About Little Pines Campground
Overview The Little Pines Recreation Area is one of the most recent upgraded and constructed recreation area on the Ouachita National Forest. Constructed in a former pine plantation, all the campsites are level and offer a large amount of shade through-out the day at the campsites. Access to Lake Hinkle is provided by the boat ramp adjacent to the campground. The boat access offers a courtesy dock and fishing pier. The campground offers all the standard amenities electrical and water connections at each of the campsites. A Camp Host is on duty to provide assistance and answer questions about the area and activities available on the Forest. Located just 12 miles west of Waldron, Arkansas, it is just a short drive to obtain needed items for camping and groceries. Waldron provides a number of services, medical and restaurants in the town. Recreation Recreation opportunities abound at and around the Little Pines Recreation Area. Little Pines Recreation Area offers campsites, day use and access to Lake Hinkle, 960 acre lake managed by the Arkansas Fish & Wildlife Commission. A short hiking trail is located at the day use area. Within a few miles, there are mountain bike, hiking and OHV trails available for use. Facilities Located along the shoreline of Lake Hinkle, a 960 acre lake managed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, there are 9 single campsites available for reservations at Little Pines Campground. The campground has flush toilets, showers, paved parking areas at the campsites, every campsite contains a picnic table, fire ring, lantern holder, electrical and water connections. All campsites are back-in, there are no pull-through campsites available. Courtsey docks are available for boat moorage while staying at the campground. A large pavilion and swim site are located adjacent to the campground. Trailer dump station available for campers. Boat ramp to access Lake Hinkle and courtesy dock available for launching and retrieving boats. Fish cleaning station l
How to Get There
From the Poteau Ranger Station in Waldron, Arkansas, drive west on Highway 248 for 11 miles. Stay on paved road. Turn east (left) on County Road 10 (Trampp Loop) for the entrance to the LIttle Pines Recreation Area (Second Trampp Loop Turn off. DO NOT turn on first Trampp Loop turn off which is a dirt road). Looks for signs that say Little Pines Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Little Pines Campground
Heading to Little Pines Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Little Pines Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Little Pines Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10304527) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Little Pines Campground?
From the Poteau Ranger Station in Waldron, Arkansas, drive west on Highway 248 for 11 miles. Stay on paved road. Turn east (left) on County Road 10 (Trampp Loop) for the entrance to the LIttle Pines Recreation Area (Second Trampp Loop Turn off. DO NOT turn on first Trampp Loop turn off which is a dirt road). Looks for signs that say Little Pines Campground.
How do I contact Little Pines Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 479-637-4174.
References & Official Resources
