Cabin camping near Jonesboro, Arkansas offers varied experiences across the Crowley's Ridge region, a unique geological formation with loess soil supporting hardwood forests not typical to the flat delta surroundings. Winter camping here presents moderate temperatures averaging 30-50°F, while summer brings 75-95°F days with high humidity. Most cabins in the region require advance booking, especially for summer and fall weekends.
What to do
Hiking on historic trails: Lake Poinsett State Park has a 1.3-mile trail accessible directly from the campground. "Every site was booked but not crowded. Had a wonderful time fishing and hiking the 1.3 mile trail," notes a visitor who stayed during Memorial Day weekend.
Paddling and fishing: Crowley's Ridge State Park has two lakes with different purposes. "The second lake is clear, with boat ramp and dock, good for the fisher folk, okay for yakers, though not very big," according to one reviewer. The park also offers paddle boats for family enjoyment.
Swimming opportunities: Some parks have designated swimming areas during warmer months. "Kids had a blast here! We did paddle boating and walked the trails!" shares a Crowley's Ridge visitor. Another notes the park "has a swim beach area and even a slide into the water."
Trail exploration: Village Creek State Park offers an extensive trail system including a preserved section of the Trail of Tears. "There is a particularly stunning trail that includes one of the most well-preserved sections of the Trail of Tears," making it both a scenic hike and history lesson.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Lake Frierson State Park offers a peaceful setting close to Jonesboro. "Lake Frierson State Park is a nice stop off on the way to Jonesboro Arkansas. Nice trails, water recreation and quiet," mentions one camper who appreciated the tranquility.
Wildlife viewing: The wooded settings provide habitats for various wildlife species. At Crowley's Ridge State Park, one visitor noted there was "plenty to explore and discover" with "abundant wildlife to view" throughout the park's diverse habitats.
Clean facilities: Several parks maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Arkansas has some of the best bathhouses," mentions a visitor to Lake Poinsett State Park. Another camper at Crowley's Ridge noted, "The facilities were very clean and near to the sites. So impressed with how Arkansas State Parks are maintained."
Campsite spacing: Many parks offer adequately spaced sites for privacy. At Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, a camper observed, "We were fortunate to get a very shaded site that was very private. It is a nice park to bike around as the scenery is spectacular!"
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Bug preparation is essential, particularly in summer months. "The only thing negative I can say is the mosquitos come out at dark and are pretty bad so bring your mosquito spray," warns a Crowley's Ridge visitor. Another camper advised to "bring bug spray in bulk, mosquitoes were super bad."
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Very unleveled and rocky terrain would be only downside," notes a reviewer about Crowley's Ridge State Park. This can affect tent setup and mobility around camp.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location. At Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, a camper mentioned, "Our cell phones didn't get service, but it was somewhat refreshing." Another noted there was "0 service anywhere near our campsite."
Site variations: Campsite amenities and settings differ significantly within the same park. "Not all sites are suitable for tent campers. I would call ahead to ask what sites to consider if booking online," recommends a visitor to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Poinsett State Park offers family-friendly facilities. "In the picnic area the children have a playground. The ability to walk trails, play on the playground or run around an open field makes this a place for families," shares one visitor.
Swimming options: Several parks have designated swimming areas. At Crowley's Ridge, "There is a swimming area next to a historic CCC building and bridge," notes one camper. Another mentioned that "the lake area is beautiful with a small spring fed waterfall, a swim beach area and even a slide into the water."
Educational opportunities: Parks often provide nature learning experiences. "The Crowley's Ridge region of the state is home to unique geological formations, soil and plant life unlike anywhere else in Arkansas. The Big Ben Nature Trail offers a great opportunity to identify these unusual plant species and is a short, easy hike."
Safety considerations: Some cabin locations present natural hazards. A visitor at Village Creek State Park mentioned that at certain sites, "the picnic table and fire ring are IN the woods, and often partway down a ravine, with lots of brush, branches and vines hanging around them." Always supervise children carefully.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers partial connections. "All sites with water, 30A, fire ring, grill and picnic table," notes a camper, but adds there's "no sewer at any sites" requiring use of the dump station.
Site leveling challenges: Some parks require additional preparation. "Very unleveled and rocky terrain would be only downside," shares a camper at Crowley's Ridge State Park. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Dump station availability: Not all parks offer on-site dumping. At Lake Frierson State Park, a reviewer pointed out: "For those of you with RV's beware that there is no sewer dump station here. You have to drive to Crowleys Ridge State Park to use their dump station (10 minute drive)."
Maneuvering considerations: Park layout affects larger RVs. "We watched a super long RV struggle to back into their site, so I wouldn't recommend this campground to RVs that require pull through sites," advises a visitor to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.
