RV enthusiasts with larger rigs will find Tar Camp accommodates units up to 98 feet with full electric and water hookups. This Army Corps of Engineers campground sits directly on the Arkansas River banks within Pool 5 Recreation Area, operating seasonally from March through October with nightly rates ranging from $26 to $75.
The forested sites provide direct river access where campers can watch commercial barge traffic navigate the waterway. Angela G. notes you can "watch the tug boats with their barges go by" from riverside spots. Several reviewers highlight the campground's cleanliness, with maintained restrooms and shower facilities available. The property includes standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and a dump station, plus allows pets throughout the grounds.
Fishing opportunities draw anglers to the Arkansas River access, though the Corps occasionally closes the campground during high water conditions or maintenance periods. The seasonal operation means availability concentrates in warmer months when bug spray becomes essential for comfort. Sites offer generous spacing with room for larger camping setups.
Campers seeking additional options can explore camping near Hensley or consider Saracen Trace RV Park - Pine Bluff Regional Park for year-round availability.
Description
Overview
Tar Camp Park is situated near Pool 5 Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River. The campground is known for its beauty and first-class fishing. Whether camping, fishing, boating or just relaxing in the sun, this area provides something for everyone.
Recreation
The campground is popular among fishermen. There is excellent catfish fishing in the tail-waters of Joe Hardin Lock and Dam as well as Emmitt Sanders Lock and Dam at the upstream end of Pool 3. Anglers often catch bass, crappie and bream. Hunting is available in nearby forests, and there is duck hunting on the waterways. On shore, families enjoy picnicking and using the playground.
Facilities
Tar Camp Campground offers more than 50 sites, most with electric and water hookups. Each campsite has a movable lamp post and grill, as well as campfire rings and picnic tables. Two large group picnic shelters that can each accommodate up to 60 people each can be reserved for day use. A rock climbing wall and basketball court provide additional recreation opportunities.
Natural Features
The park is in a forested area along the riverfront, close to the rolling fields of cotton farms. It is 193 feet above sea level; winters are generally mild and summer temperatures reach the upper 90s with high humidity. Red fox are frequently seen in the park, and numerous species of waterfowl live in the water and along the shores.
Nearby Attractions
Little Rock, the state capital and largest city in Arkansas, is only a short drive away and offers many amenities and cultural attractions. The nearby town of Pine Bluff is the home for the Arkansas Railroad Museum, Pine Bluff Regional Park, the Martha Mitchell Home and other points of interest, as well as shopping and groceries.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundTar Camp is located in Arkansas
Directions
From Redfield, Arkansas, take State Route 46 east to State Route 365. Turn left and go 1 block, then turn right and drive 4 miles to Tar Camp Park. Follow signs into the campground.
Address
PO BOX 7835
Pine bluff, AR 71611-7835
Coordinates
34.4497222 N
92.1125 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/4/26- VerizonNo Coverage
AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/4/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/4/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 4/4/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 37 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 21 min from Hot Springs, AR
- 2 hrs 22 min from Jonesboro, AR
