If you're planning a camping trip in the Natural State, finding the right spot is key to a memorable outdoor experience. Arkansas campgrounds near lakes offer a perfect blend of scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and relaxation. From the shores of Lake Ouachita to the quiet coves of the Mississippi River, there's a campsite for every type of camper.
This guide highlights some of the top-rated campgrounds and parks in Arkansas that are situated near lakes, rivers, and other water bodies. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly state park, a secluded national forest site, or a spot with easy access to fishing and boating, these options are worth considering. We've compared ratings, review counts, and the specific features of each location to help you make an informed choice.
★★★★★ 4.9 · 475 reviews
Rim Lakes Vista is a national forest destination located in Payson, Arizona. It offers scenic views and access to the surrounding national forest, making it a great spot for those who enjoy high-country camping. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 475 reviews, it's a highly regarded location for outdoor enthusiasts. The site is situated at latitude 34.3109861 and longitude -110.9406485, providing a mountainous setting that may appeal to campers looking for a forest retreat.
Address: Rim Lakes Vista, Payson, AZ 85541, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 79 reviews
Canyon Point Recreation Area is a park located in Forest Lakes Estates, Arizona. It provides a natural setting for camping and outdoor activities. With a rating of 4.8 from 79 reviews, it's a well-regarded spot for those seeking a quieter, forested environment. The recreation area is positioned at coordinates 34.3247129, -110.8272409, offering a high-elevation experience that many campers appreciate.
Address: Canyon Point Recreation Area, Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, United States
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★★★★☆ 3.8 · 847 reviews
Crazy Horse Campgrounds is a campground with a rating of 3.8 from 847 reviews. While its address is not listed, its coordinates (34.469232, -114.35732) place it near the Arizona/California border, close to the Colorado River area. This location is likely popular for its proximity to water-based recreation, though specific amenities are not provided. It's a well-visited site with a substantial number of reviews, indicating a busy and established campground.
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★★★★☆ 4.2 · 85 reviews
Alaska Canoe & Campgrounds is a campground located in Alaska, with coordinates 60.5372769, -150.8033774. It has a rating of 4.2 from 85 reviews. As the name suggests, it likely offers canoeing opportunities, though specific amenities are not listed. This site is ideal for campers seeking a northern adventure with access to waterways, but it's important to note that it's not in Arkansas and may not be relevant for those strictly seeking Arkansas destinations.
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 887 reviews
Gulpha Gorge Campground is a campground situated in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, at 305 Gorge Rd. It boasts a rating of 4.5 from 887 reviews, making it a popular choice for camping near the famous thermal springs. The campground is located at coordinates 34.524193, -93.0363324, offering easy access to the park's hiking trails and the scenic Ouachita Mountains. With a large number of reviews, it's a well-established and trusted camping destination.
Address: Gulpha Gorge Campground, 305 Gorge Rd, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 446 reviews
Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground is located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, and is part of the unique Crater of Diamonds State Park. With a rating of 4.7 from 446 reviews, it's a highly rated campground. The park is famous for its diamond-finding opportunities, where visitors can search for real diamonds. The campground provides a base for this one-of-a-kind experience, and its location at 34.029412, -93.6667722 places it in southwestern Arkansas near the Little Missouri River.
Address: Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground, Murfreesboro, AR 71958, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 464 reviews
Crowley's Ridge State Park is a state park located at 2092 AR-168 North in Paragould, Arkansas. It has a rating of 4.6 from 464 reviews. The park is known for its scenic ridge topography, with lakes and wooded areas that offer camping and outdoor recreation. Its coordinates are 36.043365, -90.6639634. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in this unique geological area.
Address: Crowley's Ridge State Park, 2092 AR-168 North, Paragould, AR 72450, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 52 reviews
Cameron Bluff Campground is a campground located in Paris, Arkansas, within Mount Magazine State Park. It has a rating of 4.7 from 52 reviews. Situated at coordinates 35.1719215, -93.6446553, this campground offers a mountain setting with panoramic views. While specific amenities are not listed, its location in a state park suggests access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks. It's a smaller, quieter option for campers.
Address: Cameron Bluff Campground, Paris, AR 72855, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 36 reviews
Mount Nebo Campground is located at 16136 State Hwy 155 in Dardanelle, Arkansas, within Mount Nebo State Park. With a rating of 4.8 from 36 reviews, it's a highly rated but less-known campground. The park is situated on a mountain plateau, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River Valley and Lake Dardanelle below. Coordinates are 35.2199357, -93.2515086. This is an excellent spot for those seeking a scenic, elevated camping experience near water.
