Cabins near Paragould, Arkansas offer recreational opportunities in the distinctive Crowley's Ridge area, a unique geological formation rising 200 feet above the surrounding Mississippi Alluvial Plain. This forested highland region creates a microclimate that supports different plant species than surrounding flatlands, making it especially vibrant during spring and fall. Cabin accommodations throughout the region feature varying levels of amenities with most parks requiring reservations several months in advance for summer weekends.
What to do
Hiking trails with interesting features: Lake Frierson State Park offers peaceful hiking experiences with trails suitable for beginners. "Nice trails, water recreation and quiet. The campground is small. 7 sites near one of the boat ramps," notes one visitor to Lake Frierson State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes in the area provide fishing access for cabin guests. "The lake area is beautiful with a small spring fed waterfall, a swim beach area and even a slide into the water. No fishing in this lake, but there is another lake across the street that looks perfect for fishing!" reports one camper about Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Swimming areas: Several parks offer swimming during summer months. "Kids had a blast here! We did paddle boating and walked the trails!" mentions a visitor about recreational activities at Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Boat rentals: Parks with lakes typically provide boat rentals during peak season. Lake Poinsett recently reopened after dam repairs, with some fishing restrictions. "Fishing is catch and release only except for Catfish and Brim due to recently reopening the lake," notes a Lake Poinsett visitor.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Some cabin areas offer more privacy than others. "Lucky enough to get site 9 for our return leg of our week trip. The most secluded site they offer and it is level. Very clean and quiet," comments a visitor about Lake Poinsett State Park.
Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives positive reviews across multiple locations. "Arkansas has some of the best bathhouses as well! There is a really nice playground and also a walking trail that you can access from the campground," reports a Lake Poinsett visitor.
Nature viewing: The unique ridge ecosystem supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We really enjoyed the hiking opportunities this park offers. The sites were nice, somewhat wooded area," notes one camper about the natural setting.
Senior discounts: Some parks offer reduced rates for seniors. "Senior discount. Reserved on-line 346 prior to arriving. Good overnight stop for $25," mentions a Lake Poinsett visitor.
What you should know
Limited sites available: Most cabin areas have a small number of rentals. "The campground is small. 7 sites near one of the boat ramps. Your on the road next to the public access so not much privacy at all!" warns a visitor at Lake Frierson State Park.
Seasonal insect activity: Prepare for mosquitoes, especially in summer months. "The only thing negative I can say is the mosquitos come out at dark and are pretty bad so bring your mosquito spray," advises a camper at Crowley's Ridge.
Variable amenities: Facilities differ between parks. "The drawback for me is that this campground only has vault toilets and no showers," notes a visitor to Lake Frierson State Park.
Laundry options: Limited laundry facilities exist at parks near Paragould, though Century Casino RV Park offers "free laundry facilities and clean individual bathrooms with showers, ADA accessible with shower chairs" for those willing to travel to Caruthersville.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature playgrounds for children. "In the picnic area the children have a playground," notes a Lake Poinsett visitor.
Water recreation options: Check seasonal availability of swimming areas. "The lake area is beautiful with a small spring fed waterfall, a swim beach area and even a slide into the water," reports a visitor to Crowley's Ridge.
Varied trail difficulties: Trails range from easy to challenging. "The trails had interesting bridges and a suspension bridge. Moderate to strenuous. There is a swimming area next to a historic CCC building and bridge," explains a visitor to Crowley's Ridge State Park.
Scout-friendly facilities: Some parks accommodate large youth groups. "Crowleys Ridge State Park is a small park but has lot to explore and discover. Two Lakes, several trails, a 'spring' and plenty of camping options. The weekend we visited there was a convergence of Scouts, even with the large group of little people the park didn't seem crowded."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose cabin or RV sites based on size needs. "Sites were not the fartherest apart, but each was very spacious. Large level gravel sites with water, but no sewer," notes a Lake Poinsett visitor.
Dump station locations: Not all parks offer dump stations. "You have to drive to Crowleys Ridge State Park to use their dump station (10 minute drive)," advises a visitor to Lake Frierson.
Connectivity issues: Cell service and WiFi vary by park. "No Cell service for ATT. There is WiFi at the bathhouse, but was very sketchy due to the busy weekend," reports a Lake Poinsett camper.
