Campgrounds near St. Paul, Arkansas feature a mix of established sites and dispersed camping opportunities within the Ozark National Forest. Facilities like White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and Byrd's Adventure Center provide tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals with varying levels of amenities. Morgan Mountain Road offers free dispersed camping with mountain views and proximity to hiking trails. Several locations, including Devil's Den State Park and Mulberry Mountain Lodging, accommodate both primitive tent camping and RVs with electric hookups. The surrounding forest land contains numerous dispersed sites for those seeking more remote experiences without facilities.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with some dispersed camping areas requiring careful navigation on gravel forest roads. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though weather can impact accessibility during winter months. The Morgan Mountain Road dispersed site provides scenic overlooks but may require caution after heavy rains. Some areas have limited or no cellular coverage, especially in more remote locations. Permits are not typically required for dispersed camping in the Ozark National Forest, but stay limits apply. "GPS brought us directly to the site. The gravel road has some ruts but if you take your time small SUVs can make it fine. Beautiful overlook and clean campsite," noted one visitor about the Morgan Mountain Road area.
Campgrounds along waterways receive particularly positive reviews, with Riverfield Acreage on the White River earning high ratings for its secluded setting. One camper mentioned "amazing secluded location. Kids loved having the rock bed and river right beside us." For those seeking amenities, established sites like Mulberry Mountain provide clean bathroom facilities and showers, with several reviewers noting the cleanliness of these facilities. Areas near Mulberry Mountain appeal to ATV enthusiasts with direct trail access. Visitors frequently mention the scenic mountain views throughout the region, particularly at higher elevation sites like White Rock Mountain and Spy Rock. The area generally provides a good balance of developed campgrounds with amenities and more remote primitive camping options for those seeking solitude.
$15 - $215 / night
"Located beyond a perfectly canopied gravel road and surrounded by miles of mostly uninhabited forests White Rock Mountain has been the most delightful treasure of 2016."
"The views, as other reviewers have said, are impressive and the Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season."
$10 - $22 / night
"Camped near the river and had a wonderful time exploring the off-road trails near the area."
"This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly"
$20 / night
"Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The primary campground for RVs is one of the better campgrounds I have seen. The facilities and amenities have been great. "
"The trails are great and our campsite had a path right down to the river. The water hookup was a bit tricky, it leaks all over the place until you turn it all the way."
"Access to Spy Rock trail, but the vast amount of cobwebs made it seem like it’s not used much."
"Drinking water is available at spigots near the swimming hole. There is a downside here, though, and it's a big one: horseflies."
"A downed tree blocks part of the view, but still has a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountains."
"There are walking trails, with Spy Rock a short distance away."
$30 - $100 / night
"Near the Mulberry River and White Rock recreation area, the facility is an off road enthusiasts playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility."
"It's a great escape for off-roading and overloading. Be sure to stop by the Oark Cafe in Oark, Arkansas, which is a 25-minute drive from the campground."
$23 - $163 / night
"Lake Ft. Smith State Park is a beautiful park in the Boston Mountains. We drove over from Memphis to meet my brother’s family (who lives in Tulsa)."
"This is a nice modern park on the shore of the man made Lake Fort Smith."
$27 - $30 / night
"Less than a minute from the Kings River Falls Trail-head, and nestled alongside the headwaters of the Kings River in Venus Arkansas."
"It is one of the most beautiful spots in Arkansas. Highly recommend."
$30 - $100 / night
"Amazing secluded location. Kids loved having the rock bed and river right beside us. Perfect float trip back to our camp ground (free of charge to have them drop us off at a put in location."
$30 / night
"This campground is located along a great motorcycle route in the Ozarks. My friend and I were on a motorcycle camping trip and stayed here with our tents."
LegendWe were here the first weekend in April and the ticks were THICK. The spaces were great, lots of privacy and well maintained sites. There’s only 30 sites. I wish there was WiFi for people we have a starlink but it’s nice to have WiFi just in case.
ScoutI love the area we stayed at. Right by the water, surrounded by nature, not a lot of traffic. Felt unplugged from the hectic daily life, and connected to nature. But, the specific site we had booked was absolutely covered in trash. Like 3 full bags of trash that had been ripped open by animals. A lot of the trash was food, which caused flies. We ended up just moving to the furthest campsite away from the original site. It was obviously the previous campers fault, but I just wanted to put this out there so that 1.) the trash problem can be addressed and 2.) we wouldn’t be blamed for the massive mess. There was another set of campers there at a different site, and they noticed the problem also. Overall a really cool place, just wish people didn’t trash the spot.
ScoutOutdoor showers, large sites, many some tree cover, free firewood, very accommodating host. Communal fire pit or your site. A bit farther out but good availability. Pets allowed, not always so at closer in campgrounds.
