Camping cabins near Sims, Arkansas provide a convenient base for exploring the mountainous terrain of western Arkansas. Located in Montgomery County at an elevation around 656 feet, this region features the Ouachita River Valley's dense forests of pine, oak, and hickory. Summer temperatures typically range from 85-95°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to Do
Water recreation at Ouachita River: Visitors to Ouachita Campground at Edendell enjoy direct access to fishing and paddling opportunities. "The campground is very clean and the views are amazing. The owners are attentive and very kind," notes Ted E.
Hiking the Falls Branch Trail: Located at Lake Catherine State Park, this popular trail leads to a seasonal waterfall. One visitor explained, "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Exploring by boat: Lake Ouachita offers island exploration opportunities from Brady Mountain campground. "The park was clean as any national park is. Lake Ouachita has over 210 Islands. I visited several each day on a kayak," reports Kyle G.
What Campers Like
Private waterfront sites: Many cabins at Lake Ouachita State Park offer direct water access. "The cabins are beyond wonderful to stay in and well worth the price. Beautiful scenery and tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy," writes Josh H.
Cabin amenities: Accommodation options vary widely, from rustic to fully equipped. A visitor to Little Fir Landing noted, "Spacious camping area. New bathrooms were well maintained. Lake (or river) on the side. Nice view."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to spot deer, wild turkey, and various bird species. "We saw someone get help flighted out on our stay. Be safe and have a great time here!" advises Angie B. about Brady Mountain.
What You Should Know
Weather variability: Mountain elevation affects temperatures and visibility. "Be aware of the weather, as if it's raining hard, parts of this road are subject to being the pathway for the water to cross as it flows down the mountainside," notes Carole G.
Cabin availability: Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for waterfront properties during summer months. Summer weekends often book months in advance, with limited walk-up availability.
Water access: Not all cabin sites have direct water hookups. At Brady Mountain, "We have camped here several times nice clean campground level spots only downside is no water at each spot," notes Bob P.
Tips for Camping with Families
Bring water toys: Inflatable rafts, noodles, and beach toys enhance lakeside cabin experiences for children. The swimming areas at Lake Ouachita State Park feature gradual entry points suitable for young swimmers.
Pack extra clothing layers: Temperature variations between day and night can be significant. "The temperature is literally about 10-15 degrees cooler on the mountain than below," warns a visitor to Mount Magazine State Park.
Consider cabin location: Sites vary considerably in terrain and access. "We got the prime spot for tent camping. It was a haul to get all our gear to the end but they have carts available to help," mentions Taylor C. about Lake Ouachita State Park.
Tips from RVers
Arrive during daylight hours: Mountain roads can be challenging after dark. "Plan on arriving during daylight hours or you might think you have lost the way. After recent rains the lake level was high and several low water crossings on the road into park looked intimidating at night," advises Susan B.
Check site length and leveling: Many cabin areas also accommodate RVs but require preparation. "The sites are not level so large self leveling RVs or campers may have problems getting set up," warns John F. about Little Fir Landing.
Be prepared for limited services: Cell reception varies widely across the region, with mountain terrain affecting coverage. "TMobile 3 bars at site 17, Verizon lower..." reports Heather K. about Mount Magazine State Park.
