Best Arkansas Campgrounds for Every Adventure
Readers, have you ever dreamed of escaping to the great outdoors, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and indulging in exciting outdoor adventures? Have you ever considered exploring the Ozark Mountains, a breathtaking wonderland in Arkansas, dotted with some of the best campgrounds in the nation? If so, get ready to discover the best Arkansas campgrounds for every adventure!
Arkansas campgrounds cater to every type of adventurer, whether you seek thrilling hikes, serene fishing spots, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. As an expert in outdoor adventures, I’ve meticulously researched and analyzed various Arkansas campgrounds to bring you the ultimate guide to finding your perfect camping experience.
Best Campgrounds for Hiking and Backpacking
Ozark Highlands Trail Campgrounds
The Ozark Highlands Trail stretches across 200 miles of rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes. Along the trail, you’ll find several campgrounds designed for backpacking and overnight stays. These campgrounds provide basic amenities, such as fire rings and picnic tables, and are perfect for immersing yourself in the wilderness.
Buffalo National River Campgrounds
The Buffalo National River is a haven for paddlers and hikers. Several campgrounds are located along the river, providing access to scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views. These campgrounds offer various amenities, including restrooms, showers, and water access, making them suitable for families and adventurers alike.
Mount Magazine State Park Campgrounds
Mount Magazine State Park boasts the highest point in Arkansas, offering panoramic views and challenging trails. The park’s campgrounds provide excellent access to the trails and stunning scenery, making it a perfect destination for hiking and backpacking enthusiasts.
Best Campgrounds for Fishing
Bull Shoals Lake Campgrounds
Bull Shoals Lake is a sprawling reservoir known for its abundant bass, crappie, and catfish populations. Numerous campgrounds line the lake’s shores, offering easy access to fishing spots. These campgrounds are equipped with docks, boat ramps, and amenities, making them ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
Lake Ouachita Campgrounds
Lake Ouachita, a picturesque lake nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake’s campgrounds provide scenic views and convenient access to fishing spots, making them a popular destination for anglers. The lake is known for its largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish.
Norfork Lake Campgrounds
Norfork Lake is a tranquil lake with crystal-clear waters and abundant fish. Many campgrounds offer stunning lake views and easy access to fishing spots. The lake is known for its bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish, making it a fishing paradise.
Best Campgrounds for Families
DeGray Lake Resort State Park Campgrounds
DeGray Lake Resort State Park is a family-friendly destination with something for everyone. The park offers various recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking. The campgrounds provide amenities like restrooms, showers, and playgrounds, making them suitable for family vacations.
Lake Catherine State Park Campgrounds
Lake Catherine State Park offers a serene setting for families to enjoy the outdoors. The park’s campgrounds are located near the lake and provide access to swimming, fishing, and boating. With hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, Lake Catherine State Park is a great choice for a family camping trip.
Petit Jean State Park Campgrounds
Petit Jean State Park is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. The park’s campgrounds provide access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. With amenities like restrooms, showers, and play areas, Petit Jean State Park offers a family-friendly camping experience.
Best Campgrounds for RVers
Lake Ouachita State Park Campgrounds (RV Sites)
Lake Ouachita State Park offers numerous RV sites, providing scenic lake views and convenient access to amenities like water, electric, and sewer hookups. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and a boat launch, making it a perfect destination for RVers.
Bull Shoals Lake Campgrounds (RV Sites)
Bull Shoals Lake is a popular destination for RVers, with many campgrounds equipped with full hookups and amenities for a comfortable stay. The lake’s stunning scenery and fishing opportunities make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
Lake Catherine State Park Campgrounds (RV Sites)
Lake Catherine State Park offers several RV sites, providing easy access to the lake and its recreational activities. These sites are equipped with amenities like electric and water hookups, making them ideal for RVers seeking a convenient and comfortable camping experience.
Best Campgrounds for Glamping
The Ridge at Big Creek Campgrounds
The Ridge at Big Creek is a glamping destination offering unique experiences, including yurts, cabins, and luxury tents. The campgrounds provide amenities, such as fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and luxurious bathrooms, making glamping a comfortable and memorable experience.
The Hideaway at the Lake Campgrounds
The Hideaway at the Lake offers glamping accommodations, including cabins, yurts, and treehouses. The campgrounds are located near a lake and provide scenic views. The glamping accommodations are equipped with amenities like king-size beds, private bathrooms, and outdoor fire pits, making them ideal for a luxurious getaway.
