How much does camping cost at Merrisach Lake?

Camping fees at Merrisach Lake range from $16-$75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Merrisach Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

Merrisach Lake 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 Merrisach Lake before I book?

Yes! Merrisach Lake has 8 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 Merrisach Lake?

Merrisach Lake is open January 01 to December 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 Merrisach Lake?

Yes, Merrisach Lake has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Merrisach Lake have?

Merrisach Lake has 75 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Merrisach Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at Merrisach Lake. 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 Merrisach Lake?

Merrisach Lake 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 Merrisach Lake?

Popular activities at Merrisach Lake include Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Merrisach Lake

Q: Can I have a campfire at Merrisach Lake?

Fire policies at Merrisach Lake: 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.

4.28

328 reviews

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

Top 6% in ARFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping Arkansas

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

174 ft

Price

$16 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

75 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

174 ft

Price

$16 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

75 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Merrisach Lake

$16.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

D-STANDARD ELECTRIC: $26.00; GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $75.00; GROUP SHELTER NONELECTRIC: $75.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC-73058: $26.00; STANDARD...

Group Site Fee$75.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

870-548-2291

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

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

Merrisach Lake

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

Nearby places

DeWitt, AR - 18.4 miles

Stuttgart, AR - approximately 35 miles

Pine Bluff, AR - approximately 50 miles

Weather at Merrisach Lake

Current alerts(8)

Alligators are native residents in Merrisach Lake. Please do not feed the alligators.
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
Campground is open year-round
No Swimming, Wading, or Diving allowed in Merrisach Lake

Best Time to Camp at Merrisach Lake

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable weather and the highest wildlife payoff — crisp, lower-humidity days (daytime highs generally 55–75°F, nights 35–50°F) and especially strong bird migration along the Mississippi Flyway in October–November. Water levels often calm after summer storms, making boating and early-morning fishing excellent, while mosquitoes and biting insects drop off and trails are much more pleasant for wildlife viewing. Expect moderate crowds on holiday weekends but generally quiet, Peak months: October, November, March, April Avoid: July, August

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in AR

Fall is best: pleasant temps, thinning mosquitoes and peak bird migration on the Flyway.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Merrisach Lake

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.

The campground offers a variety of site types, including standard electric, standard nonelectric, and group shelters. Sites accommodate both RV and tent camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable weather and the highest wildlife payoff — crisp, lower-humidity days (daytime highs generally 55–75°F, nights 35–50°F) and especially strong bird migration along the Mississippi Flyway in October–November. Water levels often calm after summer storms, making boating and early-morning fishing excellent, while mosquitoes and biting insects drop off and trails are much more pleasant for wildlife viewing. Expect moderate crowds on holiday weekends but generally quiet, Peak months: October, November, March, April Avoid: July, August

Elevation174 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a slice of bottomland hardwood forest where Merrisach Lake meets the Arkansas Post Canal. The Wilbur D. Mills Pool spreads 10,600 acres of water across 96 miles of shoreline, creating a wetland maze that draws waterfowl, songbirds, and butterflies year-round. Elevation sits at 174 feet. The forest canopy provides shade over much of the camping area, and some sites back directly onto the lake.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges at the campground. Accommodations are limited to campsites and group shelters.

Programs & ActivitiesNo specific cultural or educational programs were mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights during a visit and 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 people per site, though exact numbers are not specified.

Groups

Two large group picnic shelters are available, accommodating up to 75 guests each.

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 through Recreation.gov online or via their app.

AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible drinking water, flush toilets, and parking. However, clarity on other features such as ADA compliance for trails or shelters is absent.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with some accommodating large RVs (e.g., a 42' camper and trailer, according to Marissa C).

PrivacySites offer a mix of privacy levels. Reviews highlight that some sites feel secluded, such as April H’s comment: 'Some sites are away from others to give privacy.

Total Campsites75 campsites

Recommended SitesSites in D-Loop are recommended for RVs, and some reviewers emphasize the importance of bringing long water hoses as hookups can be far from camping pads.

Best CampsitesSection D gets the most praise in reviews. Sites there have covered picnic tables, good spacing, and some back directly onto the lake. Users recommend Section D for proximity to water and the upgraded amenities.

Need help booking Merrisach Lake?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Merrisach Lake Campground offers a variety of amenities designed to enhance the outdoor experience. Campsites are spacious, some positioned directly by the lake with electric and water hookups available at most sites. Additional facilities include hot showers, a dump station, a boat ramp, and two large group picnic shelters accommodating up to 75 guests each. Accessible parking and drinking water are noted. "The playground was decent for kids" as per user reviews, though it has reportedly been closed at times due to storm damage. Trash disposal is limited to a few dumpsters, and some concerns about cleanliness and litter were highlighted in user comments.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Merrisach Lake Campground offers a wide range of activities, including fishing, birding, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Mississippi Flyway adds a unique opportunity for bird watchers, while the location supports hunting and picnicking.

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

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 & RecyclingTrash facilities are limited to a few dumpsters, some of which lack lids, as noted in user reviews. Recycling options are not mentioned.

Cell CoverageSome reviews commented on cell service availability. Carolyn L mentioned, 'Starlink works in campsites D-9 and A-9, among others.' However, there’s no general confirmation about the reliability of traditional cellular services.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

328 reviews

Satisfactory

Merrisach Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight a peaceful, scenic setting with spacious sites and good fishing opportunities. Common complaints include issues with site maintenance, restroom cleanliness, and mosquitoes.

Review Summaries

Based on 328 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include 'peaceful and tranquil' surroundings (Jenny W), clean and spacious campsites (Jon F), and friendly and helpful staff (Lindsay A). The wildlife and birding opportunities are...

Based on 328 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised by users include 'motorboat noise' (Floyd B), 'mosquitoes are awful after dark' (Ronald W), and poorly maintained restrooms (Candy S).

Based on 328 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site D-10 is noted for its scenic views but has drainage issues after rain. Sites in Loop D are described as waterside and popular, while Loops A and B reportedly need better maintenance.

Based on 328 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing bug spray, as mosquitoes are a common complaint. Some advise caution when backing into sites, especially for large RVs. Supplies should be brought in advance due to the...

Based on 328 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is quieter during winter months, as noted by Tom G. Mosquitoes are less of an issue in cooler seasons, according to Crystal F. Fishing conditions may fluctuate with river levels.

Based on 328 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Great location and great cell service' (Crystal F), 'Bathrooms smelled bad' (Mallory H), 'Peaceful, clean facilities, lots of room' (Christa T).

Based on 328 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features include parking and potable water, though reviews do not provide detailed insights on broader accessibility.

Based on 328 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews addressed pet-related facilities or challenges.

Based on 328 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want riverside camping with solid amenities and prime migratory bird watching during autumn months.

Skip if

You need consistently maintained facilities or a quiet setting away from motorboat traffic.

Nearby Campgrounds

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

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.

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

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

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Merrisach Lake

About Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool

Context for the broader area surrounding Merrisach Lake, 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.