Cabin camping options near Eureka Springs offer diverse experiences at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. The area's limestone terrain creates unique camping environments with mature forests providing shade during summer months when temperatures typically reach the mid-90s. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities where nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: At Roaring River State Park Campground, visitors can explore the working trout hatchery. "You can walk the holding tanks and feed the trout from baby to ready to be released into the river," notes Wendy M. The park also features "a cave you can walk in where you'll find a pool of water that goes for miles underground."
Disc golf course: The 18-hole course at The Farm - Campground & Events offers a full day of recreation. "There is an awesome frisbee golf course that seemed to cover the entire property and have more than the usual number of baskets," reports Annie C. The property also features "several art installations and a Jerry Garcia shrine."
Hiking trails: Withrow Springs State Park Campground provides three different hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. "All of the trails are very nice to hike, even for our little ones," says Matthew G. The War Eagle Trail starts near the entrance with a dedicated gravel parking lot.
What campers like
Natural water features: Dam Site River - Beaver Lake offers riverside camping with unique views. "The 'Parker Bottoms' area of this campground is amazing. There is trout fishing right along the grounds in the White River and the sites are well kept and beautiful," shares Stephen R., adding that "the bluff across the river looks like fire when the sun is setting."
Quiet lake access: Lake Leatherwood City Park provides a peaceful water experience. "After camping each month through the summer, it was a pleasant change for the temperature to dip for our two night visit to Lake Leatherwood City Park," says Graham B., who appreciated that "only three powered boats on the lake throughout the weekend" created a quieter environment.
Island camping: Dam Site Lake Campground features a unique island camping area. "The main camping area is on an island that you drive onto, how cool is that!" exclaims Annie C. Jenna L. adds, "They really capitalize on as much lakeside camping as possible, and it is amazing! My ring is literally 7 ft from the lake, and I have my own little pebbly beach."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Reservations are highly recommended as this is a trout fishing park and fills up during the summer and on weekends," advises Gary P. about Roaring River State Park.
Site selection considerations: At Eureka Springs KOA, site types vary significantly. Some campers prefer the cabins: "I couldn't get over how clean this facility was. We stayed in a Kamping Kabin with a bunk bed and a full size bed and it was sparkling clean," notes Rebecca W.
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Withrow Springs State Park, Matthew G. reports "there is no AT&T signal at the campsite. If you need signal you can get it at the visitor center and on most of the trails we hiked."
Seasonal bathhouse closures: During off-season visits, expect limited facilities. Jody D. noted at Dam Site River that "bathrooms were locked for the season, I presume," while at Lost Bridge North, similar conditions were reported.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Eureka Springs often include family amenities. Eureka Springs KOA features "great dog park and children's park," according to Rebecca W., who also noted the "sparkling clean" pool.
Swimming options: Several pet-friendly camping options near Eureka Springs have swimming areas. At Lost Bridge North, Doug G. advises: "Swim beach is okay. Make sure to pack water shoes. There isn't sand and it is very rocky."
Wildlife viewing: At Dam Site River, Stephen R. mentions that "the local deer greet you at breakfast from across the street," providing a natural wildlife viewing opportunity for children.
Space considerations: For family-sized tents and equipment, Graham B. recommends Lake Leatherwood: "We had booked one of the sites in what is known as Shady Grove, which is down on the edge of the lake," noting these sites offer more room and lake access.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Horseshoe Bend, Chelsea B. warns that "some of the camping pads are pretty steep so longer rigs will have trouble leveling if you're camping close to the water."
Hookup availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. At Dam Site River, Jody D. notes their lengthy stay: "We ended up staying our full two weeks here we liked it so much. The access to the river was fantastic."
Space between sites: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Eureka Springs offer varying site spacing. At Wanderlust RV Park, Allen S. recommends: "We have a smaller pull behind camper and picked one of the ridge sites with 30 amp full hookup. The sunsets on the ridge were amazing!"
Local accessibility: Wanderlust RV Park offers convenient access to town. "The location is great as well you can take the back road in to Eureka and by pass all the traffic to get downtown. They are also on the trolly route if you have don't feel like driving," shares Allen S.