Cabin accommodations near Manila, Arkansas offer options within state parks throughout the northeast region of the state. The nearby terrain features flat lowlands interrupted by Crowley's Ridge, a geologic highland formation running through this part of Arkansas. Winter temperatures average between 30-50°F while summer months see highs in the 90s with significant humidity. Most cabin rental facilities maintain operations year-round with adjusted seasonal rates.
What to do
Hiking trails: 1.3 mile pathway at Lake Poinsett State Park offers moderate terrain suitable for most skill levels. "We stayed over Memorial Day weekend. Every site was booked but not crowded. Had a wonderful time fishing and hiking the 1.3 mile trail," notes a visitor to Lake Poinsett State Park Campground.
Water activities: kayak rentals available at Meeman-Shelby Forest for exploring the lake areas. According to a camper at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, "You can travel to the boat ramp and marina and rent boats there or bring your own to take advantage of the lake which winds through various types of vegetation and allows you to see the lake in a way you cannot from the shore line."
Nature exploration: walking paths around lakes provide wildlife viewing opportunities. "The lake area is beautiful with a small spring fed waterfall, a swim beach area and even a slide into the water. No fishing in this lake, but there is another lake across the street that looks perfect for fishing," reports a visitor to Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Family recreation: playgrounds and open spaces for children throughout the parks. A camper at Lake Poinsett mentioned, "The ability to walk trails, play on the playground or run around an open field makes this a place for families."
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: partial seclusion at certain sites provides a balance between isolation and accessibility. A Crowley's Ridge State Park Campground visitor shared, "The sites were nice, somewhat wooded area. They were not super secluded, but we had enough privacy."
Lake views: waterfront cabins offer direct access to fishing opportunities. According to a Lake Frierson visitor, "The sites are nice and have great views of the lake. For those of you with RVs 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)."
Walking access to amenities: Many cabins positioned near trails and facilities. "There is a trail at the end of the campground that can access the trail with the swinging bridge, or you can go to the right and walk straight to the camp store right from your site! You can also walk to the lake from here," notes a visitor at Lake Frierson State Park Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathhouses and common areas receive positive mentions. "Arkansas has some of the best bathhouses as well! There is a really nice playground and also a walking trail that you can access from the campground," states a Lake Poinsett camper.
What you should know
Cabin amenities vary significantly: Check specific site details before booking. A Lady Luck Casino and RV Park visitor mentioned their facilities have "free laundry facilities and clean individual bathrooms with showers, ADA accessible with shower chairs."
Reservation timing: peak season fills quickly with holiday weekends booking months in advance. "We stayed over Memorial Day weekend. Every site was booked but not crowded," reports a Lake Poinsett visitor.
Insect preparation: mosquito protection essential during warm months. A Meeman-Shelby camper advises, "Bring citronella candles for your table when camping and try to put a dryer sheet in your pocket to ward off mosquitoes. In addition to spray these will make your trip here a bit more comfortable."
Temperature fluctuations: prepare for humidity in summer months. According to visitors, cabins with air conditioning provide necessary comfort during July and August when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Some parks offer swimming areas with slides. "Kids had a blast here! We did paddle boating and walked the trails!" shares a visitor to Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Cabin selection for families: Look for sites with nearby playgrounds. "This is a great place for families. The campground has great tent spots and a variety of paved spots," notes a Memphis KOA visitor who added, "The staff greeted us and our pups with smiles, cozies, and treats for the dogs."
Entertainment options beyond cabins: Parks offer various recreation facilities. "There is a disc golf course that is very popular. There is a nature center that is under renovation that has snakes, spiders and owls to see," mentions a Meeman-Shelby visitor.
Plan for varied weather: Cabins provide shelter during typical afternoon thunderstorms. Families should bring games and activities for potential rainy periods common during spring and summer months.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: RV hookups available at most parks that offer cabin rentals. A visitor to KOA Campground Memphis Marion noted, "Clean bathhouse, beautiful pool, easy access. Store is nice and well stocked (albeit no dairy products like milk are sold here) nearest mini-mart is 4 miles away."
Site selection considerations: Some locations offer more level sites than others. "Large level gravel sites with water, but no sewer. Free, but spotty wifi throughout the campground," reports a Lake Poinsett camper.
Utility connections: Electric and water available at most cabin locations. "Paved pull through with hook ups, there where several out of commission but nice clean quite spot," states a Lady Luck Casino visitor.
Camp store access: Basic supplies available at most locations. "The front sites are a bit noisy. One plus was that it was raining so hard the freeway was stopped so we just went to our site but they offer meals delivered to your site! Great meal!" shares a Memphis KOA visitor.
