Glamping close to Nimrod Lake offers diverse accommodation options within a 45-mile radius of Ouachita National Forest. At 1,300 feet lower than Mount Nebo, the area showcases the central Arkansas River Valley's natural features with easy water access. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Kayaking at Lake Ouachita State Park: Enjoy paddling on crystal-clear waters with rentals available directly from the park. "Kayak rental was cheap (and didn't charge extra for staying out longer!)" notes Amanda H., who found the well-maintained shoreline perfect for water activities.
Hiking at Petit Jean State Park: Explore trails rated from easy to difficult within 45 minutes of Nimrod Lake. "The Cedar Falls hike is beautiful and a quick fun adventure. I recommend going to the Petit Jean Grave. The view is vast!" explains Sondra M. who camped there with a hammock.
Crystal mining near Royal: About 60 miles southwest of Nimrod Lake, Crystal Ridge RV Park offers unique geology activities. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals... we came after a rain and cleaned up," reports Justin M., who even found crystals around his campsite fire pit.
What campers like
Mountaintop perspectives: The elevated position at Mount Magazine State Park creates unique atmospheric experiences. "The experience begins with the climb: the road winds up and around the bends and crooks of the mountain," writes Charles H., noting the "views ARE the reason to experience this park!"
Waterfront proximity at Lake Catherine: Sites positioned directly on the water create convenient swimming access. "Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors. There were trees to hang our hammocks," shares Alison C.
Site spacing and privacy: Many glamping spots near Nimrod Lake offer greater separation than standard campgrounds. "Full hook ups, big campsites with table, fire pit, and level gravel. River is close by with playground," writes a reviewer about Stephens Park Campground, noting the generous site dimensions despite only having 9 total spots.
What you should know
Site selection strategy: Choose camping locations based on your preferred views and weather conditions. "Great views. You're above the clouds when you wake up in the morning. The sites are a good size and depending on your needs there are sites overlooking the mountain and others a bit further away more suitable for bringing kids," advises a visitor to Mount Nebo State Park Campground.
Lake clarity variations: Ouachita Lake offers exceptional water transparency. "Water is ice cold and clear. Clearest I have seen," notes Sandy H. at Stephens Park, while other lakes in the region may have different visibility depending on rainfall.
Roadway challenges: Access to certain elevated glamping sites requires careful driving. "The drive up the mountain is seriously windy though, so be cautious," warns Rebecca P. about Mount Nebo, while another reviewer mentions "Grades are up to 18%" with restrictions on trailers over 24 feet.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lake Ouachita State Park provides swimming areas with gradual entries. "It was a last minute Memorial Day weekend plan... The campsites were walk up, which was mildly inconvenient at first, but ultimately a big plus with no vehicles driving by the actual sites," explains Chelsea K., who appreciated the direct water access for children.
Trail selection: Choose appropriate hiking paths for children at multiple parks. "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids," shares Jeremy C. about Mount Magazine State Park, contrasting with more challenging options elsewhere.
Wildlife encounters: Expect frequent deer sightings at several parks. "Deer will walk up to you and you can pet them," reports Steve S. about Mount Nebo, an experience kids typically find memorable.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection important: At Petit Jean State Park, different camping areas offer varying experiences. "A loop pros: it's new, it's laid out ideally, full hook up sites with sewer, and plenty of gravel and concrete to keep from dealing with too much dirt, mud, sand (we've got 2 small kids)," explains Ryan S., who compared multiple loops during his stay.
Leveling considerations: Pack adequate leveling equipment for many sites. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," warns the same reviewer about B loop at Brady Mountain - Lake Ouachita, a common situation in mountainous terrain surrounding Nimrod Lake.
Water access variations: Water hookup locations vary significantly between sites. "Some sites have water and the picnic table on the opposite sides of the camper. It's purely inconvenient and I'm not sure why this is this way. Pay attention when you book your site to campsite photos," advises an experienced RVer, highlighting the importance of researching specific site layouts before booking.
