Rush Campground
4.7417 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Open March 15 to Nov...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Open March 15 to Nov...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Rush Campground
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $16 per night per site during fee collection periods from March 15 to November 14. No fees are charged during the winter months when...
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Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$16.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(870) 449-4311buff_information@nps.gov
What Campers Say
4.74
Top-Rated
Based on 17 reviews
92 Google reviews
Most mentioned
locationhikingwell-maintainedsites
"Rush Campground is highly rated for its peaceful, scenic environment and the range of outdoor activities available. Its proximity to the Buffalo River and historical sites adds to its appeal. Many reviewers appreciate the campground’s simplicity and the opportunity to disconnect from technology, although some note the lack of facilities like showers and running water during winter."
Fees & Passes at Rush Campground
$16/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: All sites are limited to 6 people per site.
Cancellation: Rush Campground does not accept reservations; therefore, there is no cancellation policy.
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Buffalo National River management by NPS website.
Best Time to Camp at Rush Campground
Spring awakens Rush Campground with a symphony of wildflowers and perfect camping temperatures, as dogwoods bloom and the forest floor comes alive with color. Summer transforms the Buffalo River into a natural swimming pool, offering sweet relief from the Arkansas heat and endless afternoons of riverside relaxation. When winter arrives, the campground takes on a quieter charm—water services hibernate, but the stark beauty of bare trees against limestone bluffs creates an entirely different kind of magic for the hardy souls who venture here in the cold.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: March 15 to November 14.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open March 15 to November 14 with water services and fees. Closed in winter with no fees or water services.
About Rush Campground
Nestled along the banks of the Buffalo River, Rush Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience where simplicity meets natural beauty. This intimate, first-come, first-serve hideaway features 12 thoughtfully spaced tent-only sites, each equipped with its own fire ring and picnic table for those memorable evenings under the stars. During the warmer months when fees apply, fresh drinking water flows freely, though visitors embrace the pack-in, pack-out ethos year-round, leaving only footprints in this pristine riverside sanctuary.
Rush Campground is a primitive, tent-only campground offering a back-to-basics camping experience. It is first-come, first-serve, with no reservations allowed.
Historical SignificanceRush Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of Arkansas's most fascinating ghost towns. Just a short walk away, the abandoned Rush mining settlement whispers stories of zinc boom days, when fortune seekers carved their dreams into these Ozark hills. Weathered mine entrances, crumbling foundations, and rusted relics scattered throughout the forest invite modern explorers to step back in time and imagine the bustling community that once thrived in these now-peaceful woods.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens Rush Campground with a symphony of wildflowers and perfect camping temperatures, as dogwoods bloom and the forest floor comes alive with color. Summer transforms the Buffalo River into a natural swimming pool, offering sweet relief from the Arkansas heat and endless afternoons of riverside relaxation. When winter arrives, the campground takes on a quieter charm—water services hibernate, but the stark beauty of bare trees against limestone bluffs creates an entirely different kind of magic for the hardy souls who venture here in the cold.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's riverside location provides a perfect low-country base for exploring the varying terrain of the Buffalo River valley.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to mist rising from the Buffalo River as it winds past towering limestone bluffs that have stood sentinel for millennia. The campground sits cradled between the gentle flow of one of America's first national rivers and dense hardwood forests where oak and hickory create a living canopy overhead. Morning light filters through the trees, illuminating moss-covered boulders and the occasional relic from Rush's mining past, while the distinctive karst topography of the Ozarks creates a landscape of hidden springs, small caves, and dramatic rock formations.
Geological RegionRush Campground occupies a remarkable position in the lower Buffalo National River district, where the ancient Ozark Mountains reveal their geological secrets through exposed limestone bluffs and weathered sandstone formations. This rugged karst landscape, punctuated by the scars of historic zinc mining operations, showcases millions of years of natural history alongside a century of human ambition. The surrounding forests burst with the biodiversity typical of the Ozark highlands—from towering hardwoods to delicate wildflowers that carpet the forest floor each spring.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides wheelchair-accessible vault toilets. However, no additional accessibility details were mentioned in the sources.