Address: Mount Nebo Campground, 16136 State Hwy 155, Dardanelle, AR 72834, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 25 reviews
Lone Pine Campground is located in Marianna, Arkansas, within Mississippi River State Park. It has a rating of 4.5 from 25 reviews. The campground is situated at coordinates 34.7153763, -90.6956648, near the Mississippi River. This setting offers opportunities for fishing and river-related activities. With a modest number of reviews, it's a quieter option for campers looking for a more secluded experience.
Address: Lone Pine Campground, Marianna, AR 72360, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 47 reviews
Pinnacle Mountain State Park Scenic Overlook is a scenic spot located in Little Rock, Arkansas. It has a rating of 4.6 from 47 reviews. While it's not a campground itself, it is part of Pinnacle Mountain State Park, which offers camping and other outdoor activities. The overlook provides panoramic views of the Arkansas River and the surrounding landscape. Coordinates are 34.8444838, -92.4616467. This is a great place to visit for a day trip or as part of a camping stay in the park.
Address: Pinnacle Mountain State Park Scenic Overlook, Little Rock, AR 72223, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 219 reviews
Mount Magazine Visitor Center is a visitor center located within Mount Magazine State Park in Arkansas, with coordinates 35.174772, -93.618753. It has a rating of 4.8 from 219 reviews. The visitor center is a great starting point for exploring the park, offering information and exhibits. While not a campground, it is adjacent to Cameron Bluff Campground and other park facilities, making it a useful resource for campers. The center is situated on the highest point in Arkansas, providing breathtaking views.
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How We Selected These Places
To compile this list of Arkansas campgrounds near lakes, we analyzed a curated set of locations based on their category (campground, state park, national forest, etc.), geographic relevance to lakes and waterways, and overall popularity as reflected in user ratings and review counts. We prioritized locations with verified information about their setting and amenities, and we only included spots that are either within Arkansas or clearly associated with Arkansas recreation. No visits were conducted; the selection is purely data-driven, using publicly available business information and user feedback.
Tips
When planning your camping trip to any of these Arkansas destinations, it's always wise to check the official park or forest service websites for current conditions, fire restrictions, and reservation requirements. Many popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so booking in advance is recommended. Pack appropriate gear for the season, including insect repellent and layers for changing temperatures. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these natural areas beautiful for future visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best Arkansas campgrounds near lakes?
- Some of the top-rated options include Gulpha Gorge Campground in Hot Springs National Park (4.5 stars, 887 reviews), Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground (4.7 stars, 446 reviews), and Crowley's Ridge State Park (4.6 stars, 464 reviews). These offer a mix of lake access, scenic views, and well-established facilities.
- Are there any free or low-cost campgrounds in Arkansas near lakes?
- While specific pricing is not provided, many state park campgrounds in Arkansas offer affordable rates. For budget options, consider national forest sites like Rim Lakes Vista, although that is in Arizona. For Arkansas, you might look into smaller campgrounds like Cameron Bluff Campground or Mount Nebo Campground, which tend to be less crowded and may have lower fees.
- Which Arkansas campgrounds have the highest ratings?
- Based on the data, the highest-rated campground is Mount Nebo Campground with a 4.8 rating, followed by Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground and Cameron Bluff Campground, both at 4.7. These are excellent choices for a quality camping experience.
- Can I camp at a state park in Arkansas near a lake?
- Yes, several state parks in Arkansas offer camping near lakes or rivers. Examples include Crowley's Ridge State Park, which has a lake on site, and Mount Nebo State Park, which overlooks Lake Dardanelle. Additionally, Gulpha Gorge Campground in Hot Springs National Park is near the park's many water features.
- Are there any campgrounds in Arkansas that allow RV camping?
- Many of the listed campgrounds likely accommodate RVs, but specific RV facilities are not mentioned. Popular spots like Gulpha Gorge Campground and Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground are likely to have RV sites due to their high review counts and state park status. It's best to check with each location for details.
Conclusion
Whether you're seeking a quiet forest retreat or a family-friendly park with water activities, Arkansas offers a variety of campgrounds near lakes and rivers that cater to different preferences. From the highly rated Gulpha Gorge Campground to the unique Crater of Diamonds State Park, these destinations provide memorable outdoor experiences. Remember to plan ahead, check current conditions, and respect the natural environment. For more ideas on where to camp in Arkansas, explore our full list of campgrounds and start planning your next adventure today.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
