Mount Ida, Arkansas sits within the mineral-rich Ouachita Mountains at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet. The area features extensive quartz crystal deposits, attracting rockhounds from across the country to the numerous rv campgrounds near Mount Ida. Weather conditions range from hot, humid summers with temperatures in the 90s to mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures.
What to do
Crystal mining: 25-35 dollars per person. At Crystal Ridge RV Park, visitors can mine for crystals at the adjacent mine. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up. Hundred bucks in gems," shares one camper.
Kayaking or canoeing: 3-4 hour trips available. Caddo River Access RV Park provides river access and boat rentals. "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way," notes a visitor.
Hot Springs National Park visits: 10-minute drive. From J and J RV Park, visitors can explore the historic bathhouses. "About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs," reports one camper who enjoyed the convenient location.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: direct river access. Campers at Caddo River Access appreciate riverside camping spots. "Campsites are small and close together but very well kept. Grills, fire Rings, and picnic tables available. Nice shaded area for tent camping. They are very close to the outfitter drop spot. Right on the river."
Budget-friendly options: starting at $12/night. Crystal Ridge RV Park offers affordable rates with full hookups. "$12 a night, full hookup potential AND you are walking distance to the mine!!!" notes an enthusiastic camper who found value in the low rates.
Clean facilities: regularly maintained bathrooms. Leisure Landing RV Park receives praise for its upkeep. "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly. They have a dogpark!" mentions one visitor impressed by the pristine conditions.
What you should know
Uneven terrain: leveling equipment needed. Some Mount Ida rv parks require additional setup for comfortable camping. "The paved areas (including the Rv pads) are a bit rough, but ok. Leveling pads were needed for our site," notes a Crystal Ridge RV Park visitor.
Insect activity: seasonal considerations. Campers should prepare for bugs during warmer months. "Got the popup all setup, then discovered there was a large wasp nest in the electric hookup box. Had to break down and move to another spot in the dark," reports one camper at Caddo River Access.
Site spacing: limited privacy at some locations. Finish Line RV Park offers more space between sites than others in the area. "Sites are not too close together and it is quiet," mentions a reviewer, contrasting with tighter arrangements at other campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: dedicated pet areas. Many rv campgrounds near Mount Ida welcome pets. "They have a dog run, club house, laundry and showers available. They also have bikes you can rent, and free coffee in the club house," notes a Finish Line RV Park visitor.
Safety features: gated access. Parents appreciate security measures. "The campground itself is safe and secure, all sites are paved with fire rings and picnic tables. Sites are not too close together and it is quiet," mentions a family who stayed at Finish Line RV Park.
Nearby attractions: plan for day trips. Murfeesboro RV Park provides access to unique activities. "Crater of diamonds area. Small little park right inside of town. 36 a day... Hosts were so nice. Grocery store not far," mentions a camper who enjoyed the diamond mining experience nearby.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: verify capacity. When choosing Mount Ida rv parks, check for appropriate hookups. "Our site included full hookups, and was plenty spacious enough for our truck and teardrop. There were lots of other people with over 40ft long rigs, and it looked like they had plenty of space too," notes a Leisure Landing visitor.
Water pressure: use regulators. Protect your RV plumbing systems at area campgrounds. "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure," advises a J and J RV Park camper who experienced issues.
Site selection: consider amenities and layout. At Arkadelphia Campground & RV Park, site features vary. "The sites are large clean and all new full hookups. Still needs landscaping which is coming this spring/summer 2022. The couple that manage the park are very welcoming," shares a visitor who appreciated the spacious sites.
