You don’t have to overspend on overnight stays in Arkansas. Luckily for us, there are plenty of inexpensive Arkansas campgrounds that don’t forgo a unique experience. Next time you’re itching to surround yourself with a more natural setting, grab your camping gear and head over to one of these campgrounds in Arkansas for a relaxing weekend of outdoor adventures you’ll absolutely love.

1. Lake Ouachita State Park - Mountain Pine
Mountain Pine, AR, USA
Facebook/The State Parks of Arkansas
Staying the night at Lake Ouachita can happen in a variety of ways. In addition to the typical camping and cabins, you can also pick-your-own island for one of the most wonderfully unique campsites in Arkansas. One of the best features of all the islands is that since they're part of the U.S. National Forest, camping is free. But do be aware that this will be a primitive camping experience. Visit the Arkansas State Parks website for more information.
2. Buffalo National River - Compton
Steel Creek Campground, Buffalo River Trail, Jasper, AR 72641, USA
Tịnh Quán Tâm/Google Local
Arkansas is filled with endless campgrounds but none are quite as beautiful as the ones along the Buffalo National River. Steel Creek Campground looks up to the infamous Roark Bluff and other gorgeous scenery, making it one of the most beautiful places to go camping in Arkansas, without a doubt. All tent sites (including at the horse camp) are $20/night. Visit the National Park Service website to find more details about all of the campgrounds along the Buffalo.
3. Blanchard Springs Recreation Area - Mountain View
Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, Mountain View, AR 72533, USA
Google/saleo1
The Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is another inexpensive campground in Arkansas, and while it's lovely on it's own, it's also a wonderful starting point for all sorts of nearby adventures. Hike north to reach Gunner Pool, tour the vast underground Blanchard Springs Caverns, or drive to explore the Folk Music Capital of the World - Mountain View. Sites start at $15/night.
4. Sam's Throne Recreation Area - Mt. Judea
Sam's Throne Campground, Arkansas 72655, USA
Facebook/Arkansas State Tourism
If you don't mind sacrificing modern amenities for jaw-dropping views, then a night at Sam's Throne is in order. One of the most unique places to go camping in Arkansas, the campsites are primitive but do guarantee a quiet retreat with quite a beautiful mountain backdrop. Sam's Throne is a rock climber's paradise and has trails for more grounded hikers as well. Camping is free!

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5. Charlton Recreation Area - Royal
Charlton Recreation Area, Arkansas 71968, USA
Google/Terry Shelton
Pitch a tent and jump right in at this waterfront campground in Arkansas! There's nothing quite as refreshing as plunging into the chilly waters of Walnut Creek during these fiery summer days. Campsites are just a couple of steps away from the creek and run between $15-25/night with RV sites available as well. It's one of the best places for camping in Arkansas.
6. Little Maumelle River - Little Rock
Little Maumelle River, Arkansas, USA
Facebook/The Nature Conservancy in Arkansas
Arkansas has plenty of spots for camping near the water but this floating campsite is the only place in the state where you can camp on the water. Take a relaxing paddle along the Little Maumelle River Trail and pitch a tent on this floating platform. You can make reservations by visiting thee Arkansas Watertrails website.
7. Blue Mountain Lake Recreation Area - Havana
Blue Mountain Lake, Arkansas, USA
Flickr/Anna
If you've ever looked out from atop Mount Magazine, then you've already seen the beauty of Blue Mountain Lake and the Petit Jean River Valley. The state park tends to stay crowded but an overnight stay at the rec area is much more quiet. Campsite prices start at $18/night and can be booked on Recreation.gov. This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas when it comes to views!
8. White Rock Mountain - Winslow
White Rock Mountain, Arkansas 72959, USA
Flickr/Granger Meador
When it comes to camping in Arkansas, a few campsites can top the views you'll find along White Rock Mountain. This stunning recreation area has rustic cabins and peaceful campsites in the forest. Stay for scenery alone or tackle one of the many trails for a daytime or backpacking adventure. It's one of the most serene campgrounds in Arkansas.
9. Lake Catherine State Park - Hot Springs
Lake Catherine State Park, 1200 Catherine Park Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913, USA
TripAdvisor/Suzanne W
Water adventures and waterfall chasing are just some of the highlights at Lake Catherine. Class B campsites are $23/night but upgrading to a yurt is only an extra $35. However you stay, your whole family will find something to love at this beautiful campground in Arkansas.

What are your favorite budget-friendly campgrounds in Arkansas? Share with us in the comments below! Feel free to share your camping adventure in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.

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More to Explore

Outdoor Adventures In Arkansas

Jackie Ann | July 13, 2022

What are the best outdoor adventures in Arkansas?

Outdoor adventures in Arkansas are only limited by your imagination, but a good starting point is experiencing the natural beauty of Devil’s Den State Park where you can take the hiking trails to the iconic waterfall and even walk behind it! It’s also a great place to go camping in Arkansas, and you can either pitch a tent, bring your RV, or treat yourself to one of their rustic cabins.

What are the best family-friendly campgrounds in Arkansas?

One of the best parts about camping in Arkansas is being able to bring your whole family along to create those core memories of sitting around a campfire sharing stories, eating s’mores, and enjoying the sights and sounds of The Natural State. Wake Zone Luxury Houseboat is a wonderful option when you’re looking to go camping in Arkansas, and these houseboats sure do make for one of the most unique campsites in the state. Not only are the houseboats equipped with everything you’ll need, but they also offer several other rentals as well, including small boats and jet skis.

How many state parks are in Arkansas?

There are 52 state parks in Arkansas, and all of them offer some type of camping experience. Petit Jean State Park is one of the most popular state parks, and for good reason! When you hit the trails and see the incredible mountain views and waterfalls nestled within the park. To explore some of the more underrated Arkansas state parks, then visit Moro Bay State Park. With 20 campsites and a handful of cabins, this is one of the more inexpensive campsites in Arkansas where you can escape to the forests and enjoy the beautiful waters of Moro Bay.

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