Joplin
4.22179 reviews303 Campground Rd, Mt. Ida, AR, 71957
Joplin
$16.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$18.00
Group Site Fee$22.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on season and site type. Peak season rates (May through September) are: $20 for Standard Electric, $24 for RV Electric, $18-$20 for Tent Only Electric, and $22 for Group Standard Electric. Non-peak season rates (October) remain similar. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
About this campground
Perched on a slender peninsula that reaches into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ouachita, Joplin Campground offers an unparalleled lakefront camping experience where mountain vistas meet pristine shorelines. This hidden gem attracts anglers chasing trophy striped bass and nature enthusiasts hoping to glimpse the lake's mysterious freshwater jellyfish—one of nature's most unexpected Arkansas residents. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or watching the sun paint the mountains at dusk, Joplin provides a front-row seat to some of the Natural State's most stunning scenery.
Joplin Campground offers options for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Primitive camping and glamping are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceJoplin Campground serves as a gateway to Arkansas's most treasured natural landmarks. Just a scenic drive away, the historic thermal waters of Hot Springs National Park have drawn visitors for centuries, while the ancient ridges of Ouachita National Forest tell stories written in stone millions of years ago. The campground itself embodies Arkansas's deep connection to its wild spaces—a tradition of outdoor recreation that runs as deep as the lake's clear waters.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint Joplin Campground in ever-changing hues throughout the year. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and wildflower blooms, while autumn transforms the surrounding Ouachita Mountains into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer brings sultry days perfect for swimming and water sports, though the humidity reminds you you're in the heart of the South. Winter plays a wild card—some days offering crisp air just below freezing for cozy campfires, others surprising visitors with balmy 60-degree afternoons ideal for hiking.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's position within the Ouachita Mountain region places it among Arkansas's most varied and dramatic topography.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Ouachita Mountains cradle Joplin Campground in a natural amphitheater of forested slopes and sparkling water. Ancient pines and hardwoods shelter the peninsula, their roots reaching toward Lake Ouachita's famously transparent depths. Wildlife thrives in this protected haven—elusive bobcats pad through the underbrush at twilight, while beneath the surface, ethereal freshwater jellyfish pulse through the water like living lace. The interplay of mountain, forest, and lake creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that shifts with every passing cloud and season.
Geological RegionJoplin Campground sits within the ancient Ouachita Mountains of Central Arkansas, where millions of years of geological drama created today's rugged peaks and valleys. Lake Ouachita itself tells a more recent story—its 40,000 acres of impossibly clear water filling valleys between these weathered ridges. Renowned as Arkansas's clearest lake, these pristine waters reveal a underwater landscape of submerged forests and rocky outcrops, while above, the surrounding peaks showcase some of the state's most dramatic terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility is mixed. While no formal accessibility options are outlined, users with RVs reported challenges navigating uneven terrain or steep slopes. Site-specific reviews mention proximity to amenities being an aid to accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size and terrain, with some sites being very small and uneven. Reviews frequently mention challenges with leveling RVs and trailers due to the uneven terrain.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is a mixed experience. Reviews frequently mention secluded sites, especially in Loop A, but proximity to camp hosts or other campers can reduce privacy in certain areas.
Total Campsites59 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 35-37 are challenging for trailers due to uneven terrain. Site 43 offers spectacular lake views but limited flat tent space.
Best CampsitesCampsites with high ratings include Site 43 (Loop C) for privacy and lake views, Site 07 (Loop A) for sunsets, and Site 59 (Loop D) on the peninsula for lake access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Stay limits vary by season: up to 14 nights within a rolling 30-day window during peak season (April 18 - September 30)
- up to 56 nights during the off-season (October 1 - April 16).
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Specific guest limits per site are missing
- however, general group sites allow for higher guest capacity.
Groups
Group camping sites accommodate larger parties, as evidenced by one review describing a group of 8 adults, 5 children, and 2 dogs across multiple sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops (A, B, C, D) with sites varying in terrain and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe reservable season runs from May 1 to October 31 each year. Booking windows operate on a rolling 6-month basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov's website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specifically mentioned, but some sites may be listed as available for first-come-first-serve during less busy periods.
Cancellation PolicyReservation modifications are allowed up to 8 times, with a $10 change fee applied only when a balance changes. Cancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Specific conditions for group sites and cabins differ.
