The Maumelle region of Arkansas offers convenient access to the Ouachita Mountains and multiple lakes within a 30-minute drive. Visitors to the area can enjoy glamping accommodations in a region known for its moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 30°F. Fall camping seasons typically extend through late November with limited rainfall, making it an ideal destination for extended stays.
What to do
Hiking trails with waterfalls: At Petit Jean State Park, multiple trails range from easy to difficult, with Cedar Falls being a highlight. "The Cedar Falls hike is beautiful and a quick fun adventure. I recommend going to the Petit Jean Grave. The view is vast!" notes Sondra M.
Crystal hunting: The Crystal Ridge RV Park provides direct access to crystal mines. Trevor B. explains, "Ron Coleman Mining is the site closest to the RV park and the Rock Shop is located on the corner of main st. Coleman Rock Shop is the more affordable option out of the 2 crystal digging sites."
Fishing and boating: Lake Catherine State Park offers various water activities with boat rentals available. "We enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," says Alison C.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Lake Ouachita State Park gets high marks for clean campgrounds. Don L. reports, "We stayed in A35 which is a triple A site with level site with all the trimmings! Wooded campsite with adequate shade, picnic table, fire pit and raised grilling station. It was very clean and well kept."
Family-friendly amenities: Catherine's Landing offers multiple recreational options. "Kid friendly. Great upkeep and sites that are easily accessible. Playground, splash pad, and pool. We were not able to access the pool because of the time of year, but we will definitely be back in warmer weather," shares Bridget C.
Quick access to Hot Springs: The Hot Springs National Park KOA provides a convenient base for exploring the historic district. "About 10 minutes away from Hot Springs NP so good location for visiting there," mentions Mary D.
What you should know
Site differences between loops: Camping areas vary significantly within the same park. At Little Rock North KOA, "The sites are definitely tight and amenities are very basic. We have a class A and flat tow so we needed a pull thru so we wouldn't have to unhook for the one night," says Jen O.
Water level fluctuations: Some waterfall areas have seasonal variations. At Lake Catherine, Tiffany H. notes, "You can rent a boat and fish all day. Play in the waterfall or walk the great trails!"
Reservation timing: Popular sites book up quickly, especially in A and B loops. "It's really hard to get a reservation if you don't book at least a year out in A loop," explains Ryan S.
Tips for camping with families
Peninsula camping options: Lake Ouachita offers unique waterfront sites for families. "The campsites are on a small peninsula, so every site was right on the water. Being so close to the water kept the temperature comfortable, and having direct access to the lake was perfect for swimming," Chelsea K. explains.
Activity centers for children: Hot Springs National Park KOA provides numerous child-friendly facilities. "As all KOA's, it was very family friendly. There were lots of activities to keep the kiddos busy," says Todd P.
Educational opportunities: State parks often provide ranger-led programs. "Ranger programs, educational displays, swimming beach, cabins and traditional tent/RV camping. You can rent boats onsite and you will want to!" shares Lynn G.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection criteria: Site location impacts your glamping experience in Maumelle, Arkansas. "B loop pros: plenty of shade in hot months with the pine grove, easy access to the paved CCC trail, 30/50 amp service, water, picnic table, fire ring and trash hook, clean and accommodating bath house, enough space between sites for plenty of privacy," Ryan S. advises.
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. Don L. mentions, "We stayed in A35 which is a triple A site with level site with all the trimmings!" while others caution that "many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. Lori C. shares about Catherine's Landing: "The park is immaculate and the grounds crew is really amazing, cleaning every site thoroughly before the next camper arrives. Trash pickup at your site every morning."
