Ozark Campground
4.6347 reviews.
Ozark Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
The campground charges $20 per night, per site, with a limit of 6 people per site. Payment is conducted through an honor system using envelope drop boxes. Interagency pass discounts may apply to individual campsites.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Buffalo National River, Ozark Campground welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-serve basis across 31 thoughtfully positioned drive-in and tent sites. This riverside haven serves as your gateway to unforgettable float trips and scenic hiking adventures, where each morning begins with the gentle sounds of flowing water and rustling leaves. Whether you're seeking a weekend escape or launching point for river exploration, this beloved campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility and natural immersion.
Ozark Campground offers a mix of tent and drive-in sites suitable for families and small groups.
Historical SignificanceOzark Campground holds a special place in American conservation history as part of the Buffalo National River, one of the nation's first federally protected rivers. This designation preserves not only the natural splendor that draws visitors from across the country but also protects the stories of generations who have found solace and adventure along these ancient waterways. Here, you're camping within a living monument to the vision of preserving America's free-flowing rivers for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Arkansas seasons at Ozark Campground, where spring awakens the landscape from March 15th through November 14th with full amenities including flush restrooms and fresh water. As autumn paints the surrounding bluffs in brilliant hues, the campground transitions to its winter character, offering vault toilets for hardy cold-weather campers seeking solitude among frost-kissed mornings. Summer brings warm days perfect for river activities, though early arrival is recommended as fellow adventurers flock to this popular riverside retreat.
ElevationTucked within the embrace of a scenic river valley, the campground offers a unique perspective where towering bluffs meet gentle waters. This valley setting creates a natural amphitheater of beauty, providing both shelter from prevailing winds and spectacular views that change with the light throughout the day.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where emerald canopies arch overhead and the Buffalo River carves its timeless path through ancient limestone bluffs. The campground's lush surroundings create a vibrant ecosystem where white-tailed deer may greet the dawn, songbirds provide nature's soundtrack, and small woodland creatures rustle through the understory. Each campsite offers its own window into this thriving natural community, where the interplay of water, stone, and forest creates endless opportunities for discovery and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic Buffalo National River corridor, Ozark Campground showcases the region's spectacular geological heritage. Towering limestone and sandstone bluffs tell stories millions of years in the making, while the river below continues its patient work of sculpting the landscape. This unique combination of exposed rock faces, verdant river valleys, and dense vegetation creates a photographer's paradise and naturalist's dream, where every trail reveals new perspectives on the ancient Ozark landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome campsites require walking down a hill and may not be convenient for individuals with limited mobility. A reviewer noted, "It wasn’t the easiest walk to the river; people with mobility issues may find it difficult."
Sites SizeSites are spacious, accommodating up to six people per site as per user reviews.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are moderate. Some reviews mention campsites as "close together," while another stated, "There's not much shade, and no privacy." However, "the Buffalo River wraps around the campground, giving every site almost immediate access to a rocky beach."
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the west side offer afternoon shade, whereas sites 7–14 require walking down from parking areas. For privacy, avoid busier weekends when the campground can fill up with larger groups.
Best CampsitesSites 29 and 6 are specifically mentioned in user reviews as being enjoyable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available at all hours since there is no reservation system.
Check-out
Check-out times are not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
The campground has a stay limit of 14 consecutive nights, as common in National Parks.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite allows up to 6 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 31 campsites arranged around a central open field. Sites on the west side receive afternoon shade, and several sites are walk-in areas.
Open and Closed SeasonFlush restrooms and water spigots are available from March 15 through November 14.
Reservation PlatformsNone, as reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is entirely first-come, first-serve, with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyOzark Campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, thus no reservation-related cancellation policy applies.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ozark Campground offers a mix of water and land-based activities like swimming, hiking, and fishing. The nearby Buffalo River enhances the recreation experience.
Hiking
Several trails are available, with one heading directly to the riverfront. "The area is close to trails," noted a reviewer.Fishing
Fishing is available at the Buffalo River. One visitor shared, "Came to fish—had a blast with the sites."Swimming
The Buffalo River offers swimming opportunities with access via a narrow trail. "Hands down the best swimming spot I have ever been to," one user commented. Another said, "The river is wonderful with a beautiful bluff overlook."Boating
Boating activities like kayaking and canoeing are common on the Buffalo River. "Make sure you book kayak/canoe in advance," advised one user.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as small mammals and birds can be spotted in the area. "We also enjoyed watching wildlife," shared one reviewer.Beach activities
The campground features rocky beaches along the Buffalo River. "The beaches on the river at this site are lovely," noted a user.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited to basic camping as vault toilets are available, but water access is restricted due to seasonal closures.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and tubing are popular water sports, with some mentioning a "5-10 minute float" down the river.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available at all campsites. Users are advised to keep fires contained within the designated pits.
- Quiet hours are The campground generally observes quiet hours starting around 10 PM, as noted by user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is present in the area. Wildlife such as squirrels and ravens are known to raid unsecured food. Additionally, the road leading into the campground is steep and gravel, requiring cautious driving.
Active alertsAs of the latest updates, nearby South Woolum Road is closed, and Cave Mountain Road has temporary weekday closures for improvements.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 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
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Jasper, 4 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 through November 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some users noted minor issues like late pickups. Recycling details are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Buffalo River is available via a small trail from the campsite.
Common complaintsSome users note that the campground can become crowded on weekends. The lack of showers and vault toilets running out of supplies during busy times are also criticized.
HostThere is a volunteer resident host on-site, as noted by user reviews.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsOzark Campground is located off of Highway 7, about 4 miles north of Jasper and 15 miles south of Harrison, Arkansas. The campground is located 1.5 miles off of Highway 7, at the end of County Road 129.
The road leading to Ozark Campground is a gravel road with a steep grade. However, it is well-maintained and accessible for larger vehicles, including 32ft Class A motorhomes with towed vehicles, as stated in user reviews.Nearby places
Jasper (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes by car), Harrison (15 miles, approximately 25 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Jasper, which is 4 miles away and includes grocery stores and restaurants.
Camper Reviews
4.6
47 reviews
Ozark Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty, proximity to the Buffalo River, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some drawbacks include a lack of showers, limited cell service, and sporadic issues with cleanliness during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 47 reviews
What Campers Love
- Stunning scenery with access to the Buffalo River and bluffs
- Spacious campsites with fire pits and picnic tables
- Well-maintained grounds and clean facilities
- Excellent swimming and stargazing...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- No showers available
- Limited cell service
- Restrooms occasionally run out of supplies during busy periods
- Steep, gravel road to access the campground
- Campsites can be crowded during peak...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own soap and toilet paper as supplies can run low
- Arrive early for the best campsites, especially during peak seasons
- Be prepared for no cell service; download maps or directions in...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak seasons see more visitors, leading to crowded conditions and occasional shortages of supplies. Off-season visits are quieter but come with limited amenities like no running water.
Based on 47 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Absolutely loved this place! The stars were crystal clear at night, and the river was beautiful!"
- "The campground is kept after very nicely and was a pleasure to stay here."
- "The view of the...
Based on 47 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site #29 sporadically has cell reception
- Sites #7-14 require walking down a hill from the parking area
- A small amphitheater is located next to site #6
Based on 47 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some sites are not easily accessible for individuals with mobility issues due to hills and narrow trails.
Based on 47 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is suitable for pet owners looking for nature-centric experiences.
Based on 47 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025