Wilbur D. Mills
4.2523 reviews599 HIGHWAY 212 EAST, DUMAS, AR, 71639, USA
Wilbur D. Mills
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard electric sites in peak season cost $24 per night. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations, reservation changes, and no-shows.
About this campground
Tucked along the banks of the mighty Arkansas River, Wilbur D. Mills Campground offers a peaceful retreat where the gentle rush of water provides nature's soundtrack. This intimate campground features 21 well-appointed sites, each thoughtfully equipped with water and electric hookups for modern comfort. Nestled downstream from the impressive Wilbur D. Mills Dam on the river's right descending bank, visitors find themselves in a tranquil pocket of natural beauty that feels worlds away from the hustle of everyday life.
The campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. One group site is also available.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the trees here, with the renowned Arkansas Post National Memorial just a short journey away. This sacred ground marks where European explorers first established their village west of the mighty Mississippi River, forever changing the course of American history. Camping at Wilbur D. Mills places you at the crossroads of past and present, where centuries-old stories of exploration and settlement echo across the landscape that has witnessed so much of our nation's early chapters.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens the campground with wildflowers and perfect temperatures, while autumn paints the surrounding hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons. These coveted seasons offer campers the ideal combination of comfortable weather and minimal rainfall, creating those perfect camping days where morning coffee tastes better outdoors and evening campfires burn long into the night. The moderate temperatures during these months make every outdoor activity more enjoyable, from riverside walks to wildlife watching.
ElevationThe campground rests at river level, where the landscape gently embraces the Arkansas River's natural contours and flood plains.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of bottomland hardwood forests creates a verdant canopy overhead, while pristine sandbars emerge like golden islands from the river's shallow waters. This unique ecosystem serves as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including the magnificent and federally endangered Least Terns who choose these protected shores for their nesting grounds. The interplay of forest and river creates ever-changing vistas, where morning mists dance across the water and sunset transforms the sandbars into glowing ribbons of light.
Geological RegionPositioned strategically on the lower Arkansas River just below the Wilbur D. Mills Dam, this campground occupies a fascinating geological transition zone. The dam's presence has shaped a unique environment where bottomland hardwood forests thrive alongside dynamic river features. Sandy bars shift and reshape with the seasons, while shallow waters create perfect habitat for shorebirds and aquatic life. This rare combination of managed water flow and natural river characteristics has produced an ecological gem where federally endangered Least Terns find refuge among the sandbars and shallow pools.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne designated Disabled Access site is available. Accessible flush toilets and showers are also featured.
Sites SizeSites are described as "spacious" and "nice sized lots," with some sites featuring mature trees and shed roofs over picnic tables.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as "very spaced out" and "shaded," providing privacy. However, some users noted overgrown grass as a concern.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesShaded sites with spacious layouts are popular. Quiet locations near the river are preferred.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than 2 tents per campsite, or 1 camper and 1 tent.
Groups
One designated group site is available. Details on capacity are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spacious and include mature trees; many feature shed roofs over picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 4, 2025, to October 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability17 out of 21 campsites are reservable, indicating some walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Additional late cancellation fees apply starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of activities including hiking, fishing, hunting, birding, and boating. The area's natural features and wildlife also make it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking is permitted year-round except during permit-drawn hunts outside the park. Hikers are advised to wear bright colors during hunting seasons. Trails are described as interesting and provide an opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty.Fishing
The waters below the Wilbur D. Mills Dam are popular for fishing. Species include Blue, Channel, and Flathead catfish, as well as crappie, white bass, striped bass, and hybrids. One review noted, "Great fishing" and "Easy access to fishing the Arkansas River."Boating
A boat launch is available at the campground, and the Arkansas River offers opportunities for boating. Boaters are warned to exercise caution due to sudden changes in river flow.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas are excellent for birding, with species such as the Federally Endangered Least Terns visible. Other wildlife includes raccoons and whitetail deer.Winter Activities
Hiking is allowed year-round, and activities such as birding may also be suitable during winter months.Water Sports
Boating is supported, but no specific information on non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Only wood and paper products may be placed in fire rings; campers must follow local firewood guidelines to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSudden rises and falls in the Arkansas River's water levels near the dam. Wildlife hazards include raccoons and snakes.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.6 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
Closest emergency services are likely located in Dumas, AR, approximately 15 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 4, 2025 - October 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to place all trash into dumpsters and trash cans, and only wood and paper products may be burned in fire rings.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Arkansas River with direct access to fishing and boating. A boat ramp is available.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include grassy and overgrown campsites and bathrooms requiring maintenance.
HostReviews indicate active campground hosts who are helpful in addressing camper needs and providing area information.
Campground Map
599 HIGHWAY 212 EAST, DUMAS, AR, 71639, USA
Driving directionsFrom Dumas, Arkansas, travel north on US-165 for 9 miles to State Route 212. Turn right and continue 4 miles east, through Pendleton Bend Park, to the campground.
Road access is via paved roads and appears to be straightforward. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.Nearby places
Dumas (approx. 15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Dumas, AR, approximately 15 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
23 reviews
Wilbur D. Mills is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews are mixed. Positive themes include the quiet atmosphere, good fishing, and privacy of campsites. Negative aspects include cleanliness issues and maintenance needs.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Campground praised for its quiet and peaceful setting, spacious and shaded sites, and excellent fishing opportunities.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints about overgrown grass, unclean or poorly maintained restrooms and showers, and occasional issues with disruptive behavior by campers.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend being cautious about leaving food out due to raccoons. Others suggest bringing enough gas and supplies as the nearest store is 15 miles away.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highlighted as ideal times for camping due to pleasant weather and active wildlife. Summer reviews indicate issues with overgrowth and very hot showers.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Great fishing." 2. "Very quiet and clean." 3. "Bathrooms needed TLC." 4. "Sites are very shaded...I kept my AC at 70-75 and my RV stayed cool at night." 5. "Raccoons will raid camp if trash/food...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #09: Mixed reviews include complaints about grass needing mowing and positive remarks about its size and layout. Site #11: Praised for its spaciousness and birdwatching opportunities. Site #20:...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One designated Disabled Access site is available. Reviews do not provide additional details on accessibility experiences.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly campground with ample space between sites, allowing for pets to roam. One user appreciated not needing to leash their dog constantly.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025