Cabins near Umpire, Arkansas provide convenient shelter along the western edge of the Ouachita Mountains where elevations range from 600 to 2,000 feet. Seasonal weather can be unpredictable with summer temperatures reaching into the 90s while winter nights often drop below freezing. Most cabin accommodations cluster within a 40-mile radius of Umpire, with the highest concentration along Highway 71 and near waterways.
What to do
Hiking and nature trails: Several pathways connect to the main Ouachita Trail near Queen Wilhelmina State Park, offering forest paths for various skill levels. "We hiked the Lover's Leap trail which was one mile and moderate with a nice lookout," notes one visitor. The trail system includes shorter loops and connections to longer routes.
Water activities: The Cossatot River provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking during appropriate water levels. "If you're wanting to be near the Cossatot River and take your RV, this is a good pick. The park is clean, has standard RV hookups, and the highway isn't full of noisy traffic," reports a camper at Cossatot River RV Park.
ATV trails: Wolf Pen Gap offers designated riding areas for off-road vehicles. A visitor to Wolfpen ATV Campground states, "If you coming to Wolf Pen Gap to ride this is your spot." The trail system includes routes of varying difficulty across rugged terrain.
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated position of cabins at Queen Wilhelmina State Park provides scenic vistas. "Beautiful vistas everywhere. Visited during summer of 2020 COVID lockdown. Small compact campground next to lodge. Pretty far from anything just a beautiful spot to sit back and enjoy," shares one reviewer.
Clean facilities: Many properties maintain well-kept bathroom and shower buildings. At CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, a camper notes, "The bathrooms and showers are spotless. The staff is extremely kind and helpful." Another reviewer adds there's "INSTANT hot water, no waiting for 10 minutes for luke warm water."
Peaceful environment: The relative isolation creates quiet camping conditions. "We liked our week long visit here. It was off the beaten path. Very quiet and peaceful," writes a Cossatot River RV Park visitor. The distance from major highways reduces traffic noise at most properties.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have spotty coverage depending on carrier. However, some campgrounds offer alternatives. Pioneer Campgrounds provides "great WiFi thanks to Starlink, which is a bonus when you need to stay a little connected," according to a recent review.
Varied cabin standards: Accommodation quality differs significantly between properties. At Wolfpen ATV Campground, a visitor notes, "They have cute looking cabins and the staff were very nice. If you have a fancy RV then this is your spot." Compare options carefully before booking.
Weather considerations: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. "We got rained out hours later. The manager (John) even wanted us to stay in a storm shelter room if the rain got worse," shares a tent camper at CMA Iron Mountain, highlighting the need for weather preparedness.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Some properties offer additional activities beyond hiking. At Pioneer Campgrounds, families can enjoy "a two-mile trail for walking or biking, volleyball and basketball courts, ping pong, and a fire pit for those perfect evening hangouts. The kids have room to run and explore."
Water safety: River conditions vary seasonally. A visitor to Caddo River Access RV Park reports, "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way."
Cabin allergies: Consider material sensitivities when booking. "I loved it price was right accommodations perfect BUT IF YOU HAVE CEDAR OR PINE ALLERGIES be warned, my wife couldn't as it made it most unpleasant for her," cautions a CMA Iron Mountain cabin guest.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on your rig size and needs. A visitor to Beavers Bend State Park Campground describes, "Buckeye campground is a newly renovated loop. The sites on the water are absolutely beautiful! Easy set up. Plenty of room for our 5th wheel and truck. Level concrete site."
Utility access: Hookup availability varies between properties. At KOA Mena/Ouachita National Forest Journey (formerly Shadow Mountain Campground), a reviewer notes, "Sewer hook ups on almost every site and a lot of trees and well shaded area, but little tight place and not well leveled."
Supply runs: Most cabin areas require driving for major groceries. "There are also a couple cabins in the back... There are ice machine on site, and basic necessities available at the office store," reports a CMA Iron Mountain visitor, while others recommend stocking up in larger towns like Mena before arrival.
