Best Glamping near Alma, AR
Looking to get away and reconnect with nature? Glamping near Alma is the perfect choice. The Dyrt can help find the best glamping in and around Alma, AR. You're sure to find glamping for your Arkansas camping excursion.
Best Glamping Sites Near Alma, Arkansas (15)
1. Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
23 Reviews•110 Photos•165 SavesChester, Arkansas- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$23 - $163 / night
2. White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
26 Reviews•130 Photos•311 SavesCombs, ArkansasOverview
Experience nature and adventure at historic White Rock Mountain! This National Forest Recreation Area features three unique and rustic natural stone cabins and a large natural stone lodge built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Each features a stone fireplace new, antique, and original wood furniture handcrafted by the CCC. Wind, rain and natural elements had caused the deterioration of the buildings over the years. In 1987 a volunteer group, Friends of White Rock, began a project to renovate the historic structures. With a lot of commitment and hard work, the lodge and cabins were restored to their original state in 1991. White Rock Mountain also offers nine primitive family camping sites. These easily accessible shaded campsites include tents pads, fire rings, grills, picnic tables and access to restrooms and water. Small RVs or pop-up campers can be accommodated at a few sites.
Recreation
White Rock Mountain is the hub of several national forest hiking trail systems including the easy 2 mile trail around the mountain top rim, the 17 mile Shores Lake/White Rock loop trail, and the renowned 170 mile Ozark Highlands Trail. Other recreational activities include swimming, boating (non-motorized) or fishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area; swimming, floating or fishing the National Scenic Mulberry River; Mill Creek and other National Forest ATV trails; mountain biking, hunting and more.
Natural Features
White Rock Mountain is 2,309 feet above sea level and received its name from the appearance of the lichen on the sheer bluffs that appear white from a distance. Guests at White Rock can enjoy incredible scenic views from the lodge, cabins, campground and bluffs. The forest is home to a large variety of wildlife including deer, bear, bald eagles, turkey and more. In the fall season White Rock Mountain offers unrivaled opportunities for taking in the bright red, orange and yellow autumn foliage that sweeps across the Ozark National Forest. The forest around White Rock is also a waterfall hunter's paradise featuring several great falls located in the surrounding area.
Contact Info
This location is staffed. Please call (479) 369-4128 to speak with local staff.
Nearby Attractions
Ozark Highlands Trail, Shores Lake Recreation Area, National Scenic Mulberry River, Mill Creek and other ATV Trails, Waterfalls, Scenic Drives, Mountain Biking, Wineries (Altus, AR) and more.
Charges & Cancellations
Rules & Reservation Policies As you make travel plans that include reservations on Recreation.gov, there are standard policies that apply to most locations of which you should be aware. Do keep in mind, however, that there are many exceptions, so it is best to review reservation information listed on individual facility pages for those policies and procedures that pertain to your specific locations. Booking Window For most locations, you can reserve six months in advance of your stay for individual sites and 12 months in advance for group sites. There are some exceptions, so it is best to check with each facility. Change and Cancellation Policies and Fees Overnight and Day Use Facilities: To ensure fairness, reservation arrival or departure dates may not be changed beyond the booking window until 18 days after booking the reservation. Camping / Day Use: A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation (including campsites, cabins, lookouts, group facilities, etc.). The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. You can cancel or change reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late Cancellations Overnight and Day Use Facilities: Late cancellations are those cancelled between 12:01 a.m. (Eastern) on the day before arrival and check out time on the day after arrival. Individual Campsites: If a customer cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival they will be charged a $10.00 service fee and will also forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a single night's reservation will forfeit the entire use fee but no cancellation fee will apply. Cabins / Lookouts: Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin or lookout reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Facility: If a customer cancels a group overnight facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date they will be charged the $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee. Group Day Use Area: If a customer cancels a group day use facility reservation within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date, they will forfeit the total day use fee with no service fee charge. No-Shows Camping / Day Use: A camping no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Reserved campsites and group overnight facilities will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival. Group day-use facilities will be held until check-in time on your scheduled arrival date. If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time the day after arrival or does not cancel the reservation by the times listed under "Late Cancellations" above, the customer may be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit use fees.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$15 - $215 / night
3. Mount Magazine State Park Campground
32 Reviews•169 Photos•212 SavesBlue Mountain, ArkansasNestled between the Ozark National Forest to the north, and the Ouachita National Forest to the south, Mount Magazine State Park boasts the highest point in the state of Arkansas: Mount Magazine at 2753 feet. Located just 100 miles northwest of Little Rock, this area has been a recreation destination since the late 1800s. Recreation at Mount Magazine really started booming in the 1930s and 40s with the construction of a lodge, campgrounds and trails. Visitors came to beat the heat of the surrounding valleys, as well as to enjoy the panoramic views, abundant wildflowers, autumn color, and numerous opportunities to play outdoors. The area finally became a state park in 1998.
