Willow Beach
4.45561 reviewsPO BOX 7835, PINE BLUFF, AR, 71611-7835, USA
Willow Beach
$19.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary by season. Standard electric sites are priced at $26 per night, and group shelter sites with electricity are priced at $75 per...
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Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$101.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider501-961-1332
About this campground
Nestled along the Arkansas River, Willow Beach Campground offers an intimate escape with just 21 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each featuring modern electric and water hookups. This hidden gem has earned a devoted following among campers who cherish its pristine grounds, generous site layouts, and the perfect balance of convenience and natural beauty. Three welcoming group picnic shelters dot the landscape, inviting families and friends to gather for memorable day adventures along the riverfront.
Willow Beach Campground provides various standard camping options, including RV and tent sites with electric and water hookups.
Historical SignificanceNo specific historical or cultural significance is detailed.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Arkansas seasons at Willow Beach, where summer days soar into the upper 90s, creating perfect conditions for early morning wildlife watching and lazy afternoons by the river. The mild winters transform the campground into a peaceful retreat, allowing year-round access during operational months. While summer brings its share of Southern humidity and occasional rain showers, these natural rhythms only add to the authentic outdoor experience that draws visitors back season after season.
ElevationAt a gentle elevation of 193 feet above sea level, Willow Beach welcomes campers of all ages and abilities with its comfortably flat terrain. This accessible landscape makes it easy to explore every corner of the campground, from riverside paths to shaded camping spots, without the challenge of steep climbs or rugged terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle flow of the Arkansas River and the rustling of forest canopy overhead at Willow Beach, where nature puts on a daily show. Beyond the treeline, rolling cotton fields paint the horizon with seasonal colors, creating a uniquely Southern landscape. Keep your camera ready for the campground's charismatic wildlife residents – from the flash of a red fox at dawn to graceful deer browsing at dusk. Armadillos shuffle through the underbrush while overhead, formations of ducks and majestic pelicans follow the river's ancient pathways.
Geological RegionWillow Beach rests in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley, where centuries of river flow have carved out a landscape of remarkable diversity. At 193 feet elevation, this fertile valley showcases the meeting point of dense forests and agricultural heritage, with sprawling cotton farms creating a patchwork quilt against the wooded riverbanks. This unique geological setting provides campers with both the tranquility of shaded forest camping and expansive views across the working farmlands that define this region's character.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has paved roads and concrete pads, making it accessible for those with reduced mobility. However, the lack of close proximity of dumpsters and bathrooms to some sites may pose challenges.
Sites SizeSites are spacious, with most able to accommodate large RVs. "Plenty of room here for rigs of all sizes," said one reviewer.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced but not heavily wooded, offering a moderate level of privacy. "Sites are staggered, so everyone has a view of the lake," noted one user.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite F21 is noted for its proximity to restroom facilities. Sites on the river side are often recommended for their exceptional views and serene environment.
Best CampsitesSites along the river are highly recommended for their views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay: 14 nights per visit. Maximum stay within 30 days: 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest allowances per site are not mentioned.
Groups
Three reservable group picnic shelters suitable for day use only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out with 21 sites, some of which are located along the river. Sites are well spaced, providing privacy and scenic views.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally, opening on March 1 and closing on December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly detailed, but prior reservations are recommended as signage on-site indicates reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and refunds subtract the first night's fee for late cancellations. Group sites require cancellation at least 14 days prior to avoid penalties.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Willow Beach Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing is particularly popular, with bass, crappie, and bream commonly caught in the Arkansas River. The site also has a boat ramp for launching. Onshore activities include picnicking, playground use, and sightseeing. Wildlife spotting is a favorite pastime, with red foxes, deer, and armadillos frequenting the area. The site is considered quiet and peaceful, especially during weekdays.
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with anglers frequently catching bass, crappie, and bream in the Arkansas River and nearby waterways. One user stated, "Fishing is good on the river side."Boating
Boating is supported with a boat ramp on-site. A user mentioned, "The locals seem to love this spot for fishing."Wildlife viewing
Campers often spot red foxes, deer, and armadillos, along with numerous species of waterfowl, including pelicans and Great Blue Herons. One reviewer remarked, "The park was crawling with armadillos and had incredible bird watching."Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but restrictions may apply during burn bans or seasonal changes.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and gnats are noted as significant nuisances, especially during summer. Swampy areas near the campground may emit unpleasant odors.
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Nov 26
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Little Rock, including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments. Specific locations are not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to October 31 (peak season). November 1 to December 31 (non-peak season).
Trash and recyclingA single dumpster is located at the entrance to the campground, which may be inconvenient for some campers. Recycling facilities were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Arkansas River and features a boat ramp. Some sites are located near swampy areas.
Common complaintsComplaints include mosquitoes, inconsistent bathroom maintenance, lack of soap, and issues with the dump station.
HostReviews mention friendly and accommodating hosts. Some issues with host availability have been noted in older reviews.
Campground Map
PO BOX 7835, PINE BLUFF, AR, 71611-7835, USA
Driving directionsFrom Little Rock, Arkansas, take U.S. Highway 165 east for 2.5 miles. Turn right on Colonel Manard Road and continue for three miles. Turn right again onto Blue Heron Parkway and follow signs to Willow Beach Park.
The park is easily accessible from major roads via U.S. Highway 165. The roads leading up to the campground are paved, ensuring smooth access for vehicles. However, some user reviews suggest challenges with GPS navigation leading to the park and recommend advance planning.Nearby places
Little Rock: approximately 15 miles away (about 20 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, gas, and restaurants are available in Little Rock, which is a short drive away. Additional amenities may be available at nearby stores, including a Dollar General located roughly 5-6 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
561 reviews
Willow Beach is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviewers found the campground clean, peaceful, and well-suited for short stays or family outings. The proximity to Little Rock combined with the natural surroundings makes it a convenient escape. However, some maintenance issues, such as unstocked bathrooms and a closed dump station, were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 561 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent praise included the spacious and level sites, clean bathrooms, and beautiful views of the Arkansas River. Many users highlighted the quiet atmosphere, especially on weekdays. "Beautiful...
Based on 561 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common criticisms were the lack of maintenance in certain areas, such as "dump station out of order," "grass not mowed," and "baths lacking soap." Some found the mosquitoes and bugs to be a nuisance,...
Based on 561 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Future visitors are advised to bring bug spray due to mosquitoes, especially in the warmer months. Fishing enthusiasts should take advantage of the riverside location. Arriving before the gate locks...
Based on 561 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are praised for their mild weather and fewer bugs, making them ideal for camping. Summer brings high humidity, very hot temperatures, and many mosquitoes. Winters are quiet but...
Based on 561 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We loved seeing all the ducks, geese, and even pelicans right from our spot." "Bathrooms were far cleaner than I expected." "The whole park is pretty loosely run, which is nice if it's quiet."
Based on 561 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site F4 was highlighted as a good spot for being near the bathrooms but not too close to the bright security lights. Lake-view sites were often recommended for the best scenery.
Based on 561 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is reasonable, with paved roads and relatively level sites. However, the distance to the dumpster and bathroom facilities could be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Based on 561 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many users appreciated the pet-friendly environment. However, reviews mentioned that some pet owners did not always clean up after their dogs.
Based on 561 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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