Ben Few Campground, Carthage, AR

For many Arkansans, the name "Ben Few Campground" isn't just a location on a map; it's a cherished annual tradition, a place steeped in history, and a cornerstone of community and spiritual gathering. Unlike typical recreational campgrounds, Ben Few holds a unique place in the hearts of those who’ve experienced its long-standing camp meetings, some for generations. Established in 1898, this historic site near Princeton, in Dallas County, has been celebrating over 125 years of continuous encampments, making it a truly remarkable and enduring part of Arkansas's heritage.

Ben Few Campground is primarily known for its annual "camp meeting" or "encampment," which brings together families and individuals for a period of spiritual renewal, fellowship, and community building. This isn't your average weekend getaway RV park; it’s a place where tradition, faith, and familial bonds are central to the experience. Reviews from long-time attendees speak volumes about the deep personal connection people have with this place, often returning year after year, sometimes since birth, to partake in its unique atmosphere.

The sentiment expressed by visitors, such as "Went here almost every year until my great Aunt Era Jones and Martha Langley died years ago. We would stay at Aunt Era’s down the road. Glad to see it is still going strong!" and "Gone here every year since I was born love it," truly encapsulates the spirit of Ben Few Campground. It's a testament to its enduring legacy and its ability to foster a sense of belonging and continuity across generations. While details on modern amenities like full hookups and extensive recreational facilities might not be its primary public focus, its strength lies in its profound community appeal and the unique spiritual experience it offers.

For anyone in Arkansas interested in a campground that offers more than just a place to park, but rather a connection to history, community, and a spiritual journey, Ben Few Campground represents a distinct and meaningful option. It stands as a living testament to long-held traditions and the power of gathering together.

Location and Accessibility

Ben Few Campground is located near Carthage, Arkansas, specifically at the address Carthage, AR 71725, USA. While the provided address is a general one for the town of Carthage, the campground is situated in Dallas County, near Princeton, Arkansas. This places it in a more rural and serene part of the state, away from the immediate hustle and bustle of major metropolitan areas, contributing to its "camp meeting" atmosphere.

For those traveling to Ben Few Campground from various parts of Arkansas, accessibility involves navigating to Dallas County. Major highways like US-167 and US-79 run through central Arkansas, and connections would typically be made from these routes onto smaller state or county roads leading to the Carthage/Princeton area. Being in a rural setting means that visitors should ensure they have clear directions, and potentially be prepared for a drive that takes them off the most direct interstate paths, allowing for a scenic journey into the heart of Arkansas.

While specific driving directions from major cities are not provided, it’s understood that local users in Arkansas are generally familiar with navigating to smaller towns and rural areas. Carthage itself is a small town, and the campground’s historic nature suggests it's a well-known landmark within its local community and among its dedicated attendees.

The relatively remote setting ensures a peaceful environment, conducive to the spiritual and community-focused activities that define the Ben Few experience. It provides a genuine escape from urban noise, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the campground’s unique traditions and natural surroundings. For those seeking a tranquil and community-oriented camping experience rooted in Arkansas history, the journey to this Dallas County gem is part of the appeal.

Services Offered

RV Hookups: While detailed information on the exact types of RV hookups (e.g., 30-amp, 50-amp, water, sewer) is not extensively publicized, information from the Arkansas Conference of the United Methodist Church, which oversees the camp meeting, indicates that "RV hookup reservations" are available. This suggests the presence of designated sites with at least some utility connections for RVs.
Dedicated Event Programming: The primary "service" offered by Ben Few Campground is its annual encampment, which includes a structured program of services, classes, and gatherings. This typically involves:
- Evening Services: Held daily during the encampment period.
- Mid-day Services: Also held daily.
- Classes for Adults, Youth, & Children: Offered Monday through Friday mornings, focusing on spiritual education and community engagement for all age groups.
Community-Focused Environment: The campground provides a setting for communal living during the encampment, fostering fellowship, shared meals, and intergenerational interaction.
Historic Site: As a long-standing camp meeting ground, it offers the unique experience of participating in a tradition that dates back over a century, providing a sense of historical continuity.
On-Site Contacts for Reservations: Specific individuals (Tim Williams and Charlotte Harrison) are designated for RV hookup reservations and general inquiries, suggesting a direct and personal approach to managing stays.

