Best Camping in and near Hot Springs National Park

81% (8 reviews)

Explore historic bathhouses, thermal waters, and beyond in Arkansas’s Ouachita Mountains.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Hot Springs National Park

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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!

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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

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Petit Jean Farm Orchard

2 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Morrilton, AR

Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or park your small trailer or RV in a picturesque orchard on the edge of Petit Jean Mountain. You'll have a backdrop of woods and grazing sheep, with the Petit Jean Farmer's Market barn -- offering locally sourced produce, cheese (some made on the premises), baked goods, honey, preserves, meat, and crafts -- only steps away. The market operates on Saturdays, when hot lunches are often served, but it is open on a self-serve basis the rest of the week. Petit Jean State State Park is a very short drive, with spectacular hiking trails, a CCC-built lodge and restaurant, and a lake. Campers are welcome to use the fire pit, grill, and trampoline, and they have access to the half-bath in the barn. They're also more than welcome to help Ed with the chores : ) An electric hookup is $10. Firewood is available for $10.

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Bluegill Hill

3 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Kirby, AR

Located at the southern foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and the northwestern edge of Lake Greeson, this 6 acre plot of land is part of a gentle hillside that descends into the lake. Enjoy two trails to Lake Greeson and easily access nearby boat launches, public beaches, parks, and much more! Come make yourself at home on Bluegill Hill and enjoy the small lake village lifestyle!

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Caddo River Camp: Tent, RV, Cabins

126 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Caddo Gap, AR

We are surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. Within an hour or less, you will find hiking and bike trails, 4-wheeling/ATV, crystal mining, diamond mining, historic Hot Springs, museums and so much more. Or, you can just put your chair in the water and hang out on the gravel bar. Arrowhead has been rated as "The Best Swimming Hole in Arkansas" by the Arkansas Times®. Our facilities, located in Caddo Gap, include, cabin rentals, bunkhouse accommodations for 50 (w/separate quarters for boys & girls), screened pavilion with kitchen, RV sites with full-hook-ups and septic, semi-primitive campsites, bathhouse, nearby canoe and kayak rentals, swimming, fishing, basketball court, and tether ball.

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Edendell Campground

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Oden, AR

Edendell is a great place to basecamp out of. We offer 26 full hook up rv sites, tent camping, glamping deck, and guest house. We have 6 Kayaks for rent with optional shuttle service. Near by activities are ATV trails, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, boating, crystal digging, diamond mine is 1 hour away. We also have an airsoft battle ground on site for special occasions.

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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.

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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.

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Ouachita River Haven

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents14 acres · Pencil Bluff, AR

Welcome to Ouachita River Haven! Nestled between Ouachita National Forest property and the Ouachita River, our Haven is a peaceful little slice of nature for you to take a break, catch your breath, and enjoy the outdoors! Property has 1000 ft of river access, with canoe & kayak docks, swimming hole, volleyball and tetherball, horseshoes, swings. We offer hiking, mountain biking, and river shuttles as well as canoe/kayak/tube rentals and shuttles. Such trips should be reserved in advance by messaging us or visiting our website. Our office sells firewood for $5/bundle. We also have a small array of custom woodwork items from our woodshop, freeze dried snacks and hiking restocks, food from local vendors, and souvenirs! All primitive sites have a picnic table, fire ring, and campfire grill grate. Electric sites are 30 amp, if using for tent camping you will need a 3-prong converter (we can rent one to you for $5 if you do not have your own). RV/Camper MAXIMUM length is 28 feet. Tipi rental is a camping experience only; it does not have electricity, a/c or heat. There are solar lights inside. We do have a Queen Sized outdoor bed and bedding available to add to rental for $10/night. Bunkhouse is a camping experience - bring your own bedding. A/C, heat, electricity, TV & DVDs, Microwave, and Mini fridge are inside. Guests use campground restrooms Campground restrooms and showers are a short walk from campgrounds. We are pet-friendly. Dogs must be leashed at all times that they are not in a tent or camper and friendly with other dogs and people. There is a working dog on the property-he is friendly with all people and dogs.

