Camping in Arkansas

1. Buffalo Camping & Canoeing

Operating out of the Gilbert General Store, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing offers a primitive campground three quarters of a mile away from the Buffalo River. Both tent and RV sites are available, and restrooms and showers are available for all guests to use.

All sites have a six-person maximum, and campers must book a stay of at least two nights on weekends. The company also offers exciting float trips down the river, and due to the campground's small size, campers will sometimes be required to book a float trip in order to reserve a campsite.

Buffalo Camping & Canoeing, 1 N Frost St, Gilbert, AR 72636, Phone: 870-439-2888, FB

2. Bull Shoals-White River State Park

Known for being home to one of the best trout-fishing streams in the country, the Bull Shoals-White River State Park runs along the shores of both the White River and Bull Shoals Lake. More than 100 campsites can be found along the shore of the river, including both tent and RV sites, and RVs are sometimes available to rent if you don't have your own. Campers can fish, hike, and mountain bike in the park, and there's also an excellent Visitor's Center, which features a large exhibit hall and often offers nature walks, trout fishing demonstrations, and other interpretive programs.

Bull Shoals-White River State Park, 153 Dam Overlook Lane, Lakeview, AR 72642, Phone: 870-445-3629

3. Crater of Diamonds State Park

The Crater of Diamonds State Park is one of the only places in the world where visitors can search for genuine diamonds, making it a truly unique camping destination. The Visitor's Center is full of information about diamonds and why they're found here, and digging tools can be rented if needed. Most of the sites in the shady campground are suitable for both tents and RVs, and the campground offers modern amenities like a bathhouse with hot showers and campground-wide Wi-Fi. However, there are also a handful of walk-in tent sites for those who want a more rustic experience.

Crater of Diamonds State Park, 209 State Park Rd, Murfreesboro, AR 71958, Phone: 870-285-3113, Video

4. Daisy State Park

Encompassing almost 280 acres in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, Daisy State Park is a fantastic place for all sorts of outdoor activities. Visitors can fish for trout in the Little Missouri River, go for a ride on the Bear Cycle ATV Trail, or rent a kayak and paddle around on Lake Greeson. There are more than 100 tent and RV campsites to choose from, and for a truly unforgettable experience, the campground also rents out a yurt. Other amenities in the park include a children's playground, a screened-in pavilion, and several picnic areas.

Daisy State Park, 103 E Park Rd, Kirby, AR 71950, Phone: 870-398-4487

5. Horseshoe Bend Campground

Sitting on the western shore of Beaver Lake, Horseshoe Bend Campground boasts shady, spacious campsites and easy access to the water. Kayaks can be launched from many of the campsites, and the lake is excellent for paddling, fishing, and swimming. Other popular activities in the area include fishing in the upper White River and hiking in the nearby Hobbs State Park. All sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, and flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water are available as well. If you need to stock up on supplies, there are several nearby marinas with stores and boat rentals.

Horseshoe Bend Campground, 16165 AR-94, Rogers, AR 72758, Phone: 479-925-2561

6. Gulpha Gorge Campground

Located in Hot Springs National Park, the Gulpha Gorge Campground offers 40 sites with full hookups, although both tents and RVs are welcome. A small creek runs through the property, and there are several walking trails leading to the historic town of Hot Springs, which is approximately two miles away. Every site is equipped with a fire ring, but if you're camping with a larger group, you can get a permit to have a fire in the fire pit at the Campground Amphitheater. All sites are available on a first-come first-served basis, and camping fees must be paid with credit or debit rather than cash.

Gulpha Gorge Campground, 305 Gulpha Gorge Road, Hot Springs, AR 71901, Phone: 501-620-6715

7. Hot Springs National Park KOA

Although it's not located right in the national park, the Hot Springs National Park KOA is another great place to stay, particularly if you're camping in an RV. The park is only a few minutes' drive away, and the RV sites are equipped with full hookups and cable TV. Some also have concrete decks equipped with patio furniture and brick fire pits. Other fun amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool, a fishing pond, and a children's playground, and for an additional fee, you can also play a round of golf on the 18-hole mini golf course.

Hot Springs National Park KOA, 838 McClendon Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71901, Phone: 501-624-5912