Mount Nebo Campground

Nestled high above the Arkansas River Valley, Mount Nebo Campground offers a refreshing and invigorating escape for locals seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Natural State. Part of the iconic Mount Nebo State Park, this campground provides a unique blend of rugged outdoor adventure and convenient amenities, making it an ideal destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a tranquil retreat. Rising 1,350 feet above the valley floor, Mount Nebo has long been a cherished spot in Arkansas, known for its cooler temperatures, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife. It's a place where breathtaking panoramic views are a daily reality, and the serenity of nature is your constant companion. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with the family, a challenging mountain biking expedition, or simply a peaceful night under the stars, Mount Nebo Campground offers an unforgettable experience right in your backyard.

Mount Nebo State Park holds a rich history, being Arkansas's second oldest state park, established in 1928. Much of its enduring infrastructure, including many trails and facilities, was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, imbuing the park with a rustic charm that harkens back to an earlier era. The mountain's name, derived from the biblical Mount Nebo, from which Moses viewed the Promised Land, speaks to the inspiring vistas that await visitors. While the mountain was once a thriving resort town, with hotels and amenities catering to an elite clientele, today it has been preserved as a natural haven. The campground itself is thoughtfully integrated into this natural landscape, providing a true outdoor experience while still being accessible to modern comforts. For Arkansas residents, this means a chance to explore a historical and ecologically significant area without venturing far from home.

The Mount Nebo Campground is conveniently situated at 16136 State Hwy 155, Dardanelle, AR 72834, USA. This location places it firmly within the stunning Mount Nebo State Park, ensuring direct access to all the park's renowned features and activities. Reaching the campground is part of the adventure, as State Highway 155, leading up the mountain, features a series of tight hairpin turns. While this winding ascent offers spectacular views, it's important to note that trailers or RVs longer than 24 feet are generally not recommended for the climb. This caution ensures a safer and more enjoyable journey for all visitors.

Despite its elevated and seemingly remote setting, Mount Nebo Campground is surprisingly accessible for those traveling from across Arkansas. Dardanelle, the nearby town, serves as a gateway to the park and is well-connected by state highways, making it a feasible drive from various parts of the state. Once you're on the mountain, the park's internal roads are paved and well-maintained, guiding you directly to the campground area. While the campground itself is nestled amidst trees, providing a sense of being truly "away from it all," its strategic location means you're never too far from the park's visitor center or popular trailheads. The unique placement on top of Mount Nebo also means that while you're enjoying the tranquility of the campground, you're just a short distance from the stunning overlooks that provide those panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley and Lake Dardanelle.

Mount Nebo Campground, as an integral part of Mount Nebo State Park, offers a variety of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors. These services are designed to cater to various camping preferences, from RVs to tents:

• Campsites with Hookups: The campground features Class B campsites equipped with water and 30-amp electrical hookups, suitable for both RVs (up to 24 feet) and tent campers desiring modern conveniences.
• Bathhouse Facilities: A modern bathhouse is available with flush toilets and hot showers. While some visitors note the bathhouse can feel small and is located a short walk from some campsites, it is kept very clean.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table for outdoor dining and a fire ring or grill, perfect for enjoying campfires and cooking meals under the stars.
• Playground: A dedicated playground area is available, making the campground especially appealing for families with children, though some sites may be very close to the playground.
• Dump Station Access: Registered self-contained camping units can use the sanitary RV dump station at Lake Dardanelle State Park, located approximately 12 miles north of Mount Nebo State Park, free of charge.
• Visitor Center: The park's visitor center provides valuable information, interpretive programs, a gift shop for souvenirs and essentials, and even bike rentals for exploring the trails.
• Park Staff Assistance: Friendly and knowledgeable park rangers and staff are available to assist with questions, offer guidance on park features, and ensure a safe stay.

