Cabins near Hodgen, Oklahoma sit within the scenic Ouachita Mountains, where elevations range from 500 to 2,500 feet. This region experiences four distinct seasons with mild winters and warm summers, typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowland areas. Most cabin accommodations in this area require advance reservations year-round, with peak occupancy during spring wildflower season and October leaf-viewing weeks.
What to do
Hiking around Cedar Lake: The 2-mile trail encircling Cedar Lake offers accessible terrain for most skill levels. "There is a really fun trail that runs right around the entire lake, and it's a little over two miles. Nearly all natural terrain throughout the hike which makes it especially nice," notes Patrick G. from Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground.
Birdwatching at Lake Wister: Multiple observation points around the lake provide excellent bird habitat viewing. "Birdwatching is pretty good. Check out Spiro Mounds and Heavener Runestone, less than an hour's drive from Wister Lake," writes Donna H. from Victor Campground.
Scenic driving routes: The Talimena Scenic Drive offers numerous overlooks with mountain vistas. Kelly Z. mentions, "Lots of great hiking trails nearby and the Talimena scenic drive is beautiful, especially in the fall."
What campers like
Fishing access: Several cabin properties offer direct lakefront access for anglers. "We stayed here in a duplex cabin and could just fish right out our back door. They have hiking trails and 2 private lakes," explains Cynthia H. from Long Lake Resort.
Fall foliage viewing: The mountain elevations provide exceptional autumn color displays, typically peaking mid-October through early November. "It's wonderful in the fall when the leaves are changing, the days are cooler, and the nights are perfect for gathering around a camp fire," shares Danielle L.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-equipped bathhouses. "Clean showers with hot water, swimming for the kids and a playground. There are sites for people with horses also," reports Cathy P. from Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground.
What you should know
Campground closures: Seasonal maintenance may affect availability. "Cedar Lake is going to be closed for few weeks during Fall of 2019 for maintenance and repairs. I would be sure and call office before traveling there in hopes of camping!" advises Susan F.
Firewood availability: Sources vary widely between properties. "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. We drove about 30 mins to the closest 'town' to get firewood from a gas station quick stop," explains Missy G.
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers unique experiences with fewer crowds. "Very pretty campground, clean and relatively quiet this time of year. A very few campers here the week of Christmas 2020. Firewood available at the camp host site," notes Donna H. from Victor Campground — Lake Wister State Park.
Tips for camping with families
On-site recreation options: Several cabin locations offer additional activities for children. "The camp sites were great and hiking trails were within the park so we didn't need to drive anywhere. The fire ring was great with the added grill top," shares Missy G.
Swimming access: Multiple properties provide swimming areas with varying amenities. "Swimming for the kids and a playground. There are sites for people with horses also. And you can go up on the mountain to catch the views," notes Cathy P.
Child-friendly cabin locations: Some properties organize cabin layouts specifically for family groups. "We went in the early fall so too cool to enjoy the small lakes but our campsite had great views of one of the lakes," reports David P. from Robbers Cave State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy between sites. "The sites were good on every loop, more trees on some," shares N L. from Victor Campground.
Electric service details: Most cabin and RV sites offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability. "The RV area looked new because all of the power boxes had 50/30 and 120 outlets and breakers which is super cool. All of the sites had sewer and water connections too," notes Cynthia H.
Level site availability: Mountain terrain impacts site conditions at many properties. "We just stayed 3 nights in space 23. Level asphalt lots but spaced kinda wonky. Shady," reports Brenda A. from Queen Wilhelmina State Park.
