Mount Magazine State Park and Petit Jean State Park frame the glamping region surrounding Pelsor, Arkansas, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,753 feet above sea level. Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, this area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows often reaching the 20s. The surrounding Buffalo National River watershed creates numerous creeks and streams that flow through limestone formations, carving dramatic waterfalls that attract hikers throughout the region.
What to do
Rock climbing routes: Access over 400 established climbing routes at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch for all skill levels. The sandstone formations provide year-round climbing opportunities with most routes concentrated in a 1-mile radius from the main campground area. "Horseshoe canyon is one of the biggest climbing and bouldering locations in the southeast area. Beautiful pastures and surrounded by rock that hundreds come to visit, you won't be disappointed to check it out!" notes Luke O.
Waterfall hikes: Follow the 2.1-mile Cedar Falls Trail at Petit Jean State Park to reach a 95-foot cascading waterfall. The trail descends 200 feet through rock formations and requires moderate physical fitness for the return climb. "We spent most of our days hiking the many trails the park is known for. It was at peak Dogwood season, so the understory of the Forest was beautiful!" shares Jill B.
Disc golf: Play the course at JB Trading Co. in Compton which features multiple holes set among trees. The campground provides equipment rentals for $5 per day at their on-site store. "The kids loved running around in the well-kept open areas and playing frisbee golf," reports Grant J., noting the activity works well for families with children.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathhouses at Mount Nebo State Park offer reliable hot water and regular maintenance. The facilities include individual shower stalls and are cleaned multiple times daily during peak season. "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. Delightful place to stay for a night," reports Dale H.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning elk sightings near Buffalo Outdoor Center occur regularly from September through November. The best viewing spots are in open meadows within 10 miles of Ponca, where herds gather at dawn and dusk. "Ponca and the surrounding have many beautiful nature trails. Of course the wild Elk are a magnificent set to behold," explains Shiela R.
Multi-accommodation options: Many sites offer various glamping structures beyond traditional campsites. At Mount Magazine State Park, guests can choose between RV sites, cabins with full kitchens, or lodge rooms. "It has 18 RV campsites of varying length, all with water and most have sewer. Two have 50 amp service with the rest having 30. All of the campsites have a large level tent pad, table, fire ring, and plenty of shade," explains Gary F.
What you should know
Weather variations: Mountain elevation creates significant temperature differences from surrounding areas. Petit Jean and Mount Magazine State Parks typically run 10-15°F cooler than valley temperatures. "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 supplies: The region has few grocery options within 30 minutes of most glamping sites. Macks Pines campers note specific challenges: "Dry county with very few places to buy any food or groceries outside of an hour drive," cautions Amy & Stu B., so bring essentials with you.
Cell service gaps: Coverage varies dramatically by location and carrier. T-Mobile users report minimal to no service at most campgrounds, while AT&T and Verizon offer limited connectivity in higher elevation areas. "No ATT or Verizon service there or in the general area, had to download a map that was essentially a PDF to get around," warns one Macks Pines visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty ratings: Many trails marked "easy" still require moderate fitness for children under 12. The Cedar Falls trail at Petit Jean involves rock stairs and uneven terrain despite its accessibility rating. "I think that is if you are an expert hiker. lol. There were some steep points and going down various rock trails. We had 5 dogs and 7 people and we were all struggling a tad," notes Jackie F. from Mount Nebo State Park.
Glamping huts: For an easier family experience, book climate-controlled structures at JB Trading Co. which offer protection from weather changes. The platform tents and huts include electricity and air conditioning for summer comfort. "We stayed in one of the platform huts and it was extremely clean. We stayed in the middle of July and the AC was turned off when we arrived but within a few hours the hut was completely cooled down which was awesome," shares Grant J.
Animal encounters: Prepare children for wildlife interactions including roaming domestic animals at some sites. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch features goats and horses that freely wander the camping areas. "Bathroom, camping, outdoor tables, roaming goats and horses," mentions Kelsey R., noting these animals frequently approach campsites.
Tips from RVers
Mountain access challenges: RV access to Mount Magazine and Mount Nebo requires careful planning for vehicle limitations. Mount Nebo's access road has 18% grades and hairpin turns that prohibit trailers over 24 feet. "It's not easy to get anywhere at all. That's particular true if you don't have a vehicle that handles elevation well. Further, 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," warns Donny S.
Site configurations: Some campgrounds use unusual parking arrangements that can block RV departures. At Dogwood Springs Campground, "They call it a resort for some reason but all it really is... a small piece of land where everything is crammed together... the first slot was a pull through. Well this doesn't work because they have two slots together. With both hook ups on the same side. What happens is the camper sets up and had to leave their vehicle out of the way parked else where... the second camper backs in in front of ur camper blocking your hitch," explains Derrick C.
Seasonal road conditions: Spring brings frequent fog on mountain roads that can completely obscure visibility. Morning fog typically burns off by 10-11am, but evening fog sets in quickly after sunset. Photos shared by visitors show visibility sometimes reduced to less than 3 feet on mountain roads.
