Cossatot Reefs

Star4.40
247 reviews
244 Reefs Park Road, Gillham, AR, USA, 71841
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

495 ft

Price

$14 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

31 campsites

Season

Open from March 1st ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Gillham Lake Recreation Area site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Cossatot Reefs
$14.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $14 during the off-season for standard electric and walk-to sites to $40 for group shelter electric sites. Peak season rates are...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$23.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
870-386-7261
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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 247 reviews

40 Google reviews

Most mentioned

scenerypeacefulshadespacious

"Cossatot Reefs Campground receives generally positive reviews for its scenic beauty, peace, and variety of activities. However, issues like bathroom cleanliness, water outages, and cell service are recurring complaints."

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Campground Map

244 Reefs Park Road, Gillham, AR, USA, 71841

Cossatot Reefs

244 Reefs Park Road, Gillham, AR, USA, 71841

Driving directionsFrom De Queen, Arkansas, head north on US-59/US-71. Continue for nearly 10 miles and turn Right at Gillham EZ-Mart. Turn right on Tower Road; go 1.3 miles turn left onto Gillham Lake road; go 4.3 miles turn right and follow signs into the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and signage is clearly marked. Some reviewers noted confusion relying on GPS; detailed directions are recommended.
Nearby places
De Queen: 10 miles (approximately 15 minutes drive)
Gillham: 3 miles (approximately 5 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available in De Queen approximately 10 miles away
basic supplies available at Gillham EZ-Mart nearby.

Best Time to Camp at Cossatot Reefs

Each season paints Cossatot Reefs in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives in a burst of color as dogwood and redbud trees explode into bloom, their delicate petals dancing in gentle breezes while temperatures hover in that perfect sweet spot for outdoor adventures. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for lake activities, though savvy campers come prepared for the occasional mosquito. But it's autumn that truly steals the show – when the surrounding forest transforms into a tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber, and crisp, cool air makes every hike and campfire more magical.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open in summer but reviewers note biting flies and overgrown grass issues.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall praised for pleasant weather and foliage; highly recommended season.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring lauded for dogwood and redbud blooms and very pleasant weather.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open through Dec; reviewers note tranquility in winter but limited services.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: March 1 - October 31 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from March 1st to December 31st annually.
  • Current Alerts: Users noted issues with water outages and ongoing bathroom renovations in past reviews.

About Cossatot Reefs

Nestled along the verdant shores of Gillham Lake in the heart of southwest Arkansas, Cossatot Reefs Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 31 tranquil, tree-canopied campsites. This riverside haven combines the serenity of nature with modern comforts, featuring hot showers, flush toilets, and fresh drinking water throughout the grounds. Adventure seekers and peace lovers alike find their perfect balance here, where panoramic lake views meet endless opportunities for hiking forest trails, casting fishing lines into pristine waters, and launching boats into the morning mist. The group shelter provides an ideal gathering spot for larger parties seeking to create lasting memories in this scenic wonderland.
Cossatot Reefs Campground offers 31 campsites suitable for tent camping, RVs, and group gatherings.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check in with Gate House upon arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 5 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a single visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Cossatot Reefs Campground offers a variety of activities including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The scenic Cossatot River and Gillham Lake provide opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
HikingA short nature trail within the campground weaves through a wooded section. In spring, the trail is adorned with redbud and dogwood blossoms. Hikers can also venture to the Cossatot River Falls, approximately 20 minutes away, which one camper described as a 'must-see.'
FishingFishing is a popular activity, with species like smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish in the river. However, some users reported mixed success: 'Fishing is terrible. Best just go buy some fish,' while another mentioned, 'You can catch catfish right from the bank of the river.'
SwimmingSwimming is allowed in the river, but some users noted that it can interfere with fishing activities. 'Not a very good place to fish due to everyone else swimming,' said one camper.
BoatingBoating is a significant activity at the campground, supported by a boat ramp for easy access. The Cossatot River allows for canoeing trips ranging from 16 miles to shorter distances.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, including owls, eagles, herons, and even otters. One user noted, 'We saw an eagle grab a fish out of the creek. It was absolutely amazing.' Owls are a particular highlight, with another camper stating, 'This park is the number one park anywhere for owls.'
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include sudden changes in water levels below the dam and the presence of biting flies in summer. Wildlife such as raccoons can disturb campsites if food is left unsecured.
Active AlertsUsers noted issues with water outages and ongoing bathroom renovations in past reviews.

Weather at Cossatot Reefs

Reviews

4.4
247 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Cossatot Reefs is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Cossatot Reefs Campground receives generally positive reviews for its scenic beauty, peace, and variety of activities. However, issues like bathroom cleanliness, water outages, and cell service are recurring complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 247 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently praise the campground’s scenic location by the river, spacious and shaded sites, and the abundance of wildlife. 'The most peaceful and beautiful scenery,' noted one camper....
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Based on 247 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring issues include poor bathroom maintenance, inconsistent water service, and the absence of cell phone reception. Some users also reported overgrown grass and unclean campsites.
Based on 247 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a long water hose and a Y-splitter for shared water hookups. Be prepared for poor cell service and carry all essentials as the nearest store is approximately 10 miles away. Secure food to avoid...
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Based on 247 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are particularly praised for their pleasant weather and blooming flora, while summer can bring bugs like biting flies and overgrown grass. Winter is noted for its tranquility.
Based on 247 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful site overlooking a running stream with rapids.' 2. 'This park is the number one park anywhere for owls.' 3. 'Bathrooms were horrible. They were not cleaned the entire time we were...
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Based on 247 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 10 received criticism for shared water hookups and poor maintenance. Site 17 was noted for flooding issues, while Site 25 was consistently praised for its scenic views and spacious layout.
Based on 247 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some campers noted the need for improved accessibility features, such as better access to benches for disabled individuals.
Based on 247 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome at the campground, and campers recommend being cautious about ticks and raccoons.
Based on 247 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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