Sites SizeSites are suitable for tent camping only and are described as spacious enough for comfort.
Sites PrivacyReviews suggest that campsites are well-spaced, offering a good level of privacy from other campers.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the Buffalo River for optimal views. Sites further from the entrance may offer more privacy.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No official check-in time specified.
Check-out
No official check-out time specified.
Stay Limit
All sites are limited to 6 people per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread out for privacy, with no close proximity to other campers, as mentioned in reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 15 to November 14 with water services and fees. Closed in winter with no fees or water services.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for Rush Campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve, with no reservable inventory.
Cancellation PolicyRush Campground does not accept reservations; therefore, there is no cancellation policy.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Rush Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its location by the Buffalo River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, and exploring historical sites such as an abandoned mining town. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with eagles and other species frequently spotted.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible from the campground, leading to caves, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Trails cater to a range of difficulty levels, from easy riverbank walks to more strenuous routes.Fishing
Fishing in the Buffalo River is a popular activity, with crystal-clear waters that provide opportunities to catch a variety of fish species.Swimming
Designated swimming areas in the Buffalo River offer a refreshing experience, especially during warmer months. Safety measures are not explicitly mentioned.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are highly popular, with easy river access directly from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently report sightings of eagles and other wildlife, making the campground an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts.Winter Activities
Winter camping is available for free, though specific winter activities like snowshoeing or ice fishing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are prominent activities here.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are Information about quiet hours is not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors should prepare for wildlife (including insects), river hazards during high water events, and possible limited accessibility due to unpaved roads.
Weather at Rush Campground
46
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible by contacting local authorities in St. Joe. The nearest hospital and police station are likely located in this town.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 to November 14.
Trash and recyclingThis is a pack-in/pack-out facility, meaning there are no trash or recycling services available. Campers must take all their waste with them.
Proximity to water featuresBuffalo River runs alongside the campground, offering access to swimming, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsReviews mention water service issues during specific periods and limited campsite availability during peak times.
HostMentioned in reviews, Rangers periodically check the campground.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Yellville the turnoff to the Rush Campground is approximately 12 miles south on Highway 14. Turn onto County Road 6035 and follow the road approximately 4 miles to the Rush Town area. Past the Rush town about 1 mile the road forks. Bear to the right and the campground will be at the end of the road.
The road to the campground includes County Road 6035 which is unpaved and may be challenging for some vehicles. The campground is better accessed during dry conditions and may not be accessible during certain weather events.Nearby places
Yellville (approx. 12 miles south)
St. Joe (unknown distance)
Nearby supplies
Supplies may be accessible in nearby towns like Yellville, with grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel being 12 miles away via Highway 14.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
17 reviews
Rush Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rush Campground is highly rated for its peaceful, scenic environment and the range of outdoor activities available. Its proximity to the Buffalo River and historical sites adds to its appeal. Many reviewers appreciate the campground’s simplicity and the opportunity to disconnect from technology, although some note the lack of facilities like showers and running water during winter.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors consistently praise the campground's serenity, scenic location by the Buffalo River, historical interest (e.g., an abandoned mining town), and accessibility to outdoor recreation like hiking...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users express frustration with the lack of modern amenities, such as flush toilets, showers, and cell phone service. A few reviews mention that the water supply can be unreliable, and that the...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water during winter months or when water is unavailable. Pack bug spray to deal with insects. Arrive early to secure a good campsite as it’s first-come, first-serve. Leash pets and...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is free, attracting budget-conscious campers despite the lack of water and limited facilities. Spring offers lush scenery and ideal conditions for hiking and water activities, while...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"There is so much to enjoy here that I would recommend this campsite for anyone." - Nate Metz
"Perfect place to sleep under the stars." - G. Cunningham
"The views are perfect, the night sky is...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific details about individual campsites were not provided.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
The vault toilets are described as wheelchair accessible, but no additional accessibility reviews were noted.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and visitors report having positive experiences camping with dogs. Leashes are recommended to ensure safety.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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