Tar Camp

Arkansas River - Pool 5

Tar Camp Park is situated near Pool 5 Lock and Dam on the Arkansas River.

The campground is known for its beauty and first-class fishing. Whether camping, fishing, boating or just relaxing in the sun, this area provides something for everyone.

Tar Camp Campground offers more than 50 sites, most with electric and water hookups. Each campsite has a movable lamp post and grill, as well as campfire rings and picnic tables.

Two large group picnic shelters that can each accommodate up to 60 people each can be reserved for day use.

A rock climbing wall and basketball court provide additional recreation opportunities.

Need to Know

Camping outside of the reservation season is first-come, first-served
Campground hosts are on duty 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Please check in at the gatehouse upon arrival
Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY boats and any other recreational equipment that contacts water. Dispose of unwanted bait, worms, fish parts, or other organisms into the trash and not into the environment. For more information visit https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/rec.
STOP THE SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES. Remove plants, seeds, animals, and mud from boots, gear, pets, and vehicles. Clean your gear before entering and leaving the recreation site. Stay on designated roads and trails, and follow local guidelines for firewood. CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY boats and any other recreational equipment that contacts water. Dispose of unwanted bait, worms, fish parts, or other organisms into the trash and not into the environment. For more information visit https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/rec

Natural Features

The park is in a forested area along the riverfront, close to the rolling fields of cotton farms. It is 193 feet above sea level; winters are generally mild and summer temperatures reach the upper 90s with high humidity.

Red fox are frequently seen in the park, and numerous species of waterfowl live in the water and along the shores.

Nearby Attractions

Little Rock, the state capital and largest city in Arkansas, is only a short drive away and offers many amenities and cultural attractions.

The nearby town of Pine Bluff is the home for the Arkansas Railroad Museum, Pine Bluff Regional Park, the Martha Mitchell Home and other points of interest, as well as shopping and groceries.

Recreation

The campground is 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.

Contact Information

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PO BOX 7835 PINE BLUFF AR 71611-7835

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

From Redfield, Arkansas, take State Route 46 east to State Route 365. Turn left and go 1 block, then turn right and drive 4 miles to Tar Camp Park. Follow signs into the campground.

Available Campsites

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