Features / Highlights

Historic Legacy: Established in 1898, Ben Few Campground has a rich history spanning over 125 years, making it one of Arkansas's oldest and most enduring camp meeting sites. This historical depth offers a unique experience unlike typical recreational campgrounds.
Annual Encampment Tradition: The core highlight is the annual camp meeting, which draws generations of families and individuals who return year after year. This continuous tradition fosters strong community bonds and a unique atmosphere.
Family-Oriented: Reviews explicitly mention individuals attending since birth and staying with family, underscoring its deep roots as a multi-generational gathering place. It's a place where families come together to share experiences and create lasting memories.
Community and Fellowship: The structured daily programs (services, classes) during the encampment promote a strong sense of community and fellowship among attendees, offering spiritual enrichment and social connection.
Peaceful, Rural Setting: Located near Carthage in Dallas County, the campground offers a serene and quiet environment, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, conducive to reflection and relaxation.
Enduring Appeal: Despite its long history, the campground is "still going strong," indicating a resilient and beloved institution that continues to thrive through the dedication of its attendees.
Spiritual Focus: For those seeking a faith-based camping experience, the emphasis on religious services and classes provides a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and shared worship.

Promotions or Special Offers

Based on the provided information, Ben Few Campground operates as a historic camp meeting site with a strong community and spiritual focus, rather than a commercial RV park offering typical promotions like seasonal discounts or loyalty programs. Its primary "offer" is the unique annual encampment itself, which is a scheduled event with specific dates (e.g., July 14-23 for the 2023 encampment, according to past announcements).

Pricing for RV hookups, if any, and any associated fees for participation in the camp meeting activities are not publicly detailed as standard "promotions." Instead, access to RV hookups is managed through direct contact with specific individuals. It is common for such community-oriented campgrounds to have a fee structure that supports the maintenance of the facilities and the programming, but this would not be considered a "promotion" in the traditional commercial sense.

For accurate information on any costs associated with RV hookups or attendance at the encampment, and to understand how reservations work, interested individuals should directly contact the designated persons responsible for reservations. Given its long-standing tradition, the value of Ben Few Campground lies in its unique experience rather than transient deals or discounts.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding Ben Few Campground, especially concerning RV hookup reservations or general information about the annual encampment, it is recommended to contact the designated individuals directly. Please note that specific general phone numbers for the campground itself were not provided as a central contact point, but rather individuals responsible for reservations are listed in public announcements about the encampment.

Based on information from the Arkansas Conference of the United Methodist Church regarding past encampments, the following contacts were provided for RV hookup reservations and more information:

Tim Williams: (870) 313-2011

Charlotte Harrison: (501) 425-7843

These contacts are likely the most direct way to get details about the annual schedule, availability of RV sites, and any other relevant information for attending the historic Ben Few Campground encampment. Since the campground is more focused on its annual event than continuous commercial operation, direct communication with these individuals would be the most effective approach.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Arkansas, Ben Few Campground offers a truly unique and deeply suitable camping experience that extends far beyond a typical recreational stay. Its suitability for locals, particularly those with roots in the state or an interest in its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, is multifaceted and deeply personal for many.

Firstly, Ben Few Campground represents a profound connection to Arkansas history and tradition. As a camp meeting site established over 125 years ago, it embodies a long-standing practice of spiritual gathering and community building. For Arkansans, visiting here means engaging directly with a piece of their state’s past, creating a sense of continuity and belonging that is rare in modern campgrounds. The reviews, speaking of generations attending and maintaining family connections, highlight this deep-seated local relevance.

Secondly, it serves as an unparalleled opportunity for family and community bonding. In a world that often pulls us apart, the annual encampment at Ben Few Campground actively fosters fellowship. It's a place where children, youth, and adults participate in shared activities, services, and classes, strengthening ties and creating lasting memories. For Arkansas families looking for a meaningful way to spend time together, perhaps reconnecting with relatives who also attend, Ben Few offers a unique environment conducive to genuine connection and shared experience.

Furthermore, the peaceful, rural setting in Dallas County provides an authentic Arkansas escape. Away from the noise and demands of urban life, the campground offers a serene backdrop for spiritual reflection and relaxation. This natural tranquility is something many Arkansans seek, and Ben Few delivers a genuine immersion into the state’s natural beauty, allowing for a true break from the everyday.

Finally, for locals seeking a faith-based camping experience, Ben Few Campground provides a dedicated space for spiritual growth and communal worship. The structured daily services and classes cater specifically to this need, offering a supportive environment for those who wish to combine their love for the outdoors with their spiritual journey. It’s a specialized niche that is highly valued by its devoted attendees from across the state.

In essence, Ben Few Campground is not just a place to park an RV; it’s a living tradition, a community hub, and a spiritual sanctuary. For Arkansas residents, it offers a deeply meaningful and historically rich camping experience that resonates with the core values of family, faith, and community, making it a truly exceptional destination within the state.