Denby Point

4.51

579 reviews

119 Ouachita Shores Parkway

FishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Hot Springs National Park Hiking Camping Arkansas Swimming Camping Arkansas +2 more

Quick Facts

686 ft

Price

$14 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

67 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to D...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

686 ft

Price

$14 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

67 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to D...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Denby Point

$14.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $14 for tent-only non-electric sites to $30 for standard electric sites, depending on the season. Group sites cost $60-$65. Fees do...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

870-867-4475lakeouachita@usace.army.mil

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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 579 reviews

93 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspaciouslake

"User reviews for Denby Point are generally positive, with many praising the scenic views, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities. Some reviewers expressed concerns about outdated facilities, inconsistent maintenance, and accessibility challenges. Overall, the campground has a high average sentiment rating of 4.4."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

119 Ouachita Shores Parkway

Denby Point

119 Ouachita Shores Parkway

Driving directionsFrom Hot Springs, Arkansas, take US 270 west about 26.5 miles to Ouachita Shores Parkway. Turn right and follow access road one mile north to park. From Mount Ida, Arkansas, take US 270 east approximately 9.5 miles to Ouachita Shores Parkway. Turn left on access road one mile to park.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, as indicated in the driving directions. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain have been explicitly mentioned.

Nearby places

Hot Springs, AR (26.5 miles, approximately 30 minutes)

Mount Ida, AR (9.5 miles, approximately 15 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Mount Ida (about 9.5 miles away). There is also a marina nearby for boating supplies and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Denby Point

From the gentle awakening of spring through the golden days of autumn, Denby Point enjoys a climate that seems tailor-made for outdoor adventures. The peak season from May through September brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for diving into lake activities, while evenings cool down just enough to make campfire gatherings magical. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and comfortable temperatures, summer pulses with energy and water sports, and fall transforms the surrounding mountains into a tapestry of colors. Even winter offers its own quiet charm, with mild days that keep dedicated anglers returning for the solitude and exceptional fishing when crowds have thinned.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season (May–Sep) with full amenities, boating and swimming available.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall highlighted as ideal for quiet visits and foliage; reviewers praise autumn stays.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring offers pleasant weather for hiking, boating and wildlife viewing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open to Dec 31; winter popular for birdwatching and quiet stays but services may be limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 1 to December 31. Reservations for individual sites operate on a 6-month rolling basis.
Current Alerts: Seasonal burn bans and water level fluctuations have been noted in user reviews. No current alerts are explicitly mentioned.

About Denby Point

Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Ouachita, Denby Point beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 67 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern convenience with natural beauty. Whether you choose one of the 58 sites equipped with electric and water hookups or gather your crew at one of two spacious group sites, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where adventure meets comfort. The campground's full-service amenities—from the convenient dump station to the well-maintained fish cleaning facilities—ensure your focus stays on what matters most: creating memories. After a day exploring crystal-clear waters from the boat launch, rinse off in hot showers before settling in to watch the sunset paint the lake in brilliant hues. The inviting swim beach offers the perfect spot for afternoon relaxation, while anglers celebrate year-round fishing opportunities that have made this destination legendary among those who know where to find the best catch.

Denby Point supports a range of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Electric and water hookups are available for most sites, and tent sites are spacious and private. Group sites accommodate larger gatherings.

Historical SignificanceThe land around Denby Point whispers stories of the past, where fortune seekers once scoured these mountains for precious quartz crystals that still sparkle beneath the surface. This campground serves as your gateway to a region steeped in geological wonder and human ambition, where the legacy of mining operations has given way to recreational treasures. Just a scenic drive away, the historic Hot Springs National Park continues to draw visitors to its therapeutic waters, just as it has for centuries. The Ouachita Mountains themselves hold tales of Native American heritage and early American settlement, creating a rich tapestry of culture that adds depth to every hiking trail and scenic overlook.

Weather and SeasonsFrom the gentle awakening of spring through the golden days of autumn, Denby Point enjoys a climate that seems tailor-made for outdoor adventures. The peak season from May through September brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for diving into lake activities, while evenings cool down just enough to make campfire gatherings magical. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and comfortable temperatures, summer pulses with energy and water sports, and fall transforms the surrounding mountains into a tapestry of colors. Even winter offers its own quiet charm, with mild days that keep dedicated anglers returning for the solitude and exceptional fishing when crowds have thinned.

ElevationPerched at the perfect vantage point where mountain meets water, Denby Point offers campers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. The campground's position provides natural cooling breezes and stunning views that change with each passing hour.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from crystal-clear waters while the ancient Ouachita Mountains stand sentinel in the background. Denby Point showcases nature's artistry at every turn, from the distinctive quartz veins that catch the light along hiking trails to the pristine waters of Lake Ouachita that invite exploration. Wildlife enthusiasts find themselves in paradise here, where white-tailed deer graze in meadows at dawn and majestic bald eagles soar overhead, their distinctive calls echoing across the water. The surrounding forest creates a living amphitheater of sounds—from songbirds greeting the morning to owls conducting their nocturnal symphony. Each trail reveals new wonders, whether it's a hidden cove perfect for swimming or a rocky outcrop offering panoramic views of the lake's endless blue expanse.

