What a wonderful find this campground was! It's a Corps of Engineers campground located right on the Arkansas River. Most of the sites are on the river. They are all big, grassy, level, long and shaded. They all have a cement pad and covered cement picnic tables. We were there over a week-end in the summer and could not believer we were the only campers there. We stayed an extra night because it was so beautiful. There is a pier, great fishing, playgrounds and a picnic shelter with fireplace. The water fowl, jumping fish and sunsets were very relaxing.
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What campers say
Rising Star Public Use Area sits on the Arkansas River and is frequently described as quiet and scenic, with riverbank sites, good views and abundant wildlife that suit fishing, birding and boating. Many sites are large and level, with water and electricity at most sites, covered concrete picnic tables at riverside spots, and a good boat ramp; a dump station is provided but individual sewer hookups are not. Facilities are older but generally kept clean and a camp host is on site. Visitors note seclusion and limited nearby services as a tradeoff to the peaceful setting.
Our summary of 111 traveler reviews.
✅ Amenities & Features
.GOV.RECREATIONBack-inBathroomsBeachBig RigBoat LaunchBoat RampBoatingCanoeingClubhouseCorp of EngineersDogsDump StationElectricFamily FriendlyFirepitsFishingForestHikingHuntingKayakingLaunch RampPadsParkPartial HookupPavedPetsPlaygroundPublic ParkPublic ParkingRiverRuralScenicShadeShowersTentsTouristTrailsTreesWalking TrailWaterWildlife
📖 About This Campground
Rising Star Campground near Pine Bluff in Grady Arkansas is located on the Arkansas River by Pool 3 Lock and Dam. The US Corp of Engineers park continues this agency's long tradition of excellent camping facilities with large sites and access to the water. Partial hookups available the campground can handle RV and tent campers. Popular among fishermen. There is excellent catfish fishing in the tail-waters of Joe Hardin Lock and Dam as well as Emmitt Sanders Lock and Dam at the upstream end of Pool 3. Anglers often catch bass, crappie and bream.
Hunting is available in nearby forests, and there is duck hunting on the waterways.
On shore, families enjoy picnicking and using the playground. 25 sites with electric and water hookups. Additional amenities include hot showers, a dump station and a playground. There is one accessible group shelter that can accommodate up to 60 people; it is for day-use only and must be reserved.
Sites can be reserved in advance via Recreation.gov.