Sometimes you just need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to get out in nature. That’s why we love living in Fort Smith. There are so many fantastic campgrounds nearby with beautiful scenery. Here are three great spots for camping within driving distance of Fort Smith, AR.
Springhill Park Campground
Just outside of town, on the banks of the Arkansas River, is Springhill Park Campground. The campsites in section A are along the river and offer great fishing opportunities right out the door of your RV. The other sites with water access are in Loop E, along the shore of John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake. Loop B sites aren’t on the water but are close to the bike trail and one of the boat launches.
Springhill Park is open year-round, and campsites can be booked online. It’s most popular for the fantastic fishing. Anglers catch catfish, bream, crappie, and white and largemouth bass year-round in the Arkansas River. The tailwaters below the dock and dam have some of the best sauger fishing in the country from late fall into early spring. The 10-mile bike trail in the park is great for all riders and is designated a National Recreation Trail.
Waveland Park
This beautiful campground is on the shore of Blue Mountain Lake, in the shadow of Mt. Magazine, the highest mountain in Arkansas. All 51 sites have electric and water hookups, and there is a dump station in the park. This park is popular among families, and kids can enjoy swimming in the lake or playing on the playground. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore in the nearby national forest. This park also offers excellent fishing and hunting opportunities.
Horsehead Lake Campground
Located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest, this campground is cooperatively managed by the US Forest Service and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. It is open year-round and available first come, first serve, no reservations necessary. The lake is a no-wake lake, so smaller trolling motors or non-motorized kayaks and canoes are ideal. The lake is also great for swimming but be aware that swimming is at your own risk, and there are no lifeguards on duty.
All of these great parks are less than 60 miles from Fort Smith, so getting out in nature is no problem at all, as long as your truck is up for the job. The Chevy Silverado 1500 can tow up to 11,000 pounds and will have no trouble towing your boat or RV to any of these campgrounds. To test drive the Silverado 1500, come by Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith today!
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