Lake Ouachita offers glamping options near Hot Springs National Park with elevation ranges between 600-1,400 feet throughout the region. The area maintains mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures, while summer highs typically reach 90-95°F with humidity levels around 70-80%. Several campgrounds provide heated yurts with proper bedding as alternatives to traditional tent camping in varying weather conditions.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 3 miles round trip at Lake Catherine State Park offers one of the area's most accessible waterfalls. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," notes Alison C. at Lake Catherine State Park Campground. Another visitor adds, "The waterfall was flowing a little on the low side. That's not unusual since it is the end of summer."
Disc golf: Free course access at Catherine's Landing provides an alternative outdoor activity. "Kid friendly. Great upkeep and sites that are easily accessible. Playground, splash pad, and pool," shares Bridget C. from Catherine's Landing. The course winds through wooded areas and open fields, making it suitable for beginners and experienced players.
Kayaking: $10-15 hourly rentals available at multiple locations. "This is a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," according to Alison C. at Lake Catherine. The clear waters of Lake Ouachita also provide excellent paddling opportunities with many coves to explore.
Crystal mining: $25 per person at mines near Hot Springs. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," reports Justin M. at Crystal Ridge RV Park.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Premium views make for memorable stays. "We had a site overlooking the lake. We had plenty of room to hang our hammocks and play yard games," writes Alison C. about Lake Ouachita State Park Campground. These sites often cost $5-10 more per night but provide direct water access and better breezes during summer.
Yurt accommodations: Fully furnished options offer glamping comfort. "The yurts looked very nice from the outside," notes Taylor D. from Catherine's Landing. At Lake Ouachita State Park, "The cabins are beyond wonderful to stay in and well worth the price," according to Josh H., who appreciated the balance between comfort and outdoor experience.
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance keeps amenities in good condition. "The facilities are updated and well maintained," writes Chad K. at Lake Catherine State Park. Multiple reviewers noted the cleanliness of bathrooms and shower facilities throughout the Hot Springs area campgrounds, with most being cleaned twice daily.
Tent camping privacy: Separated areas at some parks provide better experiences. "The tent campsites are on their own in a grassy meadow away from the RVs," explains Taylor D. about Catherine's Landing, making them more suitable for those seeking a traditional camping experience in the Hot Springs region.
What you should know
Seasonal demand: Book early May-October to secure preferred sites. "This SP will fill up quickly in the spring and fall, reservations are recommend," advises Chad K. about Lake Catherine State Park. Most yurt and cabin accommodations near Hot Springs National Park require bookings 3-6 months in advance.
Temperature variations: 15-20°F cooler at night even in summer. "The hiking trails and thermal features of Hot Springs National Park are just a short drive from most glamping locations," and the elevation changes can create significant temperature shifts between daytime activities and evening camping.
Water access limitations: Some campsites without direct lake access despite proximity. "Downside is you have to drive to access the lake," mentions Rachel P. about DeGray Lake Resort State Park. When booking sites, verify whether swimming and boat access are available from your location.
Cellular connectivity: Variable by campground with mountain interference. "We had 2 bars cell service with T-Mobile," reports Lori C. at Catherine's Landing, while other campgrounds have limited service due to terrain. Most yurt accommodations offer WiFi to compensate for weak cellular signals.
Tips for camping with families
Hammock-friendly sites: Bring suspension straps for tree hanging. "We did have a great time with the camp grounds! The lake was beautiful and very natural," writes Heather N. about Hot Springs National Park KOA. Many sites have mature trees spaced appropriately for hammocks, particularly in loops C and D at various campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn/dusk optimal times for spotting deer and birds. "Deer sighting" was highlighted by Natalie S. at DeGray Lake Resort State Park as one of the activities her family enjoyed. Most campgrounds near Hot Springs maintain natural areas that attract wildlife throughout the year.
Kid-friendly water features: Splash pads and shallow swimming areas available at select locations. "We were not able to access the pool because of the time of year, but we will definitely be back in warmer weather," notes Bridget C. about Catherine's Landing. Many campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with gradual entry points for children.
Yurt camping conveniences: No bedding required at most locations. "The cabins are beyond wonderful to stay in and well worth the price. Beautiful scenery and tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy," shares Josh H. about Lake Ouachita State Park, where yurts typically come equipped with beds, furniture, and electrical outlets.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring extra blocks for stability. "Many sites were FULL HookUps. All had crushed rock pad for tent," reports Amanda H. at Petit Jean State Park, adding that "Many sites were on an incline, so there was a lot of terracing w great use of railroad timbers and crushed rock." RVers should prepare for potentially uneven terrain.
Hookup locations: Check site details carefully before booking. "Some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper. it's purely inconvenient and I'm not sure why this is this way," warns Ryan S. about Petit Jean State Park. Most campgrounds provide site diagrams showing the exact placement of utilities.
Tree coverage variations: Consider awnings for exposed sites. "Very little shade. would be rough in summer months without shade tents, awnings, etc," notes Ryan S. about Loop A at Petit Jean State Park. Many RV sites with full hookups have fewer trees to accommodate larger vehicles.
Water fill stations: Plan ahead for non-hookup sites. "There are no water hook-ups at the sites. only electric," explains Melissa T. about Brady Mountain - Lake Ouachita. When staying at partial-hookup campgrounds, fill fresh water tanks before arrival or identify communal water spigots locations.
