Cabin camping near Combs, Arkansas features options across the Boston Mountains and Ozark National Forest. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000-2,700 feet with temperature variations often 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations than valley floors. Winter visitors should prepare for temperatures that can drop into the teens at elevated campgrounds, while summer brings relief from lowland heat.
What to do
Hiking the rim trails: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area offers dramatic elevation gains and panoramic vistas. "The Rim Trail is worth doing any time of day and any season," notes reviewer Matt B., who adds "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."
Off-road exploration: Byrd's Adventure Center maintains a network of private trails plus access to nearby National Forest routes. A camper explains, "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."
Swimming and water recreation: Several campgrounds offer water access during warmer months. "Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" shares a Devil's Den State Park Campground visitor. Devil's Den maintains a swimming pool that operates seasonally.
Wildlife observation: The mountain terrain supports diverse wildlife including black bears. "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," reports one White Rock Mountain camper.
What campers like
Seasonal weather variations: The mountainous terrain creates distinct seasonal experiences. A White Rock Mountain visitor notes, "January 31-Feb 3 2025. White Rock is a great little campground... We arrived late, after sunset, and the host recommended tent site #1... I'm thankful for his knowledge because sites 5-8 were juicy from the previous days rains."
Cabin amenities: Mount Magazine State Park Campground offers upgraded lodging options. A reviewer explains, "If your significant other isn't a 'camper,' they will definitely be pleased with the accommodations at the lodge... It's essentially camping in the heavens with the spectacular views and sunsets from all angles."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities despite their remote locations. A camper at Mulberry Mountain reports, "The bathroom/shower requires a passcode to enter and is always clean to use. It's a great escape for off-roading and overloading."
Accessibility options: Multiple camping styles are available across the region. "This facility has everything you need. If you are a glamper there is a place for you, but if you like to primitive camping there is also a place for you," notes a Devil's Den visitor.
What you should know
Mountain driving conditions: Access roads to elevated campgrounds require careful navigation. A White Rock Mountain camper cautions, "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that the last hour of the drive is only 20 miles. Make sure to stop for gas! It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other."
Cabin considerations: Some rustic cabins require additional preparation. "One warning on the cabins though - in summer be prepared for some bugs. Stayed in Cabin B in August one summer with my wife... 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," advises a White Rock Mountain visitor.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal nearby amenities. A Serenity Campground guest reports, "Cute adorable cabin. Perfect size for 4 of us. My husband, teenage son & daughter & myself went for Fri - Sun trip last weekend of October. Only problem was smell that came from toilet because I guess they use water treatment system and or septic system."
Cell reception limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location. A Devil's Den visitor explains, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose camping locations based on terrain and amenities. A Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground visitor shares, "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."
Safety considerations: Campground terrain varies significantly with potential hazards. "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 a Lake Fort Smith visitor.
Meal planning: Limited grocery options near campgrounds require advance preparation. A Devil's Den camper suggests, "Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good."
Activity timing: Weather conditions impact outdoor activities. A Mount Magazine visitor warns, "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."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many mountain campsites require equipment for leveling. "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads," notes a Prairie Creek (AR) camper.
Site dimensions: Check space constraints when booking. "The RV and primitive camping are clean and well-maintained. The bathroom/shower requires a passcode to enter and is always clean to use," reports a Mulberry Mountain visitor.
Access road considerations: Vehicle type matters for mountain driving. "My AWD Mazda made the trip just fine and I saw a Toyota Camry at the overlook. Whenever you feel comfortable going over 15 MPH there will be a heavily rutted 180° hairpin turn," explains a White Rock Mountain camper.
Utility variations: Hook-up availability differs between camping areas. "Reserved spots here solely because of availability for Memorial Day weekend. Basically every spot has water hookup EXCEPT the spots in the loop we were in (which is fine, we were aware before we arrived)," shares a Prairie Creek visitor.
