How much does camping cost at Wilbur D. Mills?

Camping fees at Wilbur D. Mills range from $24/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Wilbur D. Mills first-come first-served or reservation?

Wilbur D. Mills accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Wilbur D. Mills before I book?

Yes! Wilbur D. Mills has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Wilbur D. Mills?

Wilbur D. Mills is open March 01 to October 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Wilbur D. Mills?

Yes, Wilbur D. Mills has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Wilbur D. Mills have?

Wilbur D. Mills has 21 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Wilbur D. Mills?

Yes, pets are allowed at Wilbur D. Mills. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Wilbur D. Mills?

Wilbur D. Mills offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Wilbur D. Mills?

Popular activities at Wilbur D. Mills include Hiking, Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Wilbur D. Mills

Q: Can I have a campfire at Wilbur D. Mills?

Fire policies at Wilbur D. Mills: Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.83

72 reviews

599 HIGHWAY 212 EAST, DUMAS, AR, 71639, USA

Top 13% in ARSpring

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Arkansas

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

187 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open from March 4, 2...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

187 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open from March 4, 2...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Wilbur D. Mills

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD ELECTRIC: $24.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

870-548-2291

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

599 HIGHWAY 212 EAST, DUMAS, AR, 71639, USA

Wilbur D. Mills

599 HIGHWAY 212 EAST, DUMAS, AR, 71639, USA

Nearby places

Dumas (approx. 15 miles)

Weather at Wilbur D. Mills

Current alerts(7)

A No Swimming, Wading or Diving Policy is in effect for this portion of the Arkansas River.
CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY boats and any other recreational equipment that contacts water. Dispose of unwanted bait, worms, fish parts, or other organisms into the trash and not into the environment. For more information visit https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/rec
No more than 2 tents per campsite, or 1 camper and 1 tent.
Only wood and paper products may be placed in the fire rings. All trash must be placed in dumpsters and trash cans.

Best Time to Camp at Wilbur D. Mills

Best season: spring. Spring offers the most comfortable weather (daytime highs typically 60–80°F from April–May, cooler 50–65°F in early March) and the greatest diversity of wildlife and flowers along the Arkansas River. Water levels are often moderate after winter flows, making fishing, boating in shallow channels, and shorebird watching (including viewing Least Terns from a respectful distance) especially rewarding. Crowds are generally light on weekdays with busier but manageable weekends, giving you quiet rivers Peak months: April, May, March, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 13% in AR

Spring called the 'sweet spot' (60–80°F), with active wildlife and good fishing/boating conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 01 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from March 4, 2025, to October 31, 2025.

About Wilbur D. Mills

Wilbur D. Mills sits on the Arkansas River near Dumas, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Wilbur D. Mills Pool recreation area. This small, quiet campground offers shaded sites with electric and water hookups, appealing to anglers and boaters seeking a low-key river experience. Spring brings comfortable temperatures and active wildlife along the shoreline, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize fishing access and solitude over manicured grounds.

The campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. One group site is also available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring offers the most comfortable weather (daytime highs typically 60–80°F from April–May, cooler 50–65°F in early March) and the greatest diversity of wildlife and flowers along the Arkansas River. Water levels are often moderate after winter flows, making fishing, boating in shallow channels, and shorebird watching (including viewing Least Terns from a respectful distance) especially rewarding. Crowds are generally light on weekdays with busier but manageable weekends, giving you quiet rivers Peak months: April, May, March, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation187 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryBottomland hardwood forests line the river here, creating shade over most sites. Sandbars shift with the seasons in the shallow water, and the mix of managed flow from the dam and natural river dynamics supports diverse wildlife. Federally endangered Least Terns nest on these sandbars. At 187 feet elevation, the campground occupies a transition zone where forest and river features create changing views throughout the day.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo specific cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than 2 tents per campsite, or 1 camper and 1 tent.

Groups

One designated group site is available. Details on capacity are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityOne designated Disabled Access site is available. Accessible flush toilets and showers are also featured.

Site SizeSites are described as "spacious" and "nice sized lots," with some sites featuring mature trees and shed roofs over picnic tables.

PrivacyCampsites are described as "very spaced out" and "shaded," providing privacy. However, some users noted overgrown grass as a concern.

Total Campsites21 campsites

Recommended SitesShaded sites with spacious layouts are popular. Quiet locations near the river are preferred.

Need help booking Wilbur D. Mills?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Wilbur D. Mills Campground offers a variety of amenities suitable for both short-term and extended stays. Electric and water hookups are available at all 21 campsites, with 17 sites being reservable. The campground includes hot showers, a dump station, fire rings, picnic tables, and a boat ramp.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a range of activities including hiking, fishing, hunting, birding, and boating. The area's natural features and wildlife also make it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingCampers are required to place all trash into dumpsters and trash cans, and only wood and paper products may be burned in fire rings.

