The campgrounds near Boles, Arkansas offer direct access to the Ouachita Mountain wilderness at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with mountaintop locations often 10-15 degrees cooler than valley sites. Camping options include both lake-oriented facilities and mountain settings with gravel tent pads typical at most established sites.
What to do
Hiking access to Ouachita Trail: At Cedar Lake, trails connect to the broader regional network. "There is a fishing dock and a trail that goes around the entire perimeter of the lake. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area," reports Amelia S.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes near glamping sites provide excellent angling options across multiple water bodies. At Daisy State Park, located on Lake Greeson, visitors find "beautiful scenery, clean facilities, and the staff has been great," according to Ryan W. The park offers both shoreline and boat access.
Mountain biking trails: The region provides technical terrain for riders of various skill levels. One camper at Mount Magazine State Park noted, "The various trails are well marked and offer several levels of technical expertise." These trails often connect campgrounds to scenic overlooks and challenging descents.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The elevated camping areas provide cooler conditions in summer months. "Cool Summer Breeze" is how Larry describes Queen Wilhelmina State Park, noting, "Beautiful vistas everywhere... Small compact campground next to lodge. Pretty far from anything just a beautiful spot to sit back and enjoy."
Bathroom facilities: Many campers mention the quality of amenities. At CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, Norbert B. appreciated "Bathrooms and showers are spotless," while John at Cedar Lake shared that "bathrooms which were relatively clean."
Spacious sites: Several parks offer well-separated camping areas. Taryn S. described Cove Lake Complex: "Sites are extremely spacious and well spaced from each other, and would feel even more private later in the season when the trees are full." Similar comments appear for other mountain campgrounds in the area.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many glamping locations near Boles have spotty connectivity. At Cove Lake Complex, campers report "No cell service whatsoever with Verizon." Plan accordingly if staying off-grid.
Weather changes: The mountainous terrain creates unique conditions. According to Donny S., "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."
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited services outside peak season. Neil T. observed at Queen Wilhelmina State Park: "There is a mini golf course, ice cream shop and train ride - but they said it's only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly hiking: Select trails with reasonable elevation changes. Jeremy C. at Mount Magazine State Park recommends "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice."
Swimming areas: Lake Ouachita has designated swimming zones at multiple campgrounds. Taylor C. shared about Lake Ouachita State Park: "We got the prime spot for tent camping. It was a haul to get all our gear to the end but the have carts available to help."
Wildlife viewing: The mountains provide opportunities to observe native species. Greg D. at Cove Lake Complex recounts, "We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade," making evening wildlife observation a peaceful family activity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level, paved pads at the mountain parks. According to one RVer at Queen Wilhelmina State Park, "We just stayed 3 nights in space 23. Level asphalt lots but spaced kinda wonky. Shady."
Remote location preparation: Stock provisions before arriving at more isolated glamping spots. One RVer cautions about Little Fir Lake Ouachita: "Very remote so make sure you have everything you need before you get out there because there aren't any stores even convenience stores or gas stations nearby."
Elevation driving: Allow extra time when towing to mountain campgrounds. Reaching some glamping locations requires navigating steep grades. The drive to Mount Magazine begins with what Charles H. describes as "the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain."
