Glamping accommodations near Gateway, Arkansas provide private retreats within the Ozark Mountains at elevations between 1,200-1,400 feet. The region features distinct seasonal changes with fall colors typically peaking in late October through early November. Many luxury camping sites are positioned along the shores of Beaver Lake with water access directly from campsites.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Just a short drive from Lake Leatherwood City Park, visitors can discover unique attractions. According to one camper, "It's a beautiful place and family friendly for sure" with plenty of outdoor activities around Eureka Springs.
Paddle on Beaver Lake: The 500-mile shoreline offers multiple launch points for kayaking and canoeing. A visitor at Prairie Creek (AR) noted, "There is a lot to do if you are a family and like to spend time on the lake. There are nice recreational areas with play equipment, pavilions and beach volley ball."
Visit local museums: The region has several cultural sites including the Daisy AirGun Museum. One reviewer at Prairie Creek suggested, "While you are here, head into town which is super cute and home to the Daisy AirGun Museum!"
Mountain biking: The area features extensive trail networks. A visitor to Blowing Springs RV Park & Campsites shared, "Such easy access to the Back 40 and Slaughter Pen mountain bike trails! We get on our bikes and ride all day and then come back and enjoy the peaceful campground!"
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: Many luxury camping options provide direct water access. A camper at Horseshoe Bend Rec Area & Campground reported, "Gorgeous lake with lots of lakefront sites. Several bathhouses. Some with vault toilets but some with flush toilets and showers."
Private settings: The terrain creates natural separation between sites. A visitor to Lost Bridge North remarked, "When the trees leaf out I'm guessing you still would have good privacy. No water hook ups at the site but 30 amp hook up made it very comfortable."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities receive consistent praise. One reviewer noted about Blowing Springs, "The keypad coded bathhouse and laundry are also located in this area (keeps out the general public)."
Natural features: The combination of water and woodland creates diverse habitats. A camper at Horseshoe Bend observed, "Quiet and good spacing between sites. Deer roaming around throughout."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. A reviewer at COE Beaver Lake Prairie Creek Campground advised, "Be prepared with as many leveling blocks as you can bring if you have a trailer. All spots seemed to have unlevel pads."
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping options have limited operating seasons. Holiday Island Camp Ground typically operates during warmer months with reduced services in winter.
Utility limitations: Water access varies by site. A camper at Horseshoe Bend noted, "None of the sites have water hookups and the showers were awful. The stalls were filthy and too small so everything you bring with you gets soaked."
Navigation challenges: The rural setting can make locating some sites difficult. A visitor to Rocky Branch Campground reported, "Camp host was impossible to locate to get a parking pass. We looked for an hour and a half."
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated play areas: Several glamping sites offer dedicated children's spaces. A visitor to Holiday Island Camp Ground shared, "It is a beautiful area to camp in and Eureka Springs is only 10 minutes away. Additionally you are 10-20 minutes from pretty much everything you would want to do including Table Rock Lake, Beaver Lake and White river."
Check swimming access: Not all water areas are suitable for children. One camper at Rocky Branch noted, "Swim beach is okay. Make sure to pack water shoes. There isn't sand and it is very rocky."
Consider age-appropriate hiking options: The area offers trails with varying difficulty levels. A visitor to Lake Leatherwood described, "There is a great trail system in this park, so be sure to take a hike or three."
Pack for temperature fluctuations: The elevation causes significant day-to-night temperature changes. A camper at Lost Bridge North mentioned, "Shower house is clean and nice size. With a small game room with pool table."
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions: Many glamping sites have length restrictions. A visitor to Prairie Creek warned, "The sites in the 90's seem to be very short with the exception of 94. Can't wait to come back."
Plan for water fills: Not all sites offer direct hookups. One RVer at Horseshoe Bend advised, "Sites have electric but not water so fill your tank before you come."
Check for accessibility: The terrain presents challenges for larger vehicles. A camper at Rocky Branch noted, "The upper sites are tough to negotiate and are not very level. Large Motorhomes are not recommended for these sites."
Locate dumping stations: Full hookups are limited at many campgrounds. A visitor at COE Beaver Lake noted, "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is there is no sewer hook ups. There is however a dump station on site."
