Self Creek
4.4045 reviewsSelf Creek Fee Booth, 4206 HWY 70 W
Self Creek
$16.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
Fees vary by site type. Electric sites cost $22, $18, or $18 per night, while non-electric sites cost $16 per night during the peak season. Additional fees for changes, late cancellations, and no-shows may apply.
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Greeson, Self Creek Campground invites adventurers to experience 72 thoughtfully designed campsites spread across the scenic Self Creek and Jim Wylie loops. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or simply soaking up the Arkansas sunshine on the sandy swimming beach, this full-service campground delivers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and modern comfort. Families will appreciate the playground, hot showers, and flush toilets, while the convenient dump station at Jim Wylie makes longer stays a breeze.
Self Creek Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Group sites and cabin lodging options are available in the area but are not explicitly tied to Self Creek.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Self Creek places you in one of America's most geologically fascinating regions. Just a short drive away lies the legendary Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can search for real diamonds in the only public diamond mine in the world. This proximity to such a unique attraction adds an element of treasure-hunting excitement to your camping adventure, making Self Creek the perfect basecamp for exploring this gem of Arkansas history.
Weather and SeasonsPeak season at Self Creek rewards visitors with some of Arkansas's most delightful weather. Picture yourself waking to crisp mornings in the 50s, perfect for that first cup of campfire coffee, before the day warms to comfortable temperatures in the 70s. The low humidity and predominantly clear skies create ideal conditions for stargazing and outdoor activities, though wise campers pack a rain jacket for those occasional refreshing showers that keep the landscape lush and green.
ElevationThe campground's lakeside setting provides gentle terrain perfect for all camping styles, from RV enthusiasts to tent campers seeking level ground for a comfortable night's sleep.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of morning mist rising from Lake Greeson's expansive 7,260 acres of crystal-clear water, stretching 12 magnificent miles through the Arkansas landscape. The campground is embraced by a living tapestry of Southern forest, where towering loblolly and shortleaf pines mingle with ancient oaks and sweet gums, creating a canopy alive with wildlife. Keep your camera ready for glimpses of white-tailed deer grazing at forest edges, majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, and the seasonal spectacle of migratory waterfowl painting the sky.
Geological RegionSelf Creek Campground sits at the heart of a diverse ecosystem where upland forests meet water's edge. The surrounding landscape tells the story of Arkansas's natural heritage through its magnificent stands of loblolly and shortleaf pines crowning the hills, while sweet gums and stately oaks dominate the midstory. Down near the creeks and streams, bottomland hardwoods create wildlife corridors that support an impressive array of creatures. From the gobble of wild turkeys at dawn to the haunting call of geese at dusk, the area pulses with life. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting everything from majestic bald eagles to colorful songbirds, making every day at Self Creek a new chapter in your outdoor adventure story.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating tents and RVs. Sites 1-6 and 12-20 have 20 amp and 30 amp electrical service, while other sites offer standard electric or non-electric options.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer more privacy than others. While one review mentions spacious campsites, another notes that sites vary in their level of seclusion due to the campground's layout.
Total Campsites72 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 4 in Self Creek is noted for being particularly spacious. Jim Wylie end sites (60-62) offer easy tent placement and stunning lake views.
Best CampsitesSites 4, 36, and Jim Wylie end sites (60-62) are frequently mentioned for their views and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
- 42 consecutive nights during some periods
- 14 nights during peak season within 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific limit stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are divided into two areas: Self Creek (sites 1-46) and Jim Wylie (sites 47-72). The camp layout includes loops, with some steep or uneven terrain noted.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 - September 15 (reservable, peak season); September 16 - April 30 (out of season; no booking available).
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through recreation.gov or by calling Recreation One Stop at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated if walk-up/first-come-first-served sites are available. Reservations are required for setup.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed before arrival. $10 fee applies for changes or cancellations, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Self Creek offers a variety of recreational opportunities centered around the lake, including fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Bear Creek Cycle Trail and Crater of Diamonds State Park add unique adventure opportunities within a short distance.
