If you’re craving fresh air, starry skies, and the kind of peace only nature can deliver, you’re in the right place. Finding the best tent camping in Arkansas can make the difference between a forgettable trip and an unforgettable adventure. Maybe you’re a weekend warrior looking to unplug, or perhaps you’re planning your first backcountry escape—either way, you need a go-to list of top-tier spots.
Luckily, Arkansas is packed with hidden gems and well-loved classics, from lakeside retreats to rugged mountain hideaways. But with so many options, where do you even start? That’s where we come in. We’ve done the legwork and brought it down to the absolute best tent camping in Arkansas—no fluff, just the real-deal favorites.
Get ready to pitch your tent in places that’ll make you want to stay forever.
The Ultimate Guide to Best Tent Camping in Arkansas
Blanchard Springs Campground
If you’re looking for some of the best tent camping in Arkansas, Blanchard Springs Campground should be at the top of your list.
Picture this: tall trees shading your tent, a gentle creek murmuring nearby, and the kind of peace that makes you forget your phone exists. And the best part? You’re just minutes away from the stunning Blanchard Springs Caverns, where you can trade sunshine for awe-inspiring underground rock formations.
And then, when you’re done exploring below ground, hit the nearby hiking trails or just kick back by the fire with some gooey s’mores. This spot is all about simplicity, serenity, and that perfect back-to-nature vibe. If cozy, no-fuss camping is your style, Blanchard Springs delivers.
Two Spirits Limited Canoe Adventures and Campground
For adventurers who want the best tent camping in Arkansas plus a side of river magic, Two Spirits is your spot.
Tucked deep in the Ouachita National Forest (the South’s oldest and largest national forest, by the way), this campground sits right on the Ouachita River, where the water is clear and the scenery is straight-up dreamy. Imagine falling asleep to the sound of the river and waking up to towering pines and hardwoods– absolutely magical!
The best part? You don’t have to stress over gear—they’ve got cabins with A/C, meals, and canoes ready to go. Therefore, whether you’re paddling downstream or just unwinding by a warm campfire under a sky full of stars, this place makes roughing it feel downright luxurious.
Kettle Campground
Winner of the 2024 Campspot Award for Top Small Campgrounds, Kettle Campground proves that the best tent camping in Arkansas doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort.
Cradled in the Ozark Mountains near Eureka Springs, this place has it all—spacious tent sites, cozy cabins, and even a rental RV if you want a little extra shelter. And the facilities? Spotless. We’re talking about a bathhouse, laundry, pool, and even a playground for the kids.
But don’t let the amenities fool you—it’s still peaceful, surrounded by nature, yet close enough to Eureka Springs’ quirky shops and restaurants. So, whether you’re here to hike, explore town, or just lounge by the pool, Kettle Campground makes camping easy (and maybe even a little glamorous).
Sylamore Creek Campground
For some of the best tent camping in Arkansas with a side of water therapy, Sylamore Creek Campground is a dream come true. Here, you can set up your tent right along the crystal-clear waters of Sylamore Creek, where you can spend your days wading, fishing, or just soaking up the sun on the smooth river rocks.
Basically, the vibe here is pure relaxation—no distractions, just the sound of flowing water and maybe the occasional banjo tune drifting over from nearby Mountain View (which is the folk music capital of Arkansas, by the way).
But don’t worry, you’re still far enough from town to get unreal stargazing—no city lights to kill the magic. So, if falling asleep to the gentle rush of the creek sounds like your kind of paradise, this spot is a must.
Erwin Estate
Ever wanted to camp on top of the world? At Erwin Estate, you practically can. This family-run farm offers tent camping at High Point, the southernmost highest point in Arkansas, with a jaw-dropping 180-degree view stretching over Benton, Malvern, and even Hot Springs.
In addition, your campsite comes with a picnic table and a lookout tower (complete with a swing—because why not?). Therefore, when you’re not soaking in those sunset views, you can explore 234 acres of private land or hit nearby rivers and lakes for fishing, boating, or paddling.
Bonus? You’ve got great cell service, a major hospital just 13 miles away, and Hot Springs’ historic bathhouses within easy reach. It’s remote enough to feel like an escape but convenient enough to keep things stress-free.
Fairfield Bay Campground
If you want the best tent camping in Arkansas with a resort-style twist, Fairfield Bay Campground delivers. Perched on the shores of Greers Ferry Lake, this place is a playground for water lovers—thanks to its award-winning marina—but that’s just the start.
Nearly 100 miles of UTV/ATV trails wind through the area, plus hiking and biking paths for those who prefer two feet (or two wheels). And when you’re done adventuring? You’ve got mini-golf, two golf courses, a bowling alley, disc golf, and even pickleball and tennis courts to keep the fun rolling.
In short, whether you’re here to fish, explore, or just kick back with every amenity imaginable, Fairfield Bay makes camping feel like a five-star outdoor vacation.
The Verdict: Arkansas’s Best Tent Camping Spots
From riverside retreats to mountain-top escapes, Arkansas delivers some of the best tent camping in the state—no matter what kind of adventure you’re after. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, stargazing without a trace of light pollution, or just want a cozy campsite with killer views, these spots prove that the Natural State lives up to its name. So pack your gear (or don’t—some places have you covered), hit the road, and get ready to fall in love with the great outdoors of Arkansas.