Iron Mountain
4.09170 reviews729 CHANNEL ROAD, ARKADELPHIA, AR, 71923-9364, USA
Iron Mountain
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard electric and RV electric sites cost $20 per night in both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the southern shores of DeGray Lake, Iron Mountain Campground beckons adventurers to experience the natural beauty of Arkansas's Ouachita Mountain foothills. This lakeside retreat features 69 thoughtfully designed campsites, each equipped with electrical hookups to blend modern convenience with outdoor living. Whether you're pulling in with an RV or setting up a traditional tent camp, you'll find comfort in the campground's heated shower facilities and flush toilets. Just steps away, the marina invites you to launch your morning fishing expedition, while nearby hiking trails wind through forests that whisper stories of the ancient mountains.
Iron Mountain Campground accommodates various camping styles, including RV and tent camping. Primitive camping options are not specified, and there are no reports of cabins or group camping.
Historical SignificanceIron Mountain Campground serves as your gateway to two of Arkansas's most treasured landmarks. The sprawling Ouachita National Forest unfolds its ancient trails and hidden waterfalls just beyond your campsite, while the legendary Hot Springs National Park—America's oldest national park—awaits with its historic bathhouses and therapeutic waters. These neighboring attractions weave together centuries of Native American heritage, frontier history, and the timeless allure of natural healing springs that have drawn visitors since before recorded time.
Weather and SeasonsArkansas summers bring their signature warmth to Iron Mountain, with temperatures dancing in the balmy 80s—perfect for those refreshing lake swims and lazy afternoons under shaded canopies. As autumn paints the Ouachitas in brilliant golds and crimsons, the campground transforms into a cooler, more tranquil retreat. Fall's gentle temperatures and reduced rainfall create ideal conditions for hiking adventures and cozy campfire evenings, making it a favorite season among seasoned campers who know when nature puts on its finest show.
ElevationPerched gracefully in the rolling foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, Iron Mountain Campground offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain meets lake. This gentle elevation provides cooling breezes on summer evenings and spectacular vantage points for watching sunrise paint the water in shades of gold and pink.
Natural Features and SceneryDeGray Lake's crystal-clear waters stretch across an impressive 13,500 acres, creating a aquatic playground that mirrors the sky and surrounding forests. The campground sits where mixed woodlands of pine and hardwood cascade down rolling hills to meet the lake's edge, creating a diverse ecosystem that delights nature enthusiasts. Morning mists rise from the water to mingle with forest canopies, while the distinctive ridges and valleys of the Ouachita Mountains frame every view with their ancient, weathered beauty.
Geological RegionIron Mountain Campground claims its place in one of Arkansas's most geologically fascinating regions—the Ouachita Mountain foothills. Here, ancient rock formations tell stories millions of years in the making, while DeGray Lake shimmers as one of the region's five renowned Diamond Lakes, earning its reputation for remarkably clear waters that reveal hidden coves and submerged forests. This unique positioning on the lake's southern banks offers campers front-row seats to witness where mountain geology meets pristine waters, creating an ever-changing landscape of reflection and light.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and flush toilets are listed among the amenities.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some being spacious and accommodating larger RVs up to 44 ft, while others are reported as small and unlevel.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across campsites. Some users appreciated the distance between sites, while others noted close proximity leading to noise and disturbances.
Total Campsites69 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers recommend bringing leveling blocks for RVs, insect repellent for ants, and ensuring water tanks are filled before arrival due to the limited water availability at individual sites.
Best CampsitesSites in the 1-31 range are noted as being more level and spacious. Site 49 provides a great water view.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights within a rolling 30-day period. Extensions require approval.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One tent and one RV or two tents allowed per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in loops, with some offering lake views and others being closer to restroom facilities. Loops vary in accessibility and maintenance.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - November 30. Non-peak season from October 1 - November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during non-peak season, limited to unreserved sites.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and the first night's recreation fee is forfeited for late cancellations. Specific policies depend on timing relative to the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby DeGray Lake Resort State Park expands the options with golf courses and horseback riding.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails wind around the lake shore, with users describing them as moderate difficulty with scenic views. Some trails are noted for being poorly maintained and overgrown.Fishing
DeGray Lake is stocked with a variety of game fish, including hybrid striped bass, making it ideal for boat and bank fishing.Swimming
While the campground does not have a designated swimming beach, access to the lake allows for swimming. Some users found the lake edges challenging to access due to steep inclines.Biking
Mountain biking trails near the campground are described as excellent, with varying levels of difficulty and scenic routes.Boating
Boating is a significant draw at DeGray Lake. A full-service marina and boat ramps are available at the campground.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including birds and forest animals. Some users highlighted their enjoyment of birdwatching and nature observation.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are popular due to the lake's expansive area and marina facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Fireworks are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Between 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsAnt infestations are commonly reported by visitors, especially sugar ants. Uneven and unlevel sites might pose challenges for RV users.
Active alertsControlled burns may occur during certain times without prior notice, as reported by campers.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are closest in Arkadelphia, approximately 15 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but specific details regarding recycling are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on DeGray Lake, with direct access for boating and fishing. No designated swim beach nearby.
Common complaintsAnt infestations, unlevel campsites, outdated bathroom facilities, and lack of water hookups at individual sites are frequent complaints.
HostCamp hosts are available, but some reviews mention limited availability or responsiveness.
Campground Map
729 CHANNEL ROAD, ARKADELPHIA, AR, 71923-9364, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 30, take exit 78 and merge onto State Highway 7 north for 2.5 miles. Turn left onto Skyline Drive and continue for another 2.5 miles. Turn right on Iron Mountain Road and proceed to the campground.
Paved roads are available; however, roads are not well-marked, making nighttime navigation challenging based on user reviews. Seasonal closures affect certain loops during non-peak months.Nearby places
Arkadelphia - approximately 15 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Camping and grocery supplies are available in Arkadelphia, approximately 15 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
170 reviews
Iron Mountain is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Iron Mountain Campground are highly polarized. While some campers appreciate its scenic location and amenities, others criticize poor maintenance, unlevel sites, and pest issues. "This place could be spectacular but needs attention and investment," one user noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 170 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews often mention the campground's scenic beauty, peaceful atmosphere, clean showers, and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. "Quiet and serene," "spacious sites,"...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include unlevel and poorly maintained campsites, pest infestations (especially ants), dirty bathrooms, lack of water hookups at individual sites, and rude staff interactions....
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing pest control supplies due to ant infestations, leveling blocks for RVs, and sufficient water hoses because water spigots are not located at individual sites. Visitors also...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall receive the most positive reviews due to moderate weather and fewer crowds. Summer reviews frequently note issues with heat and pests, while winter reviews highlight serenity but...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The lake is wonderful; the campsites need improvement," "This campground has a rustic charm that we love," "I spent more time fighting ants than relaxing," and "Mountain biking trails are fantastic"...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 19 received praise for being shaded and spacious. Site 55 was criticized for being highly sloped. Site 18 was highlighted for its proximity to water spigots but noted for pest issues. Site 46...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible campsites and flush toilets are available, but specific feedback from users with disabilities is rare.
Based on 170 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users emphasized the importance of keeping dogs leashed due to incidents involving loose pets. "All pets must be penned, caged, or on a leash at all times" was cited from...
Based on 170 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025