Erbie Campground
4.2815 reviewsErbie Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping is free at Erbie Campground, according to multiple user reviews.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, Erbie Campground beckons those seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. This peaceful retreat offers 14 drive-in sites for RV and car campers, plus 2 secluded walk-in spots perfect for tent enthusiasts who crave extra solitude. Families and groups can reserve one of 5 spacious group sites for memorable gatherings under the stars. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis (except for group sites), this primitive campground has earned glowing reviews from visitors who consistently praise its cleanliness, safety, and tranquil atmosphere. While amenities are purposefully minimal—featuring vault toilets and seasonal water access only—this simplicity is exactly what draws campers seeking to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature.
Erbie Campground accommodates various camping styles, including primitive, tent, and group camping. "There are 14 drive-in sites, 2 walk-in tent-only sites, and 5 group sites."
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the historic trails radiating from Erbie Campground. These well-worn paths lead adventurous hikers to fascinating remnants of Arkansas's pioneer past, including weathered homesteads that whisper stories of the families who once carved out lives in these rugged hills. The crown jewel of local history is the old town of Erbie itself, where moss-covered foundations and forgotten orchards paint a poignant picture of a community that thrived here generations ago. Each hike becomes a journey through time, offering glimpses into the determination and dreams of early Ozark settlers.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Erbie Campground with its own distinct palette. Spring arrives with wildflowers and perfect hiking weather, while summer invites lazy afternoons by the river and warm nights perfect for stargazing. Fall transforms the surrounding forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, creating ideal conditions for photographers and nature lovers. Winter brings a special kind of magic—though temperatures can dip quite low and occasional light snow may dust the landscape, the campground takes on a serene, almost mystical quality that rewards hardy souls with solitude and frost-kissed morning views.
Natural Features and SceneryEmbraced by towering hardwood forests, Erbie Campground serves as your gateway to some of the Buffalo River's most stunning landscapes. The crystal-clear waters of America's first national river flow nearby, creating a natural soundtrack that lulls campers to sleep each night. Morning mist rises from the water to mingle with the forest canopy, while afternoon light filters through the leaves, creating an ever-changing canvas of shadows and light. Well-maintained trails wind through the woods, leading to scenic overlooks, hidden swimming holes, and peaceful spots perfect for contemplation or picnicking. Whether you're floating the gentle currents or hiking the ridgelines, the natural beauty here feels both intimate and infinite.
Geological RegionErbie Campground sits within the remarkable Buffalo National River corridor, a geological wonderland carved over millennia by the persistent flow of one of America's last undammed rivers. This pristine waterway has sculpted dramatic bluffs, created countless caves and hollows, and continues to shape the landscape with its clear, spring-fed waters. The surrounding Ozark highlands showcase ancient limestone and sandstone formations, their layers telling the story of prehistoric seas and the slow, patient work of erosion. For geology enthusiasts and casual observers alike, the area offers a living textbook of natural history, where every bend in the river and every exposed cliff face reveals another chapter in Earth's grand narrative.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites include 14 drive-in sites, 2 walk-in tent-only sites, and 5 group sites, with some described as "nicely shaded" and "large enough for a tent trailer."
Sites PrivacyCampsites are "surrounded by woods but with grass," according to one review. However, some sites are "close to other campers."
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #5 is recommended for its shade, proximity to the restroom, and suitability for a tent trailer, according to one user review.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Five group sites are available, accommodating larger parties. However, there are no specific details about the maximum number of guests or vehicles allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 14 drive-in sites, 2 walk-in tent-only sites, and 5 group sites. Some sites near the river are overgrown.
Open and Closed SeasonFlush restrooms and water spigots are available seasonally, from March 15 through November 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for group sites can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityErbie Campground is primarily first-come, first-serve, with group sites being reservable 5 days to six months in advance.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable since the campground is mostly first-come, first-serve, except for group sites. General recreation.gov cancellation policies apply to group site reservations.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Erbie Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and water-based recreation such as kayaking and floating. "Trails lead to various places in the area, including the Buffalo River and an old homestead." It is an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a connection to nature.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible from the campground, including ones that lead to the Buffalo River and an old homestead. "There weren’t very many people hiking on the trails," making it a good option for those seeking isolation.Swimming
The Buffalo River offers swimming opportunities. "We very much enjoyed the river," a user noted, with access points along trails and near the campground.Biking
Biking is possible along the Buffalo River. "This is a rare area along the Buffalo River where you can actually bike upriver," according to one user.Boating
Kayaking and floating are popular activities at Erbie Campground. "You can kayak upstream and float back to the campground for about a half-hour float or longer," a user shared.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include badgers, beavers, herons, armadillos, snakes, and lizards. "We saw a ton of butterflies and a variety of other animals," one family noted during their stay.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed, but the campground is less equipped for winter camping due to the lack of water and flush toilets outside of March 15 to November 14.Water Sports
Kayaking and floating on the Buffalo River are popular water sports at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are generally allowed within the fire pits provided at each site.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention rough roads, occasional overgrown campsites, and wildlife like raccoons and snakes.
Active alertsMultiple alerts are active in the Buffalo National River area, including road closures for Cave Mountain Road (Mondays-Thursdays) and Lower Tyler Bend River Access renovations.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers must pack out all trash as there are no trash or recycling facilities. "It’s a bit of a drive from the main road, and there are not a lot of ready places to get rid of your trash even on the main road," a user noted.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Buffalo River, with trails leading directly to the river and opportunities for floating and kayaking.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention the rough gravel roads leading to the campground, limited toilet facilities, and the lack of running water.
HostRangers make rounds to check on campers and are described as friendly.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTake Highway 7 north of Jasper for approximately 3 miles. Turn left onto County Road 79 and the Erbie Campground will be approximately 6 miles down a gravel road with one hairpin curve.
The gravel road leading to the campground is described as rough, with multiple switchbacks. User reviews support this assessment, with some describing it as 'long twisting, bumpy, narrow road' and saying it is not suitable for larger RVs or trailers.Camper Reviews
4.3
15 reviews
Erbie Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene and remote nature, but also its lack of amenities. Many visitors appreciate the free camping and the proximity to the Buffalo River.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently mention the beauty of the surrounding area, the quiet and relaxing environment, and the opportunity to connect with nature. "Perfect for the family, not crowded at all," one...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints are about the rough and narrow access road, lack of water and electricity, and limited restroom facilities. "The stench was unbearable" at one vault toilet during a busy...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and pack out all your trash. Avoid bringing RVs due to the rough, narrow road. One user advised, "Do your best not to (unintentionally) feed the wildlife," as raccoons can be...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that spring and summer are the best times to visit, with lush scenery and better weather. However, holiday weekends can lead to overcrowded facilities.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The trails lead to the Buffalo River and various other places. The scenery is beautiful."
2. "There are no glass containers allowed on the river, and the rangers are strict about this."
3....
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #5 was highlighted as "nicely shaded, large enough for a tent trailer, and close to the restroom." However, some sites close to the river were described as "overgrown and not easily...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available, but the rough roads and lack of modern amenities may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies, but general references to wildlife suggest the need to keep pets under control.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025