Ozark Campground

camping near harrison arkansas

For those in Arkansas seeking a true escape into the heart of nature, Ozark Campground near Harrison offers a uniquely authentic and serene experience. Nestled along the banks of the iconic Buffalo National River, this campground provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it an ideal destination for campers who appreciate simplicity and direct access to the great outdoors. Unlike highly developed parks, Ozark Campground embraces a more primitive style of camping, inviting visitors to truly connect with the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains and the free-flowing river.

Ozark Campground is managed by the National Park Service, ensuring a well-maintained yet natural environment. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the rustle of leaves replace the hum of city life, offering a peaceful retreat for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike. Whether your passion is hiking through dense forests, paddling the gentle currents of the Buffalo River, or simply unwinding by a campfire under a star-filled sky, Ozark Campground provides the perfect setting for creating lasting memories in Arkansas's stunning wilderness. Its focus on a back-to-basics approach appeals to those who value the quietude and genuine outdoor experience that Arkansas is so renowned for.

The campground’s appeal lies in its accessibility to the Buffalo National River and its surrounding trails, combined with just enough creature comforts to make your stay enjoyable. It's a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the enduring allure of Arkansas's wild spaces. For locals looking for an easy-to-reach, yet profoundly immersive outdoor adventure, Ozark Campground stands out as a prime choice.

Ozark Campground is conveniently situated on Co Rd 129, near Harrison, AR 72601, USA. More specifically, it is located approximately three miles down a graded gravel road off of Highway 7, north of Jasper, Arkansas. While the address lists Harrison, it's important for visitors to note its closer proximity to Jasper and the fact that accessing the campground involves a short drive on a well-maintained gravel road. This gravel section is generally suitable for all vehicle types, though drivers should be aware of potential dust or loose gravel, especially after dry spells.

The campground's location is a significant highlight, placing it directly on the Buffalo National River. This provides campers with immediate access for floating, fishing, and swimming activities. It also serves as a key access point for sections of the Buffalo River Trail (BRT), making it an excellent basecamp for hikers and backpackers looking to explore the famed long-distance trail. Its relative seclusion, being a few miles off a main highway, contributes to its peaceful atmosphere while remaining entirely accessible. For those coming from larger Arkansas cities, the drive into the Ozarks is scenic and relatively straightforward, leading directly to this rustic haven.

Visitors should be mindful that while the campground is accessible year-round, certain services, like flush toilets and running water, are seasonal. This commitment to maintaining the natural environment, even through temporary closures of some facilities, underscores its dedication to a true outdoor experience.

• Primitive Camping: Ozark Campground offers 31 drive-in and tent sites. These are considered primitive, meaning they do not have electrical or water hookups at individual sites.

• Flush Toilets: Flush restrooms with sinks and toilets are available, providing a significant convenience for campers. However, it's important to note that the water system for these facilities is typically shut down from mid-November to mid-March due to freezing temperatures.

• Vault Toilets: During the winter months (mid-November to mid-March) when flush toilets are unavailable, vault toilets remain accessible for year-round use.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at central spigots within the campground. Similar to the flush toilets, the water system is turned off during the winter season (mid-November to mid-March).

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.

• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are provided at each site, allowing campers to enjoy campfires responsibly. Visitors should bring their own firewood or purchase it locally.

• Lantern Hooks: A lantern pole or hook is typically available at each site, useful for hanging lanterns to illuminate your camping area at night.

• Self-Pay System: The campground operates on a self-pay system, requiring payment via cash or check deposited into an envelope at a designated station. This system emphasizes trust and convenience for campers.

• No RV Hookups or Dump Station: While RVs are allowed, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups at any of the sites. Additionally, there is no dump station on-site, requiring RVers to be self-contained or plan for off-site services.

• Trash Pick-up: Trash pick-up services are provided, which is a convenience not always found at primitive campgrounds, encouraging visitors to keep the area clean.

• Camp Host/Park Ranger Presence: A camp host is often present during the camping season to assist visitors, and park rangers conduct patrols, ensuring a safe and well-managed environment.

• Pavilion: A communal pavilion is available, which can be useful for group gatherings or shelter during inclement weather.

• Direct Buffalo National River Access: A paramount feature is the campground's immediate access to the Buffalo National River. This makes it an ideal launch point for floating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming in the pristine waters of America's first National River.