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.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Joplin Campground offers a range of activities including fishing, biking, kayaking, scuba diving, swimming, hiking, scenic driving, and hunting. Wildlife watching is particularly notable, with species such as bobcats and freshwater jellyfish mentioned.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, with access to nearby locations such as Crystal Vista. The trails offer opportunities for scenic views and quartz collection.Fishing
World-class striper fishing is a highlight of the area, with several campers praising the fishing opportunities directly from their campsites or nearby docks. Some reviews specifically mentioned fishing success.Swimming
The swim beach is described as clean and conveniently located near certain campsites. Reviews mentioned swimming in clear lake waters and enjoying the nearby beaches.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible nearby, including the Northwoods Trails described as 'awesome' in user reviews.Boating
Boating is popular, with campers often docking boats directly at their campsites. Several reviews mention using kayaks and canoes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, including bobcats, deer, geese, ducks, hawks, and blue herons. One reviewer noted extensive bird species identified using the Merlin ID app.Beach activities
Beach areas are appreciated for their scenic beauty, proximity to campsites, and suitability for relaxation. However, some areas are described as hilly.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, and paddleboarding are available. Jet skiing is also highlighted in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed. Firewood must be locally sourced to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are Information on quiet hours is missing.
Hazards
General hazardsAnt infestations are a recurring issue across many campsites. "Streams of ants crawling on every surface" and "ants swarming inside campers" were noted by multiple reviewers.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts for closures or hazards were mentioned in the official source.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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 information is missing.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30 (Peak); October 1 - October 31 (Non-Peak).
Trash and recyclingTrash pickup is conducted daily, and designated trash cans are available throughout the campground. However, ants have been observed swarming trash bins during certain periods.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Lake Ouachita, offering easy access to swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include ant infestations, unlevel terrain, poor road conditions, and issues with reservation modifications or cancellations.
HostHosts are described as helpful and professional in user reviews. Contact information for site staff is unavailable.
Campground Map
303 Campground Rd, Mt. Ida, AR, 71957
Driving directionsFrom Hot Springs, Arkansas: Take US 270 west for 23.5 miles to Mountain Harbor Road. Turn right and follow access road three miles north to the park.
The road leading to the campground features curvy roads with blind turns, and access may be challenging for larger vehicles. "Many hills with blind turns" have been reported. Seasonal weather conditions and potential closures were not specifically noted.Nearby places
Hot Springs: ~23.5 miles (~35 minutes drive)
Other nearby population centers are not listed.
Nearby supplies
Information on nearby supplies such as groceries, fuel, and camping materials is missing.
Camper Reviews
4.2
179 reviews
Joplin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with frequent praise for the scenic beauty, lake views, and recreational opportunities. However, numerous complaints focus on ant infestations, uneven terrain, and challenges for larger RVs. Positive experiences often highlight the tranquility and well-kept facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 179 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the beautiful lake views, clean bathrooms, hot showers, and proximity to recreational activities such as fishing and kayaking. Several reviews describe secluded campsites and...
Based on 179 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Ant infestations are a recurring issue. Other complaints include uneven terrain, difficulties leveling RVs, lack of water hookups at most sites, and occasional poor road conditions. Some users noted...
Based on 179 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ant spray and avoid sites prone to infestations, such as those near pine trees. Check the slope of campsites before setting up. Ensure familiarity with the terrain for RVs, as many sites have...
Based on 179 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are described as mild and pleasant, while summer is hot and humid, and winter is variable. Summer reviews often note challenges with insects and heat, while fall reviews emphasize...
Based on 179 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The view was absolutely beautiful and we were high enough off the water that the bugs were at bay.' - Candice K.
2. 'Ants were everywhere in the campground. We sprayed inside and outside of our...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 09: Described as near-perfect but infested with ants.
Site 43: Reviewed highly for its lake views but challenges finding flat ground for tents.
Site 28: Praised for its views and tranquility,...
Based on 179 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Users with disabilities or mobility concerns may face challenges due to uneven terrain and narrow roads. Sites close to restrooms are recommended for better accessibility.
Based on 179 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews indicate that campers frequently travel with dogs. However, caution is advised due to ant infestations and occasional wildlife encounters.
Based on 179 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025