Whether you prefer a posh lodge or cabin, a fully-equipped RV pad, or a rustic campsite, there’s a place for you to stay and play at Mount Magazine. The park’s campground offers 18 spacious sites with full or partial hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, hot showers and a dump station. Campers are required to store food and trash properly to minimize black bear encounters. For more luxuriant accommodations, the park’s lodge offers 60 guest rooms and spa suites with a variety of comforts, as well as 13 full-equipped cabins with up to three bedrooms. Not in the mood for hot dogs over the campfire? The large dining room at the Skycrest Restaurant serves daily meals while overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley.
When you’re ready to play on Mount Magazine, you can do it by foot, wheels or wings. Hikers have access to 14 miles of trails, ranging from 1 to 3 miles, with connecting options for going farther. The 34-mile Huckleberry Mountain Trail is great for mountain biking and horseback riding. For gravity-defying activities, the park offers more than 100 climbing routes on its southern bluff, as well as a hang gliding launch point over the Petit Jean River Valley. Less strenuous activities include bird and wildlife watching, guided ranger walks, historic site tours and various interpretive programs and outdoor skills workshops. There’s also spectacular leaf-peeping in the fall when the forest takes on its vibrant autumn transformation.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$35 / night
4. Byrd's Adventure Center
15 Reviews•40 Photos•112 SavesSt. Paul, ArkansasExperience the best tent and RV camping in Arkansas at Byrd’s Adventure Center. Right on the Mulberry River, Byrd’s offers a host of activities not found at any other Ozark campground.
Enjoy our comfortable RV and tent campsites as you relax in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Byrd’s Adventure Center offers spacious camping in a beautiful setting along the Mulberry River.
A variety of grassy and wooded campsites are available. Some sites have small shelters with picnic tables and campfire rings. In addition to our new Riverfront Restaurant (open weekly Friday-Sunday), we have more amenities than you’ll find in other Ozark campgrounds. These include a large heated shower house, a convenient on-site store with deli, stages, pavilions, an extensive trail network, two backcountry airstrips, rental cabins, plus floating and fishing on the pristine Mulberry River. All of this is located on our private 800-acre ORV park surrounded by the Ozark National Forest.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$10 - $22 / night
5. Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA
13 Reviews•103 Photos•44 SavesSallisaw, OklahomaWelcome to our KOA, a green oasis only 3/4 mile off I-40, with long, level, shaded Pull-Thru RV Sites, Deluxe and Camping Cabins, a tiny house and large, grassy Tent Sites. You'll find fast, streamable, and secure free Wi-Fi and great satellite reception. Enjoy the pool, jump pad, walking trails, fishing pond, playground, gaga ball pit, box hockey, washer toss, volleyball and Kamp K9. The rec room has a kitchen, treadmill, board games, books, puzzles, and a 50-inch TV/DVD player with movies. Make this KOA your base camp while you discover all the area has to offer, including restaurants, antique stores, Native American history, casinos, farmers' markets, train rides, all while just 25 miles from Fort Smith, Arkansas. Explore the beautiful Ouachita or Boston mountains, Robert S. Kerr Reservoir or Lake Tenkiller, where hiking, biking, boating, scuba diving and fishing are plentiful. We also fill propane tanks mounted on RVs or portables from 20#-100#! Pool: May 20 - October 1. Max pull thru: 90 feet. Your hosts: the Maust family.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. William O. Darby RV Community
2 Reviews•2 Photos•13 SavesBarling, ArkansasLet us help make your stay in Fort Smith a great one. William O. Darby RV Community is family-owned and operated with 47 RV sites providing local and cross-country RV campers with a wonderful place to stay and great service. Whether you are visiting for a day, a week, a month, or even longer, we offer great rates to make your stay the most affordable and enjoyable it can be. Our prices include WiFi, cable, & full hook-ups, which only helps make your decision even easier.
