Iron Mountain Campground

Introduction / Overview

Nestled on the serene southern banks of DeGray Lake, within the picturesque foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, Iron Mountain Campground offers Arkansans a tranquil and scenic escape. This Class A camping area, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a beloved spot for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Natural State. With its stunning lake views, often visible from nearly every site, Iron Mountain provides a peaceful backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, from leisurely relaxation to adventurous exploration.

While often described as having a rustic charm, Iron Mountain Campground maintains essential amenities that enhance the camping experience. Visitors consistently highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms and the availability of nice hot showers, which are always a welcome comfort after a day spent outdoors. The campground offers a mix of sites suitable for both RVs and tents, providing flexibility for different camping styles. Though some sites may require a bit of leveling, the overall consensus is that the beauty and tranquility of the location more than compensate. It's a place where the calm ambiance allows campers to truly unwind, making it a favored spot for a peaceful getaway, even if just for a single night while passing through.

It's important for prospective visitors to note that, like many natural settings, there have been mentions of ant activity. However, many campers find that simple precautions can manage this, allowing the breathtaking views and quiet environment to take center stage. With its beautiful setting and dedication to providing a pleasant experience, Iron Mountain Campground remains a popular choice for those looking to connect with nature on DeGray Lake.

Location and Accessibility

Iron Mountain Campground is strategically located at 198 Iron Mountain Rd, Arkadelphia, AR 71923, USA. This prime address places it directly on DeGray Lake, one of Arkansas's stunning "Diamond Lakes" known for their crystal-clear waters. The campground's position in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains offers a beautiful natural setting while maintaining relatively good accessibility.

Access to Iron Mountain Campground is straightforward from Interstate 30. Visitors typically take Exit 78 and merge onto State Highway 7 north for approximately 2.5 miles. A left turn onto Skyline Drive for another 2.5 miles, followed by a right turn onto Iron Mountain Road, leads directly to the campground. While some reviews mention narrow and curvy roads leading in, the journey is consistently described as "worth the trip" due to the scenic beauty that unfolds.

The campground's location also offers excellent proximity to a wealth of nearby attractions. It's about 30 minutes from the popular tourist destination of Hot Springs, home to Hot Springs National Park, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, and Magic Springs Theme and Water Park. DeGray Lake Resort State Park, with its championship golf course, tennis courts, horseback riding trails, and various interpretive programs, is also just a short drive away. For those interested in unique experiences, the Crater of Diamonds State Park, where you can dig for real diamonds, is roughly an hour away. This convenient access to both natural wonders and developed attractions makes Iron Mountain Campground an ideal base for exploring a significant portion of Central Arkansas.

Services Offered

Iron Mountain Campground, a Class A camping area, provides a range of essential services to ensure a comfortable stay for its visitors. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it aims to balance natural immersion with necessary conveniences.

• Campsites: The campground features 69 campsites, accommodating a variety of setups including designated tent-only sites, RV-only sites, and RV/tent combination sites. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate.
• Electric Hookups: All sites are equipped with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp service), providing power for RVs and other camping needs.
• Sanitary Waste Disposal Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVers to dispose of wastewater.
• Flush Toilets: Clean flush toilets are provided in well-maintained restroom facilities.
• Hot Showers: Campers can enjoy the comfort of hot showers in the bathhouses, which are regularly cleaned.
• Community Water Spigots: While not all sites have direct water hookups, community water spigots are available throughout the campground for fresh water access.
• Swim Beach: A designated swim beach allows visitors to safely enjoy the clear waters of DeGray Lake.
• Boat Launch: A paved boat launch ramp provides easy access to DeGray Lake for boating, water skiing, kayaking, and other water sports.
• Marina Access: Proximity to Iron Mountain Marina, which offers boat rentals (party barges, ski boats), fuel, tackle, groceries, ice, and leased slips.
• Camp Host: A friendly and helpful camp host is usually on-site to assist campers and ensure a smooth experience.
• Playground: A playground is available for children, offering a dedicated space for play.
• Trash Disposal: Facilities for trash disposal are provided to help maintain the cleanliness of the park.
• Reservable Sites: Campsites are generally reservable up to six months in advance, especially important during peak season.

Features / Highlights

• Beautiful Lake Views: A standout feature is the "beautiful view" of DeGray Lake available from many of the sites, offering picturesque scenery and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Access to DeGray Lake: Direct access to the crystal-clear waters of DeGray Lake for various water activities, including swimming, boating, fishing (both from boat and bank), water skiing, and kayaking.
• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Consistently praised for their cleanliness and the availability of refreshing hot showers, a significant comfort for campers.
• Diverse Site Options: Offers a range of sites including pull-throughs and back-ins, accommodating different RV sizes and tent setups, with electric hookups at all sites.
• Proximity to Mountain Biking Trails: Located very close to the Iron Mountain Bike Trail system, offering miles of world-class singletrack for mountain biking enthusiasts.
• Peaceful Environment: Despite being a popular campground, it often maintains a peaceful atmosphere, especially during non-peak times, allowing for a quiet and relaxing stay.
• Friendly Camp Host: The presence of a "very nice" and helpful camp host contributes positively to the overall camping experience.
• Nearby Attractions: Conveniently located near major Arkansas attractions like DeGray Lake Resort State Park, Hot Springs National Park, and Crater of Diamonds State Park.
• Natural Surroundings: Immersed in the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the forest.
• Affordable Pricing: As a COE park, rates are generally very reasonable, providing excellent value for the amenities and location.

Contact Information

Address: 198 Iron Mountain Rd, Arkadelphia, AR 71923, USA

Phone: (870) 246-5501

Mobile Phone: +1 870-246-5501

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Arkansans, Iron Mountain Campground on DeGray Lake presents an ideal local getaway, offering an accessible and authentic outdoor experience deeply rooted in the state's natural beauty. Its location near Arkadelphia makes it a convenient destination for residents from across central Arkansas, enabling quick weekend trips or longer, more leisurely vacations without extensive travel. This ease of access allows locals to frequently tap into the recreational opportunities available right in their backyard.

The campground's primary appeal for Arkansans lies in its stunning setting on DeGray Lake, providing "beautiful views" and immediate access to one of the state's premier waterways. Whether it's fishing, boating, swimming, or simply enjoying the tranquil lakeside scenery, the options for water-based recreation are abundant and perfectly align with the outdoor lifestyle many Arkansans cherish. The direct access to the Iron Mountain Bike Trail system is a significant draw for the growing community of mountain biking enthusiasts, offering world-class singletrack trails just steps from their campsite.

While some minor issues like unlevel sites or the occasional presence of ants are noted, these are often considered part of the rustic camping experience and can be managed with simple precautions like bringing ant killer for the perimeter of your setup. The consistent cleanliness of the restrooms and the availability of hot showers, coupled with the presence of a friendly camp host, demonstrate a commitment to visitor comfort that many locals appreciate in a public campground. For those seeking a peaceful retreat, a family adventure, or an active outdoor escape immersed in Arkansas's beautiful landscapes, Iron Mountain Campground offers a compelling and valuable option that keeps locals coming back for its charm and convenience.

Iron Mountain Campground

198 Iron Mountain Rd, Arkadelphia, AR 71923, USA