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55 campgrounds and RV Parks near Wickes, AR. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
55 campgrounds
1179 campsites
44 RVs available for delivery
From $15/night
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Best campgrounds near Wickes, AR
Iron Mountain RV Park
Mena, AR (16 miles away)
$$$$$
(87 sites)
+6
Willows At Watson RV Park | Experience Broken Bow
Oklahoma (16 miles away)
$$$$$
(15 sites)
Shadow Mountain RV Park
Mena, AR (16 miles away)
$$$$$
(65 sites)
+9
Willowbrook Cabins and RV
Mena, AR (17 miles away)
$$$$$
(1 site)
Ouachita Baptist Assembly Campground
Mena, AR (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(10 sites)
+4
Wolfpen ATV Campground
Mena, AR (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(52 sites)
+5
Acorn - Beavers Bend State Park
Broken Bow, OK (23 miles away)
$$$$$
(22 sites)
+7
Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center
Oklahoma (23 miles away)
$$$$$
(12 sites)
+2
Brookside RV Retreat
Mena, AR (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(5 sites)
+4
Fern - Beavers Bend State Park
Broken Bow, OK (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(15 sites)
+5
Turkey Circle - Beavers Bend State Park
Broken Bow, OK (24 miles away)
$$$$$
(10 sites)
+4
Armadillo Circle - Beavers Bend State Park
Broken Bow, OK (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(15 sites)
Most common amenities
Tables Pet friendly Showers Grills Toilets Dump station Playground Trails Hiking Firewood
Camping near Wickes, Arkansas
Wickes sits in Polk County in the southwestern Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, close to the Oklahoma line and roughly a half-hour drive from the Cossatot River corridor. Located in the Ouachita Mountains of southwestern Arkansas, Wickes has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area extends along the National Wild and Scenic Cossatot River, with rugged topography, exposed rock formations, and clear water. The area is heavily forested, drained by upland rivers, and surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest, which spans parts of Arkansas and Oklahoma.
RV travelers have several private options within a short drive, including Iron Mountain RV Park, Shadow Mountain RV Park, Willowbrook Cabins and RV, and Willows At Watson RV Park serving the Broken Bow gateway to the west. Ouachita Baptist Assembly Campground rounds out the local group and faith-based options. Public camping is layered on top: state park primitive sites along the Cossatot, national forest campgrounds, and the large developed system at Beavers Bend State Park across the Oklahoma border.
Most trips center on river swimming holes, forest drives, and lake recreation, with Wickes acting as a quiet base between the Cossatot to the east and Broken Bow Lake to the west.
Things to do around Wickes
The Cossatot River is the headline attraction. The river cuts through a series of east-west oriented ridges as it flows southward, producing rapids and small waterfalls, and the state park offers hiking, wildlife watching, and float trips. Campers find themselves close to swimming holes and natural rock formations carved by the river's flow, including small pools between the falls.
To the west, Beavers Bend State Park adds cooler, clearer water and a long list of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing, water skiing, nature center programs, river float trips, canoeing, and horseback riding, and the park features trout streams with catch-and-release trophy areas.
The surrounding Ouachita National Forest adds scenic driving, dispersed camping, and an extensive multi-use trail network for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and OHV users.
Camping spots and RV parks near Wickes, AR
When to visit Wickes
- spring
March - May
72° / 52°F 110 mmWettest season; high river flows; foliage returns.
- summer
June - August
90° / 70°F 85 mmHot and humid; peak demand; book waterfront sites early.
- fall
September - November
72° / 50°F 90 mmMild days, cool nights; strong foliage color in October.
- winter
December - February
54° / 36°F 80 mmCool with occasional freezes; light snow possible; reduced services.
Spring and fall are the strongest windows for an RV trip. Fall provides relief from the summer heat, with mild days and colorful foliage, ideal for hiking and exploring the Ouachita Mountains. Spring brings the highest water on the river, which can favor experienced paddlers but be dangerous at the falls, and May is the month with the most rainfall, with rain falling around 13 days and accumulating close to 4 inches.
Summer is hot and humid, with afternoon highs commonly in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit. Swimming holes on the Cossatot and Mountain Fork are the main draw, and demand at developed campgrounds climbs sharply. Waterfront spots at Beavers Bend tend to go first, so booking early matters.
Winters are generally mild, with occasional cold snaps bringing temperatures below freezing; snow is infrequent but possible. Cossatot River State Park remains accessible year-round, though visitor center hours and some services are reduced in the coldest months, and primitive restrooms typically lack running water or heat in the off-season.