The Mountaintop at Ouachita Campgrounds
The Mountaintop at Ouachita offers a unique glamping experience on a mountaintop. The campgrounds provide breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations, including cabins, yurts, and luxury tents. The glamping experience includes amenities like private decks, fire pits, and access to hiking trails.
Best Campgrounds for Remote Camping
The Buffalo River Wilderness
The Buffalo River Wilderness is a vast, undeveloped area perfect for those seeking remote camping. The area offers numerous primitive campsites along the Buffalo River, providing access to pristine waterways and hiking trails. These campsites offer a true wilderness experience, with no amenities except fire rings and water sources.
The Ozark National Forest
The Ozark National Forest encompasses hundreds of thousands of acres of wilderness, offering plenty of remote camping opportunities. The forest has numerous primitive campsites, providing access to scenic trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. These campsites are perfect for those seeking a secluded camping experience.
The Ouachita National Forest
The Ouachita National Forest offers a range of remote camping experiences. Many primitive campsites are scattered throughout the forest, providing access to hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and pristine waterways. These campsites are perfect for those who want to escape civilization and reconnect with nature.
Best Campgrounds for Wildlife Viewing
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park features several hiking trails where visitors can spot diverse wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The park’s campgrounds provide access to trails and scenic overlooks, making them ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Buffalo National River
The Buffalo National River is a haven for wildlife, with numerous species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The area’s campgrounds provide access to hiking trails and scenic waterways, where visitors can observe diverse wildlife in its natural habitat.
Ozark National Forest
The Ozark National Forest encompasses a vast area of diverse habitats, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The forest offers numerous trails and campgrounds where visitors can spot deer, elk, squirrels, and various bird species.
Best Campgrounds for History Buffs
Pea Ridge National Military Park
Pea Ridge National Military Park commemorates the Civil War Battle of Pea Ridge. The park offers various historical exhibits, hiking trails, and a campground, providing a unique experience for history buffs. The campground provides access to historical sites and offers amenities, making it ideal for combining history and camping.
Arkansas Post National Memorial
Arkansas Post National Memorial commemorates the first European settlement in Arkansas. The memorial offers various historical exhibits, walking trails, and a campground, providing a glimpse into Arkansas’s rich history.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Fort Smith National Historic Site features the historic fort that once guarded the frontier. The site offers various historical exhibits, walking trails, and a campground, providing a unique opportunity to explore the history of the American West.
Best Campgrounds in Northwest Arkansas
Devil’s Den State Park
Devil’s Den State Park is a popular destination for adventurers and nature lovers. The park offers numerous hiking trails, natural springs, and a campground with various amenities, making it a perfect choice for camping in Northwest Arkansas.
Withrow Springs State Park
Withrow Springs State Park is a hidden gem in Northwest Arkansas, offering a serene setting for camping and relaxation. The park features scenic trails, natural springs, and a campground with amenities like restrooms and showers.
Lake Fort Smith State Park
Lake Fort Smith State Park offers a mix of water activities, hiking, and camping. The park features a lake with boat ramps, fishing docks, and a campground with amenities for a comfortable stay.
Best Campgrounds in Central Arkansas
Lake Ouachita State Park
Lake Ouachita State Park is a popular destination for campers in Central Arkansas, offering scenic views, water activities, and a range of campgrounds with various amenities.
Petit Jean State Park
Petit Jean State Park is a popular destination for campers in Central Arkansas, offering scenic overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, and a range of campgrounds with various amenities.
Lake Catherine State Park
Lake Catherine State Park is a popular destination for campers in Central Arkansas, offering scenic lake views, fishing spots, and a campground with various amenities.
Best Campgrounds in Southern Arkansas
Millwood State Park
Millwood State Park is a popular destination for campers in Southern Arkansas, offering a lake with fishing spots, boat ramps, hiking trails, and a campground with various amenities.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park
Queen Wilhelmina State Park is a popular destination for campers in Southern Arkansas, offering a variety of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and a campground with various amenities.
Lake Ouachita State Park (South Unit)
Lake Ouachita State Park (South Unit) is a popular destination for campers in Southern Arkansas, offering scenic lake views, fishing spots, and a campground with various amenities.
Best Campgrounds in Eastern Arkansas
Crowley’s Ridge State Park
Crowley’s Ridge State Park is a unique destination in Eastern Arkansas, offering a range of hiking trails, natural areas, and a campground with various amenities.