• Buffalo River Trail (BRT) Access: Ozark Campground is a designated trailhead for sections of the Buffalo River Trail. This provides exceptional opportunities for hikers and backpackers to explore some of the most scenic trails in the Ozarks, offering stunning bluff views and immersive forest experiences.

• Peaceful & Quiet Atmosphere: Reviews consistently highlight the quiet and tranquil nature of Ozark Campground. Its location off the main highway contributes to a peaceful environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the sounds of nature.

• Scenic Ozark Mountain Setting: Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Ozark Mountains, the campground offers picturesque views of bluffs, forests, and the clear river, providing a beautiful backdrop for any outdoor activity.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting of the Buffalo National River area means ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including diverse bird species, deer, and other native animals.

• Cell Service (T-Mobile noted): Unlike many remote campgrounds in the Ozarks, some campers have reported having cell service (specifically T-Mobile), which can be a valuable feature for staying connected or in case of emergencies. An emergency phone might also be available.

• Year-Round Operation (with seasonal amenities): The campground is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the Buffalo River area in all four seasons, from the lush greens of spring and summer to the vibrant fall colors and serene winter landscapes.

• Affordable Camping: As a National Park Service campground, the fees are typically very reasonable ($12/night at the time of some reports), offering an accessible and budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.

• First-Come, First-Served: The majority of sites at Ozark Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for spontaneous trips without the need for advance reservations.

• Proximity to Jasper: While feeling secluded, the campground is a relatively short drive from Jasper, offering access to basic supplies, dining options, and outfitters for river activities.

Ozark Campground

Address: Co Rd 129, Harrison, AR 72601, USA

As Ozark Campground is a primitive, self-pay campground managed by the National Park Service as part of the Buffalo National River, there isn't a direct phone number specific to the campground itself for individual site inquiries. For general information regarding the Buffalo National River, including updates on conditions, river levels, or broader park policies, you can contact the Buffalo National River Headquarters.

Buffalo National River Headquarters Phone: (870) 365-2700

For more localized information, especially regarding the middle and upper sections of the Buffalo River, you might also find it helpful to contact the Tyler Bend Visitor Center, which often has up-to-date information for campers:

Tyler Bend Visitor Center Phone: (870) 439-2502

Given the self-pay, first-come, first-served nature of this campground, direct reservations or specific site inquiries are not typically handled by phone. It's always advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the Buffalo National River (nps.gov/buff) for the most current information, alerts, and seasonal amenity availability before your trip.

For residents of Arkansas, Ozark Campground represents an invaluable local treasure, offering an authentic and accessible entry point into the unparalleled beauty of the Buffalo National River region. Living in Arkansas means having a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and Ozark Campground delivers precisely what many local outdoor enthusiasts seek: a genuine, unpretentious camping experience that fosters a profound connection with nature.

The primary reason Ozark Campground is ideal for Arkansans is its direct and effortless access to the Buffalo National River itself. We know and cherish this river as a jewel of our state, and having a campground literally on its banks makes it incredibly convenient for spontaneous float trips, a day of fishing, or simply enjoying a refreshing swim. This immediate proximity transforms a simple camping trip into an immersive river adventure without requiring extensive travel or complex logistics.

Furthermore, the campground’s location as a trailhead for the Buffalo River Trail is a huge bonus for our active community. Whether you’re planning a challenging multi-day backpacking excursion or just a leisurely day hike to witness the stunning bluffs and natural formations, Ozark Campground serves as an excellent starting or ending point. This dual access to both river and trail highlights the diverse recreational opportunities available right at our fingertips.

The primitive nature of Ozark Campground, with its reliance on a self-pay system and limited hookups, resonates with the self-reliant spirit often found in our state. It encourages a "pack in, pack out" mentality and a deeper respect for the environment, fostering responsible outdoor recreation. For those of us who appreciate the quiet solitude of the wilderness over the bustling amenities of a commercial park, Ozark Campground provides that much-needed escape without straying too far from home. The seasonal availability of flush toilets and drinking water, alongside year-round vault toilets, provides a balance of comfort and rustic charm that many Arkansans find perfectly suitable for their camping style.

In essence, Ozark Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to experience the very essence of Arkansas's natural heritage. It's an affordable, accessible, and truly enriching destination that allows locals to fully embrace the outdoor lifestyle and forge unforgettable memories in one of our state's most cherished natural landmarks.

Ozark Campground

Co Rd 129, Harrison, AR 72601, USA