The best waterside camping near Mount Ida

13mi from Mount Ida · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

(117)

80+ acres all to yourself!! This beautiful and very secluded property, with river, kayaks, trails, and creeks is offered to only one group at a time to ensure peace, quiet, and seclusion. No other guests will overlap your stay. You will enjoy the peaceful solitude in nature completely alone! It's a great location for romantic getaways, silent personal retreats, yoga, playing in the river, or just spending quiet one-on-one time with your spouse or significant other. The last 1/2 mile of dirt road is a little rough, so cars with very low ground clearance are not recommended. Campers on Thunder Mountain enjoy the entire property by themselves - including the unique outdoor bathhouse with outdoor tub and shower, impressive multi-level decks, kayaks, grill, trails, hammocks, and tubes - without the cost of the cabin. The cabin on the property will be vacant during camping stays, but you can still enjoy the WiFi and other amenities outside. Pricing: $30-90/night camping; $190-280/night cabin - listed separately. Last minute bookings may have discounted rates. Camping bookings for 1 to 2 nights are sometimes available even if the calendar does not show availability (due to cabin cleaning days). We'll try to move our cleaning days around to help you out if possible. If the price looks really high (like $999), that is a date that is available at a low price ($30-50) but will have a later check-in or earlier check-out time. Just ask first before booking it and I'll lower the price!

2. Ouachita National Forest

96%

(25)

342 sites · Mount Ida, Arkansas

The Ouachita mountains may become your new go-to for hiking, fishing, and camping in Arkansas.

3. Greeson Lake

373 sites · Daisy, Arkansas

(9)

Discover the serene beauty and outdoor adventures at Greeson Lake.

4. Daisy State Park

103 sites · Daisy, Arkansas

Discover the serene beauty of Daisy State Park and its myriad outdoor activities.

426 sites · Caddo Valley, Arkansas

5. Degray Lake

93%

(7)

Discover DeGray Lake: A Haven for Recreation and Relaxation.

6. Dierks Lake

245 sites · Dierks, Arkansas

(3)

Discover Dierks Lake: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers.

7. Lake Catherine State Park

91 sites · Magnet Cove, Arkansas

(11)

Peace, quiet, and mountain views on the shores of Lake Catherine.

71 sites · Grannis, Arkansas

8. Gillham Lake

Gillham Lake: A serene escape with lush landscapes and outdoor fun.

312 sites · Farmington, Arkansas

9. Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

98%

(37)

Two distinct forests rolled into one package! That means twice the amount of outdoorsy goodness to explore. The Ozark National Forest covers most of the Ozark Mountains, including the highest peak in the state. It’s awesome here when the dogwood and redbuds bloom in the spring, and when the leaves change color in the fall. The St. Francis National Forest is more diverse, with the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers running through it, as well as lakes, valleys, and tons of wildlife. It’s the only place in the national forest system where you can access the Mississippi River from the shore, so that right there is a must do! The whole expanse of land is filled with multi-use trails, hundreds of campsites, spots for swimming, fishing, and boating, and even some amazing caves to explore. Mother Nature crushing it as usual.

Public campgrounds near Mount Ida

4.8mi from Mount Ida · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

(5)

Crystal Campground

Camp Clearfork Recreation Area

14mi from Mount Ida · 6 sites · in Ouachita National Forest

Big Brushy Campground

14mi from Mount Ida · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

14mi from Mount Ida · 58 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

Charlton Recreation Area

22mi from Mount Ida · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greeson Lake

Bear Creek Campground

Kirby Landing Campground

22mi from Mount Ida · 86 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greeson Lake

23mi from Mount Ida · 103 sites · Tents, RVs · in Daisy State Park

Daisy Campground

Self Creek Campground

23mi from Mount Ida · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greeson Lake

23mi from Mount Ida · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greeson Lake

(2)

Arrowhead Point Campground

Laurel Creek Campground

25mi from Mount Ida · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greeson Lake

26mi from Mount Ida · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Greeson Lake

(2)

Cowhide Cove Campground

26mi from Mount Ida · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ouachita National Forest

(2)

Shady Lake Recreation Area

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

The dock is available all year, except during or just after flooding. The property extends to both sides of the river for almost 1/3 mile for serene seclusi. The water is cold and blue from Jan-April; Cool and clear May-June; Warm, mostly clear but slightly green July-Sept

M

Matthew

3 weeks ago

Tent

Beautiful area, very secluded. Pictures are very accurate. Was an amazing experience and I will definitely be back.

Ginny

October 2025

Tent

A truly delightful place! So many thoughtful details like a porch swing by the river and adutch door on the rustic john so sunrise can be seen from the rustic throne. The privacy and quiet provided by the entire place being our own was grand. I've taken the baths at Hot Springs bathhouses and the outdoor bath at Thunder Mountain way surpassed them. Communication was great. The trails were wonderful. The entire property is well cared for . We heard two kinds of owls, saw hawks, an eagle and kingfishers. Saw three different kinds of lizards. I caught a large mouth bass and saw lots of fish hanging out in the clear waters.

J

Juan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

It was an amazing private campsite had all the comforts of home (power and showers). The view was amazing, all the amenities they had were fantastic, the area was private and quiet. Can’t wait to come back.