At William O. Darby RV Park, the level of comfort is incomparable. We like to consider ourselves to be a friendly community. We are located in a secluded country setting at Chaffee Crossing, but we are just minutes from all the amenities that Fort Smith has to offer. We are the perfect retreat whether you are just passing through, on vacation, visiting family, or on a job for an extended time in the area. We have something for everyone to enjoy and look forward to you coming to stay with us!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$22 - $25 / night
7. Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
5 Reviews•59 Photos•57 SavesSt. Paul, Arkansas- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$30 - $100 / night
8. Cove Lake Complex
11 Reviews•28 Photos•15 SavesParis, Arkansas- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
9. Dan's Riverview RV Park
2 Reviews•19 SavesOzark, ArkansasEnjoy 9 full-service campsites! Water, sewer and up to 50 AMP electrical services included. Additional amenities handicap accessible shower house and laundry facilities. Wi-Fi and a convenient dump station also available. Gentle wooden hillside beckoning a relaxing walk in the shade.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$35 - $38 / night
10. Round the Bend RV Campground
1 Review•17 PhotosCombs, ArkansasRound the Bend RV Park
20/30/50 electric, city water, & Wifi
Large Back in Sites with beautiful view of the Black Mountain and 2 miles ATV ride to Mill Creek and other other Traiheads.
We have been an outfitter since 1981. We are 15 miles north of Ozark in the heart of the Ozark National Forest, next to the Mulberry River, 2 miles from Mill Creek trailhead. The store has been here since 1911. We have 5 cabins, 17 RV sites, and 20 tents sites. We serve as an information center for all type of visitors. Whether you bike, hike, ATV/OHV, or a cyclist, a motorcyclist, a whitewater boater, we have what you need before hitting the trails. Our store has ATV & motorcycle maps, Ozark Highland Trail maps, camping supplies, gasoline, boaters gears, delicious deli sandwiches, and much more.
Book RV campsites online:
https://turnerbend.com/index165266228/
RV Site Rate: $60/day/4 guests
Extra adult camper:$12/day
Children camper: $10/day
30-50 amps and water hookups at site
Shower house and bathroom.
Dumping station is near by.
ATV/OHV Trailhead accessible 2 miles north to Mill Creek Trailhead.
You can ride your ATV/OHV to the trailheads.
Tent Camping per Site Rate: $36/day/3 guests-100/day/8guests
Extra adult camper:$12/day
Children camper: $10/day
Free Wifi
Mulberry River access is half mile north at the Turner Bend landing or across the Mulberry River bridge.
Cabins booking link
https://turnerbend.com/Accommodations/
PARKING FEES FOR NON CAMPER. Parking Permit for vehicle without a trailer– $10 per vehicle per day, it includes river access for 1 person on Turner Bend Landing. it does not include the boat lift ticket Parking permit for vehicle with a trailer - $15 per day, it includes river access for 2 people on Turner Bend Landing-it does not include the boat lift ticket All private boat parking is only available on the parking lot across from the Turner Bend Store. This parking lot is opened 24/7. The Turner Bend Landing parking lot is closed daily at 7pm.
RIVER ACESS FEE: FOR NON CAMPER River Access - $5 per person at the Turner Bend Landing. Boat lift use is only available when operator is present. Armband is required for the use of the boat lift.
DAY PASS FEE: FOR NON CAMPER Day Pass - $ 3 per person for picnic use. Call for special event pricing: 479-667-3641 Rates may vary during special events.
**FEES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
Mulberry River floats and camping are very popular during the spring and summer months. Most of our water comes in the months of March, April, May, and June. Online reservations are recommended especially for weekend visits. If you have a favorite campsite, please book it online or call us.
For camping, we have a two-night minimum on weekends and 3 nights on Memorial Day and Labor Day. When reservations are made in advance, this minimum is upheld.
RESERVATION POLICY Camping reservations can be made online at https://turnerbend.com/1/ in advance and are paid in full at the time of reserving. If you are planning to reserve for a group, each group can book online separately. Specify in the box that labeled 'SPECIAL REQUEST' the name of your group and how many people are expected to be in this group, so we can organize you to the same site(s).
