Best Campgrounds in Arkansas: 2026 Guide

Arkansas doesn't land on most campers' bucket lists, and that's exactly what makes it so good. While the famous Western parks battle overcrowding, Arkansas quietly offers some of the most beautiful lake and river camping in the country. The Ozark Mountains in the north roll out forested ridges cut by spring-fed rivers so clear you can see every rock on the bottom. The Ouachita Mountains in the west deliver lake camping surrounded by pine-covered slopes. And the Buffalo National River — America's first national river — provides wilderness float trips through towering limestone bluffs. The Natural State earns its nickname at every campground.

Why Arkansas Stands Out

Water defines Arkansas camping. The state's lakes — DeGray, Ouachita, Nimrod, Gillham, Dierks — are products of Army Corps dam projects that created recreation havens in otherwise remote mountain country. The rivers are even better: the Buffalo, the Cossatot, the Mulberry, and countless spring-fed Ozark streams that run cold and clear year-round. Unlike Western states where camping season squeezes into a few summer months, Arkansas campgrounds operate nearly year-round thanks to the mild Southern climate. Spring wildflowers and fall foliage rival the best in the East, and winter camping is entirely feasible for those with proper gear.

Top Campgrounds to Explore

Buffalo Point

Perched along the Buffalo National River near Yellville, Buffalo Point is a destination for river sports and outdoor adventure. Canoeing, kayaking, and swimming in the clear waters of America's first national river make this the quintessential Arkansas camping experience.

Brady Mountain

On Lake Ouachita near Royal, Brady Mountain delights with family-friendly facilities and idyllic lakeside placement. Lake Ouachita is Arkansas's largest lake and one of the cleanest in the country — the water clarity here is genuinely remarkable.

Alpine Ridge

On the banks of DeGray Lake in the Ouachita Mountain foothills near Arkadelphia, Alpine Ridge draws visitors for fishing tournaments, water sports, and lakeside relaxation in a scenic mountain-lake setting.

Carter Cove

Along the shores of Nimrod Lake between Arkansas's Ouachita and Ozark Mountains near Plainview, Carter Cove offers shaded campsites and beautiful views in a setting that captures the best of both mountain ranges.

Big Coon Creek

On the banks of Gillham Lake in southwest Arkansas — nicknamed the "Bright Spot on the Cossatot" — Big Coon Creek provides a recreational oasis with excellent fishing and water sports on this smaller, quieter lake.

Caddo Drive

Along the pristine shores of DeGray Lake, Caddo Drive offers stunning scenery and panoramic views from the Ouachita Mountain foothills. The campground is well-maintained and popular with families and anglers alike.

Blue Ridge Park

On the north end of Dierks Lake, Blue Ridge offers a natural feel with incredible fishing in the flooded timberlands along the Saline River. The Ouachita Mountain setting provides a scenic backdrop for a quieter lake camping experience.

Bellah Mine

Along the shores of DeQueen Lake in southwest Arkansas, Bellah Mine provides lake recreation in a forested setting. Boating and water sports top the activity list at this accessible southwest Arkansas destination.

Aux Arc

On the Arkansas River near the town of Ozark, Aux Arc delivers river valley camping with easy access to the Ozark Highlands. The river setting and surrounding hills make this a photogenic and versatile base camp.

Planning Tips

Spring is prime time. March through May brings mild temperatures, blooming dogwoods, and full rivers perfect for floating. Summer means humidity. June through August is hot and humid — lake campgrounds with swimming access are your best bet. Fall foliage peaks in late October. The Ozarks put on a spectacular color show that rivals New England at a fraction of the cost and crowds. Ticks are real. Treat clothing with permethrin and check thoroughly after every hike — Arkansas tick season runs April through October.

Find More Arkansas Campgrounds

Explore all Arkansas camping options on our Arkansas campgrounds page, or browse our full campground directory to discover the Natural State.