Glamping near Springdale, Arkansas offers diverse overnight options within the wooded hills of the Ozarks at elevations ranging from 1,200-1,500 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows dipping below freezing. Most luxury outdoor accommodations remain open year-round with varying amenities based on location and weather conditions.
What to do
Disc golf course: 18 holes at Natural Falls State Park Campground provides a challenging layout integrated with the natural terrain. "Loved the falls, big campsites, hiking trails and 18 hole disc golf," notes one visitor, highlighting the multi-purpose recreational opportunities at this glamping destination.
Kayaking: paddlecraft rentals available at Lake Leatherwood City Park with minimal motorized boat traffic. A camper reported, "After camping each month through the summer, it was a pleasant change for the temperature to dip for our two night visit to Lake Leatherwood City Park. We had booked one of the sites in what is known as Shady Grove, which is down on the edge of the lake. We kayak and it was a pleasant surprise to find only three powered boats on the lake throughout the weekend."
Hiking: trail access directly from campsites at multiple locations around Beaver Lake. "We used it as a gateway to head in to the Ozark National Forest which is about 1.5 hours away," explains a visitor to Horseshoe Bend, detailing how many glamping sites serve as basecamps for extended exploration of the region's wilderness areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites arranges tent sites away from RV areas. "The nice thing is the tent sites are far from the RV sites so no unwanted noises for tenters in the night," explains a reviewer who appreciated the thoughtful layout that creates distinct camping experiences within the same property.
Lake views and access: Premium waterfront locations at Rocky Branch Campground offer direct water access. "The lower sites are waterfront but lack water and septic at the sites," notes one camper, explaining the trade-off between premium lakefront positioning and utility hookups that glampers should consider when booking.
Concrete pads and furnishings: Level sites with sturdy furniture at many glamping locations enhance the luxury experience. "Each site comes with a picnic table, fire pit, stove table & lantern hook. Large variety of sites, including multi-family sites," reports a visitor to Prairie Creek, detailing the upgraded site amenities that elevate the glamping experience beyond standard camping.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Many locations have significant variations in site quality and location. "Beautiful setting on the shores of Beaver Lake, just 10 miles outside Rogers AR. Nice amenities, modern campsites, well maintained and staffed," explains a visitor to Prairie Creek (AR), emphasizing the importance of researching specific site numbers before booking.
Seasonal facilities: Many campgrounds close certain amenities during winter months. "Bathrooms were locked for the season, I presume," noted a winter visitor to Lost Bridge North, while another camper mentioned, "We'd like to give it a try in the spring/summer when the pool and splash pad are open!"
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling equipment due to the hilly terrain. "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads," warns a camper staying at Prairie Creek, offering practical advice for RVers planning glamping trips to the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Fort Smith State Park Campground features updated play areas but some require driving. "Recreational area with a playground that is updated. Sites have gravel which limits how much dirt/mud you have to deal with," notes one parent, while cautioning, "the playground requires that you drive to it which is inconvenient."
Site safety considerations: Multi-level sites can present hazards for young children. "Many of the campsites are on a grade. They all have multiple levels with stairs and have no railings. We had 5 children <6 years of age and the sites were somewhat perilous," explains a family staying at Lake Fort Smith, providing specific advice about which sites (17-20 and 2-3) work better for families with small children.
Swimming options: Dedicated swimming areas at many locations provide safe water recreation. "The swim beach with drive up access" at Lost Bridge North was highlighted by one camper, while others noted some locations like Lake Fort Smith don't allow swimming in the lake but compensate with "a pool with a waterslide for the kids to play."
Tips from RVers
Site length variations: Eureka Springs KOA and similar glamping spots offer various pad sizes for different rigs. "Easy access for our Class A Motorhome and nice level lots with good separation between the sites," reports one RVer who appreciated the accommodation of larger vehicles at this premium glamping location.
Utility hookups: Water and electric connections vary significantly between locations and loops. "Basically every spot has water hookup EXCEPT the spots in the loop we were in," explains a camper at COE Beaver Lake Prairie Creek Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming specific site utilities when booking glamping reservations with RVs.
Accessibility challenges: Steep or narrow access roads at some glamping locations can be difficult for larger rigs. "Not really a place for a quick overnight, the road in is steep and crooked," warns an RVer about Lake Fort Smith State Park, providing practical access information for those considering luxury outdoor stays with larger vehicles.
