Cabin rentals near Alma, Arkansas provide woodland and lakeside accommodations in the Boston Mountains region of the Ozark range. Sites range from 1,000 to 2,750 feet in elevation, with temperature variations of 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Most cabins require advance reservations, particularly from April through October when seasonal activities and hiking trails are most accessible.
What to do
Hiking trails: Devil's Den State Park offers several miles of marked trails. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" reports Melissa M. about Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Clear Creek Recreation Area provides fishing opportunities on the Arkansas River. "Fish this place often and also camp. They keep this place clean and have never had issues with other campers. Stays quiet. Only issue is, they do not have a cleaning station," notes Charles Q. about Clear Creek - Ozark Lake.
Off-road adventures: Byrd's Adventure Center maintains private trails plus access to National Forest routes. "Byrd's was awesome. They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road. Good place for vehicles that need to hook up or primitive," explains Eric L.
What campers like
Mountaintop views: White Rock Mountain cabins feature panoramic vistas across the Ozarks. "The views are exquisite. The people are warm and inviting. The cabins are very comfortable and clean. The campground is very clean and beautiful. The hiking trails are for everyone," according to Shelia H. about White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Lake Fort Smith State Park maintains well-kept bathhouses and cabin amenities. "Absolutely the cleanest and most beautiful campground we've been in - in this part of the county yet. Sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery!" reports Jennifer O. about Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground.
Winter camping options: Mount Magazine cabins remain open year-round with heating systems. "We love camping at Devils Den every spring! The trails are great and have beautiful views. The rangers and staff in the shop are very nice. Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," advises tiffany H.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Fog can limit visibility at higher elevations, particularly in morning and evening hours. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway," comments Melissa M.
Limited cell service: Most mountain cabin locations have spotty connectivity. "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services," advises Gonzo A.
Road conditions: Access to White Rock Mountain involves steep, narrow gravel roads. "The drive up to this campsite was a slight challenge. I would recommend an SUV or other tall vehicle with 4 wheel drive. The twisty, steep, narrow dirt road makes for quite an adventure. It has many large rocks in the road and the decently sized potholes," cautions Clarissa F. about Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Devil's Den offers a swimming pool when cabin camping with children. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" shares Melissa M.
Site selection for safety: Choose lower-numbered sites at Lake Fort Smith for families with small children. "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous. If you are a parent with small kids, sites 17-20 and sites 2-3 are better," advises Ryan S.
Cabin proximity to facilities: Request sites near bathhouses when booking with children. "Very nice park! Did not expect it to be so picturesque! Very well kept. Campground AAA sites (1-20) offer full hook-ups and are spread out for privacy and offer longer pads. Site 4 is my favorite," suggests Steve S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Lake Fort Smith cabin and RV sites require minimal leveling adjustment. "It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all," reports Jennifer O.
Site spacing awareness: Fort Smith-Alma RV Park has compact spacing between units. "It's a bit tight, we found ourselves sharing our front yard with our neighbor. You have to keep your blinds closed otherwise you find yourself looking right into the windows of your neighbors on both sides," advises Julie F.
Access route selection: When approaching Devil's Den with larger vehicles, use specific highway entrances. "If you have a large rig - make sure to take the West Fork exit off I-49 vs. the south exit (Winslow)," recommends Gonzo A.
