How much does camping cost at Tompkins Bend?

Camping fees at Tompkins Bend range from $14-$50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Tompkins Bend first-come first-served or reservation?

Tompkins Bend accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Tompkins Bend before I book?

Yes! Tompkins Bend has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Tompkins Bend?

Tompkins Bend is open March 01 to September 29. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Tompkins Bend?

Yes, Tompkins Bend has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Tompkins Bend have?

Tompkins Bend has 77 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Tompkins Bend?

Yes, pets are allowed at Tompkins Bend. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Tompkins Bend?

Tompkins Bend offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Tompkins Bend?

Popular activities at Tompkins Bend include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Tompkins Bend

4.50

571 reviews

15 Tompkins Bend, Mt. Ida, AR 71957

FishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Hot Springs National Park

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

643 ft

Price

$14 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

643 ft

Price

$14 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Tompkins Bend

$14.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day Use Pavilion: $50.00; Electricity, Water, Sewer Hookup: $30.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $24.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC w/ Water: $16.00; TENT ONLY...

Group Site Fee$50.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

870-867-4476lakeouachita@usace.army.mil

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

15 Tompkins Bend, Mt. Ida, AR 71957

Tompkins Bend

15 Tompkins Bend, Mt. Ida, AR 71957

Nearby places

Hot Springs (24.5 miles, approx. 30 minutes), Mount Ida (10.7 miles, approx. 15 minutes)

Weather at Tompkins Bend

Best Time to Camp at Tompkins Bend

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of comfortable weather (daytime highs typically 60–75°F, evenings 45–55°F), dramatic color on the Ouachita ridges, and lower summer crowds—perfect for hiking, biking, and shore fishing. Lake Ouachita’s clear water and cooler air make boating and wildlife viewing especially pleasant, while cooler evenings are ideal for campfires. Expect moderate visitor levels (peak holiday weekends still busy) and watch for early-November hunting seasons on some forest lands. Peak months: October, September, May, June

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall noted best: mild temps, Ouachita ridges turn color, and lower crowds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 01 to September 29. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season begins May 1st and closes October 31st for reservable sites. Non-reservable periods extend from November to March.

About Tompkins Bend

Tompkins Bend sits on Lake Ouachita near Mt. Ida, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with seasonal access during peak months. This large campground offers tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups, plus group camping options. Reviewers highlight spacious lakeside sites, clean facilities, and access to the Ouachita ridges for hiking and biking, though some note occasional maintenance issues and campground noise.

Tompkins Bend accommodates diverse camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best balance of comfortable weather (daytime highs typically 60–75°F, evenings 45–55°F), dramatic color on the Ouachita ridges, and lower summer crowds—perfect for hiking, biking, and shore fishing. Lake Ouachita’s clear water and cooler air make boating and wildlife viewing especially pleasant, while cooler evenings are ideal for campfires. Expect moderate visitor levels (peak holiday weekends still busy) and watch for early-November hunting seasons on some forest lands. Peak months: October, September, May, June

Elevation643 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryLake Ouachita's 40,000 acres of remarkably clear water dominate the view, fed by the Ouachita River and surrounded by forested ridges at 643 feet elevation. The water clarity reveals submerged trees and rocks below the surface. Ouachita National Forest blankets the surrounding mountains in dense green, creating habitat for black bears, white-tailed deer, bobcats, and bald eagles. Lakeside sites offer direct water views, while inland spots look toward wooded slopes.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or accommodations available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limits vary by season, ranging from 14 nights within rolling 30 days (April-September) to up to 56 nights during the off-season.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Most sites accommodate two camping units and multiple guests.

Groups

The group shelter electric site is available at $50 per night during both peak and non-peak seasons. Reviewers did not specify guest limits or vehicle capacities.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, its app, or contact center.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited based on user reviews. Some sites have significant drops from the pad to the ground, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues, as noted by users like Dianne M.

Site SizeMany sites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating two camping units. Specific site reviews also highlight size adequacy, e.g., site 39 in Loop C was described as 'very large and right on the water.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some users, like Gail B, appreciated the privacy offered by their spot even when the campground was full. Others noted sites were 'right on top of each other,' such as Ambrose W's review.

Total Campsites77 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites near the water for better views. For larger RVs, avoid narrow roads and tight turns.

Best CampsitesSites 39, 53, and 55 get consistent praise in reviews for lakeside locations. Site 39 in Loop C is described as very large and right on the water. Book early for these spots during peak season. Lakeside sites fill quickly.

Need help booking Tompkins Bend?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The campground amenities at Tompkins Bend are diverse and tailored to provide a comfortable camping experience. It features 77 total sites, including 63 sites with electric hookups and 69 sites with water hookups. Noteworthy facilities include a dump station, fish cleaning station, hot showers, playground, and a boat ramp. Additionally, paved roads and sites, picnic tables, grills, and campfire rings are available.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Tompkins Bend offers a range of recreational opportunities that cater to diverse interests. Key activities include hiking, boating, fishing, biking, wildlife viewing, and access to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT).

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. However, maintenance varies by season, with some users noting issues like overflowing trash bins or debris left on the ground. Cynthia B even found 'two used syringes near the picnic table' at their site.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is described as 'spotty' or 'non-existent' by several users, especially those requiring emergency calls. For example, Todd J noted that they 'had to drive nearly 5 miles daily' to receive any phone reception, and they were sure even 911 couldn't be reached.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

571 reviews

Recommended

Tompkins Bend is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Tompkins Bend receives mixed reviews, ranging from glowing praise for its scenic beauty and well-maintained facilities to complaints about maintenance, electrical issues, and barking dogs. Sentiment ratings average at 4.37, indicating overall positive experiences.

Review Summaries

Based on 571 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 571 reviews.

Site 39Loved
Site 39 was praised for its size and proximity to water, while site 47 was criticized for mud washing into the campsite during rain.
Site 55Mentioned
Site 55 received mixed feedback regarding its drop-off from the pad to the ground.

What Campers Love

Widely praised for its scenic views, spacious campsites, and proximity to Lake Ouachita. Many users appreciated the cleanliness of bathrooms and the friendliness of hosts. Specific mentions include...

Based on 571 reviews

Common Concerns

Users reported issues such as barking dogs, electrical problems, and poorly maintained amenities. Specific complaints include muddy campsites during rain, narrow roads, and lack of cell service.

Based on 571 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend booking early for lakeside spots during peak season and checking site dimensions for RVs. Tent campers should bring hoses for water hookups and insect repellents for ticks. Early...

Based on 571 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews highlight peacefulness and wildlife viewing, while summer reviews indicate busier conditions with occasional noise complaints. Spring and fall are noted for their mild weather and...

Based on 571 reviews

Camper Quotes

Direct quotes include: 'Great site on the cove perfect for swimming!' - Deborah R, 'Vista Trail is phenomenal and mellow mountain biking.' - Lindi C, 'Beautiful site, peaceful location on Lake...

Based on 571 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some users with disabilities reported challenges, such as steep drops from parking pads and uneven terrain. Dianne M noted, 'My husband has a handicap, and this ragged, stump-ridden area is very...

Based on 571 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related reviews are mixed. While many campers enjoyed the pet-friendly policy, some complained about uncontrolled barking dogs disturbing the peace, such as Deborah O, who mentioned they...

Based on 571 reviews

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Nearby Campgrounds

303 Campground Rd, Mt. Ida, AR, 71957

Joplin sits on Lake Ouachita near Mt. Ida, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This mid-sized campground offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups, hot showers, and a dump station during peak season. Campers fish, bike, and boat on one of Arkansas's clearest lakes, with reviewers praising the secluded sites and lake views.