Geological RegionDenby Point sits within one of North America's most fascinating geological treasures—the ancient Ouachita Mountains, where millions of years of Earth's history lie exposed in dramatic formations. Lake Ouachita itself, carved by the Ouachita River and expanded by human engineering, creates an aquatic playground spanning over 40,000 surface acres with an astounding 692 miles of shoreline that rivals any oceanfront. The region's famous quartz deposits glitter throughout the rugged terrain, evidence of powerful geological forces that shaped these mountains long before they became a recreational paradise. This unique combination of ancient rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and diverse ecosystems creates a landscape that captivates geologists, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. The interplay between water and stone has carved countless coves, inlets, and beaches, each offering its own microenvironment and opportunities for discovery.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

6:00 PM

Check-out

4:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limits vary by season, with 14 nights during peak season and up to 56 nights during the off-season.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site type, with group sites accommodating larger numbers.

Groups

Two group campsites with electric hookups are available, accommodating larger groups. Site B was noted for hosting up to 60 people during a Cub Scout pack event.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (A-D), with varying access to amenities and the lake. Sites are generally well-spaced.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, their app, or via phone.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites must be reserved online or via Recreation.gov. No first-come-first-served sites available.

Cancellation PolicyChanges incur a $10 fee if dates are modified entirely outside the original reservation. Late cancellations will subtract the first night's recreation use fee and incur additional fees, depending on the timing.

AccessibilityAccessibility appears mixed, with some sites offering easier access to the lake and amenities, while other areas present challenges such as steep paths or distant facilities. Users with mobility issues may face difficulties in certain loops.

Site SizeCampsites range from standard size to larger group sites. Site numbers such as 45, 46, and 41 were highlighted for their spacious layouts and water views.

PrivacyMany campsites are described as quiet and private, with significant spacing between individual sites. Tent sites like 45 are especially secluded.

Total Campsites67 campsites

Recommended SitesFor waterfront views, site #41 (Loop C) is highly recommended. For group camping, Loop D offers well-spaced sites.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Denby Point offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for different interests. Popular options include boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) is a draw for hiking enthusiasts, while the clear waters attract anglers and scuba divers. Swimming and kayaking are accessible, and the proximity to Ouachita National Forest provides additional opportunities for exploration.

HikingThe campground is connected to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which offers scenic views along the southern end of the lake. Trails are well-marked, and users reported enjoyable hikes.

FishingFishing is a year-round activity with world-class striper fishing available. The lake’s clear waters provide excellent conditions for anglers.

SwimmingSwimming is facilitated by the swim beach, which is located within the campground. Some users mentioned water levels as a seasonal concern.

BikingPaved roads within the campground make biking an accessible activity. Some reviewers noted a lack of off-road biking trails.

BoatingBoating opportunities are abundant, with a nearby marina providing boat launch and refueling services. Many campers appreciated the convenience of launching boats close to their sites.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings, including bald eagles and deer, are common. Several users shared experiences of viewing eagles from their campsites.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include steep trails leading to the water and wildlife such as deer. The campground has no sewer hookups, making extended stays challenging.

Active AlertsSeasonal burn bans and water level fluctuations have been noted in user reviews. No current alerts are explicitly mentioned.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed unless burn bans are in effect. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest infestations.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced, but specific times are not mentioned.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services can be accessed in Hot Springs (hospital and police station) or Mount Ida (local clinics and sheriff’s office). Specific details are unavailable.

Trash & RecyclingTrash is collected daily, and each campsite is equipped with its own trash can for convenience. Recycling options are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Lake Ouachita and includes waterfront campsites with direct access to the lake.

Camp HostReviews mention friendly and helpful campground hosts. Volunteer hosts are often praised for their maintenance efforts.

Weather at Denby Point

Reviews

4.5

579 reviews

Top-Rated

Denby Point is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Denby Point are generally positive, with many praising the scenic views, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities. Some reviewers expressed concerns about outdated facilities, inconsistent maintenance, and accessibility challenges. Overall, the campground has a high average sentiment rating of 4.4.

Review Summaries

Based on 579 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include spacious and private campsites, beautiful lake views, clean facilities, and friendly staff. Wildlife sightings, including bald eagles, add to the appeal.

Based on 579 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints involve outdated restrooms and showers, inconsistent cell service, and maintenance issues such as untrimmed grass and debris on campsites.

Based on 579 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include choosing waterfront sites like 41 or 45 for scenic views and privacy, bringing your own firewood, and avoiding Loop B if proximity to shower facilities is a priority.

Based on 579 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is highlighted as an ideal season for its quiet atmosphere and stunning foliage. Winter camping is also popular for birdwatching and peaceful surroundings.

Based on 579 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful campground! Very quiet and clean." - Ana P Ayala. "Great place to camp with great views of Lake Ouachita." - Morgan Smith. "This campground is absolutely wonderful clean clear concise and...

Based on 579 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback highlights site 41 for its water views, site 45 for privacy and proximity to the lake, and group site B for accommodating larger gatherings. Negative comments include...

Based on 579 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility challenges were noted, especially for users with mobility issues due to steep paths and distant facilities. Loop A was recommended for better access.

Based on 579 reviews