ScoutThis is a great free campground. No bathrooms, no hook ups, you must be self contained, or bring a bucket 😂. Anyway pack out what you pack in. There is a boat ramp, fishing, you can pull an RV in here right next to your camp spot. There are fire rings and hiking trails. Off leash for dogs that are voice command and friendly. A great place to relax, fish, boat and probably swim, when it warms up.
LegendWe took advantage of the 75 degree weather at the end of February to enjoy Mount Magazine. What a beautiful campground! All spaces have LOTS of room between them, it’s quiet, bathrooms are new and clean. A fantastic view of the region within a short walking distance. Lots and lots of hiking. 100% would visit again. I would probably stay in site 9, 15, or 17 if I had the choice again but none of the sites are bad. Full hookups.
GuideMount Magazine is absolutely gorgeous! Camping was great, bathrooms are kept very clean, campground had great sites that gave you lots of space and privacy.
ScoutOne of the best campgrounds I've stayed at. No RVs but they have about six van/truck spaces and then lots of tent platforms- just bring plenty of guy lines/ropes/string or whatever as pegs are no use. Beautiful place and all facilities are super nice.
TravelerMy go to spot at a no wake lake. Small with a handfull of hook up spot and a dozen + primitive spots
RangerA simple but very pretty campsite and worth the night if you have an extra night on ur trip and is also the starting point for the most dangerous hike in Arkansas so if your up to it you should definitely give it a go
Campgrounds near St. Paul, Arkansas provide access to the Boston Mountains subsection of the Ozarks, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer highs averaging 85-90°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most camping areas sit on rugged terrain characterized by sandstone formations, with the majority of sites requiring at least moderate clearance vehicles.
Hiking to rock formations: The Spy Rock trail offers a moderate hike with significant geological rewards. "We saw a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock. Only time in 40+ years I've seen a bear in the wild in Arkansas, and I grew up in the country!" notes a visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
River activities: The Mulberry River provides opportunities for kayaking, floating, and fishing throughout much of the year. "Near the Mulberry River and White Rock recreation area, the facility is an off road enthusiast's playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility," mentions a camper at Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events.
Explore caves: The region features numerous small caves and rock shelters. "This is a nice spot I stopped for one night on my first trip out to explore the Ozarks... The cliffs are cool though, and it's a beautiful area," reports a visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Fire rings with views: Many dispersed camping areas offer established fire rings positioned for sunset viewing. "We love Lake Fort Smith State Park. Lots of places to hike and explore, beautiful lake, and very nice camp sites. Peaceful!! One of our most favorite places to camp," shares a reviewer at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground.
Clean bathroom facilities: Several established campgrounds maintain high standards for facilities. "The bathroom/shower requires a passcode to enter and is always clean to use. It's a great escape for off-roading and overloading," notes a camper at Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events.
Star visibility: Limited light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing at campgrounds. "Saw more stars than I have seen, ever. No WiFi or service so we got to completely relax and enjoy nature!" remarks a visitor to Riverfield Acreage- White River.
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many roads require careful navigation, especially after rain. "The drive up to this campsite was a slight challenge. I would recommend an SUV or other tall vehicle with 4 wheel drive. The twisty, steep, narrow dirt road makes for quite an adventure," warns a camper at White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Seasonal closures: Weather impacts accessibility to certain areas. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" advises a visitor to Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Wildlife preparations: Bears and insects require proper preparation. "One warning on the cabins though - in summer be prepared for some bugs. I would have been wise to get there a couple hours earlier and let her relax while I cleaned the place thoroughly," suggests a camper at White Rock Mountain.
Swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer safe swimming options. "The river runs right through the property. There are a ton of trails to explore. They have a store and restaurant on site," shares a camper at Byrd's Adventure Center.
Playground access: Some sites feature play areas for children. "There is a playground for kids and several cabins as well. The only downside to this location was the road noise. Thankfully, it calmed down after dark," reports a visitor to Serenity Campground.
Swimming alternatives: When rivers run too high, look for established pools. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" mentions a camper at Devil's Den State Park.
Site leveling: Many sites require significant leveling equipment. "Sites 1-4 are well spaced and have large tent pads. Sites 5-8 are smaller with smaller tent pads and the view from these sites is AMAZING! Just know that with the view comes the wind and less space to stretch out," advises a visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Lake Ft. Smith State Park is a beautiful park in the Boston Mountains. Sites 1-20 have full hook-ups with sewer. The bathhouse was clean and fully functioning," notes a camper at Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Site selection for stability: Choose sites with appropriate drainage and firm surfaces. "Some of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous," warns an RVer at Lake Fort Smith State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near St. Paul, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, St. Paul, AR offers a wide range of camping options, with 207 campgrounds and RV parks near St. Paul, AR and 21 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near St. Paul, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near St. Paul, AR is White Rock Mountain Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near St. Paul, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near St. Paul, AR.
What parks are near St. Paul, AR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 parks near St. Paul, AR that allow camping, notably Ozark Lake and Lake Dardanelle.
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