Glamping options near Oden, Arkansas offer outdoor accommodations with varying levels of luxury across several state parks and private facilities. The region sits within the Ouachita Mountain range where elevations range from 600-2,300 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer camping often means preparing for humidity levels that regularly exceed 80%.
What to do
Water activities on Lake Ouachita: Visitors can access numerous water sports beyond standard swimming. "The lake was gorgeous! I wish we had more time to walk trails, but we were just stopping for the night," notes Hannah L. from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground.
Diamond mining excursions: Located about 55 miles southwest of Oden, this unique activity provides an unusual camping side trip. "The diamond field is a large, unshaded field. Rains cause the soil to cake up on shoes and make it difficult to walk in the field," advises Patricia C. who visited Crater of Diamonds State Park.
Hiking mountain trails: Mount Magazine offers challenging trail systems with significant elevation changes. According to Jeremy C., "This is a very nice state park that mostly offers hiking and beautiful views. The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids."
What campers like
Secluded tent camping spots: Daisy State Park offers walk-in tent sites directly on the lake. "The walk in tent sites are some of the best in the Midwest. The sites are located right on the lake. The sites have a framed out, level area big enough for am 8 person tent," explains Chad K.
Clean, accessible facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms as a highlight. "Bath house is very nice and super clean. Park staff was helpful," reports Jaime R., while another camper at Daisy State Park notes that "The shower facilities are clean and modern."
Temperature variations: The mountain elevations provide natural cooling during hot Arkansas summers. A visitor to Mount Magazine State Park Campground warns, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campsites in the region experience flash flooding. Mark at Big Brushy warns, "The Big Brushy Creek is right beside the campground and has several walking trails down to the creek. This creek floods quickly and there are signs located through the park indicating it is a flash flood area."
Road noise at certain sites: Not all glamping locations in Oden are completely isolated from civilization. "Be warned that the campsite is right off a highway bridge so a decent amount of traffic through at all times," notes Suzsan M. about Caddo River Access RV Park.
Limited cell service: Mobile connectivity varies significantly throughout the Ouachita mountains. One visitor to Little Fir Landing reported challenging communications, while Adam B. found "Good cell reception Verizon and att" at Daisy State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When glamping with children in Oden, Arkansas, select sites with built-in activities. "It has great spots for RV's and a wonderful walk in area for tents. We were amazed at all there is to do on the lake and in the campground," says Tom K. about Daisy State Park Campground.
Avoid difficult site terrain: Some locations have challenging elevation changes. Wayne J. warns about one particular site at Crater of Diamonds: "There is no level surface much further than the step before the site slopes off steeply with pine needles. The site just seems like the Park wanted to jam another spot in."
Consider cabin options: For families new to glamping, Lake Ouachita State Park Campground offers more structured accommodations. "The cabins are beyond wonderful to stay in and well worth the price. Beautiful scenery and tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy," reports Josh H.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should research specific sites before booking. John F. observed at Little Fir Landing: "Site is very remote with little access to any stores or fuel. It is located on a hill to that is very rocky and not very level. Our 38ft RV has a hard time leveling as the camp sites are not very level to begin with."
Campsite spacing considerations: Some RV sites offer more privacy than others. Don L. reports from Lake Ouachita State Park, "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."
Limited shopping access: Stock up before heading to remote glamping locations. "There is nothing else to do at the camp site. There is a Corp Of Engineers site down the street that has a boat launch," notes John F. about Little Fir Landing, emphasizing the importance of bringing all necessary supplies.