CANCELLATIONS must be made 30 days prior to your arrival for camping to received 90%. We refund your deposit, less a 10% credit card transaction fee. Full credit can be apply for future reservation. If proper notice is not received, you forfeit your deposit. Request for camping cancellation must be made over the phone. No refund for early check out.
PET POLICY FOR TURNER BEND AND ROUND THE BEND CAMPSITES We welcome your pets. All dogs must be on a leash. We do limit each site to 1 pet. We charge $10 per pet, per night in the campground. There is an additional $10 charge for any pet that float with you.
We do not allow aggressive breeds. If you have any questions about the allowance of your pet, please call or email us ahead of time.
Please Keep in Mind On the day of your arrival, come to the store to register and get your parking permit to display inside your windshield] and paid camping wristband.
Check in time for campers is between 11 am -6 pm.
If you are running late please call 479-667-3641 between 8 am -6 pm to check in or text us at 479-209-3782 after hours.
By 9 p.m. campers must tone all noise down to a reasonable level.
Off-road vehicle use limited to entry and exit only.
You can access ATV/OHV trailheads from our campsites and cabins. The trail-heads are 2 miles from the Turner Bend Store.
Showers for non-campers available at $5 per person.
Parking for non-campers taking out private boats at Turner Bend is across the store along the northern edge of the campground next to the bridge.
Free river access is across the Bridge from the store if you are a non-camper or cabin guest.
Display parking pass inside the windshield.
- Boat lift use is only applicable when there is an operator present. Armband is required. Turner Bend gate on the store side will be locked daily at 7 pm, Parking lot across from the store stays open 24 hours.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$60 / night
Recent Glamping Reviews near Alma, Arkansas
152 Reviews of 15 Alma Campgrounds
deb K.
Legend
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
A must see!
Awesome Small Campground! What a gem! Not a glamping campground, but beautiful peaceful change. Only 16 sites, with only 2, 50 amp sites. We were lucky enough to get one. Site is huge and private. Has fire pit with grill, separate bbq, siting area and great hook ups. Bear proof refuge container on site as well. Half off if disabled! Site 3 wasn't completely level, but quick fix. Sights and hiking were breathtaking. No laundry, cable or wifi, but restrooms and showers were clean. Cell service was spotty. Gorgeous lodge with great overlooks and restaurant close by. A diamond in the rough.
Annie C.Legend
Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Great for RVing, so so for tenting
This is a nice modern park on the shore of the man made Lake Fort Smith. To me, the most interesting parts of the park were destroyed in order to make the lake (and thus, the park); the Works Progress Administration (WPA) had several cabins and shelters on the property from building the dam and surrounding areas. However, they were flooded under when the lake filled. The ranger in the visitor’s center said the buildings were not able to be moved. There was a nice exhibit about the building of the park and the role of the WPA in the surrounding area. The campsites are all really RV only with water and electric, although most sites also have a tent pad. There were no other tent campers while I was there. The campground is really clean and well maintained; it seemed that the trash cans were emptied almost hourly by the nice fellow buzzing around in his golf cart. The bath house was super clean, too. There are some nice hiking trails, although none very long. However, this park marks the western end of the Ozark Highlands Trail that stretches across northern-ish Arkansas for 150+ miles. This might be a good starting or ending spot. The boat ramp seemed quiet, but that might have been the weather. If you are into group glamping, there are several lodges that are available that could house a small family to a small army.
Jeff P.
Ranger
Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Hidden Gem
The campground is a hidden gem. The RV and primitive camping are clean and well-maintained. The bathroom/shower requires a passcode to enter and is always clean to use. It's a great escape for off-roading and overloading. Be sure to stop by the Oark Cafe in Oark, Arkansas, which is a 25-minute drive from the campground. They serve one of the best burgers in Arkansas (Wednesday-Sunday).
John F.RangerMulberry Mountain Lodging & Events
Great location for outdoor fun
Near the Mulberry River and White Rock recreation area, the facility is an off road enthusiasts playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility. Plants of space to stretch out and enjoy the deep Forrest areas of Arkansas
- Jessica D.
