Little Pines Recreation Area

For Arkansans yearning for a truly peaceful escape into the heart of nature, Little Pines Recreation Area near Waldron, AR, stands as a hidden gem that consistently delivers on its promise of tranquility and genuine outdoor enjoyment. Tucked away within the scenic Ouachita National Forest and situated on the serene banks of Lake Hinkle, this campground is a beloved local secret, celebrated for its remarkable quietude and well-dispersed campsites. Unlike many bustling recreational spots, Little Pines is the ideal destination for those who truly "appreciate some peace and quiet," free from road noise or disruptive crowds. It’s a place where the sounds of nature prevail, allowing you to fully unwind and reconnect with the natural beauty that Arkansas proudly offers.

Little Pines Recreation Area is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a comprehensive outdoor hub, boasting a range of amenities that enhance your stay without detracting from the natural setting. Whether your passion lies in casting a line into a well-stocked lake, enjoying a refreshing swim, or simply relaxing in the shade of towering pines, this spot caters to a variety of interests. As reviews consistently highlight, its "clean place" and "well-maintained" grounds speak volumes about the care put into this "jewel of a location." For Arkansas residents, Little Pines Recreation Area offers an accessible and inviting retreat, providing a perfect blend of isolation and essential comforts for a truly restorative camping experience. It’s a place where you'll want to "return again and again."

Little Pines Recreation Area is conveniently located near Waldron, AR, with the general address being Waldron, AR 72958, USA. More precisely, it is situated approximately 12 to 13 miles west of Waldron, placing it within the scenic Ouachita National Forest and directly on the shores of Lake Hinkle.

Access to Little Pines Recreation Area is straightforward, making it an accessible destination for campers coming from various parts of Arkansas. From the Poteau Ranger Station in Waldron, visitors would typically drive west on Highway 248 for about 11 miles, ensuring they stay on the paved road. Then, a turn east (left) onto County Road 10 (Trampp Loop), specifically the second Trampp Loop turn-off (avoiding the first dirt road turn-off), will lead directly to the entrance of Little Pines Recreation Area. Signage is generally present to guide visitors. The paved roads within the recreation area ensure smooth navigation for all vehicle types, including RVs and trailers.

The "isolated" nature of the campground, as described by visitors, contributes significantly to its peaceful ambiance, as it's set away from major traffic routes. Despite its quiet setting, it remains highly accessible, allowing for easy arrival and departure. Its location on Lake Hinkle means immediate access to water-based activities like fishing, boating, and a swimming beach directly from the campground area. This combination of seclusion and convenience makes Little Pines an attractive option for those seeking a tranquil retreat without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Little Pines Recreation Area offers a range of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience, emphasizing modern facilities within a natural, quiet setting.

• Full Service Modern Campground: The campground offers 9 single campsites, all equipped with both electricity and water hookups, making them suitable for RVs, trailers, and tents requiring these amenities. All campsites are paved and are back-in sites (no pull-throughs).
• Trailer Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available on-site for RV and trailer owners, providing a convenient facility for wastewater disposal.
• Clean Flush Toilets and Showers: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the "good showers and camping areas," ensuring comfortable and hygienic facilities.
• Potable Drinking Water: Water connections are available at each campsite, and general drinking water sources are also provided.
• Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, and Lantern Holders: Each individual campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill grate for cooking, and a lantern holder, enhancing the outdoor living experience.
• Camp Host On Duty: A camp host is typically on site to provide assistance, answer questions, and ensure the smooth operation of the campground, contributing to a well-maintained and helpful environment.
• Boat Ramp and Courtesy Dock: For those bringing watercraft, a boat ramp with a courtesy dock is adjacent to the campground, offering easy access to Lake Hinkle for launching and retrieving boats.
• Fish Cleaning Station: A convenient fish cleaning station is located near the boat ramp, providing a dedicated area for anglers to prepare their catch.
• Day Use Area with Swimming Beach: Adjacent to the campground is a day-use area that includes a swimming beach and boat docks, accessible for a nominal fee. This provides additional recreational options right within the facility.
• Pavilion: A covered pavilion is available, often used for group gatherings, picnics, or shelter.
• Handicap Accessible: The recreation area is designed to be handicap accessible, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can also enjoy the facilities.
• Pet-Friendly: Little Pines Recreation Area welcomes pets (though leash rules and other restrictions may apply, so it's always good to confirm specific policies).

