12 Best Places to Camp in Arkansas

Arkansas is a nature lover’s paradise, and what better way to experience its natural beauty than camping? Whether you prefer camping in the mountains, near the lakes or rivers, or in the forest, Arkansas has something for everyone.  Arkansas is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and what better way to experience it than camping? Whether you prefer primitive camping or glamping, there are plenty of options available in the Natural State. In this article, we’ll be discussing the 12 best places to camp in Arkansas.

 

1. Petit Jean State Park

Petit Jean State Park is a beautiful camping spot located near Morrilton, Arkansas. It has 125 campsites, including primitive, tent, and RV sites. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming. You can also explore the Cedar Creek Trail, which takes you through a dense forest to Cedar Falls, one of the park’s main attractions.

 

2. Ozark National Forest

Ozark National Forest is a vast and beautiful camping destination located in northwestern Arkansas. The forest covers over 1 million acres, and it has numerous campsites scattered throughout the area. Some of the most popular campsites include Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area, and Richland Creek Campground. Ozark National Forest offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

 

3. Lake Ouachita State Park

Lake Ouachita State Park is one of the largest lakes in Arkansas, and it offers some of the best camping opportunities in the state. The park has 93 campsites, including tent and RV sites, as well as three yurts. The lake is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating, and there are also several hiking trails to explore.

 

4. Buffalo National River

The Buffalo National River is a beautiful and unique camping destination in northern Arkansas. The river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, and there are numerous campsites scattered throughout the area. Some of the most popular campsites include Tyler Bend, Buffalo Point, and Steel Creek. The river is also surrounded by beautiful cliffs and rock formations, making it a great place for hiking and sightseeing.

 

5. Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine State Park is a beautiful camping destination located in western Arkansas. It has 18 campsites, including tent and RV sites, as well as two cabins. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, hang gliding, and rock climbing. The park also has one of the best views in Arkansas, with a lookout point that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

 

6. Devil’s Den State Park

Devil’s Den State Park is a beautiful and unique camping destination located in northwest Arkansas. The park has 143 campsites, including primitive, tent, and RV sites, as well as cabins and group camping areas. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming.

 

7. DeGray Lake Resort State Park

DeGray Lake Resort State Park is a popular camping destination located in southwest Arkansas. The park has 113 campsites, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and lodges. The park is located on the shores of DeGray Lake, which is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as a golf course and tennis courts.

 

8. Catherine’s Landing

Catherine’s Landing is a luxury camping resort located on the shores of Lake Catherine in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The resort offers a wide range of camping options, including RV sites, cabins, yurts, and luxury tents. The resort has several amenities, including a swimming pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a dog park. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as a marina where you can rent boats and kayaks.

 

9. Blanchard Springs Recreation Area

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is a beautiful camping destination located in the Ozark National Forest. The recreation area has several campsites, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and group camping areas. The area is known for its beautiful Blanchard Springs Caverns, which you can explore on a guided tour. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as opportunities for fishing and swimming.

 

10. Lake Catherine State Park

Lake Catherine State Park is a beautiful camping destination located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park has 70 campsites, including primitive, tent, and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts. The park is located on the shores of Lake Catherine, which is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as a marina where you can rent boats and kayaks.

 

11. Queen Wilhelmina State Park

Queen Wilhelmina State Park is a beautiful camping destination located in western Arkansas. The park has 41 campsites, including primitive, tent, and RV sites, as well as cabins and group camping areas. The park is located on top of Rich Mountain, which is the second-highest peak in Arkansas. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming.

 

12. Village Creek State Park

Village Creek State Park is a beautiful camping destination located in northeastern Arkansas. The park has 33 campsites, including primitive, tent, and RV sites, as well as cabins and group camping areas. The park is located on the shores of Lake Austell, which is perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as a golf course and a nature center.

 

 

FAQs

1. Do I need a permit to camp in Arkansas?

• Yes, you need a camping permit to camp in Arkansas state parks and campgrounds.

2. Can I camp in national forests in Arkansas?

• Yes, you can camp in national forests in Arkansas. However, some areas may require a permit or reservation.

3. Can I bring my pets camping in Arkansas?

• Yes, many campsites in Arkansas allow pets. However, there may be restrictions on the number of pets and where they can be taken.

4. What is the best time of year to camp in Arkansas?

• The best time to camp in Arkansas is during the spring and fall months when the temperatures are mild and the foliage is beautiful. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

5. Are there any bear sightings in Arkansas?

• Yes, there have been bear sightings in Arkansas. It is important to take precautions when camping in bear country, such as storing food properly and carrying bear spray.

 

Conclusion

Arkansas is a beautiful state with plenty of camping opportunities. Whether you prefer primitive camping or glamping, there is something for everyone in Arkansas. From the mountains to the lakes and rivers, Arkansas has a wide range of camping destinations to choose from. We hope this article has helped you discover some of the best places to camp in Arkansas.