Mountainous camping in Arkansas

With 52 state parks and two and a half million acres of national forest, you can soak in hot springs, hunt for diamonds, or cast a line in the Natural State.

96% (3335 reviews)
96% (3335 reviews)

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12 top mountainous campgrounds in Arkansas

98%
(1055)

Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park

99 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Greenbrier, AR
We love our guests and we love your pictures. Thank you all so very much. Pinnacle Springs Recreational Park lies within a private nature reserve of hiking trails, waterfalls, bluffs, cascading streams and wildlife -- it is all here. The campground is off the radar -- there are no highway signs or advertisements -- yet offers comfortable and safe refuge to guests whether staying in a tent, camper, RV or one of our cabins. On site you can find swimming, paddling, fishing, hiking, a 6-acre foraging field, and 9-hole Frisbee golf course, a Ninja rope course with zipline and slackline, rope swing, bouldering, climbing, psicobloc and more outdoor pursuits than one has time. And Woolly Hollow State Park, Cove Creek Natural Heritage Area, and Greer's Ferry Lake all lie within biking distance. New to camping? Need a flush toilet, kitchen sink and faucet? Hate bugs, thorns or wild critters? Steep rough roads? Dust and gravel? Or simply don't like being outside in the weather and in a primitive setting? Then this is NOT the place for you!! NO! NO! NO! But if you want to sneak away and find a lovely little place to unwind and bathe in a forest under a tall canopy of standing pines and oak trees, then Pinnacle Springs is where you need to be. Pinnacle Springs offers stream side camping on the banks of the North Fork of Cadron Creek -- central Arkansas' premier whitewater stream -- and is less than an hour's drive from Little Rock (only 15 minutes from Conway and I-40). Camp by the side of a river. Camp at the foot or atop a towering bluff. Camp in a cave. Camp in a riparian jungle. Camp in total solitude or camp with all your friends and family. We offer so many choices one can select a site that perfectly fits your needs. And if you want total seclusion -- a real "wilderness experience" and are willing to "hike-in" a couple of hundred paces we can provide that too. FYI: If you are unaccustomed to STEEP dirt roads do NOT reserve a site on the island -- sites atop the ridge in Camp Toasty are much easier to access. No traffic noise here! Rather, you'll be soothed by the sound of cascading water echoing off the bluffs -- great for outdoor sleeping and keeping the air fresh and alive. Many of the camp sites are equipped with a heavy picnic table, fire pit and grill, lamp post and level tent site. And if you like to swing -- we have trees! Hammocks and slack lines are the best no trace tree things ever! And although Pinnacle Springs Campground lies in an off-the-grid wilderness setting there is good cell phone service, a water hydrant can be found near the front gate behind the store, and electrical outlets for recharging phones and such can be found on the ridge at nearby Camp Toasty. And from March through November hot water showers are even freely available. Guests are encouraged to explore any of the trails that crisscross the property especially if you like waterfalls, scenic views, cascading streams, and goat trail bluffs. The Tanner Pool Trail is especially popular after a heavy rain, Bluff Trail offers a nice perch for viewing the river below, and the 1+ mile "Circuit Trail" is a great way to start one's day. 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! CELL PHONE COVERAGE: While we recommend that you leave your cell phones at home or packed away we also understand the importance of "staying in touch". Overall cell phone coverage throughout the watershed is pretty good BUT there are a few deep bluff-lined valleys on the creek where one may lose a signal from time to time -- either walk around the bend or to higher ground and you'll usually find a signal. Nevertheless our evaluation: VERIZON - Seemingly good signal everywhere. AT&T -- Good in campground but a couple of "weak spots" both upstream and downstream (taller bluffs). T-MOBILE - Good signal atop the ridge but close to nothing on the creek, USCellular - The worst. Those camping close to store are invited to connect to our local area wifi signal -- CadronBoy. BTW#1: We don't take kindly to folks trashing our property. We are a "LEAVE NO TRACE FACILITY" thus if you bring it, you take it! Best to also leave axes, shovels and hammer and nails at home. Thanks. BTW#2: This is DIY camping! If you are one of those people that has a "hard time figuring it out on your own" we strongly encourage you to stay elsewhere. There are a lot of nice campgrounds in Arkansas that are more accessible, better staffed, and have some really nice amenities.
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$15
 / night
100%
(91)

Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents81 acres · Caddo Gap, AR
80+ acres all to yourself!! This beautiful and very secluded property, with river, kayaks, trails, and creeks is offered to only one group at a time to ensure peace, quiet, and seclusion. No other guests will overlap your stay. You will enjoy the peaceful solitude in nature completely alone! (Note on trails: we are re-working the trails between guests in the spring of 2025 due to forest thinning operations that were done in Dec '24. We hope to have the trails back in great shape by summer 2025.) It's a great location for romantic getaways, silent personal retreats, yoga, playing in the river, or just spending quiet one-on-one time with your spouse or significant other. The last 1/2 mile of dirt road is sometimes rough, so cars with low ground clearance are not recommended. Campers on Thunder Mountain enjoy the entire property, including the unique outdoor bathhouse with outdoor tub and shower, amazing multi-level decks, kayaks, grill, trails, hammocks, and tubes - without the cost of the cabin. The cabin will be vacant during camping stays, but you can still enjoy the WiFi and other amenities outside. ($30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately) Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings for 1 to 2 nights are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show due to cabin cleaning days. We'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out if possible. If you see a price of $999, that is a date that can be opened up for you at a low price ($30-50) but will have some restrictions on check-in or check-out time. Just ask!
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$45
 / night
100%
(19)

Buffalo River Glamping

9 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Jasper, AR
Escape to the heart of Arkansas's natural beauty with Buffalo River Glamping, where luxury meets wilderness. Nestled in the beauty of the rugged Ozark mountains, our glamping sites offer an unparalleled retreat for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those searching for a tranquil getaway. You can embark on nature walks through the surrounding wilderness such as nearby Lost Valley, Hemmed In Hollow and Whitaker Point. You certainly will not want to miss a visit to local waterfalls and trailheads, spend the day kayaking, rafting or canoeing on the Buffalo River or take a dip in one of the local swimming holes along the river. Tucked far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Buffalo River Glamping was meticulously designed to provide an unforgettable retreat. You will be captivated by the harmonious blend of nature and tranquility. As you meander through the trails on the property, you'll be surrounded with vibrant lush greenery. You’ll experience a sense of seclusion, while the distant sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves create a soothing performance that serenades you into a state of relaxation. As the sun sets after a day of fun and adventure, it’s time to relax and unwind at your campsite. As you fire up the grill for a steak, burger or hotdogs, don’t forget to save room for a gooey batch of s'mores toasted over a cozy campfire. After dinner you might want to play a game of cornhole or horseshoes, or just relax by the community firepit and stargaze into the dark night sky. When you are ready to retire for the evening, you will certainly want to enjoy a warm shower in our climate controlled shower house. A comfy bed in your tent awaits you for a quiet relaxing night of rest, but be sure to listen out for the sounds of the whippoorwills, or an occasional owl before drifting off to sleep. While you are awakened by the melodious sound of the birds chirping and singing, and you catch a glimpse of the radiant morning sun, a well stocked coffee bar awaits you for your first cup of coffee for the day. There’s nothing more calming than relaxing on the deck while enjoying your first warm cup of perk me up while breathing in the fresh morning mountain air, and planning your fun and adventure for the day. When your vacation at Buffalo River Glamping comes to an end, and as you venture back home, the memories and adventures that you experienced will give you a profound sense of peace and contentment. We are located in the upper Buffalo River area where within minutes you can venture out to the many astonishing natural attractions in the area. Reserve your tent today and start planning your unforgettable escape to the Arkansas wilderness. We can't wait to welcome you and look forward to having you as our guest! A stay at Buffalo River Glamping is not just a vacation – it's an escape into a truly unforgettable experience that nourishes the soul and rejuvenates the spirit.
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$50
 / night
93%
(30)

Crystal Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Mount Ida, AR
The Crystal Camp Campground is a rock hounding paradise and is less than two minutes from the Crystal Vista, Wegner and Avatar Crystal mines. This area of Arkansas produces some of the finest quartz crystals on earth and your chances of finding real treasure at any of the nearby mines is pretty much guaranteed. If your kids like to play in the dirt and hunt for treasure they will fill their pockets with real gems at any of the nearby mines. Please Note: This is a beautiful property and ready for your trip but guests should expect a work in progress as well. The property is newly cleared, we installed new picnic tables and have fire rings, but that's the extent of the amenities right now. This property was basically a 2 acre blackberry patch. About half has been cleared and 4 campsites created but the rest is still in progress. Work will not be performed during your stay. You may see tools and signs of recent work etc.. Located on a paved section of Owley Road in Mount Ida Arkansas. This is a large 2 acre property with four cleared sites that offer plenty of room for any size tent(s). Generators are welcome and pets are too. The property is bordered by old growth national forest and an ice cold spring fed stream is located in the national forest behind the property. Like all wooded areas in Arkansas ticks should be expected while hiking and camping at the Crystal Camp Campground. Please bring tick defense for yourself and pets.
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$20
 / night
100%
(109)

Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents104 acres · AR
Enchanted Ozark Fairytale Camp is far more than your ordinary campground! 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, super large tent spaces, and coming soon a hippy van sleeper, cordwood log cabin, (we encourage sustainable building questions) we may be farther off the beaten track than those roadside places, but we are so very worth it. Come be Enchanted.
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$20
 / night
100%
(3)

