Best Camping in and Near Arkansas River

Discover the scenic beauty of Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

Top-rated campgrounds near Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam

99%

(125)

Sunsets on the Arkansas River

2 sites · Tents13 acres · Fourche, AR

Learn more about this land: Sitting above the Arkansas River you have an excellent view of the river from two vantage points. With a large almost 2 acre clearing there is plenty of room to roam. Magical sunsets and more stars than you can count! When it's a full moon, you can watch it coming up through the trees as you are sitting in front of the fire. If you are really lucky, sometimes you can watch the searchlight from the river barges as they navigate the big bend in the river. If you are a nature lover this place has it all. We try to keep fire wood stocked at the sites, but sometimes it gets used up before we can restock. If that is the case there is TONS of dead wood all around the site. If it's on the ground it's fair game. We only ask that you don't take down live trees. You guys know the deal, we all love the trees so lets show them some love, cool? If you find there is no wood around, give us a ring and we will do our best to get some to you. Navigate to the entrance here (tinyurl.com/ArkRiverOverlook) and you will find the main entrance to both sites: Site 1 (tinyurl.com/OverlookSite1)(34.949993, -92.569705) The first of the two that sits at the top of the hill as you enter Rock Island road (this is the name on old county maps). The narrow entrance is just to the left, right before you start to head down the hill. It's a bit of a tight squeeze for anything larger than a full-size pickup truck. Secluded, with stupendous views of the river and Lollie Bottoms on the other side. If you have a pair of binoculars you can watch the farmers working the fields and count all the cows over in the bottoms. This site has an 8'x8' deck where you can pitch a tent or just set up some chairs and sit under the stars. Site 2 (tinyurl.com/OverlookSite2)(34.951358, -92.569561) Is located near the bottom of the road but actually has two views of the river. It is very secluded and a little more concealed, which can be good on hot days as there are more trees for coverage. There are a lot more trees on this site so if you don't want to be out in the open this is the one for you. The canopy protects you from the sun so your tent doesn't get too hot during the day. NOTE: Site 2 can only support tents and small popups. Both sites will allow for multiple vehicles to be parked, so no problem there. If you bring any vehicles please do not ride them on the property as they damage the grass, there are lots of good off-road riding to be had in the area. If you have 4wd, then find your way to the Million Dollar lookout (tinyurl.com/MillionDollaView). It's been a favorite lookout for years, and I promise it will not disappoint! If you have 4wd or at least a vehicle with decent clearance you can head down to the end of the road (tinyurl.com/DownByTheArkRiver). At the end of Ledwedge Rd, it becomes an unmaintained road that goes all the way down to the river and crosses the railroad tracks. If you are really lucky you will get to see a train pass by, up close and personal. The road is pretty rocky so be warned, you really do need clearance on this road! If you want to fish on Lake Maumelle go to North Shore Landing (tinyurl.com/NorthShoreLanding), it's only 5.8 miles from the property. North Shore Landing on Lake Maumelle is a beautiful short hike to the edge of the lake, surrounded by wildlife and greeted by an amazing view of the lake. Set up a picnic and just hang out and fish! The Rock Island railway is down below next to the river and there are plenty of trails you can ride around on as well. You aren't far from two National Forests so day trips from here are a breeze. If you are into gardening or local farm-to-table cuisine you should check out Moss Mountain Farm. Toadsuck Lock and Dam park are about 30 minutes away, and if you need a big Walmart there is one 10 minutes past that. There is also a big Walmart about 30 minutes in the other direction at the intersection of Chenal Parkway and Cantrell Road. And if you like hiking and climbing then you cannot miss Pinnacle Mountain State Park! Climb to the top and get the best views in all the area, 360 degrees views up there. And if you want something a little less steep, the Kingfisher trail at the bottom makes a nice gentle loop next to the Little Maumelle river where you can see absolutely GIANT cypress trees. Also, the Ouachita National Recreation Trail (tinyurl.com/OuachitaNRT) passes just 5 miles from our place, and it loops around the entire north side of Lake Maumelle. There is a trailhead and parking near North Shore Landing. There is plenty of mountain biking in the area too. Here's a link to some of the trails: mtbproject.com/directory/8007059/pinnacle-mountain-state-park-monument-trails There is something for everyone here!