Traveler
Byrd's Adventure Center
best camping in arkansas
I love this campground!! It has everything. There is great campsites, as well as a little corner store, water front, restaurant, hook-ups, really everything you need. The employees are ALWAYS friendly and helpful, campsites are well put together, a bathroom and showers are on site. This is one of the best campgrounds in Arkansas. Dog friendly
- MMatt B.
Guide
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area
Views are amazing, but one thing on the cabins
The views, as other reviewers have said, are impressive and the Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season.
One warning on the cabins though - in summer be prepared for some bugs. Stayed in Cabin B in August one summer with my wife, who is tougher than anything but spiders. I would have been wise to get there a couple hours earlier and let her relax while I cleaned the place thoroughly. They were pretty thick throughout.
It's not that they're dirty, it's just that they're old buildings which aren't used every day surrounded by forest. Naturally, you get spiders, rodents, etc. It didn't bother me at all, but it did her. Water pressure and hot water were not what one would hope if you want a shower as well.
We both enjoyed the setting, loved the cabin otherwise, and loved the hikes. We've done day hikes there with the kids' since, and in a prior visit I saw a bear go lumbering in front of my truck on the road to White Rock. Only time in 40+ years I've seen a bear in the wild in Arkansas, and I grew up in the country!
Still recommend White Rock, but if you're considering the cabins it's worth bringing cleaning supplies. Even with that, they're a great bargain.
Chad K.LegendLake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Nice
The one thing you notice as you pull into this park is the updated facilities. The state of Arkansas has put in a real effort to make the outdoor experience a nice as possible in their state parks. All sites were level for both campers and tents Each site had a good table, fire pit and lantern pole. The only drawback is the limited hiking options but the lake offers opportunities to fish and boat. This park was a surprise as we were scouting the area. We will be back
Mike V.RangerMount Magazine State Park Campground
Mount Magazine State Park, Arkansas
Great state park. Checked out Arkansas high point of course. Hike some trails, enjoyed the views and rock formations. Tent camping area was very clean, with nice flat tent pad surface to set up tent on. Also ate a very nice meal on Easter Sunday at the lodge. Saw several deer while we were there. Definitely recommend this state park to others. Hope to go there again some day.
- EErin R.Guide
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
Breathtaking
I grew up in Arkansas but had never been here until this past winter. It's an absolutely beautiful place.
I can't wait to return here for summer activities. Awesome lodge with great food, the best view I have seen in ages. The park staff was also great and very helpful. One day we were there the visibility was nil, turns out we were in low clouds, not fog. Pretty cool.
Jeremy C.GuideMount Magazine State Park Campground
Unique Park
This is a very nice state park that mostly offers hiking and beautiful views. We stayed in our camper, but there is a beautiful lodge and a good restaurant here as well. The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice. Camping spots are spaced out pretty well. We enjoyed our visit here!
- AAlison C.Ranger
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
Beautiful park, great views and hiking.
Mount Magazine is a beautiful State Park with great hiking trails. We hiked Signal Hill (highest point in Arkansas) and the North Rim Trail. Both were beautiful. This is a great place for families to camp. There is a welcome center with a small gift shop. Our campsite was spacious with water and electric although we were tent camping. Shower and bathroom facilities were nice and clean. They also had a place to hang glide. We checked out some of the cabins for future options, and they looked amazing with beautiful views.
- Chad K.Legend
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
Still good....
We made a return trip in the late fall to Mt Mag and ended up in the unofficial campground on the back side of the park. The sites had a table and a fire pit along with a pit toilet. Mt Mag has some amazing trails and view to explore. The park also has a lodge if that is your thing that over looks the Arkansas valley below. The staff at the visitor center was friendly and helpful in directing us on which hikes to take in the area. I would defiantly recommend making reservations if you want to stay in establish camp.
Tom K.Legend
Cove Lake Complex
Back up campground to Mount Magazine
Located at the base drive up to Mount Magazine this is a good back up to the state park campground. It is a typical Arkansas campground but it does have decent bathrooms where you're not afraid to step into and has a camp host. It is based on a "lake" so beware of mosquitoes in the summer. We use it as a base to hike up to Mount Magazine as the trail crosses the road and heads up to the top of Mount Magazine state park. The trail is out of the ordinary for the region and takes you have some washouts and up the mountain. If it has been raining, beware and check your weather.
- Tom K.Legend
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
What a place!