Little Pines Recreation Area stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a truly unique and highly appealing destination for campers in Arkansas, particularly those seeking peace and quiet.

• Exceptional Quietude: The most frequently praised feature is its remarkable tranquility. Reviews consistently describe it as the "quietest campground you can find," with "no road noise, no rowdy drunk idiots," making it perfect for genuine relaxation.
• Well-Dispersed Campsites: Unlike many crowded campgrounds, Little Pines offers "well dispersed" camping spaces that are "not all crammed right next to each other." This design provides a sense of privacy and seclusion for each camper.
• Abundant Shade: The campsites are "well shaded" by the surrounding pine plantation, offering natural cooling and comfort, especially during warmer months.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Visitors consistently highlight the "clean place" and "well maintained" grounds, reflecting the dedication to providing a pleasant and inviting environment.
• Excellent Fishing on Lake Hinkle: Located on the banks of Lake Hinkle, a 960 to 1,000-acre lake managed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the area is noted for "good fishing" opportunities for species like bass, crappie, bream, sunfish, and catfish.
• On-Site Shooting Range: A significant and unique feature mentioned by reviewers is the presence of a "shooting range" just down the road, offering a distinct recreational option for enthusiasts.
• Swimming Beach: A dedicated swimming beach within the day-use area provides a safe and enjoyable spot for cooling off in Lake Hinkle.
• Paved Roads and Level Sites: The campground features paved roads and "level" campsites, simplifying setup for RVs and ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Hiking Trails: While not extensive, a short hiking trail is located at the day-use area, with additional mountain bike, hiking, and OHV trails available within a few miles in the surrounding Ouachita National Forest.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Situated in the valley of Poteau Mountain and surrounded by the Ouachita Mountains, the campground offers picturesque scenery and a genuine forest experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or more specific information regarding Little Pines Recreation Area, the primary point of contact is the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Ouachita National Forest in that region.

Address:

Little Pines Recreation Area

Waldron, AR 72958, USA

More specific physical address often used for navigation:

3100 Clear Spring Lane, Waldron, AR 72958

Mailing Address for the managing office (Poteau Ranger District):

US Forest Service Cold Springs-Poteau District

P.O. Box 2256

Waldron, AR 72958

Phone Number: (479) 637-4174

Mobile Phone: +1 479-637-4174 (This is the same number, often indicating a direct line that may also accept mobile communication.)

Reservations for campsites at Little Pines Recreation Area are typically made online through the Recreation.gov website (www.recreation.gov), as all sites are now on a reservation program and there are no first-come, first-serve campsites available. It is highly recommended to check availability and make reservations well in advance, especially during peak seasons, due to the campground's popularity for its peaceful setting. The Ouachita National Forest website (www.fs.usda.gov/ouachita) is also an excellent resource for maps, current conditions, and additional information about recreation opportunities in the surrounding area.

For Arkansans, Little Pines Recreation Area near Waldron is an absolutely ideal camping destination, embodying the very essence of the peaceful outdoor experience many of us seek. This is not your average crowded campground; it's a sanctuary where the quiet hum of nature replaces the din of daily life, offering a genuine sense of escape and tranquility. Locals deeply appreciate finding spots free from "road noise" and "rowdy drunk idiots," as one reviewer put it, and Little Pines delivers this peace in spades. Its thoughtfully "well dispersed" and "well shaded" campsites provide a rare sense of privacy, allowing families and individuals to truly unwind and connect with nature without feeling cramped.

Located on the bountiful Lake Hinkle and nestled within the Ouachita National Forest, Little Pines offers direct access to the kinds of outdoor activities Arkansans love most. Whether it's "good fishing" for bass and crappie, enjoying a swim at the beach, or exploring nearby hiking and OHV trails, there's ample opportunity for recreation right at your fingertips. The presence of a shooting range nearby also caters to a specific interest within the local community. Furthermore, the commitment to maintaining a "clean place" with "good showers" and modern hookups ensures a comfortable stay, even for those who prefer some conveniences while roughing it. For Arkansas residents, Little Pines Recreation Area truly is a "jewel of a location," providing an accessible, serene, and richly rewarding outdoor experience that will undoubtedly lead to repeat visits and cherished memories for years to come.

Little Pines Recreation Area

Waldron, AR 72958, USA