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River Ridge Campground Introduce

Nestled off the beaten path in Cecil, Arkansas, River Ridge Campground offers a genuinely tranquil escape for those seeking a quiet connection with nature. For Arkansans looking to unplug and enjoy the serene beauty of a riverside setting, this campground provides a unique, no-frills experience. While it may not boast all the modern amenities of some larger parks, its charm lies in its peaceful atmosphere, the soothing presence of the river, and the feeling of truly getting away from it all. It’s a place where the sounds of the natural world replace the hustle and bustle of daily life, inviting visitors to relax and recharge.

River Ridge Campground is located at 8001-9753 Hoovers Ferry Rd, Cecil, AR 72930, USA. This address places it in a secluded area, emphasizing its "off the beaten path" appeal. Its location along the river is a major draw, offering picturesque views and easy access for fishing or simply enjoying the water. While it’s not directly on a major highway, its accessibility is noted as "easy access to get in," even for larger vehicles. This makes it a feasible destination for those traveling with big rigs, despite its somewhat remote feel. The journey to the campground itself is part of the adventure, leading you deeper into the natural landscape of Arkansas. Visitors should be aware that due to its secluded nature, cellular service might be spotty, which for many, adds to the appeal of a true digital detox.

Services Offered:

  • Campsites suitable for RVs (big rig friendly) and potentially tents (though amenities are limited).
  • Asphalt parking areas at campsites.
  • Some fire rings available for campfires.
  • Older, rusted BBQ grills at some sites (condition may vary).
  • On-site host/caretaker for assistance and fee collection.
  • Access to the river for views and potential fishing.
  • Quiet environment with minimal noise at night.

Features / Highlights:

  • Extremely quiet and peaceful environment, often with very few other campers.
  • Direct river access and views from many campsites, ideal for enjoying the water or fishing.
  • Big rig friendly, with easy access into the campground and asphalt parking areas.
  • On-site host who is friendly and explains current conditions and fees upon arrival.
  • Opportunity to witness local wildlife and experience authentic Ozark culture (e.g., local fishermen).
  • A true "off the beaten path" experience for those seeking rustic charm.
  • Offers a break from crowded campgrounds and a chance for solitude.
  • Despite some aging infrastructure, the natural beauty of the river and surroundings is a significant draw.

Contact Information:

Address: 8001-9753 Hoovers Ferry Rd, Cecil, AR 72930, USA

Phone: Please note, no phone number for River Ridge Campground is publicly available in the provided information. Visitors are advised to rely on the on-site host for immediate inquiries upon arrival.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Arkansans who cherish quiet, nature-centric getaways, River Ridge Campground in Cecil offers a compelling option. While it’s important to set expectations – this is not a resort-style campground with extensive modern amenities – its value lies in its tranquility and raw natural beauty. Many locals seek out places where they can truly disconnect, and River Ridge perfectly fits that description. The peaceful riverside setting provides a serene backdrop for relaxation, fishing, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the Arkansas wilderness.

The fact that it's "off the beaten path" is a significant draw for those looking to avoid crowds and experience a more authentic camping adventure. The presence of a friendly on-site host, despite the park showing its age, ensures that visitors are welcomed and informed about the current conditions, including the modest $10 nightly fee. While amenities like working modern restrooms are currently limited due to past flood damage, the charm of waking up to a local Ozark fisherman catching a massive catfish or friendly dogs exploring the campsite provides a unique, quintessential Arkansas experience that cannot be found at more commercialized parks.

For residents of Arkansas, River Ridge Campground represents an opportunity to embrace a rustic, peaceful retreat without traveling too far from home. It's a reminder of simpler times, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy the natural landscapes that make our state so special. If you're looking for a quiet, big-rig friendly spot with a view of the river, where the primary attractions are the peaceful surroundings and the genuine feel of the Ozarks, River Ridge Campground in Cecil is a destination worth considering for your next local escape. It holds the promise that with continued investment from its fees, this already peaceful spot could blossom into an even more remarkable gem for local campers.

Location

ArkansasFranklin CountyCecilHoovers Ferry Road

Customer Reviews

3.0
37 reviews
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Tom
Nov 08, 2023

Great quiet place to stop in , no longer free, now $10 a night per host/caretaker living in the school bus at the entrance. Nice gentlemen and he explained as soon as I parked it was no longer free before I set up. This is a nice campground with spots on the river but it’s showing its age and neglect. Seems to be typical with ACE/Army corps of engineers parks, they build them and maintenance falls by the wayside. Hope the fees will help build this park back because it’s off the beaten path and could be awesome again one day. No noise at night, I was the only one besides the host here. Toilets are non working vaults at this time, due to a flood back in 2019, but host said one side can be used, they pumped it out and waiting on a crew to pressure wash and repaint but that may be a ways in the future. Easy access to get in, big rig friendly, asphalt parking area, some fire rings, older rusted bbq grills, no water at campsites but you can see where there was water spigots scattered around but now they are grown over with small trees. But all in all, a good quiet, peaceful place with a view of the river all day.

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Wem Nilme
Mar 22, 2023

The river is nice and peaceful, but the bathrooms... don't go in the bathrooms... They were Lovecraftian and Eldritch in nature... 'Squitos were plentiful in early June (especially in the bathroom.) What made up for everything however was the experience of waking up to a local Ozark man catch the biggest catfish I've personally seen out of the back of his pickup. There were also friendly dogs investigating the campsite in the morning. The most Arkansas-esque place I've visited yet.

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Chloe Allen
Mar 08, 2019

This is a free campground, but we came in the beginning of March and it was closed. Although on the website there was absolutely no where that it indicates it being closed for the winter or anything. We stayed at another spot on the list and it was open so I'm not sure... Luckily there is a boat ramp site right next to it and it was big enough to park there for the night. Couple people drove by as it looks like the local drink spot. Beer cans and tampon trash all along the shore. We stayed here for free so I picked up quite a bit, but all the bags we have couldn't contain the trash at this park... it's pretty run down and I think its probably permanently closed from the looks. No tellin. Just needs some TLC and it would be a great park because of it being right on the water! Beautiful.

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Rachel Whalen
Jul 02, 2021

It was quiet. Only 2 other campers onsite. Fast moving river. Low traffic, low man made noise. Well marked RV sites. Most sites had fire rings, grills, tables (some covered). Great flat areas for tenting. Grass areas and grounds not maintained. Vault toilets were gross and not maintained. There was someone's catch (several fish) dead and in various, smelly stages of decomposition in the boat ramp parking area.

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Richard Ake
Sep 19, 2024

Easy access, acceptable toilet and shower. However since it is right off the highway, there is a lot of traffic noise throughout the night if you are tent camping.