Glamping near Dennard, Arkansas offers premium outdoor accommodations amid the Ozark Mountains, where elevations range from 500 to 2,500 feet. Many sites provide direct access to waterways like the White River and Buffalo River, with temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 90°F in summer. These upscale camping options typically remain available year-round, though amenities vary by season.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer direct access to hiking trails of varying difficulty. At Petit Jean State Park, visitors find trails rated from easy to difficult. "Lots to do here. Fantastic hiking trails - rated from easy to difficult," notes Fred S., who particularly recommends the Cedar Falls trail.
Fishing opportunities: The rivers provide excellent fishing, particularly for trout and bass. "If you enjoy fishing this has some of the best trout and bass fishing in the area," shares Bill M. about White Buffalo Resort, which sits where the White and Buffalo rivers merge.
Water recreation: From swimming to boating, water activities are popular at most glamping locations. At Holiday Mountain Resort, "Creek is full of smallmouth bass, great swimming holes for the kids, and some shallow wading areas to lounge in chairs or find crawfish," reports Ethan W.
Cave exploration: For those seeking adventure beyond hiking, some campgrounds provide access to cave systems. "The Cedar Falls hike is beautiful and a quick fun adventure. I recommend going to the Petit Jean Grave. The view is vast!" explains Sondra M. about her experience at Petit Jean State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Campers consistently praise sites with water views and access. At Dam Site Campground, Charlene A. notes it "sits on the tail waters of Beaver Lake and is gorgeous!! The sites are large, semi private and it's always been quiet here—even with a full campground!"
Private bathrooms: Several glamping locations have invested in upgraded bathroom facilities. At Dam - Quarry, Renee H. appreciated the "clean and private bathrooms. Each room had its own lockable bathroom with toilet, sink and shower."
Four-season availability: Many locations maintain year-round operations. "We stayed at Petit Jean State Park for the first time over Easter weekend. Even though the park was booked to capacity, it is so well laid out that it was really nice to be there," shares Jill B., highlighting the park's appeal beyond peak season.
Designated campsites: Unlike dispersed camping, glamping sites offer well-defined, prepared spaces. Ryan S. explains that Petit Jean State Park's "A loop pros: it's new, it's laid out ideally, full hook up sites with sewer, and plenty of gravel and concrete to keep from dealing with too much dirt, mud, sand."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Petit Jean State Park, one visitor noted the best sites are hard to secure: "A loop 'Stays booked 93% of the year' -Park Office. It's really hard to get a reservation if you don't book at least a year out in A loop."
Limited cell service: Some areas have spotty connectivity. At Macks Pines, Amy & Stu B. reported "No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around."
Supply access: The rural nature of most glamping locations means planning ahead for supplies. "Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive," warns Amy & Stu B. about the area around Macks Pines.
Seasonal variations: Weather and amenities change throughout the year. "If in Arkansas, Petit Jean State Park is a must... Go Spring or Fall for the View," recommends Andrew S., suggesting optimal timing for visits.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water spots: Look for locations with shallow areas for children. At Holiday Mountain Resort, one camper noted it's "Very kid friendly for swimming or walking or biking around in the campground."
Space between sites: For family privacy, choose campgrounds with adequate separation. At Sylamore Creek Camp, Sandy R. explains, "We love having direct access to creek. It is kayak, family, pet friendly... They have all levels of sites: primitive, water and electric, or full."
Playground access: Some locations offer additional recreational facilities. As Bobby S. mentions about Holiday Mountain Resort, it's a "Great family campground... Very kid friendly for swimming or walking or biking around in the campground."
Off-peak visits: Consider visiting outside summer for fewer crowds. Jason R. notes that Petit Jean State Park is a "Quiet park that enforces the quiet time rule after 9:00," making it ideal for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. At Petit Jean State Park, a reviewer noted some "sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level."
Loop selection: Research specific loops before booking. As Shana D. advises about Petit Jean State Park: "RESERVE EARLY to get a spot in Loop A or Loop B. We stayed in Loop C and I felt a little too secluded. The sites in C & D appeared to be a little smaller."
Full hookup availability: For maximum convenience, look for sites with complete services. Ryan S. explains the difference at Petit Jean: "A Loop pros: it's new, it's laid out ideally, full hook up sites with sewer... A loop cons: very little shade would be rough in summer months without shade tents, awnings, etc."
Campground layout considerations: Some layouts may affect your ability to depart when desired. At Dogwood Springs, Tyler D. notes, "2 camper share a row, however the owners made it clear that it's planned out that we wouldn't be blocked in... the person parked in front of you is also checking out a day before you."
