Cherokee Campground (Ar)
4.1123 reviews475 Cherokee Park Road
Cherokee Campground (Ar)
$18.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$22.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard nightly fees are $22 for sites with electrical hookups and $18 for non-electric sites during the peak season (May 15 - September 14). Fees do not include additional taxes or charges.
About this campground
Discover your perfect escape at Cherokee Campground, where the ancient Ozark Mountains meet the sparkling waters of Greers Ferry Lake. This scenic retreat features 30 thoughtfully placed campsites, including 16 with electrical hookups for modern convenience. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring wooded trails, launching your boat for a day on the water, or taking a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear lake, Cherokee Campground serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures beneath a canopy of hardwoods and evergreens.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping types including standard electric and non-electric sites suitable for both RVs and tents. There are no options for group camping, cabins, or glamping.
Historical SignificanceStep into angling history at the nearby William Carl Garner Visitor Center, home to an impressive replica of the world-record brown trout pulled from the legendary waters of the Little Red River. This remarkable catch stands as a testament to the exceptional fishing heritage that continues to draw anglers from across the nation to these productive Arkansas waters.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of the seasons at Cherokee, where moderate temperatures averaging 69°F create ideal conditions for year-round camping. With minimal rainfall and comfortable humidity levels, you'll find perfect weather for outdoor pursuits. Summer invites you to dive into water sports and lakeside relaxation, while autumn transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber as the hardwood forests put on their annual color show.
ElevationThe campground's natural terraced landscape provides varied camping experiences across its gently rolling terrain, offering both lakeside and hillside perspectives of this stunning Ozark setting.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of native Arkansas trees, where towering red oaks mingle with fragrant red cedars, and black gums burst into fiery autumn displays. Sweet gums, pecans, and elms complete this diverse forest tapestry, providing homes for an abundance of wildlife. Watch for white-tailed deer grazing at dusk, wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush, and playful squirrels and rabbits darting among the trees. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the melodic chorus of diverse species that fill the air with song from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionCherokee Campground rests in the heart of the storied Ozark Mountains, where ancient geology meets modern recreation along the shores of magnificent Greers Ferry Lake. This 30,000-acre aquatic playground is cradled by hills dressed in a rich tapestry of red cedar, black gum, red oak, elm, pecan, and sweet gum trees, creating a stunning backdrop that showcases the natural splendor of Arkansas's highland region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not detailed in the authoritative source or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campsites include both standard electric and non-electric options, accommodating tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate mixed privacy levels; sites C1, C2, and C3, for example, are described as having foot traffic from visitors accessing lake swimming areas.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid C1-C3 if privacy is a concern, as non-campers frequently use these areas. Several reviewers recommend C7 for its isolation and peaceful environment.
Best CampsitesCampsites C1, C2, and C3 are noted for their proximity to the lake and swimming access.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 occupants per site.
Groups
Group camping sites are not available at Cherokee Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 30 sites, some with lakefront views. Sites are suitable for both RVs and tents, with paved areas for parking.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 15 to September 14. Closed during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or through associated apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated. Indicates a preference for reservations through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 1 day of arrival) forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cherokee Campground offers a diverse range of activities centered around Greers Ferry Lake. Visitors can engage in boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant due to the region's lush natural setting.
Hiking
While the campground itself does not have dedicated trails, the area features three National Nature Trails and a multipurpose fitness trail, suitable for various skill levels.Fishing
Fishing is popular and productive, with one reviewer noting, "The fish can often be caught from the bank."Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available, though there are no designated swim areas. Some reviews highlight issues with privacy due to swimming spots being located within campsites. "The not official swim area was in our campsite," one user commented.Boating
Cherokee Campground offers a boat ramp for easy access to Greers Ferry Lake, making it convenient for boating enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and squirrels are commonly seen, adding to the natural appeal of the area.Water Sports
Greers Ferry Lake supports activities such as water skiing, sailing, and scuba diving, though these are not specific to the campground itself.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but should be contained within designated fire rings. Visitors are advised to buy firewood locally to avoid invasive species contamination.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews frequently mention biting ants and a lack of water hookups and showers. Other hazards include high lake levels during seasons of heavy rainfall, making swimming areas inaccessible.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 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 and main office contact is available at Greers Ferry Project Office, P.O. Box 1088, Heber Springs, AR 72543. Phone: (501) 362-2416.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - September 14.
Trash and recyclingNo details about trash and recycling facilities were provided in the sources.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the shores of Greers Ferry Lake with direct access to boating, fishing, and swimming facilities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include a lack of flush toilets, showers, and water hookups for RVs. Strangers accessing non-designated swim areas near campsites (e.g., C1-C3) is another recurring issue.
HostThe campground is unstaffed. For general queries, contact the main office at (501) 362-2416.
Campground Map
475 Cherokee Park Road
Driving directionsFrom Drasco, AR, take SR-92 west 7.2 miles to Brownsville Road. Travel Brownsville Road 2.9 miles, then turn on Cherokee Park Road. Follow signs to the campground.
Accessible by paved roads. However, the campground is located 2.9 miles off Brownsville Road, which may present a slight challenge if unfamiliar with rural navigation.Nearby places
Drasco, AR (7.2 miles southwest). Additional populated areas not explicitly mentioned.
Nearby supplies
The closest grocery or camping supply locations are not explicitly mentioned. Supplies may need to be sourced from nearby towns such as Drasco, AR.
Camper Reviews
4.1
23 reviews
Cherokee Campground (Ar) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cherokee Campground highlight its serene environment, scenic lake views, and convenience for water-based recreation. However, some criticisms focus on the lack of showers and flush toilets, as well as issues with campsite privacy due to shared swimming areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers often praised the peacefulness, scenic views, and cleanliness of the campground. "Great views of the lake. Very quiet and peaceful," remarked one reviewer. The availability of electricity at...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often centered on the absence of showers and flush toilets, as well as privacy concerns near swimming areas. "No real restrooms...and we had strangers constantly in our spot," commented...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Try to avoid sites C1 through C3 unless you don’t mind random people walking through your site," advised one camper. Another suggested being prepared for vault toilets and bringing your own water...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground sees its peak season from May to September. Reviews during this period highlight the beauty of the lake but also mention challenges such as high water levels affecting swimming areas.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Beautiful place to camp." - Halyna Lyons
- "I really enjoy this campground. It is rarely very crowded." - William Taylor
- "No flush toilets or showers. Beautiful lake view." - Trixie Lathan
Based on 23 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites C1 through C3 are noted for their proximity to swimming areas but also face privacy issues. Site B12 received praise for its beautiful views and cleanliness.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressed accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no user reviews provided specific insights into pet-friendly features or experiences.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025