Cabin rentals near Benton, Missouri offer options from rustic forest lodging to lake-adjacent accommodations. The area sits at the northern edge of the Ozark foothills where the Mississippi River floodplain transitions to higher elevations. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months average 75-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Wildlife observation at lakes: South Campground at Reelfoot Lake State Park provides excellent bird watching opportunities. "This is a lovely park with wide asphalt and level spaces, water and electricity hookup. We snagged a lakeside spot and listened to the water lapping up against the bank while we slept," notes Cheryl C. The lake's shallow, cypress-filled waters attract diverse bird species year-round.
Water recreation beyond swimming: Ridge Campground at Lake Wappapello State Park offers excellent kayaking options. "The family had a lot of fun! We kayaked around the lake and had a blast!" writes Donna M. The lake permits motorized boats with multiple access points for launching watercraft.
Hiking through diverse terrain: Cabin guests can access numerous trails within a 30-minute drive. "There are 21 miles of trails throughout the park and a large lake. The attractions are all relatively close to the road (cave, 'hidden' spring, and trout streams)," explains Atlanta D. about Devils Backbone Park. Many trails connect cabin areas to fishing spots and swimming areas.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained showers and restrooms rank high with visitors staying in cabins near Benton. "This is a great state park campground. They have electric sites, and water is available but you need to fill your tank before setting up camp. Sites are flat and most are pull through," explains Joel R. about Giant City State Park Campground.
Shade coverage: Mature trees provide relief from summer heat at many locations. "Very well kept and clean campground. Great big trees, very shaded, great store. Decorated for Halloween and very kid friendly," notes Never Sitting S. about Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney. Tree coverage varies significantly between sites, with some lake-facing cabins having less shade than forest cabins.
Accessibility to amenities: Most cabin sites include nearby bathrooms and shower facilities. "Campground is well layed out with everything well marked. The campsites all have Blacktop drives With concrete pads for picnic tables," reports Staci R. Washroom facilities typically include flush toilets and hot showers, with most cabin areas providing ADA-accessible options.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Pack appropriate bug protection, especially for waterfront cabins. "Stayed for the night on the south campground and it was excellent. Lots of friendly people with locals and travelers alike. Only downside was the massive amount of gnats and mosquitoes by the lake sites," warns Justin F. Ticks are common in grassy areas from April through October.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying sites can experience water issues after heavy rain. "Sites 22, 24, 25, 70 backup to the forest and have lots of room to set up tents, however they are the first to flood and stay wet longer," cautions Mia S. Elevated cabin options with proper drainage are available at most locations.
Water access limitations: Not all waterfront cabins provide direct water access. "The ones near the lake have views but don't have water access," explains Mia S. about The Landing Point RV Park. Access points for swimming and boating are typically centralized in designated areas rather than directly from cabin sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow swimming areas with beach access work well for younger children. "Lake has sandy beaches. Small playset in the water for kids," explains Brasley C. about Whippoorwill Lake Campground Resort. Most lake facilities maintain designated swimming zones separated from boating areas.
Playground accessibility: Many cabin areas include nearby playground equipment. "This campground had a lot of families, a simple but age appropriate playground (ages 5-12), and many spots with views of the lake," notes Maggie about South Campground. Distance from cabins to play areas varies by location.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs and nature walks. "We did a bird watching tour that was incredible, we got close to so many different species," shares Lynn G. Weekend programs typically run May through September with sign-up sheets available at ranger stations.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Some cabin areas offer more privacy than others. "Sites are intermingled in the trees and it is spectacular in the morning," writes Jamey W. about Perryville RV Resort. Sites numbered in the 40s at Giant City State Park Campground typically provide more separation between units.
Hookup limitations: Even full-service cabins may have restricted utility access. "Awesome place to camp. Lots of wildlife to see. Nice beach, swimming area with great access to boat ramp. However no full hookups at campsites only electric you must fill your water tank at the different hydrants scattered around the campground," explains Jeremyliz P. Water fill stations are typically located near entrance areas.
Winter accessibility: Several parks remain open year-round with heated cabin options. "We stayed Easter Weekend here in the campground and had a great time. The campground is clean and maintained. Some sites are gravel and some are asphalt," reports Shana D. about Giant City State Park Campground. Winter cabin reservations often require longer minimum stays.