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Southwinds on the Arkansas River

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Atkins, AR

Located on the Arkansas River and just minutes from Interstate 40 in Atkins, this RV/camping site backs right up to a gorgeous view of the Arkansas River and Petit Jean mountain. Water and electricity are located at each site! Just minutes away you have boat access to the Arkansas River at Sweeden Island Park AND Lake Atkins through the Lucky Landing launch site. This site is a sportsman's paradise as it is also conveniently located to the Galla Creek Wildlife Management Area, also just minutes away. Also, we are located right across the river from Petit Jean State Park and a few minutes from quaint downtown Atkins. Whether you're looking for great fishing and hunting or a peaceful respite from the world with a million-dollar view, this is the site for you! The 10 acres are open to explore and include three RV/campsites with water at each location and a gorgeous gully that empties into the Arkansas River. When the river is at a normal level a rock shelf lines the entire length of the river to make fishing and sunbathing, a breeze! If you want to venture out a bit, may we recommend the many offerings of Mount Nebo, Petit Jean Mountain, Mount Magazine, Altus, Russelville, and Conway; all located within 30 minutes to an hour from the campgrounds. While swimming in the river is not advisable, here are some swimming holes you and your family might check out while staying with us: -Atkins City Pool (has a day rate) -Lake Dardanelle -Illinois Bayou -Old Iron Bridge Swimming Hole -Long Pool Bayou -Falling Water Falls

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Spa City HipCamp Now

5 sites · RVs5 acres · Hot Springs National Park, AR

Welcome to Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas! Are you looking for a convenient space to rest your RV, motor home or tent for a night or two? You’ve come to the right place 😊. Let my space be your space! Welcome to my beautiful oasis with 5 acre blessed with trees, pond and creek. Conveniently located just right outside city limits. Close to everything yet secluded enough to have privacy , peace and quite. It has green grass most of the year with lots of lightning bugs at night, abundant wildlife: deers, bunnies, possums, raccoons and squirrels 😁. Very well spaced out mature trees that provides shade and fresh air. Well house for water supply in property as well but no hookups of any kind in place at the moment. Also has concrete custom made swimming hole that freshly feeds off the pond and streams but may be dry right now due to extreme heat and no rain in forecast. My space is suited best for well prepared campers as I don’t offer any amenities on site at this time. Land is close to everything Hot Springs, Arkansas has to offer. 1.3 miles away from Magic Springs 2.5 miles from Gulpha Gorge 4.9 miles from Oaklawn Racing & Gaming 6.1 miles from Hot Springs mall 3.6 miles from historic downtown Hot Springs and Arlington Hotel.

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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.

The best camping near Hot Springs National Park guide

Overview

About

Arkansas’ Hot Springs National Park is the only to have bathhouses as its focal point. However, Historic Bathhouse Row isn’t home to your typical bathhouses; instead, these unique structures have a fascinating story to tell of mineral waters and magic cures from the late 1800s. Explore the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center to see what visitors would have experienced at the height of the grandeur. Or partake in the traditions; the Buckstaff Bathhouse offers a full spa treatment utilizing the thermal waters that give this Arkansas town its name. After soaking in relaxation, head to Hot Springs Mountains for epic views and hiking trails.

Notable campgrounds

Best classic national park camping: Gulpha Gorge Campground, operated by the NPS, offers tent sites and RV sites with full hookups.
Best for lake lovers: Lake Catherine State Park has waterfront campsites.
Best for relaxation: Lake Ouachita State Park is further outside of town, offering scenic lakefront campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

All campsites at the Gulpha Gorge Campground are full hookups, offering 30 or 50 amp electric, water, and sewer.
Reservations for Gulpha Gorge Campground open 6 months in advance and may be booked online through the Recreation.gov website.
Arkansas State Parks offer reservations up to 12 months in advance.
Arkansas State Parks may require 2-night stays for weeks and 3-night stays for holidays.

When to go

Spring is a popular time to visit Hot Springs National Park, as the wildflowers bloom and the weather warms. The thoroughbred horse-racing season at nearby Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort brings many visitors. Through summer, the temperatures reach highs in the 90s, with high humidity. A stroll on the Grand Promenade takes you out of the sun. Through fall, the mountains alight with colorful leaves, reaching their peak in October. Due to the southern location, Hot Springs has moderate winters, allowing for year-round camping. Freezing temperatures and snowfalls are rare.

Know before you go

While flush toilets are available at Gulpha Gorge Campground, on-site showers are not.
Cell signal access may be limited in the hills and valleys in Arkansas’s Ouachita Mountains.
Lake Catherine and Lake Ouachita State Parks offer cabin rentals in addition to camping spots. Lake Catherine State Park also has yurt rentals for glamping.
Hot Springs National Park is an urban park located in the city of Hot Springs.
Several lakes around Hot Springs are hotspots for kayaking, boating, and other watersports. The nearby Caddo River also offers fishing and kayaking.
Dispersed camping may be found in the greater Ouachita National Forest.
The thermal springs are not open for swimming, but various locations have water access or offer spa treatments using the mineral waters.