Below the Blakely Dam on Lake Ouachita, this US Army Corps of Engineers campground occupies nine full-hookup sites along the Ouachita River. The small facility sits just off the highway near Mountain Pine, with sites accommodating RVs up to 20 feet and offering electric, water, and sewer connections.
Site 3 draws the most attention for its direct river access, though campers note the shared parking area between sites creates foot traffic behind waterfront spots. The Ouachita River runs cold and clear year-round, providing immediate access for swimming and bank fishing. A playground sits near the water, and clean restroom facilities with showers serve the campground from an elevated position. Sandy H. notes the "water is ice cold and clear" and calls it the "clearest I have seen."
The highway location brings road noise but also convenience—Hot Springs sits 20 minutes away for supplies and attractions. Self-registration operates through an information board, with rangers making rounds to verify permits. Water pressure runs lower than typical Corps facilities at around 30-35 PSI, and hose lengths of 30 feet work best given the utility layout.
Sites fill quickly on weekends, making reservations advisable for this compact riverside spot. For additional options, see camping areas near Lake Ouachita.
Description
Overview
Located just below Blakely Mountain Dam along the shoreline Lake Hamilton is Stephens Park. This small quiet campground has great shoreline fishing access in the Stephens Park and Avery Day-use Area. There is also boat ramp access nearby for Lake Ouachita by using the Spillway Ramp and access to Lake Hamilton using the Avery Ramp. In the area is Wood Duck Slough trail and the east end of the LOViT (Lake Ouachita Vista Trail). The LOViT is a 44 mile long trail system that meanders along the south end of Lake Ouachita. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.
Recreation
Water skiers, jet skiers and anglers can all enjoy the crystal clear waters of the lake, while hikers enjoy the campground's location on the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which meanders across the south end of the lake. Wildlife enthusiasts can find everything from bobcats to black bears and deer in the forested mountains surrounding the lake, and Bald eagles are often spotted in winter.
Facilities
The campground has 9 large class A sites with sewer, water, and 50 amp hookups. Other amenities include shower house and playground.
Natural Features
Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.
Nearby Attractions
Head to Hot Springs National Park and discover how it earned the nickname, "The American Spa." Or take a scenic drive through the 1.8 million-acres of Ouachita National Forest.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundStephens Park Campground is located in Arkansas
Directions
From Hot Springs, AR: Take US 270 west to AR-227 N/Mountain Pine Rd for 6 miles. Continue straight on Blakely Dam road through Mountain Pine and past Mountain Pine school. Stephens Park Campground will be on your left just before you get to the base of Blakely Mountain Dam.
Coordinates
34.57056 N
93.190215 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/20/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 3/20/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 20 min from Hot Springs, AR
- 1 hr 5 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 55 min from Texarkana, TX
- 2 hrs 14 min from Fort Smith, AR