Mount Magazine has it all! The official campground has full service hookups with appropriately spaced sites and newer restrooms. There is an unofficial overflow campground with a well kept pit toilet that offers the best view from the campgrounds over the Arkansas valley. If you prefer cabins or a suite, they have that too with amazing views that overlook hang gliding cliffs and a pleasant valley below. For hiking, you can choose a short loop up to the top of the mountain, medium day hikes or a longer 2 day out and back to the bottom of the mountain. This place is a must see if you live anywhere close to the park.
Hali S.
ScoutWhite Rock Mountain Recreation Area
White Rock
Located beyond a perfectly canopied gravel road and surrounded by miles of mostly uninhabited forests White Rock Mountain has been the most delightful treasure of 2016. When we arrived at 10:00 PM, the full moonlight guided us as we set up camp, later able able to watch the stars through our open tent (which was much needed during this hot Arkansas summer). When we awoke, shortly after dawn, we hiked the cliffs' edge where we saw miles of inviting green landscape. As our hike around the mountain progressed we saw much vegetation and wildlife! Once the hours grew hotter we decided to leave for a swim in the Mulberry, learning that a trail leads all the way down the mountain meeting the winding road in several locations. Despite having slight reservations with a toddler, I'm looking forward to our next experience at White Rock.
- Christine N.Guide
Mount Magazine State Park Campground
Quiet, shady
We stayed at an RV site at Cameron Campground, #2. Nice shady spot with a picnic table, grill and fire pit. Was also a space for a tent. The picnic table had a few steps up to it.
This site is at the entrance, we might have preferred something at the back. Everyone coming in or out drove by our spot. But the neighbors were all very quiet.
The bathhouse had two showers, several toilets.
Several signs up say beware of bears, but we didn't see any.
We saw LOTS of deer.
Be prepared for a long winding road up the mountain. It's not overly steep, but it takes a while to get ANYWHERE in this part of Arkansas.
Went to Cove Lake (11 miles away, about a 20 minute drive) to fish, but didn't stay long, and didn't catch anything. Cove lake has camping but no hookups.
Fred S.LegendWhite Rock Mountain Recreation Area
Mountain top camping
White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, in the western Arkansas Ozarks, has a campground with 9 tent sites. One of these is a large group site. 8 sites are arranged along a gravel loop road. In addition to tents, these tent sites will accommodate a camper van; the best sites for vans are #1 thru 4. These are level. Sites 5 thru 8, on the west side of the loop, have great views, but are probably not level enough for van, truck and car camping. Each site has a level gravel tent pad, grill, table & fire pit. The sites are not large enough for RVs. The forest roads leading to the recreation area are rough in places, but passenger cars can make it. Amber, our host, is fantastic. She delivers firewood to your site after purchase. The vault toilet is clean. Pump water is available. No hookups. The campground appears well maintained. The OHT runs though the recreation area. There is a really good hiking trail that loops around the rim of the mountain, offering fantastic views of the Ozarks. T-mobile cell service is available with sporadic LTE data service.
Ryan S.RangerLake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Beautiful park with lots to do
Lake Ft. Smith State Park is a beautiful park in the Boston Mountains. We drove over from Memphis to meet my brother’s family (who lives in Tulsa). We stayed in campsite 9 which was a pull through site and had stunning views of the lake. My brother stayed in site 8. Sites 1-20 have full hook-ups with sewer. The bathhouse was clean and fully functioning.
Pros: Many activities at the Visitor Center for children. Ozark Highland Trail is directly behind the campsites on the lake side. Recreational area with a playground that is updated. Sites have gravel which limits how much dirt/mud you have to deal with.
Cons: 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. The other sites are excellent, but not necessarily best for small kids. Last, the playground requires that you drive to it which is inconvenient.
Overall: Great family park with updated amenities. We’d like to give it a try in the spring/summer when the pool and splash pad are open! If you’ve got small kids, Petit Jean State Park would be my suggestion in this area of Arkansas.
Nancy W.LegendMount Magazine State Park Campground
Love It!
If you are ever driving through Arkansas a trip to Mount Magazine State Park is a must. Mount Magazine is the state’s highest point topping out at 2,753 feet and delivers sweeping views of broad valleys, lakes, winding rivers, and distant mountains. The rugged rock outcroppings protrude from the densely wooded forests. What makes this park even more spectacularly beautiful is that it is surrounded by National Forest lands encompassing glorious acres of woods.
