About RISING STAR
Overview Rising Star Campground is located on the Arkansas River by Pool 3 Lock and Dam. Whether camping, fishing, boating or just relaxing in the sun, this area provides something for everyone.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.Facilities Rising Star Campground offers 25 sites with electric and water hookups. Additional amenities include hot showers, a dump station and a playground. There is one accessible group shelter that can accommodate up to 60 people; it is for day-use only and must be reserved.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 Rising Star Park is located 12 miles from Pine Bluff, 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.
How to Get There
From Pine Bluff, Arkansas, take U.S. Highway 65 south for 7.8 miles to Linwood. Turn left on Blankinship Road, drive 3.5 miles and follow the signs for Rising Star Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 RISING STAR
Heading to RISING STAR? 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 RISING STAR?
No central reservation system listed for RISING STAR. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232688) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to RISING STAR?
From Pine Bluff, Arkansas, take U.S. Highway 65 south for 7.8 miles to Linwood. Turn left on Blankinship Road, drive 3.5 miles and follow the signs for Rising Star Campground.
How do I contact RISING STAR?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-479-3292.
References & Official Resources
