Winter camping in Arkansas is beautiful. It’s the perfect time to sit around a campfire and enjoy the outdoors.
To me, the best part about living in Arkansas is that we don’t ever know what the weather is going to be like week to week. Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean it’s always going to be cold outside.
There have been plenty of Thanksgivings when we can put the extra desserts and sweet tea out on the screen porch because the temperatures are so low. Then, by Christmas, we are in t-shirts again.
So, don’t be afraid to book a camping trip during the winter in Arkansas! The weather may be cold or warm but the views are always great.
Best Places to Camp in the Winter in Arkansas
These campgrounds were chosen as the best places to winter camp in Arkansas because of their location. Since they are in the Southern half of the state, there is less of a chance of icy roads in case some crazy weather rolls through. These locations offer some of the BEST camping in Arkansas!
Merrisach Lake Campground in Southeast Arkansas
“Merrisach Lake Campground and Day Use Park is situated on the banks of Merrisach Lake and the Arkansas Post Canal in the lush bottomland forest of eastern Arkansas. The campground is described as off the beaten path, providing visitors with the peace and quiet to enjoy fishing, hunting, picnicking and boating.” -source
The campsites at Merrisach Lake are spacious and a few of them back right up to the lake. Most sites have water and electric available. You will also find hot showers, picnic tables, a playground, dump station and a boat ramp here!
Also, if you’re looking for some great Arkansas fishing, you will find it here! This is an exceptional location for catching catfish.
You’ll find Merrisach Lake Campground here:
Latitude
34° 1′ 49.0001″ N
Longitude
91° 15′ 59.0000″ W
Lake Chicot State Park
Lake Chicot is Arkansas’s largest natural lake. It’s just brimming with some of the best fishing in Arkansas and it’s the perfect spot for bird watchers.
Lake Chicot State Park is in the southeast corner of Arkansas and is perfect for winter camping because of it’s southern location.
“At 20 miles long, Lake Chicot is the largest natural lake in Arkansas and the largest oxbow lake in North America. Its beautiful waters are a favorite with anglers throughout the year. Located near the Mississippi River, the park is situated in one of the largest flyways in the country making it a perfect place for bird watching.” -source
Lake Chicot State Park has 122 campsites and 14 cabins. You’ll also find a marina, park store, and a seasonal swimming pool.
You’ll find Lake Chicot State Park here:
2542 Hwy. 257
Lake Village, AR 71653
870-265-5480
Lake Catherine State Park
Lake Catherine State Park is south of Little Rock near Hot Springs, Arkansas. This park has excellent winter camping and boat rentals are available year-round. This state park also has some of the best tent camping in Arkansas!
“This peaceful park is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round.” -source
Lake Catherine State Park is one of many campgrounds in Arkansas with hiking and waterfalls!
You’ll find Lake Catherine State Park here:
1200 Catherine Park Road
Hot Springs, AR 71913
501-844-4176
Near Lake Catherine, you will also find some of the best FREE camping in Arkansas if you prefer boondocking/primitive camping.
White Oak Lake State Park
White Oak Lake State Park is southwest of Little Rock and a few miles from Bluff City. In my experience, this location is below the “snow line.” That means that winter camping here is perfect!
“This quiet state park is situated on White Oak Lake, a popular fishing lake. Watchable wildlife and birding opportunities also abound here.” -source
This park has 45 campsites, a nice bathhouse, store with fishing supplies, marina, boat rentals, boat ramp, picnic tables and a playground for the kids!
Don’t miss the great hiking trails and mountain bike trail. If you didn’t pack your bike, you can rent one from the visitor center.
You’ll find White Oak Lake State Park here:
563 Hwy. 387
Bluff City, AR 71722
870-685-2748
You will also like: What are winters like in Arkansas?
Millwood State Park
Millwood State Park is in the southwest corner of Arkansas about 20 minutes from Texas. This is the perfect lake for serious bass fisherman!
“This 29,260-acre lake abounds in largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. Birding is also popular at this Audubon-designated Important Bird Area with sightings of over 300 of the state’s 400 species on record.” -source
Millwood State Park has 45 campsites, picnic area, walking trail and bicycle trail. There is also a marina with gift items, groceries, bait, gas and rental kayaks, canoes, and fishing boats.
You’ll find Millwood State Park here:
1564 Hwy. 32 East
Ashdown, AR 71822
870-898-2800
Another great winter camping option: [PHOTOS] Cowhide Cove Campground- Simply Beautiful
In case you’re wondering about snow in Arkansas, read: Does Arkansas get snow?
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