Fishing
Lake Greeson supports a rich variety of game fish, including large mouth, small mouth, striped, spotted, and white bass, along with flathead and channel catfish, black and white crappie, walleye, and bluegill. The lake is recognized for excellent fishing opportunities.Swimming
A designated swimming area with a beach is available, offering a family-friendly spot to enjoy the water. A reviewer remarked, "We enjoyed our time at the beach and the beach was clean."Boating
The clear waters of Lake Greeson are ideal for various boating activities such as water skiing, tubing, and cruising. Four marinas on the lake offer boat rentals, fuel, and supplies.Wildlife viewing
Campers can observe diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, geese, bald eagles, migratory waterfowl, and songbirds. The surrounding natural habitats provide excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.Beach activities
Beach activities are supported by the swim beach area, which reviewers described as clean and enjoyable.Water Sports
The lake supports various water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and personal watercraft use. However, one user review highlighted issues with kayak rentals at the marina, stating that the equipment was in poor condition and customer service was subpar.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits or grills provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites are noted as steep or uneven, which may pose challenges for RVs and larger trailers.
Active alertsNone explicitly noted.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearest emergency services include Pike County Memorial Hospital in Murfreesboro, AR (approximately 20 miles away), and the Pike County Sheriff's Office. The nearest ranger station is not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 15
Trash and recyclingDaily trash pickup is available, and campers are required to keep their sites clean and remove all trash upon departure. One user commented: "Trash was picked up daily."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on Lake Greeson and offers swimming beaches and boating opportunities. Jim Wylie end sites are particularly close to the lake.
Common complaintsGuests have frequently noted that many campsites lack water hookups. Other complaints include uneven or steep terrains at some campsites and limited signage for navigation.
HostHosts are not explicitly mentioned, but staff and rangers are described as helpful and friendly in reviews.
Campground Map
Self Creek Fee Booth, 4206 HWY 70 W
Driving directionsFrom Hot Springs, AR take HWY 70 West. At the intersection of HWY 27 South and HWY 8 East turn left on to HWY 70 West. Continue west on HWY 70 until turning left into the campground.
The campground is easily accessible directly off of HWY 70, but reviews have noted that specific signage directing visitors to the campsites within the park is limited. This may require visitors to navigate carefully upon arrival.Nearby places
Hot Springs, AR (approximately 50 miles, 1-hour drive)
Murfreesboro, AR (approximately 20 miles, 30-minute drive)
Glenwood, AR (approximately 15 miles, 20-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
The nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely in Kirby, AR (near the campground entrance). Additional options exist in Murfreesboro, AR, or Glenwood, AR.
Camper Reviews
4.4
45 reviews
Self Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Self Creek Campground are generally positive, with many appreciating the clean facilities, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. However, there are some concerns about the lack of water hookups at campsites and uneven terrain in some areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the clean bathhouses, family-friendly environment, and proximity to the lake. One user stated, "Bathrooms and bathhouses were clean and stocked with toilet paper," while another...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Criticisms include the lack of water hookups at campsites, uneven terrain, and steep embankments that made it difficult for larger RVs to access some sites. One reviewer said, "Site 15 was rutted up...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as there are no water hookups at most sites. Some reviewers recommend choosing sites closer to the bathhouse for convenience. Tent campers may prefer site 36 due to its proximity...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season when campers enjoy the swimming beach and water-based activities. The campground is quieter in the off-season, but reviewers noted that steep terrain and lack of water...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms and bathhouses were clean and stocked with toilet paper. The floors were mopped every morning." "Site 4 is the best in my opinion. Electricity but no water or sewer." "The tent spot we...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 36 is recommended for tent campers due to its proximity to the swim beach and shower house. Site 4 was praised for its spaciousness, while Site 15 was criticized for being rutted and uneven.
Based on 45 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit reviews about accessibility from users with disabilities are included in the data.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviews appreciated the pet-friendly policies, although no specific comments were provided on pet-related amenities.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025