Lake Chicot State Park
Lake Chicot State Park is a popular destination for campers in Eastern Arkansas, offering a lake with fishing spots, boat ramps, hiking trails, and a campground with various amenities.
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers a range of camping opportunities, including primitive campsites and RV hookups. The refuge is a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Best Campgrounds in Western Arkansas
Ouachita Mountains
The Ouachita Mountains region offers a range of camping opportunities, from remote primitive campsites to developed campgrounds with amenities. The area is popular for hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Fort Smith National Historic Site offers a campground with various amenities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. The campground provides easy access to the historic fort and nearby trails.
Lake Fort Smith State Park
Lake Fort Smith State Park offers a range of camping opportunities, from primitive campsites to RV hookups. The park features a lake with fishing spots, boat ramps, and hiking trails.
Table of Best Arkansas Campgrounds
| Campground | Region | Activities | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Devil’s Den State Park | Northwest Arkansas | Hiking, swimming, fishing | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings |
| Petit Jean State Park | Central Arkansas | Hiking, waterfalls, scenic overlooks | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings |
| Millwood State Park | Southern Arkansas | Fishing, boating, hiking | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings |
| Crowley’s Ridge State Park | Eastern Arkansas | Hiking, nature trails, wildlife viewing | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings |
| Lake Ouachita State Park | Central Arkansas | Boating, fishing, hiking | Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings |
FAQs About Arkansas Campgrounds
What are the best campgrounds for families with kids?
Arkansas has many great campgrounds for families with kids. Some of the best options include DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Lake Catherine State Park, and Petit Jean State Park. These parks offer a range of activities for kids, including playgrounds, swimming areas, and hiking trails.
What are the best campgrounds for RVers?
Several campgrounds in Arkansas offer full hookups for RVers, including Lake Ouachita State Park, Bull Shoals Lake Campgrounds, and Lake Catherine State Park. These campgrounds provide convenient access to amenities and scenic views.
What are the best campgrounds for remote camping?
Arkansas offers numerous remote camping opportunities in various locations, including the Buffalo River Wilderness, the Ozark National Forest, and the Ouachita National Forest. These areas provide primitive campsites with no amenities, offering a true wilderness experience.
Conclusion
From serene lakes to rugged mountains, Arkansas offers an array of camping experiences for every adventurer. Whether you seek thrilling hikes, peaceful fishing spots, or family-friendly fun, Arkansas campgrounds provide the perfect escape. And now that you’ve learned about the best Arkansas campgrounds for every adventure, you can plan your next outdoor escapade with confidence. Be sure to check out our other articles for more tips on finding the perfect campground and making the most of your time in the great outdoors.
As you plan your next Arkansas adventure, remember that the state’s diverse landscape offers a campground for every preference. Whether you seek serene solitude beside a pristine lake, the thrilling rush of whitewater rapids, or the comforting familiarity of a family-friendly retreat, Arkansas has a campground waiting to be discovered. From the soaring peaks of the Ozark Mountains to the tranquil shores of the Buffalo National River, each campground presents a unique opportunity to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and experience the heart of Arkansas. Before embarking on your camping journey, consider your priorities – proximity to attractions, desired amenities, and the level of seclusion you seek – to select the perfect fit for your group.
Arkansas’s campgrounds provide more than just a place to pitch a tent. They offer a gateway to explore the state’s natural wonders, delve into its rich history, and experience the true spirit of adventure. Hike through ancient forests, fish in crystal-clear waters, kayak down scenic rivers, or simply relax by the campfire under a starlit sky. From the thrill of zip-lining through the trees to the peace of a sunset stroll along a tranquil lake, every campsite offers a unique perspective on the beauty and diversity of Arkansas. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and prepare to be enchanted by the endless possibilities that await you in the heart of the Natural State.
With its abundance of campgrounds, Arkansas welcomes campers of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a first-time adventurer. Each campground provides a distinct ambience, catering to different interests and needs. Whether you prefer the convenience of modern facilities or the rustic charm of a backcountry experience, you’ll find a campground that resonates with your adventure style. So, embark on your Arkansas camping odyssey, embrace the spirit of exploration, and discover the enchanting beauty that awaits you in every corner of the Natural State.
Discover the best Arkansas campgrounds for every adventure! From serene lakes to rugged mountains, find your perfect spot to explore the natural beauty of the Natural State.
