Tyler Bend Campground

4.39

326 reviews

TYLER BEND VISITOR CENTER, 170 RANGER ROAD, ST. JOE, AR 72675, USA

Quick Facts

600 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Open season: March 1...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

600 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

42 campsites

Season

Open season: March 1...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Tyler Bend Campground

$20.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees for walk-in and drive-in sites are $20 per night for up to 6 people per site. Group sites are $50 per night for 10 to 25 people. Fees are...

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$50.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

870-439-2502

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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 326 reviews

145 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersspacioushiking

Some mention

noise

"User reviews frequently praise the scenic location, spacious campsites, and accessibility to the Buffalo River. Complaints often focus on noisy campers, poorly maintained restrooms, and the lack of electrical hookups."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

TYLER BEND VISITOR CENTER, 170 RANGER ROAD, ST. JOE, AR 72675, USA

Tyler Bend Campground

TYLER BEND VISITOR CENTER, 170 RANGER ROAD, ST. JOE, AR 72675, USA

Driving directionsFrom Springfield, Missouri take U.S. Highway 65 south for 109 miles (175 km); then turn right at Ranger Road (follow signs) and drive another 2 miles (3.2 km) to visitor center and campground. From Little Rock, Arkansas take Interstate 40 West for 34 miles (55 km), then exit 'U.S. 65/Skyline Drive.' From here continue on U.S. Highway 65 north for 74 miles (119 km) and turn left at Ranger Road (follow signs) to the visitor center and campground.

The road to Tyler Bend Campground is paved and accessible year-round. However, some nearby roads may have seasonal closures or construction-related limitations. For example, Cave Mountain Road is temporarily closed Mondays through Thursdays for improvements.

Nearby places

Harrison (30 miles, approx. 40 min), Marshall (15 miles, approx. 20 min), Springfield, Missouri (109 miles, approx. 2 hours), Little Rock, Arkansas (approx. 2 hours).

Nearby supplies

Gilbert RV Park (15 minutes away) offers water for tank refills. Nearby towns like Marshall and St. Joe provide groceries, fuel, and other essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Tyler Bend Campground

Experience the dynamic beauty of the Ozarks through every season at Tyler Bend. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for cooling off in the crystal-clear river waters, while spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and perfect camping temperatures. Fall transforms the riverside into a canvas of amber and gold, creating ideal conditions for both water adventures and cozy campfire evenings. Mother Nature keeps things interesting here – sudden rain showers can transform the peaceful Buffalo into a rushing torrent, adding drama to the landscape. Savvy campers always check the latest weather forecasts and river conditions to make the most of their stay.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming and paddling; hot/humid but water activities abundant.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 24% in AR

Fall leaf-turn and peacefulness frequently praised in reviews; excellent scenic season.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring 'awakening' and good trail/river conditions make it a strong season for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open off-season with limited amenities; fewer activities and reduced services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 15 - November 14.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season: March 15 - November 14. Free camping available during off-season (November 15 - March 14), but limited amenities during this period.
Current Alerts: Lower Tyler Bend River Access is temporarily closed for renovations. Cave Mountain Road is under construction and closed Mondays through Thursdays.

About Tyler Bend Campground

Discover your perfect riverside retreat at Tyler Bend Campground, where the gentle murmur of the Buffalo National River creates nature's soundtrack for your outdoor adventure. This thoughtfully designed campground welcomes you with 10 peaceful walk-in sites for those seeking a more secluded experience, 28 convenient drive-in sites perfect for families and RV travelers, and 5 spacious group sites ideal for reunions and gatherings. A charming pavilion stands ready to host your daytime celebrations, picnics, or simply serve as a shady refuge during warm Arkansas afternoons.

Tyler Bend Campground offers diverse camping accommodations, including walk-in, drive-in, and group tent sites. RV camping is permitted, but no electrical hookups are available. Primitive and tent-only sites are also available.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the remarkable Collier Homestead, just a short journey from your campsite. This lovingly restored 1930s Ozark dwelling stands as a testament to the hardy pioneers who answered the call of the Homestead Act of 1862. Wander through rooms where generations of settlers carved out their lives from the wilderness, and discover the ingenuity, determination, and simple grace that defined early Ozark mountain culture. It's more than a museum – it's a window into the souls who first called these hills home.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of the Ozarks through every season at Tyler Bend. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for cooling off in the crystal-clear river waters, while spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and perfect camping temperatures. Fall transforms the riverside into a canvas of amber and gold, creating ideal conditions for both water adventures and cozy campfire evenings. Mother Nature keeps things interesting here – sudden rain showers can transform the peaceful Buffalo into a rushing torrent, adding drama to the landscape. Savvy campers always check the latest weather forecasts and river conditions to make the most of their stay.

ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation within the rolling Ozark landscape, where gentle slopes meet riverside terraces, creating diverse camping experiences from hilltop views to waterside serenity.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the stunning natural amphitheater of the Arkansas Ozarks, where Tyler Bend showcases nature's finest artistry. Towering limestone bluffs rise like ancient sentinels above the emerald waters of the Buffalo River, their weathered faces telling stories millions of years in the making. Morning mist dances across verdant pastures where white-tailed deer graze at dawn, while curious raccoons investigate the evening campgrounds. The river itself shifts between playful rapids that challenge paddlers and mirror-smooth pools that invite quiet contemplation, all framed by forests that burst with seasonal color.

