Cabin camping near Wickes, Arkansas provides easy access to the Ouachita Mountains, with elevations reaching over 2,400 feet in nearby ranges. The area receives approximately 54 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests and diverse wildlife habitats. Most cabin rentals in the region are located within 30 minutes of Wickes, with peak occupancy occurring between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several cabin properties offer direct access to hiking paths. At CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, visitors can explore the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. As one camper noted, "Located in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, 7 miles south of Mena. Just a short ride to the Wolf Pen Gap trail system."
Water activities: The Cossatot River provides opportunities for kayaking and swimming within a short drive from most cabin rentals. According to a visitor at Cossatot River RV Park, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Wickes cabins support diverse wildlife. At Queen Wilhelmina State Park, campers frequently spot deer in the evenings. A reviewer mentioned, "Deer were everywhere in the evening. Def will be back, beavers bend never disappoints!"
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many cabin properties around Wickes offer a tranquil atmosphere. A visitor at KOA Mena/Ouachita National Forest Journey shared, "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."
Clean facilities: Cabin cleanliness ranks high among visitor priorities. At Pioneer Campgrounds, a reviewer appreciated that "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."
Recreation options: Many cabin locations offer on-site activities. At Tiny Town Oklahoma, a guest mentioned, "The property itself is small but does offer a few amenities including a restroom and laundry as well as a small play facility. The big draw to this area is the quick and easy access to beavers Bend State Park."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin properties require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Beavers Bend State Park Campground, visitors should plan ahead as one camper noted, "We were able to secure a campsite at the last minute. It was crowded but to be expected."
Weather considerations: The mountain elevation affects temperature and conditions. A visitor at Queen Wilhelmina State Park commented, "Beautiful vistas everywhere. Visited during summer of 2020 COVID lockdown. Small compact campground next to lodge."
Facility limitations: Not all cabin properties offer the same amenities. At Wolfpen ATV Campground, a guest observed, "They say they have full hook up but sewer is on your way out - not at the site, internet and phone is at their general store only. The restrooms are clean, but rough."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: When traveling with children, cabins near water features provide additional activities. At Beavers Bend State Park, families appreciate that "The swimming area is river water so it's great in the hottest part of summer because it's nice and cool."
On-site recreation: Look for cabins with built-in entertainment. A family staying at Secluded Acres Cabin Rentals enjoyed the "western style miniature golf, ice cream parlor, gift shop and western mock up photo booth."
Cabin size considerations: Family groups should check accommodation capacity carefully. At Tiny Town Oklahoma, options range widely as "The offering of cabin rentals varies from humble three person dwellings all the way up to a 20 person Deck-A-Saurus."
Tips from RVers
Motorcycle accessibility: For those bringing motorcycles to cabin locations, road conditions matter. A visitor at Tiny Town Oklahoma noted, "Really just to sleep. Road noise is an issue if you are in an RTT/Tent. RV users may not notice."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects road conditions to cabins. A motorcyclist at KOA Mena/Ouachita National Forest Journey shared, "I rode my motorcycle and tent camped for 4 days and three nights. Camp road conditions very good, I have a touring model bike."
Proximity to services: When selecting a cabin, consider distance to necessities. At CMA Iron Mountain Cabins, a guest appreciated that it's "located right off of Hwy 71 for easy access. Plenty of room for big rigs. Just a short ride to the Wolf Pen Gap trail system."
