Near Natural Dam, Arkansas, the area's cabin accommodations sit within the Boston Mountains section of the Ozark range, with elevations from 1,000 to 2,500 feet. The terrain creates microclimates where temperatures can be 10-15 degrees cooler in valley camping areas compared to surrounding regions. Cabin options range from rustic one-room structures to fully-equipped rentals with modern conveniences across several established parks.
What to do
Explore interconnected trails: At Devil's Den State Park Campground, hiking paths connect directly to cabin areas, making morning walks convenient. "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!" notes Melissa M.
Visit waterfalls year-round: The 77-foot waterfall at Natural Falls State Park Campground remains accessible throughout the year with two viewing options. "The hike to the bottom is fairly steep but there is a sidewalk that takes you to an overlook at the top," explains Richard, highlighting the park's inclusive design.
Practice disc golf: Natural Falls offers an extensive 18-hole disc golf course winding through wooded areas. According to christy W., the park features "Beautiful campground... big campsites, hiking trails and 18 hole disc golf" that provides entertainment between cabin stays.
What campers like
Privacy between cabin sites: At Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground, cabins and campsites are designed with space in mind. Jennifer O. confirms this: "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!"
Year-round accessibility: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area cabins remain available during winter months when many other locations close. "January 31-Feb 3 2025. White Rock is a great little campground. With only 8 tent camp sites it is very quaint. The cabins were packed and there were many people visiting the overlook," reports Erin-Frannie R.
Night sky visibility: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "Peaceful spot, every star is visible. All of them," writes Steve J. about White Rock Mountain, where cabins offer front-porch viewing of constellations.
What you should know
Road conditions to remote cabins: The access road to White Rock Mountain cabins requires careful driving. Clarissa F. advises: "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 maintenance closures: Check operating status before traveling, especially during spring. "Campground is currently (April 7) closed for maintenance and flooding. Call before you go!" warns Jo about Devil's Den State Park.
Cell service limitations: Fort Smith-Alma RV Park offers reliable connectivity when other locations don't. "Antenna Tv good, TMobile service good," notes Barbara P., unlike many mountain cabins with spotty coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Lake Fort Smith offers water recreation beyond the lake itself. Ryan S. explains: "We'd like to give it a try in the spring/summer when the pool and splash pad are open!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Natural Falls provides structured activities through their visitor center. Cheryl T. notes: "You can take your wheelchair on some of the trails and look at the Falls. There's a steep hike down to the falls for those who can walk it."
Cabin insect preparation: For summer stays, bring cleaning supplies for cabins. Matt B. shares his White Rock Mountain experience: "One warning on the cabins though - in summer be prepared for some bugs... They're old buildings which aren't used every day surrounded by forest. Naturally, you get spiders, rodents, etc."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for family safety: When booking cabin camping near Natural Dam with children, consider the site layout. About Lake Fort Smith, Ryan S. advises: "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."
Supply planning: Stock up before arrival as many cabin locations have limited on-site provisions. "Bring what you need the nearest store is about 20 minutes out and the restaurant is not that good," recommends tiffany H. about Devil's Den.
Accessibility considerations: The Sallisaw-Fort Smith West KOA offers accessibility features not found at other cabin locations. Cheryl T. explains: "A shuttle runs that is wheelchair accessible that will take you into town for Wal-Mart runs and more," though she notes the campground itself has "road was really large rock that is very bumpy and uncomfortable to wheel over."