Maple Flat Campground: Your Arkansas Group Camping Escape

Maple Flat Campground Introduce

For Arkansans looking to plan a group outing in the heart of nature, Maple Flat Campground offers a serene and rustic escape. Located within the scenic Mississippi River State Park near Marianna, this unique campground is specifically designed for group camping, making it an excellent choice for family reunions, scout troops, or any large gathering seeking a quiet, natural setting. Unlike the more developed campgrounds in the area, Maple Flat provides a more primitive and authentic outdoor experience, allowing groups to truly immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings of the Arkansas landscape.

The atmosphere at Maple Flat is one of quiet seclusion. It’s a "boy scout style" group camp, characterized by flat terrain, large trees, and a sense of history. The sites are expansive, providing ample room for multiple tents and a variety of activities. The lack of extensive amenities is part of its charm, encouraging campers to focus on the simple pleasures of nature: a campfire, good company, and a clear night sky. While there are no reviews from real customers provided for this specific campground, its location within the larger, highly-rated Mississippi River State Park speaks to the quality of the surrounding area and the park’s commitment to providing a variety of camping experiences. For those who appreciate a no-frills, back-to-basics approach to camping, Maple Flat is an ideal destination.

Maple Flat Campground is nestled within the beautiful Mississippi River State Park, with its address noted as Marianna, AR 72360, USA. The park itself is a key part of the St. Francis National Forest and is situated atop Crowley's Ridge. Its location offers a unique blend of river and forest environments, providing a rich setting for outdoor recreation.

Access to the campground is straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading to the area. Once you arrive, you will find on-site parking, which makes it convenient for groups with multiple vehicles. Maple Flat is primarily a walk-in campground, meaning you park in a lot and then walk to your site. This setup helps preserve the natural feel of the area and keeps vehicles from cluttering the campsites. The campground is also noted to be a good spot for day trips and picnics, offering a peaceful place to gather without an overnight stay.

The surrounding area offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby lakes. The park's visitor center, located at nearby Bear Creek Lake, offers interactive exhibits and a gift shop, and is a great place to stop for information and supplies. The combination of a remote feel and easy accessibility makes Maple Flat a convenient escape from Arkansas's urban centers.

Maple Flat Campground provides a simple set of services and amenities that are focused on meeting the basic needs of primitive group camping.

Restroom: The campground has a vault-style toilet, which is a key amenity for a rustic camping area and is centrally located.
Tent Sites: This campground is designed specifically for tent camping, with areas that provide a natural, open space for groups to set up their tents.
On-site Parking: Dedicated parking is available near the camping area, making it convenient for visitors to unload their gear.
Picnic Areas: While not explicitly noted for each site, the group camping setup includes areas with picnic tables for communal meals.

The highlights of Maple Flat Campground are its unique features that make it a compelling choice for a specific type of camper.

Primitive Group Camping: The primary feature of this campground is its focus on primitive group camping, offering a large, open, and secluded area that is perfect for large gatherings.
Good for Kids: The campground is noted to be "good for kids." The open space and natural environment provide a great place for children to play and explore safely.
Hiking: The surrounding Mississippi River State Park offers a variety of hiking trails, including the one-mile Bear Creek Lake Nature Trail, which provides a great opportunity to explore the area's flora and fauna.
Proximity to a State Park: Being a part of the Mississippi River State Park gives campers access to the park's wider range of amenities, including a swim beach, fishing piers, and additional trails and visitor services.

For all inquiries and to learn more about the campground, you should contact the Mississippi River State Park directly.

Address: Marianna, AR 72360, USA

Phone: (870) 295-4040

What is worth choosing about Maple Flat Campground? It's the ideal destination for anyone planning a large group camping trip who wants to avoid the crowded, more developed campgrounds. Its secluded nature provides a sense of privacy and a true connection to the wilderness, which is often difficult to find in many state parks. While it lacks some modern conveniences, this is precisely what makes it appealing to those who prefer a more rugged and authentic camping experience. The campground's location within the beautiful Mississippi River State Park offers easy access to a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring a diverse ecosystem. The fact that it is "good for kids" makes it a safe and fun place for families to introduce their children to primitive camping. Ultimately, Maple Flat Campground is a hidden gem for groups and individuals who value space, tranquility, and a back-to-basics approach to their outdoor adventures. It is the perfect place to make memories with your group, surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Arkansas wilderness.