Glamping sites near Parks, Arkansas sit at elevations between 1,800 and 2,753 feet in the Ouachita Mountains. The terrain features significant elevation changes, with temperature variations of 10-15 degrees cooler at mountain summits compared to surrounding valleys. Roads accessing mountaintop accommodations often include grades up to 18% with sharp switchbacks that limit vehicle size.
What to do
Hang gliding launches: Mount Nebo State Park provides designated launch areas for hang gliders who frequently use the bluffs. The sites overlook Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle with consistent mountain breezes making it ideal for gliders.
Mini golf and train rides: Queen Wilhelmina State Park offers seasonal family activities including a mini golf course. "There is a mini golf course, ice cream shop and train ride - but they said it's only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and they haven't gotten word of it will open for 2021," notes a visitor to Queen Wilhelmina State Park.
Mountain biking trails: The area surrounding Queen Wilhelmina offers extensive trail systems. "There are many hiking and mountain bike trails available in the area. A few miles down the road you can find an old fire tower which is interesting and can be accessed if you are daring," according to a camper who stayed at Queen Wilhelmina.
Guided boat tours: Lake Ouachita offers boat rentals directly from campgrounds. A visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park mentioned, "Kayak rental was cheap (and didn't charge extra for staying out longer!)" Many glamping sites provide easy access to water recreation.
What campers like
Temperature differences: Mount Magazine sits at 2,753 feet and offers noticeably cooler conditions than surrounding areas. "It got down to mid teens" one night according to a Mount Magazine State Park visitor, who advises, "I would recommend you pack a pair of pants, long sleeves and maybe even a light jacket. You will hot otherwise."
Wildlife encounters: Mount Nebo features regular wildlife sightings very close to glamping accommodations. A camper noted, "The deer will walk up to you and you can pet them awesome park highly recommended." These encounters provide unique photography opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset views: Many sites position glamping accommodations specifically for optimal viewing. A visitor at Lake Ouachita State Park stated, "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Lake Ouachita State Park! We stayed in space 55 and had a great view of the lake and the beautiful sunsets."
Seclusion options: Despite being established campgrounds, several areas offer quieter spots. At Cove Lake Complex, a visitor observed, "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."
What you should know
Limited cellular service: Cell coverage varies dramatically across glamping locations. At Lake Ouachita, a camper reported, "The cell service was minimal (1 bar) but a cell booster gave us full service," while at Cove Lake, another noted "No cell service whatsoever with Verizon."
Remote location challenges: Many glamping sites require advance planning. A visitor to Little Fir Lake Ouachita advised, "Very remote so make sure you have everything you need before you get out there because there aren't any stores even convenience stores or gas stations nearby."
Reservation requirements: Several popular glamping locations fill quickly during peak seasons. One visitor noted about Queen Wilhelmina, "You should also look at reservations during peak seasons as the limited availability will make this park fill up fast."
Road access restrictions: Several mountaintop glamping sites have strict vehicle limitations. Mount Nebo posts warnings of "Crooked and Steep, no trailers over 24 ft" with grades up to 18%. A visitor warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming facilities: Some glamping areas feature swimming areas beyond just lake access. A visitor to Mount Nebo mentioned, "State park with swimming pool in summer. Playground and swings for young ones," providing alternatives when lake conditions aren't ideal.
Educational programming: Daisy State Park offers family-friendly educational opportunities. "The ranger programs, educational displays, swimming beach, cabins and traditional tent/RV camping. You can rent boats onsite and you will want to!" noted a visitor.
Highest point hikes: Several family-appropriate trails lead to significant viewpoints. A Mount Magazine visitor reported, "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids. Campground and bathhouse were well maintained and nice."
Hammock-friendly sites: Multiple glamping locations accommodate hammock camping. At Mount Nebo, a visitor specified, "Several hammock friendly sites" are available, providing alternative sleeping arrangements for older children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling concerns: Mountaintop glamping locations often present leveling challenges. At Queen Wilhelmina, an RVer observed, "The spots are paved and all seemed pretty level. Spots 1-35 back up to the forest. Higher numbers back up to an open field."
Electric service variations: Electric service levels vary significantly between parks and specific sites. A camper at Shadow Mountain Campground noted, "Sewer hook ups on almost every site and a lot of trees and well shaded area, but little tight place and not well leveled."
Temperature planning: RVers should prepare for significant temperature swings at higher elevations. Mount Magazine campers often experience temperatures "literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below," requiring different clothing and heating/cooling preparations.
Road restrictions: Several glamping destinations have strict vehicle limitations. One Mount Nebo visitor shared their experience: "My camper was too long for the road up so we stayed at a hike in site it was great quiet and remote."
Legend
