Cabins near Story, Arkansas provide access to Lake Ouachita, the largest lake in Arkansas covering 40,000 acres with 975 miles of shoreline. The region experiences mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures and hot, humid summers where cabin air conditioning becomes essential. Most cabin rentals require advance booking during summer with peak season running Memorial Day through September.
What to do
Boat rentals at Lake Ouachita: Lake Ouachita offers excellent boating opportunities. At Lake Ouachita State Park Campground, "Kayak rental was cheap (and didn't charge extra for staying out longer!)" according to Amanda H. The lake's ragged shoreline creates numerous coves for exploration.
Waterfall hikes: Several hiking trails lead to scenic waterfalls. At Lake Catherine State Park Campground, the Falls Branch Trail offers a family-friendly experience. As visitor Alison C. notes, "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail."
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to observe native species. Visitor Lynn G. describes Lake Ouachita State Park as having "Exceptionally lovely views, good wildlife, amazing sunsets." The park's ranger programs often include wildlife education components.
What campers like
Cabin quality: The cabins at several campgrounds receive positive reviews for their comfort. Josh H. says about Lake Ouachita State Park: "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. The rangers were great and offered a variety of informational classes and hikes."
Lakefront sites: Many campers appreciate direct lake access. At Brady Mountain, Shiloh M. reported, "Beautiful campsite right on Lake Ouachita. Site 61 is right on the water. PROs: lake views, spacious camp, cell service." These lakefront sites often provide easier water access for swimming and fishing.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. Regarding Mount Magazine State Park Campground, Jennifer H. commented, "The bathrooms and showers were immaculate! Hiking was right next to the campground, so this made for a very fun, relaxing weekend!"
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain locations experience unique weather patterns. At Petit Jean State Park, weather can impact your stay. One visitor, Jill B., noted, "The during the days before we arrived, the area was hit by torrential rains. The weather cleared and I hiked down to the Cedar Falls trail to see the falls. The video is of the roaring falls. There is not typically so much flow."
Reservation timing: Most cabin accommodations require advance booking. This is particularly true for premium locations, as Ryan S. explains about Petit Jean: "A loop cons: very little shade. Would be rough in summer months without shade tents, awnings, etc. 'Stays booked 93% of the year' -Park Office. It's really hard to get a reservation if you don't book at least a year out in A loop."
Driving conditions: Access roads to some cabins can be challenging. Susan B. cautions about Brady Mountain: "The COE Brady Mountain Campground was beautiful, but 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."
Tips for camping with families
Hammock options: Multiple campsites accommodate hammock camping. At Petit Jean State Park, Sondra M. shares, "This is a great campground back in the trees. It was raining and we didn't get that wet due to the tree coverage."
Swimming opportunities: Lake access provides swimming options during summer months. Chelsea K. describes Lake Ouachita State Park: "Being so close to the water kept the temperature comfortable, and having direct access to the lake was perfect for swimming. Ducks and geese also made appearances that thrilled the kids."
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities add educational value. At Brady Mountain - Lake Ouachita, proximity to wildlife offers learning opportunities. As Lynn G. mentions about the area, "ranger programs, educational displays, swimming beach, cabins and traditional tent/RV camping. You can rent boats onsite and you will want to!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: Choose sites based on location and amenities. Carole G. advises about Brady Mountain: "Although the first campsites certainly looked quite close to each other, as you get further back into the campground the sites seemed to have more room. It was a mile drive from the entrance to our campsite # 62, but a lot shorter to exit."
Cell service variance: Connectivity varies significantly by location. About Brady Mountain, Shiloh M. notes "PROs: lake views, spacious camp, cell service." However, at other nearby campgrounds, service can be limited, with some visitors reporting the need for signal boosters.
Water access considerations: Not all sites provide equal water access. Don L. explains at Lake Ouachita State Park: "We stayed in A35 which is a triple A site with level site with all the trimmings! Wooded campsite with adequate shade, picnic table, fire pit and raised grilling station. It was very clean and well kept. We stayed on an inner site but several back up to Ouachita Lake."