In the late 1800’s, the railroad made travel easier and people were drawn to the area for its cooler weather and awe-inspiring scenic beauty. Resort lodges and restaurants sprang up and the resort “Town of Mount Magazine” began. Soon a post office, parks, streets and a dance pavilion dotted the town. The town took a turn when drought, erosion, and the Great Depression brought the town to collapse. The 1934 Resettlement Act purchased all the private land on the mountain and was shortly transferred to the U.S. Forest Service. In the late 1930’s and 40’s, the Works Progress Administration built campgrounds, trails, cabins, and a lodge were constructed. A fire destroyed the lodge in 1971. In 1998, Arkansas State Parks entered into a cooperative agreement with the USDA Forest Service to develop Mount Magazine State Park. The lodge reopened in 2006 and graces the same beautiful setting as the original structure.
We found this park very relaxing which is kind of amazing because there is so much for outdoor enthusiasts to do making it hard to sit still. There are miles and miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, hang gliding launches, cycling, and some of the most dramatic locations for rock climbing and rappelling. The diverse mountain ecosystem offers amazing bird watching and wildlife viewing and provides habitat for over 90 species of butterflies. Many were brightening the woods when we were there. We were there at a time when wildflowers were blooming so the forest floor was lit up with color. The higher altitude and cooler weather on the mountain meant that trees had not leafed out yet but a look down in the valley was a stark contrast with trees fully leafed out. The park has a relatively small campground with a meek 18 sites with full hook-up (two of which are 50 amp). Campsites are well-spaced with gravel pads and patios with fire pits and picnic tables. We so enjoyed hanging around our campsite but for those that don’t camp you will be perfectly comfortable in the lodge or cabins.
The Lodge at Mount Magazine has breath-taking views and some rooms have spa tubs on their balconies to enjoy the view. Thirteen cabins dot the ridge line offering the same awesome views and Jacuzzi tub options on your balcony. At the lodge is The Skycrest Restaurant which is a nice treat for those not wanting to cook. We decided to have drinks one evening on the veranda enjoying the setting sun lighting the valley. The next day we popped in for lunch where $6 got a plate of open-face prime rib sandwich, mashed potatoes, salad, and squash casserole. Pretty good deal if you ask us.
This state park so worked for us. It was the combination of the reading in a quiet wooded campground, being able to go to the lodge for a drink, lunch and great view and spending hours walking in the woods. The park is a good 30 minutes drive from the nearest town so you may want to stock up so you can just relax on the mountain.
Gary F.TravelerMount Magazine State Park Campground
Very nice park
Magazine Mountain is the highest peak in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. Mount Magazine SP sits at the top of Magazine Mountain. It has 18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30. All of the campsites have a large level tent pad, table, fire ring, and plenty of shade. The restrooms/showers are a 4.5 out of 5 for state park facilities.
Mount Magazine SP also has a lodge with a restaurant and and 13 cabins if camping is not your thing.
The park has about 15 miles of hiking trails. The trails are mostly shaded and well defined. Remember you are on a mountain so there will be elevation changes as you walk. We hiked about half of them.
Mount Magazine boasts as one of the top spots for fall foliage. Our visit was in late August so something we will have to come back for, but with the many species of trees I have no doubt it would be beautiful.
Other amenities of the park are multiple picnic areas and a hang glider launch area. Picnic areas are nice. We did not partake of the hand glider launch. No I am not afraid to die, just see no need to rush into it.
Just outside the SP is the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest with 170 miles of OHV trails. Rubi (our Jeep) had fun. Ok we did too.
Mount Magazine SP is a very nice place to visit and one we look forward to coming back to.
Donny S.LegendMount Magazine State Park Campground
Views, Views, & More Views!
I went to Mt Magazine in the fall and it is truly a spectacular park. For anyone with kids, I would say at the outset that this isn't a very kid-friendly park. No playgrounds, very, very mountainous, and generally just not a park for kids. With that said, if you're a hiker, photographer or someone who can't wait to chase down the spectacular view, this park is for you. Also, Magazine is one of the few parks that offers climbers great opportunities to work their skills. The park essentially sits on top of a bluff that is nearly surrounded on all sides by straight rock face. There is ample opportunity for anyone into repelling or climbing to indulge themselves.