How to book campsites near Wickes
Public campgrounds in the area use different systems, so plan by park. For Arkansas State Parks, including sites in the Cossatot corridor, reservations run through the Arkansas State Parks reservation portal or by phone. Cossatot Falls sites now operate on a reservation basis rather than pure first-come, though walk-up availability sometimes exists. Group camping at River Ridge is arranged directly with the ranger station.
For Beavers Bend State Park across the Oklahoma line, camping and cabin reservations are made through the Oklahoma State Parks system online, and calling the park directly is recommended to confirm site suitability before driving long distances.
Private parks such as Iron Mountain RV Park, Shadow Mountain RV Park, Willowbrook Cabins and RV, and Willows At Watson RV Park book directly through their own websites or by phone, with hookup sites in higher demand during peak summer and fall-foliage weekends.
What to expect on the ground
Terrain is mountainous by regional standards: winding two-lane highways, narrow forest roads, and gravel access roads to some public sites. The large campsites at Cossatot Falls are accessed by several miles of gravel road that can challenge vehicles during wet conditions, with washboards and loose rock common. Large rigs are better matched to private RV parks and Beavers Bend developed loops than to backcountry state-park sites.
Hookups vary widely. Developed campgrounds in the Ouachita National Forest range from rustic tent pads to full-service RV sites, while Cossatot's primitive sites have no water or electricity and use vault toilets. Cell service is spotty in the forest.
This is black bear country, so food storage practices apply, and burn bans are common in dry months. Confirm current fire restrictions with the park or ranger district before arrival.
Own an RV? Earn up to $24,738/year.
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Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Wickes, AR
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Wickes, AR?
An RV rental in Wickes, AR is one of the most affordable ways to explore the Ouachita Mountains. On RVezy, travel trailers typically start around $90 to $140 per night, Class C motorhomes run roughly $175 to $250, and larger Class A rigs can reach $300 or more. Because Wickes is a small rural community, daily rates are often lower than in bigger Arkansas hubs like Hot Springs or Little Rock. To find a cheap RV rental in Wickes, book midweek, travel in the March or November shoulder seasons, and filter for trailers if you already have a tow vehicle. Many local hosts offer weekly discounts of 10 to 20 percent, which is great for a longer Cossatot River paddling trip.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Wickes%2C%20ArkansasWhat license do I need to rent an RV in Wickes, Arkansas?
A regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Wickes, Arkansas. Arkansas does not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or any special RV endorsement for personal motorhomes or travel trailers used recreationally. On RVezy, approved drivers are generally 25 or older, and your ID is verified securely through the platform during checkout, so there is no extra paperwork at pickup. Visiting from abroad? Bring your home-country license plus an International Driving Permit (IDP). If it is your first time renting an RV, start with a Class C or travel trailer; they drive much like a large van or pickup.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs RV rental insurance and roadside assistance included in Wickes?
Yes. Every motorhome rental in Wickes booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can head out on Highway 278 with peace of mind. You choose your coverage level during the booking flow, and the plan helps cover accidental damage to the RV. Roadside help is a phone call away whether you need a tow off a gravel forest road, a tire change, or a battery jump near Cossatot River State Park. Snap photos at pickup and dropoff to keep any post-trip claims quick and painless.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat is the cancellation policy if my Wickes RV trip plans change?
Booking an RV in Wickes is low risk. RVezy sets the cancellation policy for every reservation, not individual hosts, and refund eligibility depends on how far in advance you cancel relative to your trip start. If a host cancels on you, RVezy helps with a refund or rebooking credit. Book early to lock in your pricing, then watch the National Weather Service Little Rock forecast as your departure date approaches for any severe weather across Polk and Howard counties. Full current policy details are available on the RVezy Help Center before you confirm your booking.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in Wickes?
Yes, a pet-friendly RV rental in Wickes is easy to find on RVezy. Toggle the Pet-Friendly filter on the search page to see hosts who welcome dogs. Wickes is a great destination for pups, with leashed-pet-friendly trails inside Cossatot River State Park Natural Area and open shorelines along nearby Gillham Lake. Arkansas State Parks generally allow pets on a leash no longer than 6 feet in day-use and campground areas. Message the host before booking to confirm any pet fees, and bring a long line and tick prevention since the Ouachita woods can be buggy in summer.
arkansasstateparks.com/parks/cossatot-river-state-park-natural-areaCan the RV be delivered to my campsite near Wickes?
