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Ouachita Lake - COE/Tompkins Bend
Overview
Tompkins Bend at Lake Ouachita offers a serene escape managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Nestled on the western shores of Arkansas’s largest lake, this campground provides a quiet retreat surrounded by the lush greenery of the Ouachita National Forest. It is widely regarded for its well-maintained sites and breathtaking views of the water, making it a staple for travelers visiting the Mount Ida region who seek a peaceful, nature-focused stay.
Location & Surroundings
Located just a short drive from the town of Mount Ida, the park sits on a peninsula that provides ample shoreline access. The surrounding area is defined by rolling hills and deep woods, offering a sense of seclusion from busy highways. The pristine water quality of Lake Ouachita is a primary draw here, as the lack of heavy residential development along the shore preserves its natural, rugged character and allows for incredible stargazing opportunities at night.
Amenities & Park Features
While the sites are more rustic than commercial resorts, they feature electric hookups and provide paved pads that accommodate a variety of rig sizes. The park includes essential facilities for comfortable stays, including:
- Boat ramps and easy dock access for water recreation.
- Flush toilets and heated shower facilities.
- A playground area for families traveling with children.
- A central dump station and water fill-up points.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Mount Ida is famously known as the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, so visitors often enjoy digging for treasures at nearby public crystal mines. Beyond the park, travelers can explore the extensive hiking and biking trails of the surrounding forest. For a unique day trip, the historic bathhouses and thermal springs of Hot Springs National Park are within a reasonable driving distance, offering a blend of outdoor history and urban convenience.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families who prioritize natural beauty over luxury resort amenities. Anglers and boaters will find the easy water access invaluable, while those seeking peace and quiet will appreciate the spaced-out campsites and minimal noise. If you enjoy a traditional camping experience where the lake and the forest are the main attractions, Tompkins Bend is a perfect fit for your Arkansas itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Hannah Nunez
We reserved tent site 64, D for 3 nights over July 4th weekend. It’s right across the road from the lake, with beautiful views and tall trees. The campsite was spacious, and it had everything we needed to have a comfortable stay. Bathrooms, hot showers, fire ring, picnic table, and kind campground hosts. The best part was that the other campers / RV guests were very respectful of quiet hours. Highly recommend booking here.
James Johnson-Taylor
Our experience at Tompkins Ben Campground was amazing. We rented Spott 44 on Loop C. It was right on the water and amazing to camp at. The stars were bright and shining. As you walk along the campsite there is quartz laying everywhere. The water seemed really nice in the lake even though we didn't go in. The people camping next to us were floating it and swam in it. Even had people boating camping near us. The park is so clean and the on-site boat was really friendly. We plan on making another trip out there cause of how beautiful it really was.
Molly Miner
Worth the trip! Gorgeous area. Make sure to camp away from the dock! Fishermen are early risers, just incase you arent! 36+ are further down the campgrounds. Stunning views in every space.
Stacy Miller
We always love it here! People are great and there's lots of nature to explore. Fantastic place right on the lake.
Jim B
Second time to camp there, been several years in between. Large campground with electric and water hook ups, along with a dump station. We went in mid November and most of the leaves were down off the trees and it was still very beautiful. We saw an abundance of bald eagles flowing over the lake behind our site, and managed to get a not so good picture of a juvenile bald eagle resting in a tree behind our site. Also heard woodpeckers and loons making a lot of noise.
Desha Tinerella
Beautiful spot on the Ouachita. Cleanest campground bathrooms & showers I've ever seen in my life. Will definitely be back.
Mark Roche
Nice COE campground. Pretty clean bathrooms and shower area. Bring your own map, print one out. Quiet place. Good dark sky area.
Country Girl
A lot of shade which was not my kind of camping. But it had very clean bathrooms. Ouachita lake is by far the cleanest and most beautiful lake I have ever been on a sight to see for sure. I'm from Michigan.