Mount Magazine State Park offers luxury camping at Arkansas's highest point, standing at 2,753 feet above sea level. The mountaintop location provides temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas, creating comfortable conditions during hot summer months. Sites at Mount Magazine are spread out for privacy despite the limited number available.
What to do
Explore waterfall hikes: Lake Catherine State Park features several hiking trails leading to scenic waterfalls. "The waterfall was flowing a little on the low side. That's not unusual since it is the end of summer. Everyone is very friendly and helpful," shares one visitor who enjoyed the photographic opportunities along the trails at Lake Catherine State Park.
Mine for crystals: Located near crystal mines, campers at Crystal Ridge RV Park can hunt for quartz crystals. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," reports a camper who even found crystals around their Crystal Ridge RV Park campsite.
Summit Arkansas's highest peak: The hike to the highest point in Arkansas from Mount Magazine State Park is rated family-friendly. "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice," notes a visitor to the mountaintop Mount Magazine State Park.
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Lake Ouachita State Park provides camping right on the water's edge. "The campsites are on a small peninsula, so every site was right on the water. Being so close to the water kept the temperature comfortable, and having direct access to the lake was perfect for swimming," explains a tent camper at Lake Ouachita State Park.
Seasonal views: Spring and fall offer the best vantage points from Petit Jean State Park. "If in Arkansas, Petit Jean State Park is a must. With a ton of trails, lodge, restaurant, and waterfalls it is a nature lovers dream," recommends a reviewer who rated the park highly when visiting in fall. The park's elevation provides cooler temperatures than surrounding areas.
Mountain vistas: Mount Nebo State Park campsites along the rim offer panoramic valley views. "Great campsites right on the edge of the mountain. Wonderful showers at the bathhouse. Sites are fairly close together it's wonderful with the views of the city," describes a visitor to Mount Nebo State Park.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Mount Nebo has steep, winding roads with strict vehicle limitations. "Turning off I-40 at Exit 88, Mount Nebo is viewed less than 10 miles southwest…a stand-alone mountain. At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'. I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%," warns a camper about the challenging access road.
Wildlife precautions: Bears are present at several parks requiring proper food storage. "There is a pack of dogs that came through at night. So be sure to put up your trash and food at night. Especially since bears could be around," advises a visitor to the area.
Seasonal temperature variations: Mount Magazine experiences extreme temperature shifts. "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," suggests a camper at Mount Magazine State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Book accessible sites early: Petit Jean State Park has varying campsite layouts across four loops. "RESERVE EARLY to get a spot in Loop A or Loop B. We stayed in Loop C and I felt a little too secluded. The sites in C & D appeared to be a little smaller. I noticed several sites in B & C were uneven from roots pushing the asphalt up. Beware! Loop A is full hookup while B-D have electricity & water only," advises a family camper at Petit Jean State Park.
Pack for multiple weather conditions: Morning fog and evening temperature drops require appropriate clothing. "Due to the elevation and drastic temperature change from the base of the mountain and the campground, it frankly isn't safe at all to drive on the mountain in the early morning or evening."
Look for recreation options: Lake Catherine offers family-friendly water activities. "We absolutely love it here. Wonderful trails, fishing, cabins and camp sites and tons of photo opportunities," shares a family who visited with children.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling requirements: Many mountaintop sites require significant leveling equipment. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," warns an RVer at Petit Jean State Park.
Plan for limited services: Some glamping locations near Ozark-St. Francis National Forests have limited supplies. "Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive," notes a visitor to Macks Pines campground.
Consider loop layout: Campground design affects ease of access for larger rigs. "B loop cons: some sites are angled differently and there is no clear indication how you have to enter the loop to be able to access your site. It can create some frustration when trying to get set up."
