Brady Mountain
4.56457 reviews110 Brady Mountain Overlook, ROYAL, AR 71968
Brady Mountain
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and site type. Peak season rates range from $16 for Tent Only Electric sites to $50 for Group Shelter Electric sites. Non-peak season rates are similar but exclude discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Ouachita, Brady Mountain Campground has become a beloved retreat for families seeking adventure in Arkansas's crystal-clear waters. Here, where the Ouachita Mountains meet one of the cleanest lakes in America, anglers cast their lines at dawn while children splash in the shallows and kayakers explore hidden coves. This vibrant outdoor hub offers the perfect blend of water sports and woodland trails, creating memories that draw families back year after year.
Brady Mountain offers multiple camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and group accommodations.
Historical SignificanceJust a scenic drive away lies the legendary Hot Springs National Park, where visitors have sought the healing powers of natural thermal waters for centuries. For those seeking unique adventures, the fascinating Geo-Float Trail awaits – a boat-accessible journey that reveals the ancient geological story written in the surrounding rock formations, offering paddlers an intimate look at millions of years of Earth's history.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early fall, Brady Mountain comes alive under warm Arkansas skies. May through September brings perfect camping weather, with daytime temperatures hovering between a comfortable 78°F and 84°F, while evenings cool to a pleasant 60-64°F – ideal for campfire gatherings. Spring thunderstorms occasionally roll through the mountains, bringing dramatic skies and fresh, rain-washed mornings, while autumn winds whisper of the changing seasons.
ElevationThe campground's elevation creates a perfect vantage point for sweeping lake views, though specific elevation details await discovery by those who venture here.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising from 692 miles of pristine shoreline, where 178 islands dot the horizon like emerald jewels. The Ouachita Mountains embrace Lake Ouachita in a stunning natural amphitheater, their forested slopes reflecting in waters so clear you can see fish swimming below. Dense hardwood forests provide shade and sanctuary for wildlife, while the expansive lake invites endless exploration and discovery.
Geological RegionBrady Mountain sits at the heart of the ancient Ouachita Mountains, where the Ouachita River has carved out one of nature's masterpieces. The lake's 692 miles of shoreline trace the contours of a flooded valley system, creating a labyrinth of coves, inlets, and dramatic bluffs. These geological wonders tell the story of continental collisions and erosion spanning hundreds of millions of years, now transformed into a recreational paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, drinking water, flush toilets, grills, parking, picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and showers.
Sites SizeSpacious sites; some level and others requiring adjustments.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; closer sites are crowded while others offer more seclusion.
Total Campsites74 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the water treatment facility, which produces noise pollution. Opt for sites farther out on the peninsula for privacy and superior lake views.
Best CampsitesPeninsula sites like 52 and 53 are repeatedly praised for privacy, lake access, and stunning sunset views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
- 56 nights during October-April
- 14 nights during May-September
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Capacity limits vary by site type
- standard sites accommodate small groups while group sites host larger gatherings.
Groups
- Group shelter available for $50 nightly
- detailed guest limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, with sites 52-55 on the peninsula offering greater privacy and lake access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 1, closes October 31. Reservations not available in the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the app, or the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific mention of walk-up availability, suggesting all sites may require advance reservations.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual campsite cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled after midnight the day before check-in. Group and cabin reservations have stricter cancellation windows with additional fees. Refund approvals depend on facility management.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Ouachita offers diverse recreational activities including hiking, boating, fishing, scuba diving, swimming, wildlife viewing, and disc golf.
Hiking
Includes a scenic land-based nature trail accessible from the campground and the Geo-Float Trail, a 16-mile water-based interpretive trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound with clean waters and plentiful fish.Swimming
Swim beach available, but described as rocky in some areas, requiring water shoes.Biking
Paved roads make biking accessible, but trail signage is noted as inconsistent.Boating
Boating access includes a boat ramp and marina; options for kayaking and houseboat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Common sightings include ducks, geese, and bald eagles. Several user reviews highlight memorable wildlife experiences.Beach activities
Includes swimming and sunbathing, though rocky terrain is noted in some reviews.Winter Activities
Off-season camping with fewer visitors; mixed reviews describe peacefulness or limited facilities.Water Sports
Includes kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and water skiing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high winds in exposed sites, fire ants at certain campsites, and noise pollution from the water treatment facility. Wildlife such as geese can be aggressive depending on the season.
Active alertsNo current alerts listed in official sources.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Closest hospital: CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs (~10 miles away). Police services available in Hot Springs. Brady Mountain has no staffed ranger station, but visitors can call (501) 767-2101 for inquiries.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are provided; some reviews mentioned unclean roadside areas on the way to the park.
Proximity to water featuresDirect lake access is available from many campsites, including steps down to the water. The campground features a swim beach and boat ramp.
Common complaintsCommon issues include noise from the water treatment facility, crowded campsites, and lack of individual water hookups. Reviewers also mention inconsistent cleanliness in bathhouses.
HostNo staffed host or ranger station onsite; visitors can contact (501) 767-2101 for inquiries.
Campground Map
110 Brady Mountain Overlook, ROYAL, AR 71968
Driving directionsFrom Hot Springs, AR: Take US 270 west approximately 10 miles to Brady Mountain Access Road. Turn right and follow access road 6 miles north to the park.
The access road, Brady Mountain Access Road, is paved for the entire route but includes winding and slightly narrow sections as it climbs into the mountainous terrain. During heavy rains, low-water bridges may flood temporarily.Nearby places
Hot Springs, AR (10 miles, ~20-minute drive)
Mount Ida, AR (~30 miles, ~40-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
A Dollar General and Velero gas station at the turnoff for the park provide limited supplies like block ice. The nearest grocery store is in Hot Springs, ~10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
457 reviews
Brady Mountain is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Brady Mountain is highly rated for its scenic views, spacious campsites, and variety of activities. Common complaints include crowded areas, noise from the water treatment facility, and maintenance issues in bathrooms and showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 457 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful lake, clean water, hot showers, spacious campsites, accessible amenities, friendly staff, proximity to Hot Springs National Park.
Based on 457 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise pollution from water treatment facility, lack of water hookups, crowded campsites, and inconsistent maintenance of bathrooms and showers.
Based on 457 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs for noise, water shoes for rocky areas, and plan for early arrival to secure better campsites.
Based on 457 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight crowded conditions and hot weather but praise swimming and boating. Off-season reviews describe peaceful, quiet experiences with fewer amenities.
Based on 457 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful park. Clean bathrooms. We had a wonderful time." "The view of the lake was breathtaking. It had a beautiful nature walk." "The only negative is the equipment in and around the end of the...
Based on 457 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites on the peninsula (e.g., 52, 53) are praised for sunsets and lake access but critiqued for noise and wind conditions. Sites near the marina (e.g., 41, 45) are noted for views but suffer from...
Based on 457 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible campsites and bathrooms received positive feedback, though some users reported inconsistent maintenance.
Based on 457 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed; dog owners mentioned rocky terrain causing discomfort for pets.
Based on 457 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025