Lake Wilson Retreat 🌲

1 site · Lodging35 acres · Greenland, AR
The Lake Wilson Retreat is our 35 acre private property, peacefully situated atop the wooded mountains near Lake Wilson. On the property is The Shed, a simple campsite where you'll find a fire pit and a simple sleeping cabin with a full size platform bed frame and wood stove to enjoy. An ideal place to clear your head. The Shed comfortably sleep two (2) adults, but you are welcome to bring tents for up to to four (4) other additional campers. We provide a full size platform bed frame, but guests will need to bring their own blow up mattress or camp pads for comfort — as well as all bedding / pillows / towels. About Lake Wilson: Lake Wilson Park is comprised of approximately 320 acres of land with 28 acres of water. Park visitors can experience boating, fishing, nature watching, picnicking, and hiking. The park is also an off-leash dog park with both sunny and shady places for pets to enjoy. The nature trail runs almost entirely through the woods with views of the lake and ancient rock formations. There are also lots of beautiful wildflowers in the spring!
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$60
 / night
99%
(58)

Creekside Camping at Rocky Acres

7 sites · RVs, Tents103 acres · Eureka Springs, AR
We are a small family ranch nestled in the beautiful hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas! The Homestead at Rocky Acres, PMA has a variety of offerings, including "Creek-side Camping" in an open grass field with plenty of shade trees (including a few mulberries...yum!) along side our spring fed creek. The creek offers small swimming holes with fish, crawdads, tadpoles, and frogs, oh my! There is plenty of nature to hike around, including up to the pasture to visit the horses and pony or along the creek-bed to forage. Onsite, we also offer "The Homestead at Rocky Acres" with three cabins for nightly rentals for a comfortable and cozy stay in nature; cabins are available to be rented individually or for your next group event. Our resort area, "The Vue at Rocky Acres", boasts a luxury barn and pool/hot tub with amazing views and would be perfect for your next event be it a wedding, birthday party, family reunion or retreat! Daily passes to "The Vue" are available upon request for use of pool/hot tub/outdoor kitchen, at an additional charge. We also offer "Horse-play at Rocky Acres" which includes horseback riding lessons, custom experiences, camps and trail rides in partnership with Dawson’s Equine Connection! Visit us on Facebook at The Homestead at Rocky Acres for pictures and more details. Please Note: We are a working ranch/farm. With that said, we have free range cows, horses and chickens. We do our best to keep our field clear for campers, however, you may have visitors.
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$20
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Value Prop
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous camping in Arkansas guide

Overview

Arkansas is full of surprises, with botanical gardens, ancient cave systems, and massive lakes that draw anglers, water sports enthusiasts, and birders. It’s also a hot spot for rockhounding, with tons of mineral-rich mines and quarries where visitors can hunt for everything from quartz to diamonds. Here you’ll also find one of the most unusual national parks in the country—Hot Springs National Park—where campers can "take the waters" in traditional bathhouses, just as people did more than a century ago. Fishing and birdwatching are popular Arkansas pastimes, and many state campgrounds sit on or near lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, who nest across Arkansas in the winter months.

Where to go

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwestern Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest-growing regions of the state, offering a mix of cute towns and Ozark adventure. The largest state park in Arkansas, the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, is here, offering 54 miles of trails and campsites only reachable by mountain bike. Major geological features in the region include the Boston Mountains (part of the southern Ozarks), a forested region full of hiking trails, caves, and springs, particularly in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest.

Southwestern Arkansas

Southwest Arkansas is characterized by lakes, wooded forests, and plenty of opportunities to get out and rockhound. Highlights include Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can dig for diamonds and other minerals, and Millwood State Park, a popular spot for fishing, birdwatching, and camping.

Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas is home to the state capital and biggest city, Little Rock. About an hour away sits Hot Springs National Park, with its historic bathhouses, a couple of which invite visitors to soak to this day. Camping opportunities abound—you can rent campsites and cabins year-round at Lake Ouachita State Park or try to nab one of the first-come, first-served sites at Lake Sylvia Recreation Area, celebrated for its 18-acre lake.

Northeastern Arkansas

Northeastern Arkansas offers opportunities for fishing, water sports, and learning about what life was like in this region many years ago. Highlights include the Parkin Archaeological State Park, which preserves 17 acres of what was once a Native American village, and the Hampson Archeological Museum State Park, where you can check out archaeological artifacts from the area.

Southeastern Arkansas

Southeastern Arkansas' Lower Delta Region offers a mix of historic Civil War sites, scenic lakes, and opportunities for bird- and wildlife-watching. Hit Lake Chicot, the largest natural lake in the state, and the Arkansas Post National Memorial, a National Park Service-run living history museum showcasing life on the Grand Prairie in the late 1800s.

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