River Road Campground

Arkansas, often dubbed "The Natural State," lives up to its name with an incredible abundance of natural beauty, from the majestic Ozark and Ouachita Mountains to its countless rivers and lakes. For those seeking a serene escape into the heart of this natural splendor, finding the right campground is key. Nestled alongside the Fourche LaFave River, just downstream of the impressive Nimrod Dam, you'll discover River Road Campground in Plainview, Arkansas – a gem that promises a tranquil and amenity-rich outdoor experience.

River Road Campground is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) park, known for its well-maintained facilities and picturesque settings. It offers campers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it an ideal destination for everything from a weekend getaway to an extended outdoor adventure. Whether you're pulling in with a large RV, setting up a tent, or simply looking for a beautiful spot to enjoy the day, River Road Campground is designed to cater to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts right here in Arkansas.

Reviews from actual visitors consistently praise the campground's natural beauty, featuring "beautiful tall pines, and breathtaking dam," and frequently highlight the exceptional hospitality of its hosts, describing them as "nicer" than the park itself and "very nice." This emphasis on both stunning surroundings and welcoming service sets River Road Campground apart as a top choice for locals looking to explore the natural wonders of our state. This article will provide a detailed look at what makes River Road Campground a premier destination for your next Arkansas adventure.

River Road Campground is conveniently located at Nimrod Dam Dr, Plainview, AR 72857, USA. This address places it squarely in Yell County, Arkansas, adjacent to the famous Nimrod Dam and Nimrod Lake. The campground sits along the Fourche LaFave River, just below the dam, providing stunning water views and a serene atmosphere.

Plainview itself is a small, welcoming community, making the campground feel like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Despite its secluded feel, River Road Campground is highly accessible. It's approximately 9 miles south of Ola on Arkansas State Highway 7, and about 0.1 mile south of the intersection of Arkansas State Highways 7 and 60. This strategic location makes it relatively easy to reach from various parts of Arkansas. For instance, it's roughly an hour's drive north of Hot Springs, providing a convenient option for those looking to explore that popular destination while enjoying a quieter camping base.

The proximity to Nimrod Dam is a significant draw, offering not only scenic views but also opportunities to learn about the dam's history and its role in flood control and water resource development for the Fourche LaFave River. The surrounding area, nestled between the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains, is a haven for outdoor activities, making the drive to the campground a scenic journey in itself.

River Road Campground is a Class A park operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, meaning it offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed for comfort and convenience. With 21 spacious and modern campsites, the campground is well-equipped to host various types of campers.

• Campsites with Electric and Water Hookups: 15 of the sites at River Road offer both electrical and water hookups, catering to RVs and trailers up to 78 feet in length. Reviewers note that sites are "absolutely long enough and relatively level."
• Electric-Only Campsites: An additional 6 campsites, located in the Project Point Loop (formerly Project Point Park), provide electrical hookups only.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and accessible flush toilets are available, a welcome comfort for all campers.
• Hot Showers: The presence of hot showers significantly enhances the camping experience, allowing campers to refresh after a day of outdoor activities. Reviews confirm that bathrooms are "clean" and provide "hot showers."
• Trailer Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV and trailer waste, ensuring a hassle-free departure.
• Designated Tent/Trailer Spaces: The campground clearly designates spaces suitable for both tent and trailer camping, providing flexibility for different preferences. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
• Drinking Water: Potable water sources are available throughout the campground.
• Playgrounds: There are "nice playgrounds" for kids, making it a truly family-friendly destination.
• Picnic Shelters: A large group picnic shelter is available, perfect for gatherings and day use.
• Trash Dumpster: Readily available trash disposal to help maintain a clean environment.
• Visitor Protection: As a USACE park, there is a focus on visitor safety and protection, with hosts on-site.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, though campers are advised to call for specific restrictions.

