Cabin camping near Mountainburg, Arkansas offers diverse lodging options within the Boston Mountains, where elevations range from 1,500 to 2,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with spring and fall typically providing the most moderate temperatures for outdoor activities. Winter cabin rentals often require advance planning as some facilities reduce services during colder months.
What to do
**Waterfall exploration: Devil's Den State Park features a 77-foot waterfall with accessible viewing platforms. "Devil's Den is a gorgeous parked tucked in the mountains of Arkansas. The sites are generally spacious. If you want the best experience - grab one of the sites along the ridge (83, 85, 87) - these have a great view off the back and offer incredible space," notes Gonzo A.
**Disc golf courses: Natural Falls State Park Campground offers an extensive 18-hole course spread throughout the park. "Love this campground so much. Great spots with really level pads set in a beautifully treed park. Surrounded by disc golf, waterfalls, and hiking. Would totally come back over and over," writes Jennifer O.
**Off-road trails: The trail systems near Byrd's Adventure Center provide options for all skill levels. "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. Good place for vehicles that need to hook up or primitive," reports Eric L.
What campers like
**Spacious cabin layouts: Cabins at Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground provide ample room for families and groups. "Absolutely the cleanest and most beautiful campground we've been in - in this part of the county yet. Sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery! Would absolutely stay again," shares Jennifer O.
**Year-round accessibility: Most cabin facilities remain open throughout winter months. "We had a break in the winter weather this week and took three days to explore the trails around Lake Ft. Smith. As only one of four campers, we had the place to ourselves save the park keepers making their rounds to ensure our safety," explains Donna H.
**Proximity to hiking trails: Many cabins connect directly to trail networks. "Hiking trails are right out of our campsite. Clean sites. Great tent pads. It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all," notes a Lake Fort Smith visitor.
What you should know
**Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons from April through October. "We love camping at Devils Den every spring! The trails are great and have beautiful views. The rangers and staff in the shop are very nice. Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out," advises Tiffany H.
**Road conditions: Access to some mountain cabins involves challenging roads. "The last hour of the drive is only 20 miles. Make sure to stop for gas! It is an unpaved road that in some spots is maybe wide enough for 2 small vehicles to pass each other," warns a visitor to White Rock Mountain Recreation Area.
**Bug prevention: Pack appropriate insect repellent during warmer months. "So being from Utah I wouldn't say Arkansas has 'mountains' But they do have these really cool cliff rocks. P.S make sure and bring lots of bug spray," advises CJ C. about Devil's Den.
Tips for camping with families
**Family-friendly activities: Several parks offer dedicated children's areas. "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 Melissa M. about Devil's Den State Park Campground.
**Cabin selection for children: Choose sites with level ground and safety features if traveling with young 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. If you are a parent with small kids, sites 17-20 and sites 2-3 are better," advises Ryan S. about Lake Fort Smith.
**Supply planning: Stock up on essentials before arrival as stores can be limited. "Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," notes a Devil's Den visitor.
Tips from RVers
**Site selection: Choose pull-through sites when possible for easier access. "If you need sewer service, I would recommend site #11 as the most level pull-through site, although there's not a bad site in the park," suggests Donna H. about Lake Fort Smith.
**Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "There's no cell service whatsoever but Wifi (paid) is offered by the park. Make sure to stock up on supplies beforehand - there are not many options within that area as far as food and services," notes a visitor to Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events.
**Pet accommodation: Most cabins have specific pet policies with potential deposits. "Sites were spacious and restrooms were very clean! ATV trails were great! Beautiful views..we will definitely go back," writes Andrea H. about Mulberry Mountain.