99%

(64)

Barefoot Gardens Camp & Learning

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Vilonia, AR

Back in 2018, when the land was FIRST acquired, there was only a water spigot and a 14x14 structure that was basically a glorified shed... Now we refer to it as the Gallery Cabin. Its slowly gaining local art work pieces for display and purchasing... Now, 7 years later, we have created many fun spaces and built many structures for our many hobbies and passions. We have built a small workshop, a rock cutting/shaping/soil mixing area, Shipping Container workshop and decked out a shed with a work station and a long marble counter top. We have built a 3-level tree fort with a crow's nest and a 10x12 screened Bungalow in the woods. This is a great spot to have less chance of bugs at night, still have electricity for Lights and phone charging. We have also created a large garden with 9 beds, using various aspects of Permaculture, including several Hugelculture beds. We created a comfortable and private outside shower in the upper corner of the garden, that is perfect after a long day of having our hands in the soil! (Named the "Flower Shower" as we grow various seasonal flowers, Sage and some beautiful Poppies that can be seen from the shower.) It's now equipped with Propane heat for optional warm showers year long. Because this is Arkansas, and we live at the top of a ridge, our topsoil is mainly clay and rocks... so one of the first endeavors we started was creating a 5 bin mass composting system to build up our soil for our gardens. We found grocery stores and coffee shops to donate hundreds of pounds of old produce and coffee grounds. Since our arrival we have made over 6000+ lbs of beautiful compost and continue to do so today! We are a pet friendly place. We also get rare bookings being a SnifSpot ( Dog Park) But all dogs must be leashed or proven ( caretaker onsite approval) of being off leash trained. The only Exception is Miguel-dog. He has been on the property with us for 3+ years. Very gentle and calm. He usually needs to greet you, then you can be free. He can be separated if need. (Aggressive dogs are NOT allowed. Thanks.) We have a resident, neutered male cat named, Hikari aka "Ari." He is dog friendly. However if your dog chases cats, please keep your dog leashed. We have planted 10 fruit and nut trees and started a 'Berry Orchard'. We also have a small vineyard consisting of about 15 trained Muscadine vines. Closer to the house is a wonderful Herb Spiral that showcases of up to 20 medicinal and cooking herbs and we have a dozen more herbs in the other garden and around our land as well. We also have been planting a food forest outside the garden area, growing PawPaw trees, Gooseberries, Jerusalem Artichokes and Opossum grapes for the critters... so they may leave our actual garden alone, but they can still come close to get a tasty snack. We also built a large chicken coop for 4 egg layer chickens, 4 ducks and 3 guineas that free range our yard during the day. Our numbers vary year to year. There is over a mile plus of trails through our woods, criss-crossing over our seasonal springs that we have built bridges over. Our trails go up and down the mossy topped valleys and ridges with many places to comfortably stop and rest along the way. One aspect about all this that we are extremely proud of, is that we have built 75% or more out of RECLAIMED MATERIALS and RECLAIMED LUMBER (and made it look good!) -- Learn more about this land: -- We are located only 12 miles from I-40, just north of Vilonia. Our Homestead Farm: Barefoot Gardens, is on 8 acres of hardwood forest, where we use various Permaculture techniques to grow over 140+ varieties of various herbs, fruits, vegetables, trees and flowers! The nights here are peaceful and filled with the soothing sounds of treefrogs. Fireflies dance in the night air as the stars peak thru the leaves overhead! (We commonly camp in our own yard for this exact same reason!) Besides multiple camping locations and a beautiful forest, we also host over a dozen Educational Workshops and Homestead Demonstrations! Small Retreats and events are also being brought forth. Most all workshops/demonstrations are kid friendly as well! (Workshops are listed below in this description. They are also listed in the 'Extras' section of our HC profile.) Here at Barefoot Gardens, you will find many fun and interesting places to explore and enjoy! Here is a list of some of our favorites! - A 10x12 secluded, screen enclosed, roofed platform (10x12) is available for camping in the forest. This location is 600 ft. from parking area. Electricity is provided (No A/C or heat, please!) A firepit with a metal cooking grill are also provided. A compost toilet is attached to the backside of the platform as well. Multiple hiking trails intersect near and around this area! - Tent camping is available in various locations throughout the yard and forest, with available access to electricity and water (No A/C or heat, please!) - Plenty of great places to hang up hammocks! (Including our 3 level Tree fort!) - RV's and pull behind camper's welcome! (up to 30 feet only please) Only very QUIET generators are allowed! If you need to run your A/C or heat for extended periods of time, while hooked into our electricity, please add $10 onto each day you stay with us! And NO... you cannot empty your black water tank here. [7 day maximum stay, please!] - Fire Pits available next to campsite locations, the bungalow or at the community area by our Rocketshop. - An outside heated shower located in the large garden AKA 'The Flower Shower" (warm season only.) - Over a mile of hiking trails, with bridges that cross over seasonal springs and moss covered ridges. Trails go up and down several valleys and ridges, so there are several rest spots along the way. (Trails have been marked with Blue trail markers, for easy navigation!) - A large Herb Spiral featuring 15+ medicinal/cooking herbs and over a dozen more in our main garden and yard as well! - Fresh picked greens, veggies, berries and Farm Fresh Chicken eggs from our chickens are available for purchase too! (Located in the 'GOODS' section of our HipCamp profile! (Fruit/Veggie/Egg availability change depending on time of year.) Besides all the beauty, trails and fun here at Barefoot Gardens... we also host multiple informative and educational workshops! More info about these can be found in the 'EXTRAS' section of our HipCamp profile! ** Although we don't have a swim hole on site... there is a Beautiful Secret Swim hole only a short drive away! Or you can rent the use of our small pools.

