Dispersed camping areas near Paris, Arkansas provide more rustic alternatives to established campgrounds. Located 15-20 degrees cooler than surrounding regions, Mount Magazine stands at 2,753 feet elevation while nearby Cove Lake sits at a lower altitude with warmer temperatures. Weather conditions change rapidly throughout the year, requiring campers to pack adaptable gear for both camping locations.
What to do
Fishing at lakeside spots: Cove Lake Complex offers boat rentals and fishing access directly on the lake. "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," notes James N.
Wine tasting on vineyard tours: Grape Country RV Park sits directly between grape fields with vineyards nearby. "Settled right in between grape fields, beautiful manacured grounds with lots of picnic tables and plenty of area to walk dogs or kids. Great wines right up the road," reports Jessica P.
Outdoor adventures beyond hiking: Mulberry River Outdoor Adventures provides river activities and forest access. "Right off I40, on the Mulberry River, very friendly staff, you can Tube, float, kuyak, or just swim and relax. They have access to the national forest, and atv there also," explains Rick N.
What campers like
Well-spaced campsites: The camping areas at Mount Magazine State Park Campground offer privacy between sites. "Magazine is one of the smallest parks I've been to. There aren't many camping sites at all. Each site is large and the camping area is spread out quite a bit. It's a great place to achieve some seclusion," writes Donny S.
Boat-in camping options: Shoal Bay provides waterfront sites with easy boat access. "Nicely spaced campsites on the shores of Shoal Bay. Clean sites with easy access for large rigs. Have been camping here since the lake was established, it has only improved with time," shares James N.
Pet-friendly river settings: Dog owners appreciate the water access at Aux Arc for pet activities. "The campground is clean and the views are good. It is by the Arkansas river, near a hydroelectric dam. You will see barges going down the river, and see the railroad that sits across the river," notes Jason K.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature variations: The elevation changes between Mount Magazine and lower areas create distinct climate zones. "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," advises Donny S.
Limited cell service: Many camping areas have poor connectivity. "TMobile 3 bars at site 17, Verizon lower..." reports Heather K. at Mount Magazine, while Taryn S. notes "No cell service whatsoever with Verizon" at Cove Lake Complex.
Bathrooms vary by location: Different campgrounds offer vastly different facilities. "The bathrooms are simple pit toilets, but clean and well-maintained," writes Taryn S. about Cove Lake, while Dan's Riverview RV Park offers "clean bathrooms, and a beautiful area" according to Nicole C.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational trails: Some paths around Mount Magazine are ideal for teaching kids about local ecology. "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice," shares Jeremy C.
Choose campsites with swimming access: Cove Lake Complex has water features that children enjoy. "Boat rentals right onsite, concessions, even a small beach area! We will 100% be back," says Taryn S.
Find areas with wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to see and hear native animals. "Nice quiet campground with a nice lake, vault toilets, no electricity or water. Wildlife in the area. We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade," Greg D. explains about Cove Lake.
Tips from RVers
Check electrical service specifications: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical hookups. Mount Magazine State Park has "18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30," according to Gary F.
Consider site spacing for larger rigs: Some areas provide more room between sites than others. "The camping spaces are large and accommodating, most are level and can fit almost anything you travel in," notes Charles H. about Mount Magazine.
Prepare for mountainous driving conditions: The roads to elevated campgrounds can be challenging. "Pretty good tow up the mountain. Limited number of sites. Full hookup. A lot of trees," Rob W. advises about accessing Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Ranger
