Shouse Ford
4.38144 reviews729 CHANNEL ROAD, ARKADELPHIA, AR 71923-9364, USA
Shouse Ford
$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
Facility rates are $20.00 per night for both standard electric and RV electric sites during peak (May 01 - September 30, 2025) and non-peak (October 01 - November 30, 2025) seasons.
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling shores of DeGray Lake, Shouse Ford Campground beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of modern comforts and natural beauty. Electric hookups power your home-away-from-home while sandy beaches stretch just steps from your site, inviting endless days of swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxation. Though visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere and stunning water views, seasoned campers recommend bringing extra water supplies as hookups aren't available at individual sites. Despite occasional maintenance quirks, the campground's prime location and well-appointed facilities continue to draw families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking their slice of Arkansas paradise.
Shouse Ford offers several types of camping accommodations, including RV and tent camping. It does not feature cabins or group sites.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the campground's boundaries lies DeGray Lake Resort State Park, where Arkansas history and modern recreation intertwine seamlessly. Golf enthusiasts can test their skills on manicured fairways while equestrians explore miles of scenic horseback trails that wind through forests once traveled by Native Americans and early settlers. The area's rich heritage adds depth to every outdoor adventure, reminding visitors they're camping in a landscape shaped by centuries of human stories.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit right, and you'll discover why spring and fall reign supreme at Shouse Ford. These golden seasons wrap the campground in comfortable temperatures and crystal-clear skies, creating the perfect backdrop for hiking, fishing, and evening campfires. Summer transforms the area into a bustling aquatic playground where the lake becomes the star attraction—though you'll share the beaches with plenty of fellow water lovers. Each season paints the landscape differently, from spring wildflowers dotting the shoreline to autumn's fiery display reflecting off the lake's surface.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain elusive, the campground's position within Arkansas's varied topography offers campers a gentle landscape that's neither too steep for comfortable camping nor too flat to be interesting.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture waking to sunlight dancing across DeGray Lake's crystal-clear waters, part of Arkansas's renowned Diamond Lakes collection. The Ouachita Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, their forested slopes plunging toward expansive sandy beaches that rival any coastal destination. Dense hardwood forests create natural privacy between campsites while opening to reveal stunning water vistas. This captivating blend of mountain and lake scenery transforms every sunrise into a photographic opportunity and every sunset into a memory worth preserving.
Geological RegionShouse Ford Campground claims its place in the geological wonderland where the ancient Ouachita Mountains meet the pristine waters of DeGray Lake. This unique position in Arkansas's Diamond Lakes region—famous for waters so clear you can count pebbles on the bottom—offers campers a front-row seat to millions of years of natural history. The surrounding foothills tell stories of ancient seas and continental collisions, while the lake itself represents modern engineering harmonizing with timeless landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, flush toilets, and paved sites are available. Accessibility for those with disabilities is noted as satisfactory.
Sites SizeVaried, including large and more level sites. "Most camp sites are large and more level than the Southern side of the lake," one review noted.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. "Sites with plenty of privacy," commented one user, while others noted issues with people walking through sites.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites close to water (e.g., 26, 20) offer lake views and easy access for swimming and fishing. Users recommend avoiding sites with uneven or sloped pads.
Best CampsitesSite 26 is highly praised for its proximity to water and scenic views. Site 20 is noted as a favorite for its lake access and child-friendly environment.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period during the peak season.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One tent and one RV or two tents are allowed per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and individual sites, some of which are close to the water with direct access. Certain areas may be crowded during peak seasons.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 01 to November 30, 2025. Certain loops and campsites may be closed during the non-peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but high demand during peak season may limit availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations outside the original stay dates incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Shouse Ford Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, particularly focusing on water-based activities. "Boating, water skiing, kayaking and other water sports are the biggest draw to the lake," according to the official description. Fishing and swimming are also popular.
Fishing
Fishing is highly popular at DeGray Lake. "The lake is stocked with a variety of game fish, including plenty of hybrid striped bass, making it ideal for both boat and bank fishing." Some users found fishing spots challenging due to brush along the shore.Swimming
Swimming is available at two beaches within the campground area. "The swimming is great," noted one reviewer, but others mentioned issues such as animal waste on the beach.Biking
Biking is noted as an enjoyable activity, especially for kids. "Kids had their bikes and rode many miles around the loop we were camped on," one user commented.Boating
Boating is a primary attraction, with facilities including a boat ramp and lake access. "You can bring your own boats and spend time in the lake," affirmed a user review.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, with deer sightings frequently noted. "We rode our bicycle around the park and seen several deer," mentioned one reviewer.Beach activities
Large sandy beaches are available for activities like sunbathing and swimming. However, some users noted maintenance issues such as animal waste and erosion.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, water skiing, and paddleboarding are popular and supported by the campground's facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits. No fireworks are permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include falling tree limbs and uneven camping pads. Wildlife such as raccoons may visit campsites if trash is not properly stored.
Active alertsSeasonal closures of certain loops during non-peak season.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Arkadelphia, approximately 30 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 to September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are unavailable at individual sites, requiring campers to bring trash to designated dumpsters near bathrooms. "If you don’t bring your trash to the dumpster before you go to sleep expect raccoons to visit and tear through it," warned one review.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is on the banks of DeGray Lake, offering close access to swimming beaches, fishing spots, and boating.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention lack of water hookups, outdated bathrooms, narrow roads, and uneven camping pads.
HostCampground hosts provide assistance during peak season but may not always be available. Office closures during COVID-19 were noted in reviews.
Campground Map
729 CHANNEL ROAD, ARKADELPHIA, AR 71923-9364, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 30, take exit 78 and merge onto State Highway 7 north to Bismarck. Turn left on State Highway 84 and go 9 miles west to Point Cedar. Turn left onto Shouse Ford road and continue 4 miles to the campground.
The access includes a long, narrow road with some rough terrain and a couple of one-lane bridges. Seasonal closures may affect certain loops during the non-peak season.Nearby places
Bismarck (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Arkadelphia (approximately 30 minutes), Hot Springs (approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Arkadelphia, approximately 30 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
144 reviews
Shouse Ford is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Shouse Ford are mixed, with most praising cleanliness, the lake's beauty, and recreational opportunities. However, infrastructure issues such as outdated facilities and lack of water hookups are commonly mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 144 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers, quiet and peaceful atmosphere, proximity to the lake, and friendly staff.
Based on 144 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with maintenance, lack of water hookups, outdated infrastructure, insufficient privacy at some sites, and animal waste on the beach.
Based on 144 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Fill up your water tanks before arrival. Bring trash to dumpsters to avoid raccoon disturbances. Choose sites closer to the lake for convenience.
Based on 144 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring break is highly favored, with users frequently extending their stays during this period. Summer is noted for its popularity but also for maintenance issues in camping facilities.
Based on 144 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms are outdated but clean," "Great camping area and facilities," "If you don’t bring your trash to the dumpster before you go to sleep expect raccoons to visit and tear through it."
Based on 144 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 26 praised for proximity to water: "Site 26 was perfect for us." Site 57 noted for level ground: "Great spot #57, flat, level." Site 20 criticized for lack of privacy: "Site 20 is literally 3...
Based on 144 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets and campsites are generally appreciated. No specific accessibility complaints were noted in the reviews.
Based on 144 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash. "All pets must be penned, caged or on a 6-foot leash at all times," according to the rules.
Based on 144 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025