97%

(105)

Fishers Pond at the Treehouse

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Little Rock, AR

Fishers Pond at the Tree House was built as a tree house for my son. There is wildlife to view: cranes on the pond, squirrels, deer out the windows. I have seen as many as 6 at one time. Catfishing is great. We have pulled fish as big as 10 lbs. I have trails cut through the woods on my 10 acres for short nature walks

100%

(70)

Jubilee Farms Campground/& Rentals

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Leola, AR

James and Jimmilea Berryhill are delighted to offer 5 RV camping sites with water and electric service; 12 tent campsites; and 5 nightly rentals. Shalom Suite Guest Room, Yachov 2 br tiny house, Ahava House (1 br apt), and The Dove, luxury RV sleeps 2 adults and 1 0r 2 small children. The Berryhills have been hosting guests for 8 years with over 300 excellent reviews. They welcome respectful and happy guests to this place where Christian families enjoy the outdoors and where country life is celebrated. There are ducks chickens, and guineas. Guests receive a sample of the lovely bars of goat's milk soaps made with the finest oils and goat's milk from their granddaughter's prize-winning goats. James and Jimmilea enjoy hosting their guests and will offer as much or as little interaction as guests prefer. They welcome groups as well. Summer catch-and-release fishing, hiking, and enjoying the small dipping pool, playground, game court, and a large fire pit by the pond and three other fire-pit areas near the RV and campsites as well as by Yacht and the Cottage. These are just a few of the things that help make a stay at Jubilee Farms special. Picnic tables and charcoal grills provide for family enjoyment. The farm is surrounded on three sides by timber and the camping and lodging sites are situated away from the road making it a quiet and restful place.

