Within Ouachita National Forest, Rocky Shoals operates as a day-use area rather than an overnight campground, open from 6am to 10pm. The site features four picnic spots along the river, each equipped with tables, grills, and lantern poles. Visitors access the water via boat launch facilities directly from the recreation area.

Located just off the highway, the facility includes vault toilets and provides a convenient stopping point for river travelers. Nearby Ouachita River Haven offers overnight camping for those needing to stay in the area.

Check AvailabilitySuggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsRocky Shoals is located in Arkansas near Pencil Bluff

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Take U.S. 270 northwest from Mt. Ida, AR for 6 miles; turn right (north) just before crossing the Ouachita River Bridge (east side of river).

Coordinates

34.61200049 N
93.69700067 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Rocky Shoals

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
0%
0%
50%
50%

1.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 29, 2021

Would be nice if camping where allowed.

Rocky Shoals is a former campground turned day use only area, only open from 6am to 10pm.  This location has four sites now just for picnicing only.  Each site has a picnic table (one spot has two) a BBQ grill and a pole for hanging a lantern.  Boat access to the river is available.  Site does have a male/female outhouse.  The Recreation area is just off the highway which made for a nice rest stop.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Rocky Shoals by Dexter I., October 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Rocky Shoals by Dexter I., October 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Rocky Shoals by Dexter I., October 29, 2021
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2019

Could be nice

Now a day use only site. The bathroom made it clear that late night partying happens here. We camped because we had just done 14 miles on the river and were exhausted. No one bothered us. Camp ozark is near by and was very loud, as was the bridge next to the camp.

  • Review photo of Rocky Shoals by Kelly C., July 14, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

I don't have enough information to generate specific questions for this campground. Please provide the actual campground name and keyword data so I can create relevant, high-traffic FAQs that address unique aspects of this specific location.

Rocky Shoals is no longer a functioning campground but has been converted to a day-use only area. The site is open from 6am to 10pm daily and features four picnic areas, each equipped with tables and BBQ grills. Lantern hanging poles are available at each site. The area provides boat access to the river, making it suitable for paddlers and water enthusiasts. While camping was previously allowed, overnight stays are now prohibited. The nearby Camp Ozark can be noisy, as can traffic from the adjacent bridge. Visitors should be aware that evidence suggests some late-night partying occurs in the area despite the day-use restrictions. For overnight camping options, consider looking at alternative sites in the region.

Are fires allowed at Rocky Shoals?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Rocky Shoals, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Is there cell phone reception at Rocky Shoals?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is some coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.