The Blue Mountain, Arkansas camping area features diverse terrain from lakeside flatlands to elevations of 2,753 feet at Mount Magazine. Waterfront camping along Blue Mountain Lake offers direct access to water recreation, while higher elevation sites provide cooler temperatures and valley views. Winter camping is available at Mount Magazine State Park and some year-round facilities, though seasonal campgrounds typically operate March through October.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Mount Magazine State Park Campground offers trails for various skill levels, including a family-friendly hike to Arkansas's highest point. "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids," notes Jeremy C. "The various trails are well marked and offer several levels of technical expertise."
Water activities on Blue Mountain Lake: Waveland Park provides excellent access to boating, fishing, and swimming. "We were hanging out over the 4th of July weekend down here. The beach area is just great," mentions Wolfgang M. The park has "multiple boat launches and places to fish," according to Sandy H.
Rock climbing and hang gliding: The mountainous terrain offers opportunities for adventure sports enthusiasts. At Mount Nebo State Park Campground, "Magazine is one of the few parks that offers climbers great opportunities to work their skills." Hang gliders frequently use the bluffs to launch, offering another high-adrenaline activity for visitors.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Mount Magazine State Park Campground receives high marks for its campsite quality. "The camping spaces are large and accommodating, most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in," writes Charles H. Another camper adds, "Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice. Camping spots are spaced out pretty well."
Temperature advantage: The higher elevations provide relief during hot Arkansas summers. As one visitor noted, "due to the elevation and drastic temperature change from the base of the mountain and the campground," temperatures can be significantly cooler. Stan G. confirms Mount Nebo is "cooler in summer" than surrounding areas.
Swimming options: Cove Lake Complex offers swimming in the lake and has "canoe rentals on site." Several campgrounds include designated swim areas. Waveland Park features "a nice swim beach" and "The swimming area and the entire park was clean and free of trash," according to Sandy F.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Mountain roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. Mount Nebo has signs warning "Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft" with grades up to 18%. "The drive up the mountain is seriously windy though, so be cautious," advises Rebecca P.
Varying cell service: Connectivity differs across campgrounds. At Mount Magazine, "TMobile 3 bars at site 17, Verizon lower..." reports Heather K. Ashley Creek Recreation Area offers "T-Mobile cell service" but coverage can be inconsistent throughout the region.
Seasonal considerations: Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. "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," warns a Mount Nebo camper. "Unless you're going in July, I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible hiking options: Several family-friendly trails accommodate younger hikers. "This is a very nice state park that mostly offers hiking and beautiful views... The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids," shares a Mount Magazine visitor.
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Jack Creek Recreation Area offers "the creek for water play" that's popular with families. "Kids love it. Very peaceful and great place to recharge," notes Robert S. Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas appropriate for children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campgrounds throughout the area offer chances to observe local wildlife. At Mount Nebo, "the deer will walk up to you and you can pet them," though feeding wildlife is discouraged. Morning and evening hours typically provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: For RVs, carefully research campground capabilities. At Aux Arc Campground, "sites are well spaced apart" and many can accommodate larger vehicles with "50/30 AMP with water" hookups available.
Leveling considerations: Many campsites require attention to leveling. At Mount Magazine, "most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in," but other campgrounds may require more setup work. "The sites were partially shaded for most of the day" at Waveland Park.
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are limited in the region. Aux Arc offers water and electric, with a note that "there is no sewer here but you can use a hose connection to let your grey water drain on the ground." Most campgrounds have dump stations available even when sewer hookups aren't provided at individual sites.
