Camping cabins near Mansfield, Arkansas provide access to the Ozark and Ouachita mountain ranges where elevations reach up to 2,753 feet at Mount Magazine, the highest point in Arkansas. Winter temperatures on mountain campgrounds can drop 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands, requiring additional preparation even during mild seasons. Most cabin sites are situated within densely forested areas featuring pine, oak and maple trees, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences.
What to do
Trail hiking on Mount Magazine: Campers staying at cabins can access multiple difficulty levels of hiking trails directly from the campground. "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice," notes a visitor to Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Cedar Lake offers direct lake access from many campsites with boat rentals available onsite. "Boat rentals right onsite, concessions, even a small beach area! We will 100% be back. No cell service whatsoever with Verizon," reports a camper at Cove Lake Complex.
Exploring caves and rock formations: The geology around Devil's Den creates unique exploration opportunities beyond typical hiking. One visitor reported: "4 days of camping with the guys, exploring caves and trails, and overall having a blast!" This geological feature distinguishes the area from other Arkansas camping destinations.
What campers like
Weather variations: The elevation at mountain cabin sites creates distinct temperature advantages during summer months. "We just stayed 3 nights in space 23. Shady. We also looked for a nearby lake to fish or kayak but nothing unless you go to Iron Fork Lake which is down the mountain," notes a camper at Queen Wilhelmina State Park.
Modern facilities: Many cabin sites feature updated amenities that contrast with their rustic settings. "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 as nice as possible in their state parks," explains a visitor to Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground.
Fall foliage viewing: The diverse tree species create exceptional seasonal color displays across the mountain ridges. A camper at White Rock Mountain noted: "We had a very quick trip to White Rock Mountain, but we can't wait to go back in the fall! It's a beautiful place. The campground is pretty well maintained and the vault toilets were clean."
What you should know
Access road challenges: Some cabin areas require navigating steep, narrow mountain roads that may be difficult for certain vehicles. A White Rock Mountain visitor cautioned: "The drive up to this campsite was a slight challenge. I would recommend an SUV or other tall vehicle with 4 wheel drive. The twisty, steep, narrow dirt road makes for quite an adventure."
Seasonal closures: Facilities may close for maintenance or weather conditions, particularly in off-seasons. A recent report warns: "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!"
Limited services: Many cabin locations have restricted access to supplies and services. "It is based on a 'lake' so beware of mosquitoes in the summer. We use it as a base to hike up to Mount Magazine as the trail crosses the road and heads up to the top of Mount Magazine state park," explains a Cove Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Several state park cabin locations feature swimming pools that provide alternative water recreation. "My favorite camping spot yet. Aside from the extreme humidity this was a great family getaway. Pool, great trails, and the creek/river kept my kids entertained and worn out!" reports a visitor to Devil's Den State Park Campground.
Cabin selection for safety: Some cabin sites feature multi-level designs that may present challenges for families with small children. "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area provides opportunities to observe native wildlife in natural settings. "We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade," notes a camper at Cove Lake Complex.
Tips from RVers
Site configurations: RV sites near cabins vary significantly in layout and access. "This is good for an overnight rest. It's just far enough away from the highway so you have a quiet nights rest without hearing the traffic. It's a bit tight, we found ourselves sharing our front yard with our neighbor," advises a visitor to Fort Smith-Alma RV Park.
Mountain accessibility: Not all cabin areas accommodate larger vehicles due to road conditions and site constraints. "Magazine Mountain is the highest peak in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. 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."
Off-season advantages: RV travelers find certain benefits to non-peak season cabin camping. "Extended our plans to stay 2 nights (considered for the 10 miles to the park) after arriving at our site. TMobile 3 bars at site 17. Verizon lower..." shares a Mount Magazine camper.
