Mount Nebo State Park sits at 1,800 feet elevation with sites positioned directly on the mountain rim, providing views of Lake Dardanelle without requiring visitors to stay in yurts. The campground features spacious sites with varying degrees of privacy, though some are positioned close together. Road access requires caution as the grades reach 18% on the winding drive to the summit campground.
What to do
Hike the mountain trails: Mount Nebo's trail system offers hikes from easy walks to more challenging routes. "The hikes are worth a trip to Mt Nebo," notes Chad K., who found the area reminiscent of Mount Magazine State Park, which sits at 2,753 feet as Arkansas' highest peak.
Swim in park pools: While Lake Dardanelle offers water views, several mountain parks provide swimming pools for summer recreation. "State park with swimming pool in summer. Playground and swings for young ones. Several hammock friendly sites. Hang gliders frequently use the bluffs to launch," according to Stan G. about Mount Nebo.
Wildlife viewing: The parks around Lake Dardanelle offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. At Petit Jean State Park, "We spent most of our days hiking the many trails the park is known for. It was at peak Dogwood season, so the understory of the Forest was beautiful," reports Jill B.
Off-road adventures: For those seeking motorized recreation, the region offers trail systems. At Byrd's Adventure Center, "They not only have their own trails on private land, but off-roaders can hit trails in National Forest territory not too far down the road," according to Eric L.
What campers like
Panoramic views: The elevated campsites near Lake Dardanelle provide exceptional vistas. "Great campsites right on the edge of the mountain. Wonderful showers at the bathhouse. Sites are fairly close together it's wonderful with the views of the city. Delightful place to stay for a night," notes Dale H. about Mount Nebo State Park Campground.
Modern facilities: Many parks offer updated amenities alongside natural settings. Lake Fort Smith State Park impressed Chad K., who noted, "The one thing you notice as you pull into this park is the updated facilities. The state of Arkansas has put in a real effort to make the outdoor experience a nice as possible in their state parks."
Weather experiences: The elevation at mountain parks creates unique weather conditions. According to Stan G., at Mount Nebo you're "above the clouds when you wake up in the morning," creating memorable outdoor experiences without requiring glamping accommodations.
Temperature variations: The mountain settings offer cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. Dave V. noted at Mount Nebo, "Being on an 1800 ft elevation summit, surrounded by valley...its quiet and enjoys a constant breeze."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to mountain campgrounds near Lake Dardanelle requires careful driving. Rebecca P. cautions about Mount Nebo: "The drive up the mountain is seriously windy though, so be cautious."
Site selection strategy: Certain sites offer superior views and should be reserved well in advance. "Fantastic camping spot, but be sure to call way ahead to find the best spots near the edge for the best view...because it's fantastic," advises Ben S. regarding Mount Nebo.
Campground layouts: Site arrangements vary between parks, affecting privacy levels. Ryan S. notes about Petit Jean State Park: "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove...enough space between sites for plenty of privacy."
Limited availability: The most desirable sites book quickly. Ryan S. observed that Petit Jean's A Loop "Stays booked 93% of the year" according to park staff, making advance planning essential.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for children: Several parks offer swimming facilities beyond Lake Dardanelle itself. At White Rock Mountain Recreation Area, "A pool at the top of an expensive out overlook which ultimately leads down to a gorgeous waterfall. That same lodge has a fully functioning bar and restaurant attached to it," reports Elise A.
Site safety considerations: Not all camping areas are equally suitable for young children. About Mount Magazine, Ryan S. cautions, "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous."
Playground access: Some parks include play areas for children. According to Mandi R., Lake Fort Smith State Park has a "Recreational area with a playground that is updated" though "the playground requires that you drive to it which is inconvenient."
Family-friendly hiking: Trail difficulty varies significantly between parks. Jeremy C. found at Mount Magazine that "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven sites. Gary F. noted about Mount Magazine State Park: "Mount Magazine SP sits at the top of Magazine Mountain. It has 18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30."
Site selection for large rigs: For those with bigger RVs, certain campgrounds and loops work better. Ryan S. recommends Lake Fort Smith: "Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables."
Road restrictions: Vehicle size limitations exist at some parks. Dave V. warns about Mount Nebo: "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'. I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%."
Hookup availability: Service levels vary between campgrounds and loops. According to Ryan S., at Petit Jean, "B loop pros: 30/50 amp service, water, picnic table, fire ring and trash hook," while "A Loop pros: it's new, it's laid out ideally, full hook up sites with sewer."