River Road Campground boasts several key features that contribute to its popularity and positive reviews:

• Scenic Lakeside Location: Situated on the shores of Nimrod Lake and the Fourche LaFave River, below the impressive Nimrod Dam, the campground offers "very beautiful and scenic" views. The "breathtaking dam" itself is a highlight for many visitors.
• Friendly and Helpful Camp Hosts: A recurring theme in reviews is the exceptional hospitality of the camp hosts. Visitors consistently praise "Bonnie and Mike" and "the lady who tends this campground" for being "even nicer" than the park, "very friendly and helpful," and "very accommodating." This personal touch greatly enhances the overall camping experience.
• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: The surrounding Nimrod Lake and its 21,000 acres of pristine land provide a recreational oasis. Popular activities include:
  • Fishing: Nimrod Lake is known for abundant catfish, bluegill, bass, and crappie. Anglers can enjoy both boat and bank fishing.
  • Boating and Water Sports: With 11 boat ramps conveniently located around the lake, boating, water skiing, and tubing are popular activities.
  • Hiking: The 1.5-mile self-guided Forest Hills Trail starts on the south side of Nimrod Dam, meandering through wooded hills and valleys.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Campers are likely to spot white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrel, rabbit, fox, mink, black bear, dove, and various waterfowl.
  • Playgrounds: "Nice playgrounds" provide entertainment for younger visitors.
• Spacious and Well-Maintained Sites: Reviews confirm that sites are "absolutely long enough and relatively level," making them suitable for a wide range of RVs and tents. The campground is also consistently described as "very clean."
• Tranquil Atmosphere: Described as a "peaceful and nice place to stay," the campground offers a quiet retreat for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
• Open Year-Round: River Road Campground is open all year, though the fee season applies from January 1 to December 31, allowing for diverse seasonal experiences.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) campground, River Road Campground typically operates under a standard fee structure rather than offering frequent commercial promotions. Pricing for campsites usually ranges from $16.00 to $32.00 per night, depending on the site features (e.g., electric-only vs. electric and water hookups).

However, visitors eligible for specific federal passes may receive discounts. These generally include:

• America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass: Offers a 50% discount on camping fees for U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 years or older.
• America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass: Provides a 50% discount on camping fees for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.
• America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass: While primarily for entrance fees to national parks, it can sometimes apply to day-use fees at federal recreation sites, though camping discounts are typically for Senior and Access passes.

It is always recommended to check the official Recreation.gov website (where USACE campsites are reserved) or call the campground directly to confirm current rates, availability, and any applicable discounts. While no ongoing "special offers" are publicly advertised beyond these federal discounts, the affordability of a USACE campground often serves as its own promotion for budget-conscious travelers.

For inquiries and reservations at River Road Campground, you can utilize the following contact details:

• Address: Nimrod Dam Dr, Plainview, AR 72857, USA
• Phone: (479) 272-4835
• Mobile Phone: +1 479-272-4835
• For reservations: Campsites are reservable up to 6 months in advance, typically through Recreation.gov, the official booking platform for federal campgrounds.
• Nimrod Lake Project Office (for general inquiries): (479) 272-4324

It's advisable to call during regular business hours for the most direct assistance. Given the positive feedback on the camp hosts, reaching out by phone can provide excellent personal service.

For Arkansas residents, River Road Campground offers an exceptional and easily accessible outdoor escape, making it a perfect choice for your next adventure. Its location near Plainview, nestled by the scenic Nimrod Dam and Lake, provides a natural playground that caters to a wide range of interests, from avid anglers and boating enthusiasts to families seeking a peaceful retreat.

The consistent praise for the campground's "beautiful tall pines" and "breathtaking dam" speaks to the stunning natural environment right in our backyard. For those seeking relaxation, the quiet atmosphere is ideal, while active families will appreciate the "nice playgrounds" and extensive opportunities for fishing, hiking, and water sports on Nimrod Lake.

Crucially, the warmth and helpfulness of the camp hosts, as highlighted in numerous reviews, ensure a welcoming and stress-free experience. Knowing that you'll be greeted by friendly faces who are dedicated to making your stay enjoyable adds significant value. This level of hospitality, combined with the comprehensive amenities – including spacious sites, hot showers, and electric/water hookups – makes camping comfortable and convenient, whether you're a seasoned RVer or a tent-camping family.

River Road Campground truly embodies the spirit of "The Natural State," offering a blend of serene beauty, recreational abundance, and genuine Southern hospitality. For Arkansas locals, it stands as a prime example of why our state is such a beloved destination for outdoor adventures, inviting you to discover its charm again and again.