Steel Creek Campground
4.6979 reviews386 NC 2104, Jasper, AR 72641
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Open March 14 - Nove...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$20/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Open March 14 - Nove...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Steel Creek Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Tent-only and equestrian sites are charged at $20 per night during the reservable season (March 14 to November 16). Outside this reservable season,...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider870-861-2570buff_information@nps.gov
What Campers Say
4.69
Top-Rated
Based on 79 reviews
315 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsclean
Some mention
reservation
"User reviews for Steel Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment rating of 4.54. Campers frequently praise the natural beauty, cleanliness, and convenient access to recreational activities. However, there are criticisms about site privacy, equestrian facilities, and occasional issues with reservations."
Fees & Passes at Steel Creek Campground
$20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights, with a total yearly limit of 30 nights.
Cancellation: Changes to reservations incur a $10 change fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight one day before...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Buffalo National River website.
Best Time to Camp at Steel Creek Campground
Each season paints Steel Creek with its own distinctive palette. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and refreshing rains that swell the river to its most adventurous levels. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched haven, where humid days give way to cricket-filled evenings. As autumn approaches, crisp nights and golden days create perfect camping conditions, while winter brings a quieter charm with its cool temperatures and peaceful solitude. The ever-changing weather adds its own character to every camping experience.
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 14 to November 16.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open March 14 - November 16 for reservations. Free camping from November 15 to March 14.
- Current Alerts: There are periodic warnings about muddy tie-lines for horses and high water hazards after rainfall. Seasonal changes may affect trail accessibility.
About Steel Creek Campground
Discover a riverside sanctuary where 26 tent sites and 14 equestrian sites rest in the shadow of towering limestone cliffs at Steel Creek Campground. Here, the rhythmic flow of the Buffalo River provides nature's soundtrack while modern conveniences like flush restrooms and fresh water stations (available during peak season) ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. True to its back-to-nature spirit, this unplugged paradise forgoes electrical hookups, inviting you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the natural one.
Steel Creek Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping and equestrian camping. Seasonal conditions and reservation policies play a significant role in planning a stay.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at Steel Creek, where every trail and bluff tells the story of America's conservation legacy. As part of the Buffalo National River—one of the nation's pioneering National Rivers—this campground stands as a testament to environmental preservation. The ancient limestone formations and winding paths serve as natural museums, revealing millions of years of geological evolution alongside traces of the indigenous peoples and early settlers who once called these Ozark hills home.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Steel Creek with its own distinctive palette. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and refreshing rains that swell the river to its most adventurous levels. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched haven, where humid days give way to cricket-filled evenings. As autumn approaches, crisp nights and golden days create perfect camping conditions, while winter brings a quieter charm with its cool temperatures and peaceful solitude. The ever-changing weather adds its own character to every camping experience.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains unrecorded, the campground's riverside location offers a perfect vantage point between the flowing waters below and the soaring bluffs above, creating an immersive vertical landscape that defines the Steel Creek experience.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to breathtaking vistas where the emerald Buffalo River winds beneath the dramatic presence of Roark Bluff, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and water. The surrounding Ozark wilderness comes alive with frequent visits from white-tailed deer grazing in meadows and curious armadillos rustling through the underbrush. When darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a celestial showcase—a glittering canopy of stars that transforms each night into an astronomical event.
Geological RegionCarved through the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks, Steel Creek showcases nature's raw power where the free-flowing Buffalo River alternates between exhilarating rapids and mirror-like pools. These ancient limestone bluffs, sculpted over millennia, create a dramatic backdrop that reminds visitors why this remains one of the last undammed rivers in the lower 48 states—a rare sanctuary where water still runs wild and geological wonders stand unchanged by human intervention.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the source material.
Sites SizeSites vary in size and include both tent-only and equestrian options. Some sites are spacious enough for tents, canopies, and hammocks. "My site was fantastic... plenty of space for our tent and canopy, a small alcove in the shade for our hammock and a path that led right down to the river" (Review by Steve D).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited at many sites, with some reviewers noting that campsites are close together. "Just don’t like how all the campsites are right by each other and there is no privacy" (Review by Alyssa M). However, some campsites offer better privacy, especially those near the tree line.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers suggest sites near the tree line for shade and privacy, particularly tent sites 4-6. Equestrian campers should avoid muddy tie-line locations after rain.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 10:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights, with a total yearly limit of 30 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six guests allowed per site for tent-only and equestrian sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into tent-only and equestrian sites. Tent sites are near the river and horse sites have highline posts for stock animals.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 14 - November 16 for reservations. Free camping from November 15 to March 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityApproximately half of the campsites are first-come-first-served including tent and horse sites. This availability may vary during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 change fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight one day before check-in) forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee in addition to a $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Steel Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in nature. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The campground is located near trails and the Buffalo River, providing easy access to natural attractions.