Magazine is one of the smallest parks I've been to. There aren't many camping sites at all. Each site is large and the camping area is spread out quite a bit. It's a great place to achieve some seclusion. To that end, there ins't much at the park. It's definitely a place where you need to pack well and plan to cook. It isn't easy to get anywhere at all. That's particular true if you don't have a vehicle that handles elevation well. Further, due to the elevation and drastic temperature change from the base of the mountain and the campground, it frankly isn't safe at all to drive on the mountain in the early morning or evening. I've included a picture to give you an idea of the type of fog I had to drive through on my way to the campsite at about 11:30 in the morning. One evening on our trip, we were stupid enough to attempt the trek at night and I seriously couldn't see 1 foot in front of my truck. My advice, stay on the mountain. The campground is like most Arkansas parks. It's very well kept and clean and the bath house was very nice as far as state parks go. You can't go wrong.
Apart from the campsites, I would add another note for anyone with a spouse like mine who would prefer to stay in places that look like ski lodges instead of our PUP. This place fits the bill and some. The lodge on top of the mountain is spectacular and looks like something you would see in the mountains of Colorado. During our trip, my brother and I ate dinner one night at the lodge and went with the surf and turf buffet - good choice, Donny; very good choice. There's also a bar in the lodge, among other things. The view off the back porch of the lodge is one of the best I've seen save for maybe Petit Jean. Apparently Mt Nebo is better but I haven't been yet. I am going this fall so I may have to update this post if it is. Either way, the back porch of the Lodge is equipped with several large rocking chairs and it is definitely a place to catch up on some tranquility and peaceful gazing. Most of the rooms in the lodge have private balconies that look out over the mountain as well. If your significant other isn't a "camper," they will definitely be pleased with the accommodations at the lodge.
Overall, if you want a place to escape for a weekend and get the feel of a high-end ski lodge for half the cost, this is your place. It's essentially camping in the heavens with the spectacular views and sunsets from all angles. The only thing I would add as a last note of advice is this: the temperature is literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below. One night we were there it got down to mid teens. So unless you're going in July, I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket. You will probably be cold otherwise.
Jamye W.Scout
William O. Darby RV Community
Great overnight spot
Contacted owner late in the evening looking for a spot after a 9hour drive. This place had everything and the bathhouse was just like taking a shower at home! Would stop here again when passing through!!
Leslie D.RangerWilliam O. Darby RV Community
Nice safe park on Ft Chaffee
This was a great little park and stay at while we were in fort Smith. The price was right and operated by a family and the whole family chips in to run the park. The hosts were very accommodating and the military police patrolled the park. I definitely would stay here again
Donna H.GuideLake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Beautiful, clean, peaceful site.
We had a break in the winter weather this week and took three days to explore the trails around Lake Ft. Smith. As only one of four campers, we had the place to ourselves save the park keepers making their rounds to ensure our safety and the cleanliness of the park.
If you need sewer service, I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park.
Matt S.LegendLake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Devils Den is more famous, but I think Lake Fort Smith edges it out!
I have to say, Lake Fort Smith is Awesome! The State must have recently dedicated some very real resources to the facilities at this State Park. The tent/camper/RV sites are new. The shower house looks new. The cabins are big and look new. Everything about this park is clean and attractive.
The forests that surround the park create excellent scenery and the lake is gorgeous. There is a marina where you can rent boats and an awesome pool with a waterslide for the kids to play. This is where you can have the best of both worlds. An amazing outdoors experience with the comforts of home.
If you want more hiking trails Devils Den State Park is only a 30 minute drive. I am already looking at planning a family reunion and holding at Lake Fort Smith. If you have a large group, they have a dining hall and conference center for rent. This is a legitimate destination and has something for everyone. It is not ofter that you find a five star State Park, this is one of those rare moments.
- mmaria H.Scout
Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Large Campground
Large campground, ok for family activities. Cabins are alright. Be careful - don't stay in the cabins if they are expecting bad weather.
- Jenny R.Traveler
Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground
Beautiful Lake but you can't swim in it!
We stayed in early November so the lake was beautiful in the morning fog! Nice RV sites with water and elec. I don't know about staying in the summer if you're looking forward to swimming,,There's no swimming in the lake. All in all, it was a perfect place to camp in our trek to Maine!
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