Redding Recreation Area

For Arkansans seeking an authentic outdoor experience without breaking the bank, the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests offer a wealth of opportunities to connect with nature. Among its many gems, Redding Recreation Area near Ozark stands out as a beloved campground, providing a blend of rustic charm and essential amenities that appeal to a wide range of campers. Nestled alongside the Wild and Scenic Mulberry River and enveloped by the lush Ozark National Forest, Redding Recreation Area offers a tranquil escape for families, solo adventurers, and groups looking to immerse themselves in Arkansas's natural beauty. It's a place where the sounds of the river and the forest replace the daily hustle, offering a genuine taste of the outdoors.

Camping in Arkansas is a cherished pastime, with the state's diverse landscapes providing everything from rugged mountain trails to serene riverbanks. Redding Recreation Area embraces this spirit, focusing on providing a natural setting with just enough comfort to make your stay enjoyable. Unlike highly developed resorts, Redding maintains a more primitive feel, which is often exactly what seasoned campers and those looking to truly unplug desire. It’s a testament to the idea that a great outdoor experience doesn't require excessive frills, but rather a beautiful location, well-maintained basic facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere. The reviews from fellow campers often highlight the value found here – an affordable price point combined with access to amenities like flush toilets and showers, which are often considered luxuries in more remote camping settings. This balance makes Redding Recreation Area a practical and appealing choice for many Arkansans.

Redding Recreation Area is ideally situated at 21424 AR-23, Ozark, AR 72949, USA, placing it deep within the scenic Ozark National Forest in Western Arkansas. This location is approximately 18 miles north of the city of Ozark, providing a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature while remaining accessible. The campground's setting right next to the Wild and Scenic Mulberry River is a significant draw, offering direct access to one of Arkansas's most beloved waterways.

Accessing Redding Recreation Area is relatively straightforward. From Ozark, visitors take Arkansas Highway 23 north for about 18 miles, then turn right (east) onto Forest Service Road 1003 for approximately 3 miles to reach the campground. While Forest Service roads can sometimes be gravel, the relatively short distance off the paved state highway makes it manageable for most vehicles, including RVs (with maximum lengths up to 45 feet noted in some information, though typical RV size limits are often around 30-45 feet for these sites). The remoteness contributes to the peaceful atmosphere, but its accessibility to Ozark means essential supplies, gas, and a small town for any needs are within a reasonable drive. This balance between wilderness seclusion and practical access makes Redding Recreation Area a convenient escape for local Arkansans looking to enjoy the beauty of the Ozarks without traveling excessively far from urban centers like Fort Smith or Fayetteville.

Redding Recreation Area provides a valuable set of services that enhance the camping experience while maintaining a rustic atmosphere. These amenities are particularly appreciated for their availability in a forested setting:

• Campsites: The campground offers 27 family units. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically taken. Each camping area is noted to be a "good size with enough buffer between each site," providing a sense of personal space.
• Flush Toilets: A significant comfort for many campers, the presence of flush toilets in the bathhouse is a highly appreciated service, as noted in customer reviews.
• Warm Showers: Along with flush toilets, the bathhouse also provides warm showers, allowing campers to refresh after a day of outdoor activities, which is a major highlight for a campground at its price point.
• Potable Water System: A well water system with spouts dispersed throughout the campground provides access to safe drinking water.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings/Grates: Designated fire rings or grates are available at each site for campfires (unless burn bans are in effect), allowing for cooking and warmth.
• River Access: The campground boasts direct access to the Wild and Scenic Mulberry River, including a rock canoe launch which is handicap accessible, facilitating water activities.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are allowed in the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and controlled at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
• Fees: The cost is very affordable at $15 per site per day, which includes two vehicles. Additional vehicles or day-use recreation cost $3.00 per day.

These services ensure a comfortable yet authentic camping experience in the heart of the Ozarks.

Redding Recreation Area is celebrated for several key features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for campers in Arkansas. These attributes are often praised by visitors and contribute to its strong appeal:

• Direct Mulberry River Access: Its prime location on the Wild and Scenic Mulberry River is arguably its biggest highlight. This offers incredible opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing. The river is known for smallmouth bass, shadow bass, spotted bass, green sunfish, and channel catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers.
• Affordable Price Point: At just $15 a night, the campground provides exceptional value, especially considering the inclusion of amenities like flush toilets and showers, making it "the price was right" for many budget-conscious campers.
• Bathhouse with Modern Conveniences: The presence of a bathhouse with flush toilets and warm showers sets it apart from many more primitive campgrounds, offering a significant comfort upgrade for campers. While one review mentioned the men's bathroom cleanliness was an issue for one person, the overall provision of these facilities is a major highlight.
• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers note that "each camping area was good size with enough buffer between each site," ensuring a sense of privacy and comfort even when the campground is busy.
• Access to Hiking Trails: Redding offers direct access to the Spy Rock Trail and the renowned Ozark Highlands Trail (OHT), providing ample opportunities for day hiking and extended backpacking adventures through the beautiful Ozark forest.
• Natural Beauty & Wildlife: Surrounded by dense forest, the area is ideal for viewing wildlife, observing diverse plant life, and simply enjoying the scenic Ozark landscape.
• First-Come, First-Served: For spontaneous travelers, the first-come, first-served policy for its 27 sites can be a highlight, though it also means arriving early, especially on busy weekends.
• Handicap Accessible River Launch: The new rock canoe launch with handicap accessibility makes river recreation more inclusive.

These features combine to create a memorable and highly accessible outdoor adventure in a truly picturesque setting.

For those planning a visit to Redding Recreation Area, direct contact with the managing authority, the U.S. Forest Service, is the most reliable way to obtain current information regarding campground conditions, fees, and any alerts. Since campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, no reservations are taken. However, contacting the relevant Ranger District can provide valuable insights into current availability, especially during peak seasons, or information about any specific closures or fire bans that might be in effect. This ensures you arrive prepared for your peaceful escape by the Mulberry River.

Address: 21424 AR-23, Ozark, AR 72949, USA

Phone: (479) 964-7200 (This is a general number for the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests Supervisor's Office in Russellville. For more specific information related to Redding Recreation Area, contacting the Pleasant Hill Ranger District, which directly manages this area, might be more effective.)

Pleasant Hill Ranger District (Manages Redding Recreation Area):

Phone: (479) 754-2864

It is always recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests (fs.usda.gov/osfnf) for the most up-to-date information on Redding Recreation Area before your trip.

In conclusion, Redding Recreation Area stands as an excellent and highly suitable choice for locals in Arkansas seeking an authentic, affordable, and accessible camping experience. Its prime location on the Wild and Scenic Mulberry River, surrounded by the beautiful Ozark National Forest, provides immediate access to canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and extensive hiking opportunities along the Ozark Highlands Trail. The presence of amenities like flush toilets and warm showers, combined with a very reasonable $15 per night fee, offers a significant comfort upgrade compared to more primitive sites, making it incredibly appealing for families and those who appreciate a few conveniences. While it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, the generous campsite sizes ensure a comfortable stay with ample space between neighbors. For Arkansans looking to disconnect, enjoy the serene sounds of nature, and engage in various outdoor activities without a hefty price tag, Redding Recreation Area provides an ideal blend of rustic charm and essential comforts, cementing its status as a cherished local spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Redding Recreation Area

21424 AR-23, Ozark, AR 72949, USA