100%

(46)

Tranquility on the Arkansas River

3 sites · RVs2 acres · Mayflower, AR

Come experience the awe that we get to experience daily. The river is in our backyard and we want to share our slice of heaven with you. The river is a place for relaxation, as well as being a great place to fish or just hang out with friends. The river also provides an opportunity for learning about nature and wildlife. The sound of birds is one of the most beautiful sounds on Earth. It is a sign of life, it is a sign of hope. Birds are plentiful along the river and you are sure to enjoy the concert that they have prepared specially for you. There's no need to drive too far from Little Rock – in fact, you can find a great campsite just across the Arkansas River from P. Allen Smith's famous Moss Mountain farm. This spot is teeming with wildlife, and you may even be able to catch some fish or watch Eagles soar. Stargazing is strongly encouraged here – under a dark sky, the stars appear big and bright. Please enjoy your stay and help us keep it that way. No parties and no unsupervised minors. We are in the country and there are no fences. You may be greeted by neighborhood dogs. We have never experienced any aggression and most of them are happy to get pet by our guests. If they are bothering you, simply provide a stern, "go home" and they usually will leave you be. On the other hand if you pet and feed them they will be your new best friend. We host on Hipcamp because we love the outdoors. We love traveling across the country, exploring, and experiencing new things. We are fortunate enough to have found our slice of heaven and we're so excited to share it with other travelers from near and far. It often becomes an opportunity to hang out with like minded people and make new friends.

83%

(3)

Hot Springs Campground & RV Park

55 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Hot Springs, AR

Welcome to Hot Springs Campground! Located just a 4 miles from downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas, Hot Springs Campground & RV Park is the perfect destination for RV enthusiasts seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and convenient access to the city’s vibrant attractions. Nestled in the heart of the scenic Ouachita Mountains, our campground offers a serene and picturesque setting for your camping adventures. Hot Springs National Park: Situated in the heart of the city, Hot Springs National Park is renowned for its therapeutic thermal waters. Immerse yourself in the soothing hot springs, which have been enjoyed for centuries for their healing properties.

97%

(73)

A quiet nights rest at H & G RV

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Hazen, AR

The property has been in our family for many years. The location used to be in soybean and wheat fields but now is in hay. We are located 1.4 miles south of Interstate 40 (Exit 193) in Hazen, Arkansas with easy access. We have had many great guest come and stay on our property and have been able to recharge for the next days journey. We have 13 RV hook ups and plenty of room to boondock and camp to get a safe and quiet nights sleep. We would love to have you come and stay with us!!Learn more about this land:We are a quiet country/farm setting 1 mile south of Interstate 40 off of Exit 193 in Hazen, Arkansas. It’s not fancy but is safe and quiet with close proximity to Interstate 40 and Hwy 70. We are right beside Wattensaw Management Area for hunters. *Hookups are available for 30 amp and 50 amp RVs and Campers. Please add this as an extra (located at the bottom of the listing) for $15 so we can get you setup with the best site available. Hookups are $20 + $15 for $35/night. We are in the heart of deer and duck hunting in the state of Arkansas. It’s a perfect spot to get a good nights sleep to get refreshed to hit the road the next day!

100%

(15)

Cedar Creek Farms Camp

4 sites · Tents30 acres · Lonsdale, AR

Welcome! We want to note on the front hand that if you decide to stay with us you will be staying in a pasture behind a gate. This is especially important if you are tent camping, because your things will be safe while you explore Hot Springs and surrounding areas unlike a State Park or regular campground! Our land is home to a plethora of animals that you can visit with or just watch during your stay. There are our cattle (their names are on their ear tags), horses, goats (working on getting collars with names), Pickles the mini donkey, and our chickens (when they go out to free range). The horses names are Vivian, Bonnie and Sadie and they normally stay in the pasture with our campers. Vivian is the larger of the two white horses and she loves attention. Bonnie is also white, but she is a bit smaller. She is Viv's sister! Sadie is an off track thoroughbred that is very tall! There is also the opportunity to see several species of wildlife while here. Part of our land is cleared for pasture and the rest is undisturbed forest. Two different creeks and hundreds of cedars adorn the land, hence the name "Cedar Creek Farms." Come enjoy the sounds of Ouachita Mountain nature and farm life with us.

100%

(13)

The Ponds

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Malvern, AR

Welcome to our secluded paradise nestled on 12 acres of pristine countryside. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for your RV or a charming retreat in our Studio tiny house, our tranquil oasis offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With four RV sites to choose from, each equipped with a table, firepit, 30 amp service, water, and sewer hookup, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Our back-in sites can accommodate campers up to 28 feet in length, and tents are also welcome for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Situated just 30 minutes from the renowned Hot Springs and 40 minutes from the vibrant city of Little Rock, our location offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Whether you're exploring the natural wonders of Hot Springs National Park, taking in the sights and sounds of downtown Little Rock, or simply unwinding amidst the tranquil beauty of our property, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Accessing our slice of paradise is easy, with just a short drive down a 4/10-mile gravel road, located 3.5 miles from I-30. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the peace and serenity of our private oasis, where the only sounds you'll hear are the gentle rustle of leaves and the sweet melody of birdsong. Escape the ordinary and experience the beauty of rural Arkansas at our secluded retreat. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, you'll find it all here amidst the natural splendor of our 12-acre paradise. We can't wait to welcome you to our little slice of heaven.

94%

(8)

Jds Farm

50 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Benton, AR

Welcome to JD's Farm, where we offer a wide array of awesome activities, sights, and experiences! Our expansive property spans over 50 acres, providing breathtaking views of the beautiful southern sky—ideal for witnessing the April 08, 2024 solar eclipse! In addition to our stunning celestial views, we are privileged to have the magnificent Northfork Saline River meandering through our property, offering fantastic opportunities for floating or fishing. While we don't provide tents, we offer ample space for you to bring your own and set up camp. For your convenience, we have two portable toilets and a family-size outhouse available. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, venture to the top of the hill, where you'll be greeted by a breathtaking vista overlooking the town. Complete with picnic tables and more, this spot is perfect for enjoying the mystical southern sky sunsets. Come and join us at JD's Farm for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!

91%

(63)

Donna I.’s Hammock hide away

3 sites · Lodging, RVs7 acres · Sheridan, AR

Years ago this area saw major civil war battles, the Oak trees at Jenkins Ferry are huge and have a story to tell. Much of the land in the area had been logged heavily and even this land was clear cut. It is now a thriving pine forest, the land owner is working to co exist with the animals and nature.

Pinnacle Bus Stop~ Blue Bungalow

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Little Rock, AR

Welcome to the Blue Bungalow! This cozy bus has 1 queen bed & futon, so you can unwind in comfort. Utilize the stovetop (no oven), microwave, & Keurig to whip up your favorite dishes. The bathroom has a shower & toilet. Enjoy the AC, heating, & WiFi during your stay. Outside has a fire pit, chairs, a hammock, baggo set & frisbee golf as well. We hope you enjoy what our place and Little Rock has to offer. Pinnacle Mtn ~ 3 min Rattlesnake Nature Conservatory ~ 5 min Eating & shopping ~ 5 min

The best camping near Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam guide

Overview

About

Posted up 10 miles west of Tucker, the Pool 5 Lock and Dam area has an overnight campground six miles east of Redfield. The main draw to these parts is bank fishing, specifically six miles east of Jefferson. Chances are, if you’re visiting this area, you’re coming up from Pine Bluff, but if not, make the drive for The Arts and Science Center and annual events such as Harbor City Gumbo Festival, Smoke on the Water Barbecue Festival, Enchanted Land of Lights and Legends, and Boo on the Bayou Halloween Celebration. All are worth checking out for a taste of the regional flavor.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Arkansas River - Pool 5 Lock and Dam is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer brings warmth perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be chilly, making it less ideal for outdoor adventures.

Know before you go

Check water safety guidelines before engaging in any river activities.
Be aware of the local wildlife and follow guidelines to ensure a safe encounter.
Verify the operational hours of locks and dams for uninterrupted travel.
Ensure you have the necessary permits for fishing or hunting in the area.
Visit the official website for the latest information on closures and accessibility.