew he was there if we needed help with anything. Highly recommend!!!

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

matt

January 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Perfect spot, got back to the spot easily and beautiful area!

January 2026

Tent

With pets

10 nights at Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

This place was/is perfect for primitive camping. During my time there, it was exactly what I was looking for and needed. Though it was just a bit colder than what I was expecting temperature-wise, it wasn't a deal breaker at all. IF you are looking for a place to primitive camp and enjoy winter camping especially, you need to check this place out. On their site, John has described it well, and shout-out to John for the extra perk for my visit. Great time and exactly what I was looking for.

Miriam

January 2026

Tent

With pets

1 night at Petit Jean Farm Orchard

My husband, dog, and I only stayed here for a night but wish we could’ve stayed for longer! They’ve got a great setup right in Petit Jean and are very accommodating and friendly. The access to the farm store and bathrooms is a huge plus as well. It’s right off a road but there is hardly any traffic on it.

Jessie

January 2026

Tent

2 nights at Secluded Camp near Buffalo River

This campground has exactly the privacy I was looking for when coming to the area. Located up on a ridge, there are great views of the surrounding mountains. A short walk to a sunrise overlook will have you awestruck. During a wetter time of the year, they even have a trail to a waterfall. We hammock camped and the forested environment was perfect for it. My 2wD corolla was able to make it up the dirt road the campground, although a little slowly. There are a few areas where cell phone service is available if you have an emergency, but it's a great place to disconnect. You can tell the campground has several projects underway, and the owners have pride in making it feel homey and comfortable. Pierce was kind and checked in to see if we needed anything during our stay. It was a great home base when exploring the Buffalo area, and we will definitely be back.

Kara

December 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Petit Jean Farm Orchard

Great stay! Ed was very nice. The market and the bathrooms were a great perk. Highly recommended!

Jeff

December 2025

Tent

1 night at Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

This was perfect for our needs. We got in late and camped. Went for a walk around the property and it was really great! I recommend!!

Jay

December 2025

Tent

3 nights at Valley of peace campground

Our annual trip to the Valley of Peace is in the books and it delivered as always. As expected, it's still a valley and it's still peaceful, the eggs are still farm fresh and the babbling of the creek still rocks you to sleep at night. Already counting the days before our next visit. Thanks, Walter!

Dawn

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

This place was breathtaking, if you love primitive camping & ATV trails, I went camping with my dog for some peace and hiking. The place is huge, the trails aren’t really marked very well for hiking so it was a bit of a challenge finding landmarks. I would highly recommend staying here if you love the outdoors. The owner was extremely nice.

Peter

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Red Fern

We had a great camping trip here at spot #1. We had the entire grounds to ourselves the first night, and only one other couple the second. The creek crossing to the site was a little rocky, so a good amount of ground clearance is needed. Overall we had a wonderful time enjoying this hidden corner of the Kings!

Joshua

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

Very clean camping spots that are backed up to an awesome creek. You can see the mountain face with a couple of spots where you can get under it Has a nice open spot in the middle of the campground big enough to play football or frisbee. If you want good exercise,walk up the hill a few times 🤣

Jamie

December 2025

19 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Carver Ridge Camp Buffalo River

The view was nice and had all amenities for camping.

Coming in an RV? No need to camp in a parking lot. Many RV campsites with gorgeous mountain views and privacy

Adam

December 2025

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Rider Buffalo Ranch

Would stay again. Next time bring some toys! Atv heaven. Beautiful area, views. Hit up the buffalo pen near sunset.

Eli

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunsets on the Arkansas River

Exceptional views, incomparable privacy and 40 min from a modern bustling city. Will be returning

Stacy

December 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Petit Jean Farm Orchard

We love this little place. It's quiet with beautiful landscape. Ed and his wife are always so welcoming and kind and you absolutely cannot beat the farmers market.

Lacey

December 2025

17 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Valley of peace campground

This is one of the most magical places I have ever stayed. I was there in my camper for a week, with my two dogs. So quiet and peaceful, lots to explore and the spring fed creek was perfect for cold plunges. Walter was very helpful and easy to get ahold of. I can’t recommend Valley of Peace enough.

Meg

December 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sunsets on the Arkansas River

The view was beautiful, definitely worth it! Easy to follow directions and great signage provided. My dog and I had a great time, and I felt safe and secure as a solo camper.

Madalyn

December 2025

16 ft car

With pets

2 nights at Petit Jean Farm Orchard

Ed was the nicest guy! His place is clean and unique. Everything you need is right there on the land honestly.

Cooper

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valley of peace campground

Site 6 was a great piece of property and right next to the running creek made for some great sleep. Stars were unreal when we woke up in the middle of the night. Walter was very quick to respond and bring us extra firewood the first night when we ran out of our own. Would definitely come back in the warmer months for a float trip!

Bryan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valley of peace campground

True to its name, this was a very peaceful valley. Campsite was perfect, just a few feet from the creek. We stayed in site #5. We will be back.

The best camping in Lake Dardanelle State Park, AR guide

Overview

About

Outdoor living in the Arkansas River Valley is pretty sweet, and it gets a whole lot sweeter when you visit Lake Dardenelle State Park! The park is known for a world class Bass fishing tournament, some of the best kayaking and canoeing in the state, quaint camping under the stars, and sweeping views that will keep your camera busy. The wee ones will be into the cool hands-on exhibits and aquarium at the visitor’s center, and roasting marshmallows by the campfire. No need to wait, time to get in touch with your inner nature enthusiast, pack up a picnic, and get ready for that grand Arkansas River to carry you away!

Notable campgrounds

Russellville Area: Class AAA - Offering full hookups, these sites are perfect for those seeking comfort amid the wilderness.
Russellville Area: Class AA - Equipped with water and 30 Amp electric service, these sites cater to both RVs and tents.
Dardanelle Area: Class B - Enjoy the simplicity of these water and electric sites, ideal for a serene camping experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons when the park's popularity soars.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation at this sought-after destination.
Explore nearby camping options if your preferred campground is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Dardanelle State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm swimming conditions but can be quite hot. Winters are quieter but may have limited services.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable visit.
Visitor Center hours are from 8am to 5pm daily, but closed on major holidays.
Swimming is available at the beach with no lifeguard on duty; swim at your own risk.
Be mindful of park wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
Remember to bring your fishing gear to participate in the park's numerous fishing tournaments.

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