Yes, RV delivery in Wickes is a popular option on RVezy and is perfect if you would rather skip driving a big rig down winding Highway 278. Many local hosts will deliver and set up your motorhome or travel trailer directly at a campground like Shady Lake Recreation Area or at a private property near town. They level the unit, connect water, sewer, and electric where available, and walk you through every system before they leave. Delivery fees typically run a few dollars per mile from the host's location. Ask about a stationary or drop-and-park rental for the full RV camping Wickes experience without ever touching the steering wheel.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Wickes%2C%20ArkansasWhat's the mileage policy and how far can I drive from Wickes?
You have plenty of room to roam. Most Wickes hosts include 100 to 150 free miles per night, and some offer RV rental with unlimited mileage for longer adventures, just filter by unlimited miles on RVezy. Wickes sits in a sweet spot in southwestern Arkansas, so day trips are easy: Cossatot River State Park is a short drive east, Mena and Queen Wilhelmina State Park are about 30 miles north along the Talimena Scenic Drive corridor, Hot Springs National Park is roughly 90 miles east, and Broken Bow Lake in Oklahoma is under an hour west. For a longer RV road trip from Wickes through the Ouachitas, message the host to discuss a custom mileage package before booking.
nps.gov/hosp/index.htmWhere are the best campgrounds near Wickes, AR?
You are spoiled for choice. The best campgrounds near Wickes include Cossatot Reefs Campground inside Cossatot River State Park Natural Area (primitive riverfront sites, no hookups), Shady Lake Recreation Area in the Ouachita National Forest (electric sites and a swimming beach, about 25 minutes north), Bard Springs Campground (rustic creekside sites in the national forest), and Gillham Lake Corps of Engineers parks for lakeside hookups. Cossatot State Park primitive sites are first-come, first-served, while U.S. Forest Service sites at Shady Lake can be reserved on Recreation.gov up to 6 months ahead, so book early for fall color weekends in October.
recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234037When is the best time of year for an RV trip in Wickes, Arkansas?
Wickes shines from mid-March through early June and again from mid-September through early November. Spring brings dogwood blooms, wildflowers, and mild days perfect for paddling the Cossatot's Class III to IV rapids when water is high. Fall delivers Ouachita Mountain foliage and crisp afternoons. Summer from June to August is hot and humid with highs in the low 90s, great for swimming Gillham Lake but warm on AC units. Winters are generally mild with daytime highs in the 40s to low 50s and occasional freezes, ideal for quiet hiking and off-season rates. For peak fall color, plan a trip in late October along the Talimena National Scenic Byway, one of the prettiest drives in the South.
weather.gov/lzk/I'm a first-time renter. Will I really be okay driving an RV around Wickes?
You will do great. Every RVezy host gives you a hands-on orientation at pickup, walking through driving tips, hookups, leveling, slide-outs, the generator, and water and waste systems, so nothing is a mystery. Wickes is an ideal place for first time renting an RV: traffic is light, US-71 and US-278 are well-maintained two-lane highways, and you will rarely encounter the steep grades found further north in the Ozarks. The most common tricky stretch is the winding road into Cossatot River State Park, just take it slowly and you are fine. For your first trip, consider booking a travel trailer with delivery so the host handles the parking and setup while you focus on enjoying the river.
ardot.gov/What happens if I have a breakdown or issue during my Wickes RV trip?
You are never alone on the road. Every RVezy booking includes 24/7 roadside assistance covering flat tires, dead batteries, lockouts, fuel delivery, and towing, which is exactly what you want when you are deep in the Ouachita National Forest with spotty cell service. If something inside the RV stops working, message your host directly through the RVezy app; most Wickes hosts live nearby and respond quickly. For medical or vehicle emergencies, the closest hospitals are Mena Regional Health System (about 30 miles north) and the medical center in De Queen (about 35 miles southwest). Download offline maps before leaving town, as cell signal drops fast once you are past Cossatot Falls.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Wickes RV rental into Oklahoma, Texas, or across the border?
Yes, regional road trips are wide open. Most Wickes hosts allow travel throughout Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, and Missouri, just confirm allowed states with your host before booking. Wickes sits about 12 miles from the Oklahoma line, which puts Broken Bow Lake and Beavers Bend State Park under an hour away, and Texarkana on the Texas border is roughly 90 miles south. Travel into Mexico is not permitted because insurance coverage does not extend there, and any Canada-bound trip would require explicit host approval. A popular Wickes RV trip loop is Wickes to Broken Bow to Hochatown to Mena to Queen Wilhelmina, three states and four nights of unforgettable scenery.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityWhat kind of fuel mileage and gas costs should I budget for in Wickes?
