About Tompkins Bend Day-Use
Overview Tompkins Bend Day-Use Area on Lake Ouachita, is a great spot to getaway for the day. The combination of lush mountain scenery and wildlife, make this quiet location an ideal place for a family gathering, reunion, or group retreat. 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 Day-Use Pavilion has electrical hook-ups, picnic tables, and lighting. Other amenities include a bathroom facility, a playground, and a grassy wooded scenic view. Natural Features Lake Ouachita is fed from the cool waters of the Ouachita River in central Arkansas. Surrounded by the Ouachita Mountains and National Forest, it's crystal waters span over 40,000 acres and extend for 30 miles, making it the largest lake completely in the state of Arkansas. 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. Here, off-roading enthusiasts can take on the Wolf Pen Gap Off-Highway Vehicle Trail System. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.
How to Get There
From Hot Springs, Arkansas, take US 270 west approximately 24.5 miles to Tompkin Bend Road. Turn right and follow access road 2.4 miles north to park. From Mount Ida, Arkansas, take US 270 east about 10.7 miles to Tompkins Bend Road. Turn left and follow access road 2.4 miles north to the park.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Tompkins Bend Day-Use
Heading to Tompkins Bend Day-Use? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Tompkins Bend Day-Use?
No central reservation system listed for Tompkins Bend Day-Use. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10120796) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Tompkins Bend Day-Use?
From Hot Springs, Arkansas, take US 270 west approximately 24.5 miles to Tompkin Bend Road. Turn right and follow access road 2.4 miles north to park. From Mount Ida, Arkansas, take US 270 east about 10.7 miles to Tompkins Bend Road. Turn left and follow access road 2.4 miles north to the park.
How do I contact Tompkins Bend Day-Use?
You can reach the park at phone: 501-767-2101.
References & Official Resources
