Camping cabins near Kirby, Arkansas offer visitors access to the Ouachita Mountains, where elevations range from 600 to over 2,500 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making it accessible for cabin camping year-round. Most cabin rentals in the area require advance reservations, especially during peak fishing seasons when the Caddo and Ouachita rivers attract anglers.
What to do
River activities at Lake Ouachita State Park: The largest lake system in Arkansas provides excellent opportunities for water recreation. "The lake is beautiful with very ragged edges and islands so there is a lot to explore by boat, plus two or three hiking trails that take you to a lovely overlook," notes one visitor to Lake Ouachita State Park.
Waterfall hiking near Hot Springs: Several cabin locations offer access to waterfall trails. A visitor to Lake Catherine State Park shares: "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Diamond hunting excursions: Some cabins serve as base camps for treasure seekers visiting nearby Crater of Diamonds State Park. A reviewer of Miners Camping & Rock Shop notes: "Campground is close to Crate of Diamonds SP," making it convenient for families hoping to find gemstones.
What campers like
Peaceful lakefront locations: Waterfront cabin settings provide tranquil environments away from urban areas. At DeGray Lake Resort State Park, a camper observed: "Depending on where you are in the park you can see the Ouachita mountains in the horizon. Great place for photo enthusiast with Beautiful sunsets and an abundance of wildlife."
Fishing opportunities: Many cabin locations provide direct access to fishing spots. One visitor to Arlie Moore - De Gray Lake shared: "My site was right in the water and well maintained... I did hike the 1.3 mile trail while I was staying but be warned it's a little confusing because not many people use it."
Wildlife viewing: Cabin stays often include opportunities to observe local fauna. A camper at Caddo River Access RV Park reported: "The camp sites have good shade and are all close to the water. You can start fires, keep your vehicle right by, and bring your furry friend along too!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings heavy use of water recreation areas and higher cabin demand. According to a visitor at Caddo River Access RV Park: "If you are planning to kayak, canoe or tube, then you may not mind how busy the campgrounds are. The bath/showers are not terribly close, unless you're staying near the bunk houses."
Insect preparation: Cabins in wooded areas may have significant insect activity. One camper noted at Caddo River: "Got the popup all setup, then discovered there was a large wasp nest in the electric hookup box. Had to break down and move to another spot in the dark."
Varied cabin conditions: Quality and maintenance of cabins differ significantly between locations. A visitor to Arrowhead Cabin and Canoe observed: "We didn't end up staying here, but it looked like a decent spot with cabins and plenty of parking. Not too much to do around this campsite but it would work for a night or two."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some cabin locations offer dedicated children's play areas. A reviewer of Miners Camping & Rock Shop mentioned: "The playground area is small but not terrible. The area for RVs is pretty cramped with no privacy. Luckily while talking to some folks there they directed us on down the road."
Educational opportunities: Look for cabin locations with ranger programs. At Treasure Isle R.V. Park, a visitor noted its proximity advantage: "It's convenient to Hot Springs National Park. All sites are pull through and some are located on Lake Hamilton."
Swimming areas: Family-friendly cabin locations often feature designated swimming spots. A visitor to Lucky's Campground observed: "This small campground is great for tent/small van camping right next to the river with easy access for fishing or swimming!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites in the area require leveling equipment. At Lake Ouachita State Park, an RVer shared: "Many sites were FULL HookUps. All had crushed rock pad for tent. Loop A which was NOT waterfront was heavily tree'd and huge sites as well."
Low-hanging obstacles: Some cabin and RV access roads have clearance issues. A visitor to Treasure Isle R.V. Park warned: "Low hanging wires were scary pulling into our site, scraping up against our ac units (13.5')."
Utility reliability: Power and water connections vary in quality across the region's cabin and RV sites. An RVer at DeGray Lake reported: "Very quiet and secluded CG. We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 12 for 1 night in mid September. The CG is clean and well maintained but showing its age."
