Just outside of the small town of New Hope I stumbled upon one of the best finds I never knew existed. During a month long trip from Texas to Washington DC filled with camping and exploring, I happened upon this site when I took a turn onto the highway in my attempt to go the winding path toward Lake Degray. About an hour shy of the lake I crossed what I thought was a river (actually a part of Lake Greeson) and found a quick turn out, that had I not been paying attention would have missed entirely.
While tucked away and hidden this Corp of Engineer site offered beautiful views of the water with semi improved campsites in two distinctively different areas. The open area was the more improved section with wide pull throughs. Though it was a little muddy in the sites themselves the road was paved and made for easy navigation around camp.
The camp was completely empty so I had the choice of the grounds to myself and selected SW6 which had a great view of the water and was entirely shaded. It was around 90 degrees when I arrived so the shade was my saving grace, even if that did mean I had to deal with a little mud in the pull in.
This campground uses an honor box system which is placed in front of the vault toilets. I had seen $8 was the cost to stay so as I prepared to take my money to the box I noticed an additional sign at the box itself saying it was half off for all those with an “America The Beautiful Pass” so for only $4 I had a perfect spot to enjoy the evening free of any worries or noise.
It was beautiful!
I went on to explore the other loop which was closed for camping but could be visited for hiking or driving trough. It looked as though it had been closed for some flooding as many of the sites here are lower. There were some amazing views of the waterline and the camp however from this area.
Just another wonderful reason to explore Arkansas. This state seems to never cease to amaze with spectacular views and locations!!
TIPS:
- Drop your location pin to your safety buddy before you get here. Cell signal with AT&T at east is kinda spotty.
- Bring a lantern to hang on your lantern pole. There are no other lights around this campsite.
- BUG SPRAY is a MUST!! There are a lot of mosquitoes because it is literally right by the water!
