Perhaps we should clarify before moving forward with these unique camping options. It’s just about impossible to find an Arkansan who hates camping. We all find an unexplainable peace when we take the time to retreat to the woods. That being said, not everyone enjoys roughing it in a tent on a primitive site. Tents aren’t the only option for those of us that prefer a few more comforts of home while taking a retreat. Let’s scroll through these getaway options for a nontraditional camping adventure.
- DeGray Lake Resort State Park - Bismarck
Facebook/The State Parks of Arkansas DeGray Lake Resort State Park has just about every method of lodging possible. We’re particularly fond of their yurts since they’re skipping stone away from the water. The yurts here can sleep up to six people too!
Address: 2027 State Park Entrance Road, Bismarck, AR 71929
- Lakeshore Treehouse Resort - Diamond City
Facebook/Lakeshore Treehouse Resort Never worry about a soggy tent again after booking a night in the Lakeshore Treehouse Resort. The treehouses look out to Bull Shoals Lake and can accommodate couples to large groups.
Address: 1446 N Diamond Boulevard, Diamond City, AR 72644
- Wake Zone Luxury Houseboats - Lake Ouachita
Facebook/Wake Zone Luxury Houseboat Rentals Forgo the campsite completely with a truly unique lodging. The houseboats on Lake Ouachita can hold 10-16 people. Wake Zone also offers a grocery service, a captain if need be, and a ton of water toy rentals.
Address: 1649 N Crystal Springs Road, Royal, AR 71968
- Diamond John’s Riverside Retreat - Murfreesboro
Diamond John’s Riverside Retreat This may not be a luxurious glamping experience but the teepees are a fun tent-alternative. The queen size beds, A/C, and TV make a classic camp out even more enjoyable.
Address: 81 Roy Road., Murfreesboro, AR 71958
- StoneWind Retreat - Chester
Facebook/StoneWind Retreat Sure, you could pitch a tent at Lake Fort Smith State Park but why go to the trouble when this yurt resort is just down the road? StoneWind Retreat is the perfect backdrop for a luxurious glamping experience with a hot tub looking out over the mountainside, in-yurt massages, and ongoing classes.
Address: 15840 Wilson Branch Drive, Chester, AR 72934
- The Lodge - Paris
Facebook/Lodges of Arkansas We realize it’s nearly blasphemous to say but we prefer the lodge over camping at Mount Magazine State Park. Enjoy all of the natural beauty of the peak without worrying with the hassle of pitching a tent. The other hikers will be none the wiser to your luxurious sleeping arrangement.
Address: 577 Lodge Drive, Paris, AR 72855
- Buffalo Outdoor Center - Ponca
Facebook/Buffalo Outdoor Center Everyone needs to experience a pitched tent along the Buffalo National River. However, after that camping trip you definitely need to plan a stay at one of these nearby cabins. The Buffalo Outdoor Center has cabins located deep in the forest or alongside the river.
Address: 4699 AR-43 Highway, Ponca, AR 72670
- Devil’s Den State Park - West Fork
Facebook/The State Parks of Arkansas These camper cabins are another great alternative to camping with some mild upgrades. You won’t be fighting off mosquitoes or a chilly ground at these screened cabins. Their simple enhancements make quite the difference!
Address: 11333 AR-74, West Fork, AR 72774
Which of these places would you like to camp at? Share your favorites with us in the comments below!
Facebook/The State Parks of Arkansas
DeGray Lake Resort State Park has just about every method of lodging possible. We’re particularly fond of their yurts since they’re skipping stone away from the water. The yurts here can sleep up to six people too!
Address: 2027 State Park Entrance Road, Bismarck, AR 71929
Facebook/Lakeshore Treehouse Resort
Never worry about a soggy tent again after booking a night in the Lakeshore Treehouse Resort. The treehouses look out to Bull Shoals Lake and can accommodate couples to large groups.
Address: 1446 N Diamond Boulevard, Diamond City, AR 72644
Facebook/Wake Zone Luxury Houseboat Rentals
Forgo the campsite completely with a truly unique lodging. The houseboats on Lake Ouachita can hold 10-16 people. Wake Zone also offers a grocery service, a captain if need be, and a ton of water toy rentals.
Address: 1649 N Crystal Springs Road, Royal, AR 71968
Diamond John’s Riverside Retreat
This may not be a luxurious glamping experience but the teepees are a fun tent-alternative. The queen size beds, A/C, and TV make a classic camp out even more enjoyable.
Address: 81 Roy Road., Murfreesboro, AR 71958
Facebook/StoneWind Retreat
Sure, you could pitch a tent at Lake Fort Smith State Park but why go to the trouble when this yurt resort is just down the road? StoneWind Retreat is the perfect backdrop for a luxurious glamping experience with a hot tub looking out over the mountainside, in-yurt massages, and ongoing classes.
Address: 15840 Wilson Branch Drive, Chester, AR 72934
Facebook/Lodges of Arkansas
We realize it’s nearly blasphemous to say but we prefer the lodge over camping at Mount Magazine State Park. Enjoy all of the natural beauty of the peak without worrying with the hassle of pitching a tent. The other hikers will be none the wiser to your luxurious sleeping arrangement.
Address: 577 Lodge Drive, Paris, AR 72855
Facebook/Buffalo Outdoor Center
Everyone needs to experience a pitched tent along the Buffalo National River. However, after that camping trip you definitely need to plan a stay at one of these nearby cabins. The Buffalo Outdoor Center has cabins located deep in the forest or alongside the river.
Address: 4699 AR-43 Highway, Ponca, AR 72670
These camper cabins are another great alternative to camping with some mild upgrades. You won’t be fighting off mosquitoes or a chilly ground at these screened cabins. Their simple enhancements make quite the difference!
Address: 11333 AR-74, West Fork, AR 72774
If you don’t mind pitching a tent, check out these campgrounds where no reservations are required.
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