DeGray Lake offers campers more than just typical Arkansas camping experiences. Located in the western foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, this 13,400-acre reservoir sits at 408 feet above sea level and features 207 miles of shoreline. Water temperatures range from 45°F in winter to 85°F in summer, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Crystal mining excursions: Several campgrounds near DeGray Lake serve as convenient bases for crystal hunting trips. At Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine, you can literally walk to crystal mining sites. "The REAL draw here is the mine and we had a blast! We took the spot up top the hill [upper left corner] and found crystals in our campsite around the fire pit," notes camper Justin M.
Boating and fishing: Many DeGray Lake rv campgrounds offer direct water access. Treasure Isle RV Park provides waterfront sites with options for boaters. As one visitor mentioned, "Very nice and clean park. Nice and quite, right on the Ouachita River / lake Hamilton. Very friendly and helpful staff."
Explore Hot Springs National Park: Several campgrounds position you within easy driving distance to Hot Springs attractions. From J and J RV Park, "About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs. Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure," advises camper Josh F.
What campers like
Quiet settings away from crowds: Many DeGray Lake rv parks offer peaceful environments despite their proximity to attractions. At Cloud Nine RV Park, "Even though it's along a highway, it's quite a ways up a hill and through the woods. We had no issues with road noise at night," reports Derek N.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at rv campgrounds near DeGray Lake. At Leisure Landing RV Park, one reviewer noted, "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly. They have a dogpark!"
Proximity to water: Many appreciate the lakeside settings available in the region. "The dog park is right by the water, and the views are fantastic," says one camper about Leisure Landing. Another visitor at Treasure Isle mentions, "If you get a lakeside spot, they look lovely."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Many rv campgrounds near DeGray Lake have tighter spacing than state parks. One camper at J and J RV Park states, "We stayed for a couple nights. The owner was very friendly and helpful. Beautiful creek and open space nearby for enjoying the open air."
Cell coverage fluctuates by location: Service varies throughout the DeGray Lake region, especially in more remote areas. At Cloud Nine RV Park, one camper reports, "Both AT&T and Verizon have full bars."
Reservation timing matters: For Arkadelphia Campground & RV Park and other popular spots, booking ahead is essential during peak seasons. "Great spot to stop right off the highway. Nothing fancy, but clean & everything was easy to navigate. Got there after hours, picked up an envelope to pay when we left & you can drop it in their office mail slot or mail it in. Easy peasy!" notes Mary Elisabeth D.
Tips for camping with families
Look for parks with play areas: While not all rv campgrounds near DeGray Lake have playgrounds, several offer family-friendly spaces. At Arkadelphia Campground, "They have a pool and very clean bathhouse and laundry facility! Owners are super nice people that seem willing to work with us on anything. Even offered us popsicles after biking here!"
Choose sites near water features: Kids often enjoy campgrounds with creeks or ponds. At J and J RV Park, campers appreciate that "the creek is nice and you can hear the water flowing over the rocks at night, the proverbial babbling brook."
Consider activity-focused campgrounds: Some parks offer unique experiences beyond standard camping. At Hot Springs Arkansas Finish Line RV Park, "They have bikes you can rent, and free coffee in the club house. You can't walk to bathhouse row but it was an easy 10 minute drive."
Tips from RVers
Be prepared for varied electrical service: Not all rv campgrounds around DeGray Lake offer the same power options. According to a camper at Leisure Landing RV Park, "Most of the sites are level and are comprised of crushed rock compressed. You're next door neighbor is about 12 to 15 ft from your door. So the sites are a little bit tight."
Water pressure awareness: Several campers mention high water pressure at certain parks. One J and J RV Park visitor advises, "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure."
Watch for low-hanging obstacles: Some parks have clearance issues to note. At Treasure Isle R.V. Park, one camper warns about "low hanging wires were scary pulling into our site, scraping up against our ac units (13.5')."