Mount Nebo Campground and its surrounding state park are brimming with features and highlights that draw visitors from all over. These elements contribute to an unforgettable outdoor adventure:

• Stunning Panoramic Views: Perhaps the most iconic feature, the numerous overlooks offer unparalleled, sweeping views of the Arkansas River Valley, Lake Dardanelle, and the distant mountain ranges. Sunrise and Sunset Points are particularly renowned for their breathtaking vistas, making for incredible photographic opportunities.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts over 32.6 miles of multi-use trails, including the popular Bench Trail that circles the mountain. These trails cater to hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels, offering varied terrain from easy strolls to challenging climbs. They wind through diverse landscapes, including woodlands, pine forests, and past historic springs and rock outcrops.
• Mountain Biking Paradise: Mount Nebo is a prime destination for mountain bikers, with dedicated trails like the Chickalah and Hayes Creek Run Downhill. The park's Monument Trails system is specifically designed with mountain biking in mind, offering a range of loops and descents for every level of rider. Bike wash stations are even available.
• Hang Gliding Launch Sites: For the truly adventurous or those who enjoy a spectacle, Mount Nebo is a certified hang-gliding launch site, providing exhilarating flights and impressive aerial displays.
• Seasonal Swimming Pool: During the warmer months (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day), a swimming pool is open within the state park, offering a refreshing way to cool off after a day of activities.
• Tennis Courts and Recreational Areas: Beyond the natural trails, the park features tennis courts, a basketball court, and horseshoe pits, providing additional recreational options for visitors.
• Historic Significance: Explore the park's history through features like the Cornwell House, which houses exhibits on the mountain's past, including the unique story of its all-female government in the 1920s. Many CCC-built structures also add to the historical ambiance.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, and campers often report sightings of deer, groundhogs, and numerous bird species, enhancing the natural immersion.
• Pet-Friendly: Mount Nebo Campground is a clean, family, and pet-friendly environment, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.

While specific, short-term promotions for Mount Nebo Campground are best confirmed directly with Mount Nebo State Park, Arkansas State Parks frequently offer various incentives and discounts that can benefit local users. For instance, Arkansas residents who are 62 years of age or older often qualify for discounts on campsite fees, especially during weekdays. Occasionally, the state parks system may introduce package plans or special rates during off-peak seasons to encourage visitation. Given the ever-changing nature of such offers, it is highly recommended that you contact Mount Nebo State Park directly or visit the official Arkansas State Parks website to inquire about any current promotions, special offers, or discount programs that may apply to your visit. This proactive approach can help you secure the best value for your outdoor adventure at Mount Nebo.

For reservations, inquiries, or to get more detailed information about Mount Nebo Campground and Mount Nebo State Park, please use the following contact information:

• Address: 16136 State Hwy 155, Dardanelle, AR 72834, USA
• Phone: (479) 229-3655 (This is the primary contact number for Mount Nebo State Park, which oversees the campground.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 479-229-3655 (Same as above, confirming the primary contact line.)
• Email: mountnebo@arkansas.com (For general park inquiries)
• Website: It's always best to visit the official Arkansas State Parks website and navigate to the Mount Nebo State Park page for online reservations and the most up-to-date information.

It is strongly advised to make reservations, especially during peak seasons, as campsites can fill up quickly. Calling ahead is also recommended to confirm specific site availability and any restrictions, such as RV length limitations due to the winding road up the mountain.

Mount Nebo Campground is an outstanding choice for locals in Arkansas for numerous reasons. Its convenient location within Mount Nebo State Park makes it an accessible and relatively short drive for many residents, offering a quick and refreshing escape from daily life. For families, the combination of a clean, pet-friendly environment, a playground, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and biking creates a perfect setting for quality time and memorable experiences. The campground's layout, while noted by some for lack of privacy, fosters a communal atmosphere that can be great for children and encourages interaction among campers. For avid outdoor enthusiasts, the extensive and well-maintained trail system for hiking and mountain biking provides a challenging and rewarding experience right at their fingertips. Even with the presence of private residences on the mountain, the park's vast natural areas and stunning overlooks ensure that the feeling of being immersed in nature is ever-present. The historical significance of the park also offers an educational component, allowing locals to connect with Arkansas's rich heritage. Ultimately, Mount Nebo Campground offers an affordable, adventurous, and easily reachable opportunity for Arkansans to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the spectacular natural beauty that their home state has to offer.