Glamping sites near Wickes, Arkansas sit at elevations between 1,400-2,600 feet within the Ouachita Mountain range, offering cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The region receives approximately 56 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests dominated by shortleaf pine and various hardwoods. Most glamping locations maintain usable sites year-round, though winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fly fishing adventures: Beaver's Bend State Park offers exceptional opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts within an hour's drive from Wickes. "Even though I didn't catch anything my first time out fly fishing, the tranquil scenery made up for it," notes Mickey B. from Beavers Bend State Park Campground.
Hiking the lake perimeter: Cedar Lake features a complete trail circling the water's edge with moderate terrain suitable for most hikers. "There is a fishing dock and a trail that goes around the entire perimeter of the lake," reports Amelia S. who stayed at Cedar Lake and observed "a ton of wild turkeys and two cottonmouth snakes" during her hike.
Diamond hunting: For a unique day trip from your glamping base, Crater of Diamonds State Park allows visitors to search for real diamonds. "The best time to take a trip to the Arkansas diamond fields is after a heavy rainstorm," advises Prospector J. from Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground, adding "you will get muddy during your visit so always wear appropriate clothes and shoes."
What campers like
Peaceful forest settings: Glamping in the Wickes area provides exceptional quiet and privacy. "What a quiet & wonderful campground! Would recommend!" shares Frankie B. about their experience at Beavers Bend State Park Campground, highlighting the tranquility that draws many to luxury camping in the region.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The abundant wildlife creates memorable encounters for glampers. "Deer were everywhere in the evening," reports Sherry S. after a stay at Boondockers Landing, adding that despite crowds, "Beavers bend never disappoints!"
Clean, modern facilities: Luxury glamping sites maintain high standards for bathrooms and showers. "Bathrooms and showers are spotless. The staff is extremely kind and helpful," notes Norbert B. about CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground, where he tent camped off his motorcycle.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Wickes require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Parker Creek on Lake Greeson, one camper noted, "Super quiet, almost had the place to ourselves," but this varies seasonally, with Jo E. reporting the sites were "HUGE and there were very few other campers."
Allergy considerations: Cedar and pine allergies can impact your glamping experience in this heavily forested region. "Always go to the CMA rally's but have stayed offsite usually... BUT IF YOU HAVE CEDAR OR PINE ALLERGIES be warned, my wife couldn't as it made it most unpleasant for her," cautions Rick P. about his stay at CMA Iron Mountain Cabins and Campground.
Weather variability: The Ouachita Mountains create localized weather patterns with frequent rainfall. "It rained a lot during our stay but we were not bothered at all since there was no mud around us," mentions Bonnie B. after staying at Parker Creek Lake Greeson, highlighting the importance of well-drained glamping sites.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple lakes and rivers provide family-friendly water activities. "We had a great time canoeing on the river," shares Sherry S. about her family's experience at Beavers Bend State Park Campground, adding it was "crowded but to be expected" during summer weekends.
Spacious sites for group activities: Families need room to spread out during glamping trips. "The sites on the water are absolutely beautiful! Easy set up. Plenty of room for our 5th wheel and truck. Level concrete site," reports Bonnie B. about Parker Creek Lake Greeson, ideal for family gatherings.
Shower facilities: When glamping with kids, clean shower facilities become essential. The bathrooms at Cedar Lake "were relatively clean," according to Amelia S., who appreciated that "each site has a tent pad, picnic table, grill, lantern poles, fire pit, parking spot and small counter-like food prep area."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RVers should prepare for variable site conditions at Wickes-area glamping locations. "The campground areas are set up to maximize the areas available for camping - thus they are all close quarters," notes Charles H. about Beavers Bend State Park Campground, adding "the facilities are clean and modern but not centrally located within the camping areas."
Hookup availability: Full service sites can be limited at some glamping locations. "All camper sites have 50A, 30A & 15A service along with water, with really good water pressure," reports Archie S. about his stay at Daisy State Park Campground, which also provides "hot shower and clean bathrooms to boot."
After-hours check-in process: Late arrivals should understand each glamping site's procedures. At CMA Iron Mountain, Rocky F. was pleasantly surprised when an employee "directed us to go find a comfortable tent spot, set it up and they would get with us later on the payment. He stressed there was no urgency, which was very appreciated!"
