Summer Camping in Arkansas

Summer Camping in Arkansas

Discover the best summer camping across Arkansas. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.

16+ Campgrounds4.7★ AverageBest: June through August
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Bidwell Point Park
Photo coming soon
Star
4.8
(371)
Bidwell Point Park
Mountain Home
Norfork Lake

Norfork Lake's sandy swim beach beckons sun-seekers all summer long, while shaded oak groves provide cool respites between water adventures. Electric hookups at every site mean comfortable base camps for extended stays during the busiest—and most social—months of the year.

Tents
RVs
2
Cottonshed Park (Ar)
Star
4.8
(332)
Cottonshed Park (Ar)
MINERAL SPRINGS
Millwood Lake

Summer days here unfold with fishing lines cast straight from waterfront campsites into Millwood Lake's abundant waters, while 300+ bird species fill the surrounding forest canopy.

Tents
RVs
3
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
Star
4.7
(519)
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
Winslow
Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Escape summer heat at this elevated Ozark sanctuary where cool mountain breezes sweep across ridge-top campsites and historic 1930s stone cabins frame endless forest views.

Tents
RVs

About Summer Camping in Arkansas

Summer camping in Arkansas offers an exceptional blend of crystal-clear lakes, mountain streams, and lush Ozark forests that come alive during the warm months. From the pristine waters of Norfork Lake to the dramatic bluffs of the Ozark highlands, Arkansas transforms into a summer paradise for campers seeking water recreation, scenic beauty, and comfortable temperatures moderated by elevation and forest canopy.

Best Time

The prime summer camping season in Arkansas runs from late May through early September, with peak conditions typically occurring in June and early July before the hottest weather arrives. Late May offers the advantage of blooming wildflowers and comfortable temperatures in the 75-85°F range, while water temperatures become ideal for swimming.

Season Highlights

  • Warm weather and long days
  • Swimming and water activities
  • Full amenities and services
  • Family-friendly activities

Campground Locations

Showing top 16 campgrounds near Summer Camping in Arkansas

Map of campgrounds near Summer Camping in Arkansas
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Map Key
1
Bidwell Point Park
2
Cottonshed Park (Ar)
3
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
4
Tompkins Bend Day-Use
5
Toad Suck
6
Blanchard Springs Campgrounds
7
Kirby Landing
8
Dam Site Campground
9
Gamaliel
10
Ozark Campground
11
Beard'S Bluff Park (Ar)
12
Highway 125 Park Bull Shoals
13
Bellah Mine
14
Highway 27 Campground
15
Cove Lake Recreation Area
16
Rush Campground
View all 16 campgrounds on interactive map

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming in crystal-clear lakes and mountain streamsFishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and troutBoating, water skiing, and jet skiing on major lakesKayaking and canoeing on rivers and calm lake covesHiking scenic trails including the Ozark Highlands TrailWildlife viewing and birdwatching (300+ species at some locations)

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular lakeside campgrounds like Bidwell Point Park and Tompkins Bend at least 60-90 days in advance for summer weekends, as these fill quickly with families and water sports enthusiasts.
  • 2Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent—mosquitoes can be active near water at dawn and dusk, and ticks are present in wooded areas throughout summer.
  • 3A portable fan or battery-powered cooling device significantly improves comfort during warm nights, especially at lower-elevation lake campgrounds.
  • 4Pack water shoes for rocky lake entries and creek beds, and consider bringing a shade canopy for daytime comfort at sites with limited tree cover.
16 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Summer Camping in Arkansas

Summer Camping in Arkansas FAQ

We've ranked 16+ summer campgrounds in Arkansas based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.
June through August is prime summer camping season in Arkansas. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.
For summer camping in Arkansas, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.
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