Fuel is easy to plan for around here. Expect roughly 7 to 10 MPG for a Class A, 10 to 14 MPG for a Class C motorhome, 15 to 18 MPG for a Class B campervan rental, and 12 to 18 MPG combined for a tow vehicle pulling a travel trailer. Arkansas often has some of the lowest gas prices in the country. In Wickes, fuel up at the convenience stores along US-71, or top off in De Queen or Mena where prices are usually competitive. Many motorhomes take regular unleaded rather than diesel, so confirm the fuel type with your host and use a price app like GasBuddy to find the best stops along Highway 71.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Wickes?
For the popular spots, plan ahead. U.S. Forest Service campgrounds like Shady Lake accept reservations on Recreation.gov up to 6 months out, and weekends from April through October book up 8 to 12 weeks in advance. Arkansas State Parks (reserved through ArkansasStateParks.com) can be booked up to 13 months ahead, so lock in Queen Wilhelmina or Daisy State Park sites the moment your dates open. Cossatot River State Park's primitive sites are first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early on Thursday for a weekend spot. For fall foliage weekends in mid-to-late October, aim to book by July at the latest.
recreation.gov/What are the local driving conditions like around Wickes?
Driving around Wickes is refreshingly easy. US-71 (the main north-south route through town) and US-278 (the east-west connector toward Cossatot River State Park) are paved two-lane highways with light traffic and gentle Ouachita foothill grades. Watch for logging trucks during weekdays, white-tailed deer at dawn and dusk, and occasional fog in the river valleys after spring rain. The Talimena National Scenic Byway climbs to about 2,600 feet with tighter curves, so take it slow and stop at the overlooks. Avoid narrow gravel forest roads to Cossatot Falls in a large Class A; park at the visitor center and shuttle in your tow car instead.
ardot.gov/travel-information/What hookups and amenities will I find at Wickes-area campgrounds?
You have a full range of options nearby. Shady Lake Recreation Area in the Ouachita National Forest has electric sites plus potable water spigots, vault and flush toilets, and a swimming beach, though no sewer hookups (use the on-site dump station). Cossatot River State Park is primitive only, with no water or electric, so arrive with full fresh tanks. Gillham Lake Corps of Engineers parks offer electric and water hookups along the lake. Fill fresh water in Wickes or Mena before heading into the forest, and pack a 25-foot drinking-water hose plus a 30-to-50-amp adapter just in case.
fs.usda.gov/recarea/ouachita/recarea/?recid=10864What equipment and amenities come with a typical Wickes RV rental?
You will be impressed by how well-equipped these rigs are. A typical RV rental in Wickes comes ready to camp: queen or king bed, convertible dinette or bunk beds (sleeps 4 to 8), full kitchen with fridge, freezer, microwave, stove, and sink, wet or dry bathroom with toilet and shower, roof AC, furnace, and seatbelted passenger seats. Most Class C and Class A motorhomes include a generator for off-grid camping near Cossatot, and many travel trailers add solar packages too. TVs are common, but reliable Wi-Fi is not. Cell signal around Wickes is decent in town but spotty in the forest. Check each listing's amenity list and message the host about outdoor extras like camp chairs, propane fire pits, or kayak racks.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Wickes%2C%20ArkansasWhat add-ons and pickup options are available with my RV rental?
Hosts in Wickes offer plenty of helpful extras to customize your trip. Common add-ons include linen and bedding packages, kitchen kits, camp chairs and tables, propane refills, extra generator hours, portable grills, kayak or bike racks, and pet packages. Pickup is typically at the host's home in or near Wickes in the afternoon, with morning dropoff, though many hosts flex on times if you ask. Mileage is set per listing (often 100 to 150 free miles per night) with overage fees that vary by host, and generator hours often include a few free per night. Bundle delivery, setup, and a stocked kitchen kit for a true show-up-and-relax Cossatot River weekend.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Wickes%2C%20ArkansasHow does payment and the security deposit work on an RVezy booking?
Payment is simple, secure, and 100 percent online, with no cash or paper checks at pickup. When you book, RVezy charges your card for the rental total (nightly rate, fees, taxes, and any add-ons you select). A refundable security deposit is handled separately from the booking payment, typically pre-authorized on your card before the trip and released after dropoff once the host confirms the RV is returned in good condition. To avoid deposit issues, document the RV's condition with photos at pickup and dropoff, return it with the same fuel and propane levels, and empty the tanks at a dump station first. Most Wickes hosts release deposits soon after a clean return.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-works