Geological RegionTyler Bend sits proudly in the heart of the Buffalo National River's middle district, where the ancient Arkansas Ozarks reveal their geological treasures. Here, patient rivers have carved through layers of limestone over millennia, creating a dramatic landscape of soaring bluffs, hidden caves, and smooth river stones. The interplay between rushing rapids and tranquil pools demonstrates the river's dual nature – sometimes wild and energetic, other times peaceful and reflective. This unique geological canvas makes Tyler Bend a natural classroom where every rock formation and river bend tells the story of our planet's incredible history.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in available after 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out required by 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay: 14 nights. Maximum annual stay: 30 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 guests per individual site
10-25 guests at group sites.

Groups

Group sites accommodate 10-25 people and cost $50 per night. Nearby facilities include flush toilets and showers. "Plenty of space for tents, cooking, and playing games," said one user.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with drive-in sites, walk-in tent areas, and group sites. Walk-in sites are near the river, while drive-in sites are accessible from paved roads.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in Availability15 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-in sites are preferred for weekdays or off-peak periods.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee before arrival. Late cancellations (after midnight on the day prior to check-in) incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee.

AccessibilityRestrooms are accessible via paved walkways with some incline, and stalls are equipped with grab bars. Heavy restroom doors lack automatic openers, which may pose challenges for wheelchair users.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and well-maintained. "The biggest camp sites ever," remarked one camper. "Comfortable, large sites," another noted.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Walk-in sites are praised for their seclusion, such as site A, "just secluded enough that we couldn't really see other campers." Drive-in sites are noted as "mostly open with little vegetation.

Total Campsites42 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose walk-in sites for privacy and river views. Drive-in sites are more accessible for RVs and trailers but lack hookups.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Tyler Bend offers a range of activities including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Buffalo River provides opportunities for kayaking and tubing, while trails lead to historical sites such as the Collier Homestead. The amphitheater hosts educational programs.

HikingHiking trails are accessible from Tyler Bend, including paths to the Collier Homestead. "Beautiful trails," said one user, while another mentioned, "Easy access to the Collier Homestead and two overlooks of Buffalo River."

FishingThe Buffalo River is home to small-mouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. An Arkansas fishing license is required. "Great place to fish," commented one reviewer.

SwimmingSwimming areas are available along the Buffalo River, with users enjoying floating and tubing. "My boys played in the water all day," said one user.

BoatingKayaking, canoeing, and tubing are popular activities on the Buffalo River. "The river was perfect," said one reviewer. Another noted, "Launch sites for kayaks, canoes, and boats are well-maintained."

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include raccoons and skunks at campsites, and birdwatching along the river. "We loved watching the wildlife at sundown," said one visitor.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational programs are hosted at the Tyler Bend Visitor Center, which features exhibits on the area's flora, fauna, and history. "Visitor center is a definite must see," remarked one user.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCommon hazards include raccoons scavenging food at campsites, mosquitoes, and skunks. High water levels in the river after rainfall may pose risks for swimming.

Active AlertsLower Tyler Bend River Access is temporarily closed for renovations. Cave Mountain Road is under construction and closed Mondays through Thursdays.

Fire PolicyCampfires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Cook stoves are permitted, and dead wood can be used for firewood.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest hospital: North Arkansas Regional Medical Center in Harrison, approximately 30 miles (40 min). Emergency park dispatch: 888-692-1162. Tyler Bend Visitor Center also serves as a resource for emergencies.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available seasonally. They help prevent nuisance wildlife like raccoons and skunks, frequently mentioned in user reviews.

Water FeaturesSeveral campsites are close to the Buffalo River, with options for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The Middle River offers extended seasons for water activities when rain levels are sufficient.

Camp HostCampground hosts are seasonal and often described as helpful and attentive. Some reviews noted their absence during certain periods.

Weather at Tyler Bend Campground

Reviews

4.4

326 reviews

Recommended

Tyler Bend Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews frequently praise the scenic location, spacious campsites, and accessibility to the Buffalo River. Complaints often focus on noisy campers, poorly maintained restrooms, and the lack of electrical hookups.

Review Summaries

Based on 326 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to activities like hiking and kayaking. "Absolutely gorgeous spot," said one reviewer. "Clean bathrooms and hot...

Based on 326 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints center around poorly maintained restrooms, lack of privacy in showers, noisy campers, and limited river access directly from campsites. "Very disappointed in the bathhouse--clogged drains...

Based on 326 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring firewood, as it is not sold on-site. Secure food to avoid raccoons. "Bring your own firewood in colder times," recommends one user.

Based on 326 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews note hot and humid conditions, but campers appreciate swimming and river activities. Fall reviews highlight peacefulness and scenic views during leaf turning. Winter reviews mention...

Based on 326 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This was a phenomenal camping experience." "Loved the Tyler Bend area—clean, spacious, and scenic." "Watch out for raccoons; they are not shy!"

Based on 326 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site A (walk-in): "Secluded enough that we couldn't see other campers." Site 6: "Very secluded and quiet." Group sites: "Plenty of space for tents and games."

Based on 326 reviews