Cell CoverageMixed reviews regarding cell phone service. One user noted, "No phone service at the campsite...you have to go up by the open water to get a little service," while another stated that "AT&T works pretty well."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.8

72 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Wilbur D. Mills has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, user reviews are mixed. Positive themes include the quiet atmosphere, good fishing, and privacy of campsites. Negative aspects include cleanliness issues and maintenance needs.

Review Summaries

Based on 72 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 72 reviews.

Site #11Loved
Site #11: Praised for its spaciousness and birdwatching opportunities.
Site #09Issues noted
Site #09: Mixed reviews include complaints about grass needing mowing and positive remarks about its size and layout.
Site #20Issues noted
Site #20: Noted issues with bathroom facilities.

What Campers Love

Campground praised for its quiet and peaceful setting, spacious and shaded sites, and excellent fishing opportunities.

Based on 72 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints about overgrown grass, unclean or poorly maintained restrooms and showers, and occasional issues with disruptive behavior by campers.

Based on 72 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend being cautious about leaving food out due to raccoons. Others suggest bringing enough gas and supplies as the nearest store is 15 miles away.

Based on 72 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are highlighted as ideal times for camping due to pleasant weather and active wildlife. Summer reviews indicate issues with overgrowth and very hot showers.

Based on 72 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Great fishing." 2. "Very quiet and clean." 3. "Bathrooms needed TLC." 4. "Sites are very shaded...I kept my AC at 70-75 and my RV stayed cool at night." 5. "Raccoons will raid camp if trash/food...

Based on 72 reviews

Accessibility Features

One designated Disabled Access site is available. Reviews do not provide additional details on accessibility experiences.

Based on 72 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-friendly campground with ample space between sites, allowing for pets to roam. One user appreciated not needing to leash their dog constantly.

Based on 72 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Nearby Campgrounds

Pendleton Bend sits on the Arkansas River's Wilbur D. Mills Pool near Dumas, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a seasonal campground with tent, RV, and group sites. Large, well-spaced sites offer river views and electric and water hookups, drawing anglers, boaters, and fall waterfowl enthusiasts along the Mississippi Flyway. The campground provides showers, flush toilets, a dump station, and fire rings, though maintenance of restrooms has been inconsistent.

$22.00 - $75.00 / night

148 MERRISACH LAKE LANE, TICHNOR, AR, 72166, USA

Merrisach Lake sits on the Arkansas River's Wilbur D. Mills Pool near Tichnor, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a seasonal campground with tent, RV, and group sites. The low-elevation setting along the Mississippi Flyway makes it a birding destination in fall, when migratory waterfowl and songbirds pass through in high numbers. Campers fish, boat, and watch wildlife from spacious sites with electric and water hookups, flush toilets, and showers.

$16.00 - $75.00 / night

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Notrebes Bend Park sits on the Arkansas River's Wilbur D. Mills Pool near Tichnor, offering low-elevation camping along a major waterway in the Mississippi Flyway. Operated by Notrebes Bend Park Recreation Area, this small campground provides electric and water hookups, flush toilets, and showers for tent and RV campers. Spring brings migratory bird activity and warming water temperatures that draw anglers and boaters to the river.

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Tar Camp sits on the Arkansas River near Pine Bluff, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This mid-sized campground offers electric and water hookups, showers, and a dump station at spacious, level sites along the riverfront. Boaters appreciate the direct water access, and fall brings comfortable temperatures and excellent fishing conditions.

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Campgrounds

Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool

Wilbur D. Mills

About Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool

Context for the broader area surrounding Wilbur D. Mills, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Lock no. 2 is located on the man-made Arkansas Post Canal that connects the Arkansas River with the White River. Wilber D. Mills Dam is located on the main stem of the Arkansas River. Overnight camping is available in Merrisach Lake Park near Lock No. 2, Wilbur D. Mills Park downstream from the dam, and Pendleton Bend Park upstream from the dam. World-class bass and crappie fishing is found in Pool 2. The tailwaters of the dam and Joe Hardin Dam upstream provide excellent opportunities to catch catfish. In the Arkansas area visitors can experience history at the national memorial at Arkansas Post. Here, in 1686, Henri de Tonti established the first village west of the Mississippi River. In 1819 Arkansas Post became the capital of the Arkansas Territory until the Civil War. Parks offer modern amenities such as boat launching ramps, drinking water, camping areas, picnic sites and other facilities for the convenience of all.

Directions

Wilbur D. Mills Dam is about 13 miles north of Dumas. Lock No. 2 is about 47 miles south of Stuttgart.