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Joplin Use Area: Lakeside Camping on Lake Ouachita

Experience pristine lakefront camping at Joplin Use Area on Lake Ouachita, offering scenic views and outdoor recreation in the Ouachita Mountains.

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Joplin Use Area, nestled on a peninsula in Lake Ouachita, offers a scenic camping experience with stunning lake views. Known for its pristine waters and access to outdoor activities, it's a popular spot for those seeking relaxation and adventure in the Ouachita Mountains.

A brief summary to Joplin Use Area

Local tips

  • Be sure to reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak season, as Joplin Use Area is a popular destination.
  • Bring water shoes, as the swim area can be rocky.
  • Consider bringing your own shade structure, as some campsites have limited shade.
  • If you plan to bring a boat, be aware that the boat ramp can get crowded, especially on weekends.
  • Pack insect repellent, as mosquitoes and ticks can be prevalent, especially during warmer months.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Mount Ida, AR, head east on Highway 270 for approximately 9.5 miles. Turn north onto Mountain Harbor Road and continue for about 2 miles. Turn left at the campground sign for Joplin Use Area. The final approach involves navigating the campground roads to your reserved campsite. Parking is available at each campsite. There are no tolls or mandatory access fees.

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Discover more about Joplin Use Area

Joplin Use Area is a popular campground located on Lake Ouachita near Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Situated on a slender peninsula, the campground offers 64 campsites with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Lake Ouachita, the largest lake completely within Arkansas, is known for its clear waters, making it a prime destination for water activities and recreation. The campground provides a range of amenities for a comfortable camping experience. Each campsite is equipped with a concrete table, ground grill, pedestal grill, lantern post, and shade. However, it's important to note that the campsites are not level, and caution is advised when setting up camp. The area is generally not recommended for large trailers or RVs with slide-outs. Amenities include flush toilets, potable water near the sites, showers, a boat ramp, a trailer dump station, a swim beach, and a fish cleaning station. Recreational opportunities abound at Joplin Use Area. Lake Ouachita is renowned for its water activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and scuba diving. The lake is home to various fish species, including bream, crappie, catfish, and bass. The surrounding Ouachita National Forest offers hiking trails and scenic drives. Nearby, Micah's Pointe provides a lookout platform with panoramic views of Lake Ouachita. The Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa is also nearby, offering additional amenities such as a full-service marina, boat rentals, and a restaurant.

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