Cabin camping near Chidester, Arkansas offers visitors access to scenic waterways including DeGray Lake and Moro Bay where the Ouachita and Saline Rivers meet. The region's elevation ranges from 200-400 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. Most cabins in the area provide lake or river views with concrete pads and varying levels of amenities from rustic to fully furnished options.
What to do
Fishing from your cabin site: At Moro Bay State Park Campground, cabins offer excellent water access. "We had site 8 and 9 for children and grandchildren weekend before Halloween 2020... a dock with fishing boat rental as well as kayaks, and peddle boats and they sell bait, boat ramp and day use facilities you can even tour the old ferry and great fishing," reports one visitor.
Hiking nearby trails: Several short trails are available for day hikes near cabin accommodations. DeGray Lake offers trails for various skill levels. "I did hike the 1.3 mile trail while I was staying but be warned it's a little confusing because not many people use it," notes a camper at Arlie Moore - De Gray Lake.
Water activities: Rent boats, kayaks, or paddleboards during warm months. "You can rent bikes, kayaks, pedal boats and small fishing boats," shares a Moro Bay visitor. Water temperatures are typically warm enough for swimming from May through September.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins are positioned for wildlife observation. "It was very quiet here, and several nights you would hear the coyotes howling," writes a visitor to Arlie Moore. Another camper at DeGray Lake mentioned, "Great place for photo enthusiast with Beautiful sunsets and an abundance of wildlife."
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Cabin visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of facilities. "Sites are level, clean and shaded and there are yurts available for rental," notes a camper at DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Another visitor to Moro Bay State Park shared, "Campsites are level with all the amenities."
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds, recreation fields, and swimming areas complement cabin stays. "Large playground for children. We did not get to walk the trail as it rained on us most of the time we were there," writes a visitor to Moro Bay State Park.
Peaceful setting: Many cabins offer quiet surroundings away from traffic noise. "Rustic, peaceful and quiet place. Friendly hosts and nice grounds. All level spots with good power and water. Great place to see the stars," describes a visitor to Jubilee Farms Campground.
Water access: Cabins with water views rank highly among visitors. "We stayed in 102 and 106 and had pretty views of the clear lake. Were able to park boat next to campsite and get kayaks and floats in and out of water easily," notes a DeGray Lake visitor.
What you should know
Booking requirements: Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays from April through October. "Be sure to reserve well ahead of your desired dates," advises a camper at DeGray Lake.
Bathroom conditions vary: While some parks offer excellent facilities, others may be basic. "The Bathrooms are extremely old and honestly seem like they're rotting down," reports a visitor to Miners Camping & Rock Shop, suggesting guests use nearby state park facilities instead.
Site leveling challenges: Some cabins and RV sites require leveling equipment. "Only complaint is sites aren't level. 33 was pretty steep for us!" notes a visitor to Arlie Moore at DeGray Lake.
Limited grocery options: Major shopping requires driving to larger towns. "El Dorado about 23 miles away for groceries/supplies/liquids. Camp store on site has basics, like ice and firewood," reports a Moro Bay visitor.
Wi-Fi availability: Internet access varies significantly by location. "Sewer water and electric good wifi this place is in development adding more sites," notes a visitor to Edgewood Cabins and RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campsites with playgrounds: Several cabin areas include play equipment for children. "Playground and recreation field are fantastic. You can rent bikes, kayaks, pedal boats and small fishing boats," writes a Moro Bay visitor.
Consider cabin location: Select cabins away from boat ramps for less traffic. "Camping is diverse enough to be in a the forest or on the lake. Water is warm and I swim less than 20 feet from my tent," notes a camper at Arlie Moore, highlighting the proximity to swimming areas from certain sites.
Visit during shoulder seasons: Mid-week visits in May or September offer better availability and fewer crowds. "This park is excellent for kids and grandkids of all ages," shares a visitor to Moro Bay.
Bring activities for rainy days: The region experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer. "We did not get to walk the trail as it rained on us most of the time we were there," reports a Moro Bay visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Arkadelphia Campground & RV Park, cabin campers benefit from accessible sites. "Drive through spots, lots of trees, bath house, propane, hosts that don't bug you," shares one visitor.
Check electrical requirements: Ensure your equipment matches available hookups. "Our camper was not pulling 50 amps, so we went to the registration office they called a Ranger. Which the ranger called a electronic. Within an hour the election had it fix," reports a visitor at Arlie Moore.
Consider connectivity needs: Cell service varies throughout the region. "We had great Verizon service with the use of a cellphone booster. Without the booster service was fair depending where you are," notes an Arlie Moore visitor.
Late arrival options: Some parks accommodate after-hours check-in. "Got there after hours, picked up an envelope to pay when we left & you can drop it in their office mail slot or mail it in. Easy peasy!" shares an Arkadelphia Campground visitor.
