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Camping during the winter season, especially at Christmas, is an experience unlike any other. While some shy away from the chilly air, we embrace the season with hot cocoa, cozy campfires, and twinkling lights. In Arkansas, winter camping brings a peaceful, laid-back vibe that our family—and many of our camping friends—look forward to every year.
Decorating for a Campy Christmas
Our son George, still young and full of Christmas wonder, insists we stick close to home so Santa can find us. We plan a few shorter trips during the season and then spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at home. But a lot of our camping friends, especially those with older kids and those who are retired, love to spend the holidays camping. Of course, it’s essential to deck out our RV with festive lights, wreaths, or even a mini tree. Thankfully, with the smaller space, a few decorations go a long way, and there is no need to overdo it.
- Twinkling Lights – A string or two of lights add a magical glow, and you can use battery-powered lights if you don’t have hookups at your site.
- Wreath – A colorful wreath on the RV door will brighten your whole campsite. Use a command hook to attach it so you can easily remove it before traveling again.
- Portable Christmas Trees – A small, collapsible tree with a few handmade outdoor-themed decorations is easy to set up and makes the RV cozy in the evening.
Winter Camping in Arkansas
Choosing a winter camping location in Arkansas is probably as simple as booking a spot in your favorite campground, as many stay open all year. A handful close, including my favorite Army Corp of Engineers campground in Heber, but others are open. It pushes us out of our comfort zone and helps us to find new places to love. Do keep in mind that many campgrounds limit their winter facilities and amenities. Most commonly, water hookups may be turned off if the temperature drops below a certain level, and some parks only operate one bathhouse. Always call the park office for full details. Check out these Arkansas campgrounds:
Christmas Camping Tips
Winter camping provides an incredible opportunity to enjoy peaceful Arkansas landscapes and crisp air. However, preparing for the colder weather is key to ensuring your trip is enjoyable. For a comprehensive packing list, check out this helpful guide on Arkansas camping essentials. Here are a few winter-specific tips to add to your checklist:
- Layer Up – Cold weather calls for thermal wear, cozy blankets, and wool socks. Insulated boots are a lifesaver for keeping your feet warm and dry.
- Keep Warm – Pack extra propane for your heater and load up on firewood.
- Tent Campers – If you are brave enough to tent camp in the winter (I’m not!), invest in insulated sleeping pads to keep the cold ground at bay, and double up on sleeping bags for a warm, comfortable night’s sleep.
- Heated Hoses – Heated water and sewer hoses are essential to prevent pipes from freezing in cold temperatures. Some campgrounds require them if you plan to use the hookups.
Simple Christmas Meals Around the Campfire
Winter camping calls for hearty meals that are easy to prepare:
- Big Breakfast – Bacon, eggs and potatoes are easy to store, easy to cook and make for a hearty start to your day.
- Campfire Dinners – Combine potatoes, veggies, and your choice of protein in a foil packet. Season generously and cook over the fire. White Bean Chicken Chili can be cooked in a cast iron Dutch oven right over the hot coals.
- Holiday Treats – Warm up pre-made cookies or bake campfire cookies on a skillet. S’mores over the campfire are always a hit.
- Hot Beverages – Everyone loves marshmallow-topped hot chocolate. Eggnog spiked with spirits from one of Arkansas’s distilleries is the perfect treat for adults.
Gifts for the Arkansas Camper
If you don’t want to spend the holidays camping, you can still add camping-themed gifts to your wish list. Here are some ideas tailored for Arkansas adventurers, or you can check out our complete Arkansas Outdoor Gift Guide:
- State Park Gift Certificate – Arkansas boasts 52 state parks that are free to use, but gift certificates can be used for lodging, services and merchandise at any state park in Arkansas.
- Guidebooks or Maps – A detailed guide to Arkansas’s hiking trails and campgrounds will inspire future adventures. Pick some up at the Arkansas State Parks visitor centers, Arkansas Welcome Centers and AGFC gift shops.
Fun Things To Do
The biggest joy of camping is spending time outdoors, and fortunately, Arkansas is loaded with outdoor activities, even in the winter. Here are a few of our favorite things about Arkansas winters.
- Backyard Arkansas Birds: Winter Residents
- Wintering Wildlife in Arkansas
- 6 Ways to Enjoy Arkansas Before Winter Ends
- 8 Winter Birds to Observe in Arkansas
- 6 Outdoor Activities to do this Winter
- Family-Friendly Winter Hikes (Don’t forget these winter hiking essentials.)
And if you are stuck inside, pick up one of these cozy winter reads from Arkansas authors.
Winter camping in Arkansas offers quiet moments, festive fun, and memories to last a lifetime. So, pack your thermals, string those lights, and create a Christmas adventure your family will never forget!
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