Parker Bottoms Campground

Nestled in the breathtaking Ozark Mountains, just a stone's throw from the charming town of Eureka Springs, Parker Bottoms Campground offers a serene and picturesque escape for campers of all kinds. This highly-regarded campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a true gem for Arkansas locals seeking a comfortable yet immersive outdoor experience. Located directly on the banks of the White River, just below the impressive Beaver Dam and its expansive lake, Parker Bottoms provides an ideal setting for those who love fishing, boating, or simply unwinding by the water.

Whether you're planning a family getaway, a peaceful solo adventure, or a fun trip with friends, Parker Bottoms Campground caters to both tent campers and those with RVs or trailers. The blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a friendly atmosphere makes it a popular choice, often leading to a full campground – a testament to its appeal. This is more than just a place to park your camper or pitch your tent; it's a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the best of what Northwest Arkansas has to offer. With regularly patrolled grounds and a focus on cleanliness, campers can relax and enjoy their surroundings with peace of mind.

Parker Bottoms Campground is strategically located at Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA. Its prime position on the White River, directly below the Beaver Lake dam, makes it exceptionally accessible while still providing a feeling of being "away from it all." To reach the campground from Eureka Springs, travelers typically take Highway 62 West for just over four miles, then turn left onto Highway 187. Continue on Highway 187 for about six miles, and after crossing the Beaver Dam, take the first right and follow the signs leading directly to the campground. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Ozark landscape, building anticipation for the beautiful riverside setting.

The campground's location offers an excellent base for exploring the wider Eureka Springs area, known for its Victorian architecture, unique shops, art galleries, and diverse culinary scene. For outdoor enthusiasts, the proximity to Beaver Lake provides additional opportunities for water sports, including boating, swimming, and more fishing, while numerous hiking trails wind through the surrounding Ozark forests. Despite its somewhat secluded feel by the river, Parker Bottoms Campground is not difficult to find, thanks to clear signage and well-maintained roads leading right to its entrance. This balance of convenience and natural immersion makes it a highly desirable destination for local campers.

• Spacious Campsites: Parker Bottoms Campground offers a variety of campsites designed to accommodate both tents and recreational vehicles/trailers. While some tent spaces might feel a little snug for very large multi-room tents, many sites, like site 51, are known to be quite spacious, suitable for multiple tents. RV sites often feature concrete pads and covered patios.
• Electric Hookups: Many campsites are equipped with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp available) to provide convenience for RV and trailer campers.
• Fresh Water Spigots: Access to fresh, potable water is available throughout the campground, with water fill stations conveniently located for campers.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides decent and clean toilet facilities and showers, which are a short walk from most campsites. While soap is not typically provided, campers appreciate the well-maintained nature of these amenities.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires and grilling, along with a picnic table for outdoor dining, enhancing the traditional camping experience.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Parker Bottoms Campground welcomes furry family members, making it an excellent choice for those who want to bring their pets along for the adventure.
• Regular Ranger Patrols: The campground is regularly patrolled by rangers, ensuring a safe and orderly environment for all visitors.
• Dump Station: A trailer dump station is available for RV and trailer campers, providing a convenient way to empty waste tanks before departure.
• Reservations Recommended: Due to its popularity, especially during peak seasons, it is highly recommended to call ahead and reserve your favorite spot to ensure availability. Sites can be reserved through Recreation.gov.

• Riverside Location: The most prominent feature of Parker Bottoms Campground is its incredible proximity to the White River. Many campsites are just a "rock's throw away," offering stunning river views and direct access for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Being situated right on the White River, known for its excellent trout fishing, makes this campground a prime spot for anglers. The release of water from Beaver Dam can create prime fishing conditions.
• Views of Beaver Dam: Campers can enjoy views of the impressive Beaver Dam, especially when the generators are running and water is being released, creating a powerful and scenic display.
• Proximity to Eureka Springs: The charming and historic town of Eureka Springs is a short drive away, providing campers with easy access to unique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and local attractions for days when they want to explore beyond the campground.
• Blend of Tent and RV Camping: The campground successfully accommodates both tent campers and those with larger RVs/trailers, fostering a diverse and friendly camping community.
• Shady Sites: Many sites offer ample shade from mature trees, providing a comfortable respite from the Arkansas sun, especially during warmer months.
• Beautiful Scenery: The surrounding Ozark Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop, with lush forests and the serene White River creating a tranquil and visually appealing environment.
• Wildlife Sightings: Campers often report sightings of local wildlife, including various bird species and deer, adding to the natural immersion experience.
• Specific Site Advantages: Customers highlight sites like Site 51 for ample tent space and Site 48 for the best views of the river and adjacent rocks, plus its direct proximity to bathrooms and showers.

Address: Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA (Specifically, it's part of the Dam Site River Campground area.)

Phone: (479) 253-9865

Mobile Phone: +1 479-253-9865

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use Recreation.gov or call the campground directly, especially given its popularity.

Parker Bottoms Campground stands out as an ideal camping destination for locals in Arkansas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a strategic location. For residents of Northwest Arkansas and beyond, this campground provides an accessible escape to the tranquility of the White River and the majestic Ozark Mountains. Unlike more remote or primitive sites, Parker Bottoms offers the comfort of clean restrooms, showers, and electric hookups, making it suitable for families, first-time campers, and those who prefer a few more conveniences while still embracing the outdoors.

The ability to easily transition from a peaceful riverside morning of fishing to an afternoon exploring the unique charm of Eureka Springs makes this campground exceptionally versatile for local adventures. Pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, allowing the entire family to enjoy the trip. The positive customer reviews, highlighting the cleanliness, ranger patrols, and stunning river access, reinforce its reputation as a well-maintained and enjoyable spot. For Arkansas locals seeking a memorable camping experience that combines genuine outdoor recreation with accessible comforts and proximity to a beloved town, Parker Bottoms Campground is undoubtedly a top choice. It's a place where lasting memories are made, just a short drive from home.

Parker Bottoms Campground

Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA