Overview

Nestled near the towering bluffs of the scenic Buffalo River, Ozark Campground is the perfect destination for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you're planning a laid-back picnic or looking for a spot to enjoy the dark night sky, you'll enjoy fresh air, beautiful views, and easy access to one of Arkansas’s most beloved rivers.

At Ozark Campground visitors that bring their own gear can enjoy:

• Canoeing

• Kayaking

• Tubing

• Swimming

• Fishing

Located in the center of the campground, the Ozark Pavilion provides a convenient gathering space for groups. The day-use pavilion is available for $25/day. Amenities include:

• Grills available for public use

• Restrooms

• Electrical access

• Nearby water access

• Multiple picnic tables under shelter

Whether you're organizing a family reunion, a group outing, or simply a weekend escape, Ozark Campground offers both relaxation and recreation in a beautiful natural setting.

Facilities

Ozark has 31 drive-up tent sites. There are no electrical amenities or water hookups at the tent sites, but flush restrooms and water spigots are available from approximately March 15 through November 14 each year. Available by reservation, the covered pavilion seats up to 100 people and electricity is available.

Natural Features

The campground and pavilion are located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final destination at the White River.

Recreation

The Buffalo River Trail can be accessed behind Site 31 and next to the camp host site. The scenic trail spans a massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt and is ideal for hiking or backpacking. Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.

Paddling conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current paddling conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502, or check the Buffalo National River Float Guide Dashboard

Nearby Attractions

The campground and pavilion are located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final destination at the White River.

Contact Info

Important Notices

• Water and electricity will be turned off approximately November 15th to March 15th each year.

• The facility is available for camping free of charge outside of the reservation season.

• Climbing and/or diving from the bluffs is dangerous and highly discouraged.

• Do not swim alone during high water.

• All park trails are closed to pets with the exception of the Buffalo River Trail, only on the section of trail between Ponca and Steel Creek, the Villines Homestead Trail at Ponca, the Mill Creek Trail (trailhead is at the Pruitt river access area in the Upper District), the Tyler Bend Campground trails (Spring Hollow, Buck Ridge, and Rock Wall in the Middle District), and all three Buffalo Point Campground trails (Forest Trail, Overlook Trail, and Campground Trail in the Lower District). For more information visit the Pets page on the p ark website.

• Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states.  

• Please be aware that some special events held at the pavilions or anywhere in the park (such as weddings, press receptions, concerts, et al) require a Special Use Permit in addition to the pavilion reservation. To obtain a Special Use Permit or additional information, please contact the Commercial Services office at (870) 365-2724.Visit the park's Special Park Uses web page for more information.  

Available Activities

• Camping - Camping
• Canoeing - Canoeing
• Fishing - Fishing
• Hiking - Hiking
• Paddling - Paddling
• Photography - Photography
• Water Activities - Water Activities
• Swimming - Swimming
• Kayaking - Kayaking
• Picnicking - Picnicking
• Star Gazing - Star Gazing
• Birding - Birding

Directions

<p>From Harrison, head south on Highway 7 for approximately 13 miles (21 km). After driving across a bridge over the Buffalo River, look for a brown sign for the Ozark Campground. Turn right onto the gravel road and follow it for about one mile (1.6 km) to the campground and pavilion.</p>

Cancellation Policy

<p>Please visit the Recreation.gov <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">Rules and Reservation Policies</a> page.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 870-861-2570 (STEEL CREEK RANGER STATION)

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip