How much does camping cost at Ozark Campground?

Camping fees at Ozark Campground are $20 - $25/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Ozark Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Ozark Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at Ozark Campground before I book?

Yes! Ozark Campground has 17 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.

What is the best time to visit Ozark Campground?

Ozark Campground is open March 13 to November 15. 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 Ozark Campground?

Ozark Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Ozark Campground?

Fire policies at Ozark Campground: Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Ozark Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Ozark Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Ozark Campground?

Ozark Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Ozark Campground?

Popular activities at Ozark Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Ozark Campground

4.12

165 reviews

Ozark Campground

Top 6% in ARSpring

Seasonal ranking by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

906 ft

Price

$20 - $25/night

Booking

Check Site

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Elevation by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Quick Facts

906 ft

Price

$20 - $25/night

Booking

Check Site

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Elevation by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Ozark Campground

$20.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP SHELTER ELECTRIC: $25.00; Standard Nonelectric: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

870-861-2570 (STEEL CREEK RANGER STATION)

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Ozark Campground

36.0621, -93.1597

Nearby places

Harrison — approximately 13 miles (21 km)

Jasper — nearby (distance not specified)

Weather at Ozark Campground

Current alerts(6)

All park trails are closed to pets with the exception of the Buffalo River Trail, only on the section of trail between Ponca and Steel Creek , the Villines Homestead Trail at Ponca, the Mill Creek Trail, the Tyler Bend Campground trails (Spring Hollow, Buck Ridge, and Rock Wall…
Climbing and/or diving from the bluffs is dangerous and highly discouraged.
Do not swim alone during high water.
Please be aware that some special events held at the pavilions or anywhere in the park (such as weddings, press receptions, concerts, et al) require a Special Use Permit in addition to the pavilion reservation.

Best Time to Camp at Ozark Campground

Best season: spring. Spring is prime because higher snowmelt and seasonal rains swell the Buffalo River (typically late March through May), producing the best canoeing and kayaking conditions and dramatic riverside scenery. Daytime temperatures are usually mild (60–75°F) with cool nights (35–50°F), making hiking and riverside gatherings comfortable and mosquito pressure still moderate early in the season. Expect peak paddling activity and lively river recreation — crowds increase on weekends, so book early for the 1 Peak months: April, May, June, October Avoid: January, February

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in AR

Described as best season: snowmelt/rains swell the river producing top canoeing/kayaking conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 13 to November 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

About Ozark Campground

Ozark Campground sits on the Buffalo River near Jasper, offering well-spaced campsites with electric hookups, flush toilets, and potable water. Campers consistently praise the peaceful setting, clean facilities, and easy river access for swimming, fishing, and paddling. All sites are first come, first served.

The feature described is a covered pavilion within the Ozark Campground along the Buffalo River, providing a large sheltered picnic area (seating up to 100). Specific campsite types (tent, RV, primitive, group sites, cabins, glamping) are not detailed in the source material.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: spring. Spring is prime because higher snowmelt and seasonal rains swell the Buffalo River (typically late March through May), producing the best canoeing and kayaking conditions and dramatic riverside scenery. Daytime temperatures are usually mild (60–75°F) with cool nights (35–50°F), making hiking and riverside gatherings comfortable and mosquito pressure still moderate early in the season. Expect peak paddling activity and lively river recreation — crowds increase on weekends, so book early for the 1 Peak months: April, May, June, October Avoid: January, February

Elevation906 ft above sea level

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a riverside setting at 906 feet elevation in the Arkansas Ozarks. Soft sandy beaches line the Buffalo River, which flows past limestone bluffs draped in hardwood forest. The river carves through valleys and ridges, creating dramatic scenery that shifts around every bend. Swimming holes, cliff-jumping spots, and calm stretches for wading attract families throughout the warmer months.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov (see Rules and Reservation Policies: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies)

Recommended SitesBring your own grill (electricity is available but a personal grill is recommended). The Buffalo River Trailhead is adjacent to the pavilion for hiking/backpacking access.

Amenities available

flush restrooms and water spigots are available from approximately March 15 through November 14 each year. Water and electricity will be turned off approximately November 15th to March 15th each year.

Potable water

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Ozark Campground

A range of river-based recreation is available at the Buffalo River adjacent to the pavilion, and a long-distance hiking trail begins next to the site.

Swimming4.5/5Top 4% in Arkansas

Hiking4.0/5

Buffalo River Trailhead is next to the pavilion (36.5 mi trail starts adjacent).

Fishing4.0/5

Boating4.0/5

River boating (canoeing, kayaking, tubing) available with easy river access from campground.

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayaking and canoeing on the Buffalo River are listed among key river activities.

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Quiet, no cell service and remote riverside setting imply good night skies (not explicitly stated).

Photography4.5/5Dramatic bluffs, meandering river bends and sandy beaches create strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

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.

Good to know

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, and timing, compiled by Outdoorithm from public reviews and operator information.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

165 reviews

Satisfactory

Ozark Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, describing Ozark Campground as a beautiful, well-kept, and peaceful place on the Buffalo River. Campers highlight its natural scenery, river access, and family‑friendly atmosphere, with many saying it’s one of their favorite places to camp or even a meaningful life event location.

Review Summaries

Based on 165 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers love the gorgeous river setting, soft sandy beaches, and opportunities for swimming, fishing, cliff jumping, kayaking/canoeing, and floating the Buffalo River. They also praise the...

Based on 165 reviews

Common Concerns

Multiple reviewers note that there is no cell service at the campground, though some view this as a positive. Another limitation mentioned is the absence of showers, even though restrooms are...

Based on 165 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Several reviewers emphasize that all sites are first come, first served, so campers should arrive early, especially on holiday weekends. One review advises booking kayak/canoe rentals in advance and...

Based on 165 reviews

Camper Quotes

“One of our favorite places to camp. No cell signal, which can be a good thing if you're looking to unplug.” “It’s a great campground on the Buffalo. The spots are well spaced out and the bathrooms...

Based on 165 reviews

Accessibility Features

One reviewer specifically mentions a “flat, no steps access” boat launch, indicating easy access to the river at that point. Another notes successfully camping with a 32 ft Class A motorhome and tow...

Based on 165 reviews