K

Katie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Absolutely loved our stay! We hope to be back! Bath house was a great addition to the river experience. Water was hot and had good water pressure. My dog loved playing in the river and exploring the property. They had plenty of trails to explore and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

I had this place saved and kept eyeing it and finally pulled the trigger! I wish I could’ve stayed more than one night! I had been exploring and car camping in Arkansas with my pup and definitely was feeling a shower and so glad I ended up here. It was last minute so I really appreciate the host’s quick response and accommodation. I drive a FWD Honda HR-V so not too low to the ground. I didn’t have any trouble except had to back down hill and speed up to get up the last bit getting into site but I made it and worth it! I got in just in time to setup and go jump in the river and grill a steak and asparagus on their propane grill and then shower in the outdoor shower house. Hot and cold water and great water pressure, it was wonderful and same with sink🙌🏼WiFi worked close to cabin, as mentioned. I had no issue with it while in tent which I set up on the deck (was also able to back my car in close to deck to unload). The outhouse and flushable toilet was cherry on top heading out in the morning. Had so many people asking about it from my snaps. So I will definitely be back and possibly even family vacation in the cabin!

T

Tammy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

In all of my 45 years, and after countless camping trips, I can honestly say this is the most extraordinary place I have ever stayed. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had stepped into something rare and unforgettable. The land itself radiates peace and beauty—every view feels like a painting, every sound like part of a calming symphony of nature. What makes this place stand out isn’t just the scenery—it’s the atmosphere. There’s a sense of care, of intention, that you can feel in every detail. It’s as if this spot was created to remind you what camping is supposed to be: restorative, grounding, and awe-inspiring. I have camped in many places across the years, but nowhere has left me with this kind of deep impression. This isn’t just a camping trip—it’s an experience that stays with you. If you’re looking for a place that renews your spirit and sets a new standard for what camping can be, this is it.

H

Hannah

September 2025

Tent

With pets

I loved tent camping here! We were having a road trip from mn to New Orleans and this was the perfect place to relax…and the kayaks were so much fun!

T

Terry

August 2025

14 ft pop-up camper

With pets

We loved thunder mountain it was beautiful place. Loved the outside shower and bath. Swimming in the creek was nice. Love to come back soon.

S

Shannon

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Wonderful private location with all of the indoor features outdoors! Perfect for tent camping. So easy to upgrade to glamping with running water, electricity, wifi, and deck after deck each with unique views of river and mountains. Blissful tranquility.

B

Brooke

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

Absolutely beautiful and peaceful place! I ended up solo camping here as a last-minute halfway stop, and it did not disappoint. The pictures and reviews are spot on—this place is just as amazing as everyone says. Quiet, scenic, and the perfect spot to recharge or have fun, because they really did think of everything! Totally worth the stop! Definitely would be a great family get together camp!

D

Dallas

July 2025

Tent

Really cool place to stay. The river was super chill and relaxing. The whole place was comfortable, bath house area was lovely and convenient. Several trails to explore. Host was very responsive and welcoming. I would love to stay there again!

Colby

June 2025

18 ft campervan

The host has seriously thought of everything here. From the outdoor games, comforts in nature, vintage soda machine, and watercrafts available, it is awesome. We absolutely loved our stay! We enjoyed the private site, pedal boating, swimming with our dogs, and the luxurious shower house. Taking a bath while overlooking the water was stunning! It was amazing to have comforts like a bathtub, shower, and flushing toilet while camping! We can't wait to go back.

S

Stephen

June 2025

Tent

Absolutely lovely stay at thunder mountain. They have thoughtfully provided every necessity and even most luxuries you wouldn't expect in the Backcountry. My wife and I loved the bathhouse, what a unique addition to an already perfect cabin getaway. Thank you!

D

Dena

May 2025

Tent

We absolutely loved our stay at Todd's place! It was everything we wanted it to be and more. It was beautiful and peaceful. We enjoyed a great hike around the property, swam in the beautiful river, and then enjoyed a warm shower outside. Todd was a very welcoming and responsive host. We will definitely be back in the future. Thank you for sharing your amazing place with us.

J

Jess

May 2025

Tent

We loved camping on Todd's land! The outdoor bathhouse was great after spending the day on the river/trails. Appreciated being able to use the kayaks. It rained quite a bit, but we had a good time hanging out on the porch.

Nabil

April 2025

Tent

Our trip to Thunder Mountain was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, we were completely taken by the beauty of the place. It's the perfect secluded spot—peaceful, surrounded by nature, and set up to be super comfortable. It truly felt like we had stepped into our own little slice of paradise. Todd and Elaine have done such an amazing job creating a space that feels both cozy and rustic. From the well-kept grounds to the thoughtful touches throughout, we felt so cared for the entire time. Communication with Todd was a breeze. The blog they put together for the site had everything we needed, and the directions were clear and easy to follow—so both getting there and settling in was completely stress-free. Definitely one of those trips that stays with you. We're already talking about when we can go back!

A

Alexx

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Thunder Mountain Private River Camp

So peaceful, and much more astonishing in person! Todd is a very nice host while super accommodating! If you haven’t booked already, you’re missing out!

Thomas

March 2025

14 ft pop-up camper

We really enjoyed our stay at Todd's land. The setting was beautiful. The river is clear and clean and the stars brilliant. We used the outside bathtub and shower multiple times. Privacy is guaranteed because Todd only books one couple at a time.

B

Brett

March 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

We camped here with our Tab 400 teardrop. It is a very private location with nice river access. We were fortunate to have two good days of weather which always helps. The outside bath/shower house was unique and very relaxing. If we are ever in the area again we would definitely stay here again.

J

Jason

March 2025

Tent