Haw Creek Falls Point Of Interest
4.5750 reviewsHaw Creek Falls Campground, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas
Haw Creek Falls Point Of Interest
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping at Haw Creek Falls is completely free with no fees for day use or camping.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Haw Creek Falls Campground offers an intimate escape into Arkansas's wild beauty. This hidden gem features approximately 10 primitive campsites nestled among towering hardwood trees, where the sound of cascading waterfalls provides nature's soundtrack. Adventure seekers will find themselves at the doorstep of the renowned Ozark Highlands Trail, while crystal-clear streams and dramatic bluffs create a natural playground just steps from camp. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and no running water or trash service, it rewards visitors with an authentic wilderness experience that feels worlds away from civilization.
Haw Creek Falls is a primitive campground with designated tent sites. It is suitable for tent camping and small vehicles, with no RV hookups or modern amenities. Group camping and cabin lodging are not officially available.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Haw Creek Falls in different colors and moods. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and perfect camping temperatures, while autumn transforms the hardwood canopy into a brilliant tapestry of golds and crimsons. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for cooling off near the waterfalls, though visitors should pack accordingly for the Southern heat. Winter occasionally dusts the landscape with snow, creating a serene wonderland for hardy campers. Throughout the year, the low-water bridge entrance serves as nature's gatekeeper—easily passable in dry conditions but potentially impassable during heavy rains when flash flooding can occur. Savvy campers check conditions before arrival and embrace the dynamic weather as part of the adventure.
ElevationElevation details for this scenic location have not been documented in available sources.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has crafted a masterpiece at Haw Creek Falls, where ancient hardwood forests create a living cathedral overhead. The campground's namesake waterfalls tumble over weathered rock faces, creating misty grottos and peaceful pools that invite exploration. Limestone bluffs rise dramatically from the forest floor, their craggy faces telling geological stories millions of years in the making. The nearby Big Piney Wild and Scenic River winds through the landscape like a liquid ribbon, while the legendary Ozark Highlands Trail weaves directly through the campground, offering endless opportunities for discovery. This convergence of water, stone, and forest creates a photographer's paradise and a hiker's dream destination.
Geological RegionHaw Creek Falls Campground sits proudly within the ancient Ozark Highlands, a geological wonderland where time has sculpted limestone and sandstone into dramatic bluffs and hidden waterfalls. This rugged plateau region showcases millions of years of Earth's history, with mountain streams carving their way through layers of sedimentary rock to create the spectacular falls and swimming holes that define the area. The mature hardwood forests that blanket these weathered hills represent one of the oldest deciduous forests in North America, creating a living museum where massive oaks and hickories stand sentinel over moss-covered boulders and spring-fed creeks.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned, though one review notes that bathrooms are handicap accessible.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as small to moderately sized, suitable for tents or small vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as semi-private, with some located near the creek and others more heavily wooded.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites close to the creek and waterfalls are praised for their views and natural ambiance.
Best CampsitesSites 6 and 7 have smaller trails nearby and are recommended for easier access to hiking.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
User reviews suggest a limited number of sites but do not specify guest limits per individual site.
Groups
No group site-specific details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutApproximately 10 sites scattered near the creek and waterfalls. User reviews describe the campground as small and compact.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations; first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is first-come, first-serve. User reviews suggest weekends fill up quickly, but weekdays are quieter.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system; camping is first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Haw Creek Falls offers a variety of recreational activities including scenic hiking, swimming, and fishing. The Ozark Highlands Trail runs through the area, and there is easy access to picturesque waterfalls and a creek that provides opportunities for relaxing and exploration.
Hiking
The Ozark Highlands Trail passes through the campground, offering hiking opportunities. Some shorter trails are accessible near campsites 6 and 7. Trails vary in length and difficulty.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the nearby creek. Specific details about fish species or fishing conditions are not provided.Swimming
The creek and waterfall area provide natural swimming opportunities. The water is described as clear, cool, and inviting, though shallow in certain areas.Wildlife viewing
Visitors report seeing diverse wildlife and hearing the sounds of waterfalls and birds, enhancing the natural experience.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground is open year-round and may offer solitude during the colder months.Water Sports
No mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- User reviews suggest some sites have grills, but many are rusted or unavailable. Firewood must be brought by campers.
Hazards
General hazardsFlash flooding is the primary hazard, as the campground is accessed by a low-water bridge. Wildlife and ticks are other notable concerns. Theft has been reported in user reviews.
Active alertsThe site is decommissioned by the Forest Service, meaning maintenance is minimal.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Big Piney Ranger District (Address: 12000 AR-27 Hector, AR 72843; Phone: (479) 284-3150). Hours: Visitor Center open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, 9:00am - 4:00pm (Closed 12:00-1:00pm). Monday, Thursday, 9:00am-4:00pm phone services only (Closed on federal holidays)
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. There are no trash or recycling services available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on a creek with picturesque waterfalls. Swimming is possible, and water sounds are heard throughout the campground.
Common complaintsUsers have reported theft, lack of security, poorly maintained toilets, and occasional overcrowding. Flash flooding remains a concern.
Campground Map
Haw Creek Falls Campground, Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas
Driving directionsFrom Hagarville, take Arkansas 123 north for 14 miles. From Pelsor, take Arkansas 123 west for 12 miles.
The campground is accessible via a low-water bridge, which can be dangerous during flash flooding. Visitors should be cautious during rainy seasons.Nearby places
Hagarville (14 miles), Pelsor (12 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel are unavailable based on provided sources. Assumed to be in nearby towns Hagarville or Pelsor.
Camper Reviews
4.6
50 reviews
Haw Creek Falls Point Of Interest is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, including its waterfalls, creek, and surrounding mature forest. Common themes include the peaceful and remote atmosphere, the lack of modern amenities, and the risks associated with flash flooding. Reviews also mention occasional maintenance issues, such as unclean vault toilets and rusted grills.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic waterfalls, clean and inviting swimming areas, and the peaceful, remote atmosphere. The campground's proximity to hiking trails and the Ozark Highlands Trail is a frequent...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of security, with reports of theft occurring when campers leave their sites. Other issues raised include unclean vault toilets at times, rusting fire grills, and...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own drinking water, as there is no potable water on-site. Packing out all trash is necessary due to the lack of trash services. Visitors are advised to monitor weather...
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Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during spring and fall due to favorable weather and the appeal of the waterfalls after rainfall. Summer can be popular for swimming, but some campers note the area gets...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Absolutely beautiful picture-perfect place to visit! Even better after rain showers.' - Shayna Kirby
2. 'Primitive camping at its finest with waterfalls and wildlife all around.' - Mitch Block
3....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 6 and 7 are noted for having smaller trails nearby. Campsites closest to the creek are praised for their scenic views and the sound of waterfalls.
Based on 50 reviewsAccessibility Features
One review notes that the bathrooms are handicap accessible, but no further accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 50 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025