Wilbur D. Mills

Location

599 HIGHWAY 212 EAST
Open in Google Maps ↗

Policies

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

2:00 PM

Max stay

14 nights

Pets

Allowed (per listing)

Campfires

Allowed (per listing)

About

Wilbur D. Mills Campground is a compact, low-key riverside site tucked on the right descending bank of the Arkansas River just downstream from the Wilbur D. Mills Dam. The campground has 21 total campsites, and each site is equipped with electric and water hookups and configured to accommodate both RVs and tents; 17 sites can be reserved in advance while the remaining four are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and one site is designated for Disabled Access. Hot showers, drinking water, picnic areas and a boat launch are on hand, so you can rig a boat for a day on the water or rinse off after a muddy hike. The river here is a non-commercially navigable stretch that meanders toward the Mississippi, and the campground's modest footprint and low tree line give it a quiet, open feel bring earplugs if you prefer total solitude, but expect the occasional river sound or boat traffic below the dam. For exact fees, reservation windows and any seasonal closures contact the managing agency before you go. Recreation revolves around the water and the extensive public lands nearby. Pool 2 is known for world-class bass and crappie fishing, while the tailwaters below Wilbur D. Mills Dam are productive for blue, channel and flathead catfish as well as white and striped bass and their hybrids; a boat launch at the campground makes access straightforward for anglers and paddlers. Birdwatchers will find shorebirds and nesting sandbars along this stretch of river including federally endangered Least Terns so observe posted closures and avoid active nesting areas. Public lands adjacent to the park support strong whitetail deer hunting in season; hiking is permitted year-round except during permit-drawn hunts on surrounding tracts, and hikers are advised to wear fluorescent orange or yellow during hunting seasons. Cultural stops are close by: Arkansas Post National Memorial and Arkansas Post State Park interpret the first European village west of the Mississippi and the early territorial capital, and nearby Trusten Holder Wildlife Management Area and the Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge offer additional wildlife viewing, water sports and day-use opportunities.