It may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of natural beauty, but Arkansas has a lot for RVers to see. Arkansas is home to 52 state parks, five national parks, three national forests, and even a national river. If you’re looking to get away from it all, ditch the tech, and get lost in the wilderness, this is the RV destination for you and your family.
With southern history to get lost in, quaint towns that will remind you of Western Europe, and hot springs for miles, Arkansas is nothing like what you imagine when you close your eyes. There is something for every traveler here at The Natural State, as Arkansas is known, and you will discover something new every time you visit.
5 of the best RV parks in Arkansas
Tom Sawyer RV Park: West Memphis
Tom Sawyer’s RV Park is all about relaxing on the banks of the Mississippi like the Mark Twain character named after him. There is no shortage of services at Tom Sawyer’s RV Park. You have a choice of gravel or concrete pads, both backing and extraction with electrical, water and sewer connections. Showers, laundry and internet access are provided at no additional cost.
Unlike many of my other options, Tom Sawyer’s RV Park is more about relaxing. Set out on the banks of the Mississippi to watch barges and boats go by, play with your dog, or fish for giant river catfish. For those wanting some excitement and sadness, downtown Memphis is just a few miles ahead.
Camping Gulpha Gorge: Hot Springs
Gulpha Gorge Campground is your starting point for exploring the 26 miles of trails or relaxing in the natural hot springs of Hot Springs National Park. There are many amenities, especially for a National Park site. There are 30 and 50 amp electrical, water and sewer hookups at all sites. There are no actual showers, but the bathrooms are very nice.
The Hot Springs Preserve, the first name for Hot Springs National, was designated as protected in 1832, 40 years before Yellowstone. This makes it the oldest unit in the National Park. With 26 miles of hiking trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery or stroll along historic Bathhouse Row or the Grand Promenade. It wouldn’t be a visit to Hot Springs without a hot bath. Visit one of the local bathhouses that are fed by the springs for a great rest.
Wanderlust RV Park: Eureka Springs
Wanderlust RV Park is your starting point for exploring the charming town of Eureka Springs. The amenities and cleanliness of Wanderlust RV Park are exceptional. They rank at least nine out of 10 in facilities, restrooms, and appeals based on the Good Sam Club rating. You get all your utility hookups as well as picnic tables at each site. There are clean clothes, showers, Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and a paperback exchange for you to find something new to read on your adventure.
The nearby town of Eureka Springs is famous for its Victorian charm and is known as America’s Little Switzerland because of its Alpine-style architecture and Victorian-style mansions. After you’ve filled up with shops and restaurants, hop on the Belle of the Ozarks for a cruise on Beaver Lake. I recommend Ozark Mountain Ziplines so you can fly through the treetops of the Ozarks.
Gilbert RV Campground: St. Joe
Gilbert RV Campground is located on the banks of the Buffalo National River, the nation’s first designated national river. The grounds have what you need in quality camping, including full utility hookups, satellite TV, W-Fi, showers, laundry facilities, and even some grocery stores within the grounds.
Where Gilbert shines is the fun potential located just a short distance from the grounds. You’re on the doorstep of fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and swimming. Rent a canoe, kayak, or tube to explore the cliffs and wildlife along the buffalo.
Ozarks RV Resort en Table Rock Lake: Oak Grove
Get ready for loads of fun with over 700 miles of shoreline and great fishing at Table Rock Lake in Northwest Arkansas. Ozarks RV Resort is a majestic home base for exploring Table Rock Lake, with 163 concrete RV pads equipped with electrical, sewer and water hookups, grills, and free Wi-Fi. There are many ways to relax at camp with hot tubs, a pool, a pickleball court, tennis courts, and even a private boat.
Rent a boat to explore Table Rock Lake’s 43,000 acres for fishing, skiing, tubing, and more. The fun nightlife of Branson, Missouri is more than 30 miles away, and the charming town of Eureka Springs is not far too.
Arkansas might not be your first choice as an RVer, but now that you see what it has to offer, how can you stay away? Arkansas should be on every hiker’s wish list. Even a drive through the state will bring you closer to nature than most other places in the US If you plan to travel around Arkansas, stay for a day, which may surprise you.
