Rising Star
4.5582 reviewsPO BOX 7835, PINE BLUFF, AR 71611-7835, USA
Rising Star
$26.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $26.00 for standard electric campsites and $75.00 for the group shelter. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations or modifications.
About this campground
Nestled along the meandering banks of the Arkansas River, Rising Star Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of riverside tranquility and adventure. This Army Corps of Engineers-managed gem offers modern comforts alongside timeless natural beauty, featuring full water and electric hookups at every RV site. Families will delight in the well-maintained playground and shaded picnic areas, while anglers cast their lines into the productive waters of the Arkansas River. Whether you're seeking the thrill of the hunt, the patience of fishing, or simply the peace of watching sunset paint the river gold, Rising Star provides the ideal basecamp for your outdoor pursuits.
Rising Star Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles with 25 sites equipped with electric and water hookups. It supports RV camping, tent camping, and group gatherings in a dedicated group shelter.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle embrace of mild winters that make year-round camping a pleasure at Rising Star. As spring unfolds into summer, the campground transforms into a lush riverside oasis, though temperatures can soar into the upper 90s accompanied by that distinctive Southern humidity. Early mornings and evenings offer the most comfortable conditions for summer activities, with the river breeze providing natural relief from the heat. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall present ideal camping weather, with comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring all the campground has to offer.
ElevationPerched at a gentle elevation of 193 feet above sea level, Rising Star Campground offers the perfect vantage point along the Arkansas River valley. This modest elevation provides excellent drainage for campsites while maintaining easy access to the river's edge, creating an ideal balance between riverside camping and protection from seasonal flooding.
Natural Features and SceneryRising Star Campground unfolds like a hidden sanctuary where dense forest meets the flowing waters of the Arkansas River. Towering trees create a natural cathedral of shade, their branches alive with songbirds and the occasional flash of a red fox darting through the underbrush. The campground's riverfront location attracts an impressive array of waterfowl, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Beyond the forested boundaries, the landscape opens into a patchwork quilt of rolling cotton fields, their seasonal transformations painting an ever-changing backdrop. This unique setting where woodland meets water and wilderness borders agriculture creates a diverse ecosystem that captivates visitors throughout the year.
Geological RegionPositioned strategically along the Arkansas River's fertile corridor, Rising Star Campground occupies a fascinating geological transition zone where ancient river deposits have created rich bottomlands. The campground sits where dense riparian forests give way to the gently undulating terrain that supports the region's historic cotton farming heritage. This unique location showcases the river's millennia-long influence on the landscape, from the sandy loam beneath your feet to the sweeping vistas of agricultural fields that stretch toward the horizon.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features an accessible group shelter for day-use. Some campsites are noted to be near facilities and accessible, though specific ADA compliance levels are not detailed.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious with 'plenty of room,' and some are large enough for RVs with 50-amp service.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are noted to have 'good space between sites,' with some offering privacy and seclusion. Many sites back up to the river, offering scenic views.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites along the riverfront are ideal for fishing and views. Sites in the forested loop offer privacy.
Best CampsitesC-04, C-06, C-07, C-12, C-14 are rated highly in user reviews for their riverfront views and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4p.m.
Check-out
2p.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights during peak reservation periods.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows a maximum of 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in two loops with options for riverfront or forested camping. "You are not very close to your neighbors; these are not wall to wall."
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1 to October 31 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability"Campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis."
Cancellation PolicyThere is a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in) incur an additional charge equal to the first night's fee for individual campsites. Group shelter cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the entire fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its location on the Arkansas River. Fishing is highly popular, with anglers frequently catching bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. Boating is another major activity, facilitated by the on-site boat ramp. Families can also enjoy the playground and picnicking areas. Hunting is available in nearby forests and waterways, including duck hunting. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with visitors often spotting red foxes and diverse waterfowl.
Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity, with excellent opportunities for catching bass, crappie, bream, and catfish in the tailwaters of the Joe Hardin Lock and Dam and Emmitt Sanders Lock and Dam.Boating
Boating is supported with access to the Arkansas River via an on-site boat ramp. Some reviews highlighted the ease of launching boats.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with red foxes frequently seen in the park and numerous species of waterfowl along the river shores.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during the winter season, limiting any winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports were not specifically mentioned, but the Arkansas River is accessible for boating and fishing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but visitors are asked to buy and burn firewood locally to minimize pest risks.
- Quiet hours are standard but not explicitly mentioned in the materials.
Hazards
General hazards"Poisonous snakes are found in the area, use caution when walking through brush."
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely located in Pine Bluff, 12 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 - October 31.
Trash and recyclingNo traditional dumpsters are available, but there is a trailer for trash disposal. However, one reviewer noted that the trailer's location 'blocks access to the dump station,' which could be inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Arkansas River, with many sites providing riverfront access.
Common complaintsComplaints include bathhouses needing renovation, cold showers, lack of hot water, and insufficient restroom facilities for the campground's size.
Host"Host is on duty from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m." Hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. "The camp hosts are friendly and helpful."
Campground Map
PO BOX 7835, PINE BLUFF, AR 71611-7835, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pine Bluff, Arkansas, take U.S. Highway 65 south for 7.8 miles to Linwood. Turn left on Blankinship Road, drive 3.5 miles and follow the signs for Rising Star Campground.
The campground is accessible by paved roads for most of the route. However, some user reviews recommend avoiding roads with potholes or flooding. "Go to the entrance marked Blankenship Rd which was smooth."Nearby places
12 miles from Pine Bluff.
Nearby supplies
Shopping and groceries are available in Pine Bluff, 12 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
82 reviews
Rising Star is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Rising Star Campground are generally positive, highlighting its cleanliness, beautiful riverside views, and peaceful atmosphere. The campground is described as 'quiet,' 'relaxing,' and 'well-maintained.' While most users praise the facilities, some express concerns about the limited number of restrooms and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean campsites, spacious sites with river views, friendly and helpful hosts, hot showers, easy access to the Arkansas River, and excellent fishing opportunities. Multiple reviewers described the...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Limited restroom facilities for the campground size, occasional maintenance issues (e.g., blocked dump station access), reports of cold showers, and the need for general improvements in some areas.
Based on 82 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray due to mosquitoes. Choose campsites close to the river for better views and fishing access. Avoid certain access roads with potholes; use Blankenship Road instead. Be cautious of...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most praised during the spring and fall seasons for its mild weather and serene atmosphere. It closes during the winter, limiting access during colder months.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The shower house is fantastic. Lots of space for kids and pets to run.'
2. 'The bathrooms are a bit run-down and could use a lot of improvement.'
3. 'Most of the sites back right up to the edge...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite C-06 is frequently praised for its spaciousness and river views. Campsite C-04 is noted for being close to the river and offering great fishing access. Users recommend choosing sites along...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The group shelter is accessible, but more detailed reviews on accessibility features for individual campsites or facilities are limited.
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned positively in user reviews, with spaces available for pets to run. However, specific pet policies or restrictions are not detailed.
Based on 82 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025