Lake Fort Smith State Park offers glamping accommodations just a short drive from Mulberry, Arkansas, where the Boston Mountains form part of the Ozark range. The terrain rises to elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet with numerous hiking trails connecting through the Ozark National Forest. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, requiring proper preparation for off-season glamping stays.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lake Fort Smith State Park serves as the western terminus for the Ozark Highlands Trail with day-hike options. "Ozark Highland Trail is directly behind the campsites on the lake side," notes Ryan S., who visited with family and found the park had "many activities at the Visitor Center for children."
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can enjoy stocked fishing at Cove Lake Complex, located near Paris. "There is swimming, boating, (stocked) fishing, hiking, and pretty drives. Absolutely beautiful lake surrounded by green that would be incredible in the fall!" mentions Lynn G. about this location, which offers various water activities.
Mountain exploration: Visit White Rock Mountain Recreation Area for panoramic views. "It's a beautiful place. The campground is pretty well maintained and the vault toilets were clean. The general store has a nice selection of items in case you forget something," shares Chris & Rosanne C., highlighting the recreation area's amenities and scenic value.
What campers like
Level camping sites: Lake Fort Smith State Park offers well-maintained, level sites throughout the campground. "It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all," notes Jennifer O., who called it the "Best campground yet!" She also mentioned the "cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery" that make this location stand out.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing between sites at many Mulberry area campgrounds. At Lake Fort Smith State Park, Donna H. observed, "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." She enjoyed the privacy during winter camping when they were one of only four campers.
Clean facilities: Mount Magazine State Park, the highest point in Arkansas at 2,753 feet, maintains excellent facilities. "The restrooms/showers are a 4.5 out of 5 for state park facilities," reports Gary F., who hiked about half of the park's 15 miles of trails, noting they are "mostly shaded and well defined."
What you should know
Road conditions: Some campsites near Mulberry require navigating challenging roads. About Lake Fort Smith, kcki M. notes: "Nice, quiet place. Great hiking! Not really a place for a quick overnight, the road in is steep and crooked."
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities have limited operations in winter. For luxury glamping in Mulberry, Arkansas, check operating schedules. At Mount Magazine State Park, Charles H. advises: "The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain." He adds that "the views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!"
Advance planning: Popular glamping sites book quickly during peak seasons. Erin-Frannie R. from White Rock Mountain recommends: "It's a slow, beautiful drive. The reviews are correct that 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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds offer better accommodations for children. Ryan S. observes about Lake Fort Smith: "If you are a parent with small kids, sites 17-20 and sites 2-3 are better. The other sites are excellent, but not necessarily best for small kids."
Look for recreation options: Byrd's Adventure Center provides various family activities along the Mulberry River. "The river runs right through the property. There are a ton of trails to explore. They have a store and restaurant on site," says Desiree Y., highlighting the 800-acre property's diverse offerings.
Weather considerations: Mountain glamping near Mulberry experiences significant temperature variations. Donny S. advises about Mount Magazine: "The temperature is literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below. One night we were there it got down to mid teens. So unless you're going in July, I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete RV services. At Mulberry Mountain Lodging & Events, John F. notes: "Near the Mulberry River and White Rock recreation area, the facility is an off road enthusiasts playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility. Plants of space to stretch out and enjoy the deep Forrest areas of Arkansas."
Site spacing: RV campers appreciate parks with adequate space between sites. Jeff P. comments about Mulberry Mountain: "Very nice campground, mostly flat land for RV and primitive campground. The bathroom/shower house is very clean to use. This area is great for getaways, off-roading, or overloading."
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds remain open all seasons, with Lake Fort Smith State Park accessible year-round. Steve S. noted site #4 as his favorite, adding: "Lake Fort Smith also has cabins which offer a lake view. Group lodging is available. Marina rents canoes, party barges, fishing boats, kayaks, etc."
