National Park Service · Arkansas

Ozark Campground

National Park Service · Arkansas, United States · in Buffalo National River

Open on the map Drive there Reserve Directions
Sites
32
Hookups
1 electric, 32 with water, 31 no hookups
Season
March 13 to November 15
Cost
Fees for all sites (non-electric) are $20 a night for up to 6 people per site.
Group sites
Yes
Drinking water
Yes
Restrooms
Yes
Showers
Yes
Pets
Yes
Elevation
906 ft
Dark sky
Bortle class 1 · certified dark-sky place
Cell coverage
AT&T weak · Verizon weak · T-Mobile none (carriers' 4G LTE filings to the FCC, 2025-12; not measured here)
Lake
Buffalo National River
Nearest town
Harrison
Address
AR
Phone
870-861-2570 (STEEL CREEK RANGER STATION)
Activities
Birding, Camping, Canoeing, Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, Paddling, Photography, Picnicking, Star Gazing, Swimming, Water Activities

32 numbered sites are mapped one by one - open the site map to pick yours.

About

Overview

Nestled near the towering bluffs of the scenic Buffalo River, Ozark Campground is the perfect destination for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you're planning a laid-back picnic or looking for a spot to enjoy the dark night sky, you'll enjoy fresh air, beautiful views, and easy access to one of Arkansas’s most beloved rivers.

At Ozark Campground visitors that bring their own gear can enjoy:

Canoeing

Kayaking

Tubing

Swimming

Fishing

Located in the center of the campground, the Ozark Pavilion provides a convenient gathering space for groups. The day-use pavilion is available for $25/day. Amenities include:

Grills available for public use

Restrooms

Electrical access

Nearby water access

Multiple picnic tables under shelter

Whether you're organizing a family reunion, a group outing, or simply a weekend escape, Ozark Campground offers both relaxation and recreation in a beautiful natural setting.

Recreation

The Buffalo River Trail can be accessed behind Site 31 and next to the camp host site. The scenic trail spans a massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt and is ideal for hiking or backpacking. Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.

Paddling conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current paddling conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502, or check the Buffalo National River Float Guide Dashboard

Facilities

Ozark has 31 drive-up tent sites. There are no electrical amenities or water hookups at the tent sites, but flush restrooms and water spigots are available from approximately March 15 through November 14 each year. Available by reservation, the covered pavilion seats up to 100 people and electricity is available.

Natural Features

The campground and pavilion are located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final destination at the White River.

Nearby Attractions

The campground and pavilion are located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final destination at the White River.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (870) 439-2502.

Charges & Cancellations

Please visit the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies page.

Weather, month by month

MonthTypical highTypical lowColdest nightHottest dayYears with a night below 32°F
January46°30°5°67°9 of 11
February53°33°-11°74°9 of 11
March63°43°24°81°5 of 11
April72°52°34°87°0 of 11
May78°64°50°91°0 of 11
June87°69°57°98°0 of 11
July89°73°63°100°0 of 11
August90°72°61°103°0 of 11
September86°68°54°95°0 of 11
October71°52°33°86°0 of 10
November63°44°21°79°3 of 10
December51°36°20°71°7 of 10

Mid-month figures from 2016–2026 of daily weather at this spot (ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo, CC BY 4.0), in °F. Typical is the median; coldest and hottest are the extremes seen.

Nearby campgrounds

All public campgrounds in Arkansas · Every state and province · Facts read from the operator 2026-04-08. Confirm fees, rules and current status with the operator before you go.