Hiking
The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek, offering excellent day hikes and overnight backcountry opportunities. Nearby trails like Lost Valley also provide easy to moderate hiking with geological formations and waterfalls. "The Lost Valley hiking trail is close by and it's one of the most hiked trails in Arkansas" (Review by Jair A).Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Buffalo River. However, the source materials do not provide details about the types of fish or fishing conditions.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity in the Buffalo River near the campground. "Perfect to cool down in the river after a day of hiking" (Review by Terra C).Boating
Boating, including canoeing and kayaking, is a highlight at Steel Creek. The upper Buffalo River, accessible from the campground, is navigable in spring and early summer, depending on rainfall.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer and armadillos are commonly spotted in the campground. "We saw several deer and had a nightly visit from some curious armadillos" (Review by Steve D).Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed. The campground is free during the off-season (November 15 to March 14), but weather conditions may limit access.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are popular. "We rented canoes from Lost Valley and had an excellent experience" (Review by Jessica M).Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must use locally sourced firewood to prevent pest transmission.
- Quiet hours are enforced, although user reviews praise campers for being respectful of noise levels.
Hazards
General hazardsPooling water and muddy conditions in equestrian areas are common after rain. Wildlife like raccoons and armadillos may disrupt unsecured food storage. Steep terrain poses risks during wet weather.
Active alertsThere are periodic warnings about muddy tie-lines for horses and high water hazards after rainfall. Seasonal changes may affect trail accessibility.
Weather at Steel Creek Campground
41
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Steel Creek Ranger Station is the closest emergency contact point (870-861-2570). The nearest hospital is North Arkansas Regional Medical Center in Harrison, which is approximately 37 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 14 to November 16.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but there are no recycling facilities mentioned. Reviewers did not explicitly comment on trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe Buffalo River flows adjacent to the campground, providing swimming, fishing, and canoeing opportunities.
Common complaints"No privacy between campsites," "muddiness in horse camp areas" and "confusion over reservations". Complaints also include occasional unclean restrooms during peak weekends.
HostLisa, the campground host, is described as "helpful and competent." She and maintenance staff are noted for quick response and problem-solving during issues.
Campground Map
386 NC 2104, Jasper, AR 72641
Driving directionsFrom Fayetteville, Arkansas: Drive north and take US Highway 412 East for approximately 42 miles (67.5 km) to the intersection with State Highway 21. Take highway 21 South for approximately 17 miles (27 km) to the intersection of State Highway 43. Then take highway 43 East for about 5 miles (8 km) to the intersection of State Highway 74. Turn right onto highway 74, drive about 2 miles (3.2 km) to Steel Creek Road, turn left, and drive approximately .5 miles (.8 km) down into the campground. From Little Rock, Arkansas: Take Interstate 40 West for approximately 93 miles (150 km) to Exit 64. At Exit 64 take Business Highway 64 west through the town of Lamar for about 4 miles (6.5 km) to the intersection of State Highway 21. Take Highway North for about 48 miles (77 km) to the intersection of State Highway 43. Then take highway 43 East for about 5 miles (8 km) to the intersection of State Highway 74. Turn right onto highway 74 and drive about 2 miles (3.2 km) to Steel Creek Road. Turn left and drive approximately .5 miles (.8 km) down into the campground. From Springfield, Missouri: Take US Highway 65 South for approximately 70 miles (112.6 km) to the town of Harrison. In Harrison, take State Highway 7 South about 1 mile (1.6 km) through downtown Harrison to the intersection of State Highway 43 on your right. Follow highway 43 for about 25 miles (40 km) until you get to the intersection of State Highway 74. Turn left onto highway 74, drive about 2 miles (3.2 km) to Steel Creek Road, turn left, and drive approximately .5 miles (.8 km) down into the campground.
Accessible via paved roads, but the drive down into the campground can be steep and curvy. The final stretch includes white gravel roads leading directly to the site, which may pose challenges for low-clearance vehicles.Nearby places
Ponca (3 miles), Jasper (approx. 12 miles), Harrison (approx. 37 miles), Fayetteville (approx. 86 miles), Little Rock (approx. 154 miles), Springfield, MO (approx. 70 miles).
Nearby supplies
Supplies (firewood, food, gas, etc.) can be purchased at nearby Ponca (3 miles away). JB Trading Post in Compton is another option offering hot food, camping gear, and helpful trail information.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
79 reviews
Steel Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Steel Creek Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment rating of 4.54. Campers frequently praise the natural beauty, cleanliness, and convenient access to recreational activities. However, there are criticisms about site privacy, equestrian facilities, and occasional issues with reservations.
Review Summaries
Based on 79 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, beautiful natural surroundings, and proximity to trails and the Buffalo River are common themes in positive reviews. "The campgrounds are great, grounds are nice, the bathrooms...
Based on 79 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues with equestrian facilities (muddy tie-lines and manure bins), site privacy, and reservation mishaps are among the most common complaints. "The tie-line area is a slippery swamp that will suck...
Based on 79 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra tarps for muddy conditions and firewood for campfires. Some reviewers recommend JB Trading Post for supplies and trail information.
Based on 79 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall is particularly popular for its scenic beauty, while spring attracts campers for its optimal floating conditions. Summers can be crowded, and winter is quieter but colder.
Based on 79 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The scenery is gorgeous. The campsite was clean, spacious, and situated well" (Review by Jessica G). "Steel Creek is such a great campground. With such close access to the river and the BRT, coupled...
Based on 79 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #4 is praised for its size and proximity to the river, while horse sites like #32 draw special mention for scenic views despite muddy conditions. Sites near the tree line are recommended for...
Based on 79 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific insights on accessibility were shared by users.
Based on 79 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted from most trails. "This place isn’t very dog friendly... you can pretty much only keep your dog at the campsite" (Review by Jorden R).
Based on 79 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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