Find out why so many campgrounds are located near this small Missouri town.
For a small town with a population hovering near 2,000 residents, Noel has a surprising number of campgrounds nearby. The Elk River and its tributaries bring in swells of visitors, many of which opt to camp and glamp. A float trip is a classic summertime activity here, whether you don a canoe, kayak, raft, or tube. Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri come together in this region, known for the beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Private RV parks in Noel and nearby Pineville feature amenities like full hookups, free wifi, and river access. The closest public camping is found at Huckleberry Ridge Conservation Area, which offers primitive campsites.
Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O' The Cherokees has an astounding 46,000 acres of water, making it one of the largest in Oklahoma. Grand Lake State Park is located on its shores and encompasses several smaller lakes. Fishing, boating, paddling, and watersports abound. Honey Creek Campground is the closest to Noel. Tent and RV sites offer various amenities, with water/electric hookups and concrete pads available.
South of Noel, you’ll find one of Arkansas’s most hopping regions, where the cities of Bentonville, Fayetteville, and Rogers come together, along with several small towns, to create a mini-metro area, full of foodie-approved restaurants, cultural attractions, and a chic downtown. Several private RV parks and glamping rentals are found across the region, providing easy access to all of the shopping and dining options, as well as the natural beauty of the Boston Mountains. Public campgrounds are found along the shores of Beaver Lake and in Devil’s Den State Park, which offers cabins in addition to the tent and RV sites.
Approximately an hour east of Noel, Roaring River State Park is a scenic spot best known for the trout fishing found in the spring-fed waters. Biking and hiking trails meander through the Ozark woodlands, some offering views of unique rock formations and sparkling waterways. Tent and RV campsites are offered, some with electric hookups. Rustic cabin rentals are also available.
Thanks to the waterways, summertime is a popular time to visit Noel. The refreshing waters provide relief from the heat and humidity of summers in southern Missouri. If you don’t plan to make a splash, spring and fall are also good times to visit, as wildflowers and green leaves make their spring appearance and fall delights with the annual autumnal colors. Winter is generally cold, with occasional bouts of snow and ice, making it a less pleasant time for camping.