Mount Magazine State Park sits at 2,753 feet, but several other camping options exist around Paris, Arkansas for those seeking alternatives. The area features steep mountain roads with up to 18% grades on some routes, creating cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Campgrounds in this region provide options from rustic tent sites to yurt camping, with many offering well-maintained facilities despite their remote locations.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Mount Nebo State Park Campground offers hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "The hikes are worth a trip to Mt Nebo," according to one camper, while another notes, "Different sections of the Rim Trail range from easy to moderate to strenuous. They are marked."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at the campgrounds provide opportunities to spot deer and other wildlife. "We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep," reports a camper at Cove Lake Complex, which features "mature pine trees giving a lot of shade."
Off-road adventures: Several areas offer trail systems for ATV users. One visitor described the region as "an off road enthusiasts playground! Trails directly into the outback from the facility. Plants of space to stretch out and enjoy the deep Forrest areas of Arkansas."
Water recreation: When summer temperatures rise, fishing and boating become popular activities. "Great place to camp, been coming here my entire life and it has changed very little in that time. Boating, fishing, swimming, cabins available, lots of trails to hike," says a camper about Cove Lake.
What campers like
Cooler summer temperatures: White Rock Mountain Recreation Area provides relief from summer heat due to its elevation. "It's a beautiful place. The campground is pretty well maintained and the vault toilets were clean. The general store has a nice selection of items in case you forget something," notes one camper.
Sunrise and sunset viewing spots: Several campgrounds feature designated areas for viewing these daily spectacles. "Sunset Point and Sunrise Circle" are specifically mentioned by a Mount Nebo visitor, who adds that "you can sit on its back porch and look out over the valley."
Privacy between sites: Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground offers "sites spread far enough apart for privacy, full hook ups, cleanest bathhouses, and beautiful scenery!" A different camper agrees: "Sites are extremely spacious and well spaced from each other, and would feel even more private later in the season when the trees are full."
Night sky viewing: The remote location means minimal light pollution. "Peaceful spot, every star is visible. All of them," reports a camper from White Rock Mountain.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating steep, winding roads. "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," warns a White Rock Mountain visitor.
Temperature fluctuations: Pack for varying temperatures, especially in spring and fall. "It was dry when we were there and we had no problem making the drive in a Fiat 500. If that little car can make it, any car can make it. Yes, you need to take it slow and easy, it's a rough, steep, gravel road," reports another White Rock Mountain camper.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies by location and provider. "TMobile 3 bars at site 17. Verizon lower..." reports a visitor to Mount Magazine, while another campground reports "No cell service whatsoever with Verizon."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Very nice park! One warning on the cabins though - in summer be prepared for some bugs... It's not that they're dirty, it's just that they're old buildings which aren't used every day surrounded by forest."
Tips for camping with families
Consider site location carefully: Petit Jean State Park offers family-friendly areas. "My 1st suggestion: 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," advises one camper.
Explore visitor centers: They provide educational opportunities and information about area wildlife. "Plenty of trails for hiking. Pool, basketball and tennis courts. Marina with boats and kayaks. It is a wonderful park and a must for all campers!" notes a Petit Jean visitor.
Pack for the weather: Mountain camping means preparing for temperature variations. "We stayed at Petit Jean State Park for the first time over Easter weekend. Even though the park was booked to capacity, it is so well laid out that it was really nice to be there," shares another camper.
Check campsite levels: Many mountain sites aren't naturally flat. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," warns a Petit Jean visitor, while another notes that "It was totally level we didn't need any leveling done at all."
Tips from RVers
Watch site length restrictions: Dan's Riverview RV Park accommodates larger rigs. "Small, but all brand new. Restrooms and showers are clean and beautiful. Full Hook Up's, firepits, and lights are great," reports a visitor.
Mountain road warnings: Heed posted warnings about RV size limits. "At the base of the climb, signs posted numerous times, 'Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft'," shares one RVer from Mount Nebo, adding "I have driven up a lot of steep and twisty mountain roads, and these warnings are to be heeded. Grades are up to 18%."
Consider yurt camping: For those wanting to visit Paris, Arkansas without hauling an RV up steep roads, yurt camping provides a comfortable alternative. Several parks in the region offer these permanent tent structures with actual beds and furniture.
Plan arrival timing: "We had hit a really bad storm so we were many, many hours behind schedule trying to get down into Hotsprings. It was midnight and we were exhausted... he answered the phone at midnight, gave us directions and we are so grateful," notes a Dan's Riverview visitor.
