Cabins near Waldron, Arkansas provide access to the Ouachita Mountain range, with elevations reaching 2,753 feet at Mount Magazine, the highest point in the state. Winter temperatures at higher elevations run 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas, while summer offers relief from valley heat. Most cabin properties require 2-3 day advance booking during peak seasons from April through November.
What to do
Hiking on Mount Magazine: The trails offer varying difficulty levels with significant elevation changes. "The hike up to the highest point in Arkansas is easy and family friendly for kids," notes a visitor at Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Hang gliding launches: Mount Magazine provides designated launch areas for hang gliders seeking mountain views. According to a camper, "Mount Magazine boasts as one of the top spots for fall foliage," making it popular for aerial activities during autumn months.
Lake activities: Cove Lake offers water recreation options just minutes from mountain cabins. "The swimming area is pretty large and nice. I like that the beach area is just a big grassy area," reports a guest at Ozark National Forest Cove Lake Campground.
ATV trails: Rentals available for exploring the 170 miles of OHV trails in Ouachita National Forest. "If you coming to Wolf Pen Gap to ride this is your spot," says a visitor to Wolfpen ATV Campground.
What campers like
Mountaintop views: The higher elevation cabins provide panoramic vistas. "The views ARE the reason to experience this park! They are simply delicious!" shares a camper at Mount Magazine State Park Campground.
Secluded forest settings: Many cabins offer privacy within wooded areas. A visitor at Cove Lake Complex notes, "Sites are extremely spacious and well spaced from each other, and would feel even more private later in the season when the trees are full."
Motorcycle-friendly access: The mountain roads attract riders who appreciate cabin lodging. A guest at Shadow Mountain Campground reports, "I rode my motorcycle and tent camped for 4 days and three nights. Camp road conditions very good, I have a touring model bike."
Family gathering spaces: Several properties offer community areas. "Pioneer Campgrounds has hosted 8 family reunions and 7 Boy Scout / Girl Scout Troops in 2023. Great place to camp. Clean cabins, brand new bathrooms, large dining hall and kitchen area."
What you should know
Temperature variations: Pack layers regardless of season. "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," warns a camper at Mount Magazine.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically by location and provider. "TMobile 3 bars at site 17, Verizon lower..." reports a guest at Mount Magazine, while other areas have no service.
Reservation requirements: Sites fill quickly during peak seasons. At Queen Wilhelmina State Park, "You should also look at reservations during peak seasons as the limited availability will make this park fill up fast."
Wood availability: Local sources for firewood may be limited. A camper at Cedar Lake noted, "It was difficult to get fire wood. The campground didn't have any available but a local stated we could call a guy who would deliver some - we didn't have cell service so that wasn't an option."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for weather shifts: Mountain elevations experience sudden changes. "We stayed 3 nights in space 23. Level asphalt lots but spaced kinda wonky. Shady. I wish it had sewer," shares a Mount Magazine visitor.
Consider cabin allergies: Wood construction may trigger reactions. A visitor at CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground cautions, "We rented a bunk cabin for the USCA rally and 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."
Look for designated kid areas: Some properties offer playgrounds. "Peaceful, quiet, and perfect for our family! There's a peaceful creek, a two-mile trail for walking or biking, volleyball and basketball courts, ping pong, and a fire pit for those perfect evening hangouts," notes a family at Pioneer Campgrounds.
Bathroom accessibility: Facilities vary widely between properties. At Cove Lake Complex, a visitor mentions, "Bathrooms are simple pit toilets, but clean and well-maintained."
Tips from RVers
Limited sewer hookups: Many sites offer electric and water only. "We wish it had sewer. We also looked for a nearby lake to fish or kayak but nothing unless you go to Iron Fork Lake which is down the mountain," reports a Mount Magazine camper.
Campsite spacing: Some RV areas are more congested than others. At Queen Wilhelmina, a reviewer notes, "The campground for the most part is one single road with many camp spots on each side."
Site leveling challenges: Mountain terrain creates uneven pads. A visitor mentions, "Very nice staff and close to Mena and Ouachita national park. Sewer hook ups on almost every site and a lot of trees and well shaded area, but little tight place and not well leveled."
Mountain road navigation: Large RVs face steep ascents. "Pretty good tow up the mountain. Limited number of sites. Full hookup. A lot of trees," shares an RV camper at Mount Magazine.
