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Tompkins Bend Campground: Lakeside Camping at its Finest

Experience lakeside camping at Tompkins Bend Campground on Lake Ouachita, offering scenic views, water activities, and access to the Ouachita National Forest.

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Nestled on the shores of Lake Ouachita, Tompkins Bend Campground offers a scenic and well-equipped camping experience. With 77 campsites, including options for tents and RVs, visitors can enjoy water activities, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife in the Ouachita National Forest.

A brief summary to Tompkins Bend Campground

Local tips

  • Book your campsite well in advance, especially if visiting during the peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Bring your own firewood to avoid transporting pests and help protect the forest.
  • Take advantage of the lake's clear waters for swimming, boating, and fishing.
  • Explore the nearby Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) for hiking and biking opportunities.
  • Be aware of the local wildlife, including bobcats, black bears and deer.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Tompkins Bend Campground is accessible by car. From Hot Springs, take US 270 west for approximately 24.5 miles to Tompkins Bend Road. Turn right and follow the road 2.4 miles north to the campground. From Mount Ida, take US 270 east for about 10.7 miles to Tompkins Bend Road. Turn left and follow the road 2.4 miles north to the campground. Parking is available at the campground, but it can be limited during peak season. Expect to pay around $5 for a day pass if you are not camping.

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Discover more about Tompkins Bend Campground

Tompkins Bend Campground, located on the shores of Lake Ouachita near Mt. Ida, Arkansas, is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this well-maintained campground offers a variety of campsites suitable for both RV and tent camping. The campground's location on Lake Ouachita provides stunning lake views and easy access to water activities. Lake Ouachita, the largest lake completely within Arkansas, spans over 40,000 acres and is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and scuba diving. Anglers can find various fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. The campground itself features 77 campsites, many of which are equipped with electric and water hookups. Each site includes a picnic table, grill, and fire ring. Amenities such as flush toilets, hot showers, a dump station, and a fish cleaning station add to the convenience of the camping experience. A playground is also available for children. Tompkins Bend is also ideally situated for exploring the surrounding Ouachita National Forest. Hiking and biking trails, including the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), offer opportunities to explore the area's natural beauty. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bobcats, black bears, deer, and bald eagles in the area. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Campsite fees vary depending on the type of site and amenities.

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