Fall camping in Arkansas is one of the best ways to enjoy crisp air, colorful foliage, and the peaceful sounds of nature — all without the summer bugs. Located just outside downtown Bentonville, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve offers a unique fall camping experience with direct trail access, cozy campsites, and an open-air café right in the middle of the woods.

Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your camper van, this guide covers the gear you need, fun fall camping activities, and important safety tips to help you plan your perfect autumn getaway.

Why Camp at Coler in the Fall?

When the Ozark Mountains begin to glow with autumn color, Coler Campground becomes a true hidden gem. The cool weather is perfect for hiking and biking, the campground is peaceful and community-driven, and you’re just 2.5 miles from the restaurants and shops of downtown Bentonville.

Fall is the ideal time to unplug and reset — and Coler is the place to do it.

Fall Camping Gear Checklist

Most of your usual summer gear will still apply, but cooler nights and unpredictable weather make a few extra items essential. Here’s our go-to fall camping gear list:

✅ Tent with waterproof rainfly

✅ Tarp or footprint

✅ Sleeping bag (cold-weather rated)

✅ Extra blankets

✅ Camp stove

✅ Cooking gear and fuel

✅ Headlamp or lantern

✅ Hammock

✅ Comfortable camp chairs

✅ Solar-powered battery pack

✅ Layered clothing (base layer, fleece, waterproof jacket)

✅ Gloves, beanie, and wool socks

Fall Camping Activities

Looking for things to do while you’re cozied up in the woods? Here are some fun and relaxing fall camping activities you can enjoy right at the preserve:

• 🚴 Biking on over 17 miles of trail

• 🚶 Hiking the paved greenway or forest trails
• 🐦 Birding — fall migration brings unique sightings
• 📖 Reading a good book under the trees
• 🃏 Playing cards with friends or family
• 📓 Journaling your trip or thoughts
• ✏️ Sketching the fall colors and wildlife
• 🔥 Telling stories around the fire

Fall Camping Safety Tips

As beautiful as fall can be, staying safe and prepared is key. Keep these camping safety tips in mind before heading out:

✔️ Check (and double check) the weather forecast

✔️ Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear

✔️ Stay hydrated, even when it’s cool

✔️ Keep dry clothing and bedding available

✔️ Never leave your campfire unattended

✔️ Admire wildlife from a safe distance

✔️ Let someone know your plans before you go

Ready to Camp at Coler This Fall?

Once you’ve packed your gear and checked the weather, all that’s left is to book your site and enjoy a cozy camping experience surrounded by autumn color, world-class trails, and a welcoming community.

Visit colercamping.com to reserve your spot today. Fall won’t last forever — make the most of it at Coler.