Arkansas has over 2,400 named campsites and an almost unlimited supply of forest roads where you can pull off and set up camp away from everyone. Whether you want a fire ring, a flush toilet, and a Wi-Fi signal — or you want to sleep where the nearest neighbor is a mile away — this guide covers camping and RV camping in Arkansas from every angle.
Buffalo River Camping — What You Need to Know
The Buffalo National River has 10 maintained campgrounds and unlimited dispersed camping (leave no trace). Key campgrounds: Tyler Bend, Jasper, Buffalo Point (the only riverside drive-in campground), and Steel Creek (closest to elk viewing).
Note: No reservations at most NPS campgrounds on the Buffalo. First come, first served. Peak season (spring–fall) fills by early afternoon on weekends.
RV Camping in Arkansas — Key Destinations
| Location | Amenities | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Point Campground | Full hookups, riverside sites, dump station | Families, first-time RVers |
| Tomahawk Mountain River Site | Primitive, river access | Overlanders, experienced RVers |
| Maumee Campground (Ozark NF) | Vault toilets, no hookups | Scenic drives, solitude seekers |
| Blue Mountain Lake | Electric at sites, boat ramp | Anglers, paddle sports |
| Bull Shoals Lake SP | 50-amp sites, lake views | Extended stays, water sports |
Dispersed Camping in Ozark National Forest
You can camp anywhere on Ozark-St. Francis National Forest land outside of day-use areas and posted closures. No fee, no reservation, no services. Pack out everything.
- Stay at least 100 feet from any water source
- No cutting live vegetation
- Leave the site cleaner than you found it
- Best spots: along Forest Service roads 1200–1600 in the Sylamore District, near Richland Creek
Arkansas Ozarks Camping Packing List
Essentials
- Water (2 gallons per person per day)
- First aid kit
- Fire starter
- Maps (cell service is unreliable in much of the region)
- Sun protection
- Water shoes
Nice to Have
- Hammock
- Kayak or tube
- Camp chair with arm rests
- Portable speaker
- Headlamp with red light mode
Find Your Perfect Basecamp
The Ozarks reward the prepared. Every campground on this page and hundreds more are linked from your nearest cabin rental or trailhead on OzarkRoost.
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