We are a family owned campground and river outfitter and a proud sponsor of the Arkansas Canoe Club.
“Paddle the river without the crowds” -Paullei
Busy week? Summertime Blues? Must Fish Attitude? Oklahoma Heat gotcha down?
Visit Highwater Camp (HWC) and cool off in the spring fed waters of the Wild and Scenic, Illinois River.
We offer access to 30 acres of remote beach front property on one of the most underused sections of the river. The gravel bar encompasses 12 acres and has over a quarter mile of shoreline.
You can camp, float, swim….or just relax. The evenings are a fantastic time to hang out and enjoy a campfire right on the rivers edge. There are a multitude of recreational opportunities including exploring the greater Ozark region. HWC is a great place to start your adventure.
Fish from camp or float one of the areas best sections of the 145 mile long river. As the level drops, the water becomes so clear that you can observe hundreds of fish as you travel down river.
The fishing is excellent with a healthy population of small mouth bass and many of the 15 Species Challenge are caught here. In the Spring, White Bass, (aka…Sand Bass, the Oklahoma state fish) migrate upriver in untold numbers.
We have nature. It is not uncommon to see eagles nesting or flying right over the camp. Additionally, there are lots of deer, owls, ducks, turtles, otters, turkeys, and other wildlife that are spotted year round.
After sunset, you can witness the sparkle of a thousand flashing lightning bugs dancing across the fields while listening to the songs of frogs chirping in the background.
(We are just down river from the world class WOKA whitewater park) https://visitwoka.com/
The River Is Calling…. You should answer!
Very limited Campsites and River Access Passes
1-2 PRIMITIVE campsites available per day (campsites can accommodate small or large groups).
5 River Access Passes (RAPS) available per day.
RAPS allow private parties to park, launch and takeout using your own boats and vehicles to set your own shuttle.
BYOB (I know what you were thinking) Bring Your Own Boats. We do not currently offer boat rentals or shuttle services.
We are a Grand River Damn Authority (GRDA) approved Commercial Float Operator (CFO) and we’re working on getting more services available for you all soon.
CFO’s may launch or takeout their guests at HWC for a small fee.
We have extended our season though October so that you can enjoy the fall colors.
If you would like to host a larger private event such as a family reunion, wedding venue, or a retreat for your organization, contact us to see if we can help.
Step 1. Book a Campsite or River Access Pass from HWC.
Step 2. Set your vehicles for shuttle (Don’t forget your keys!)
Step 3. Float to or from HWC
Step 4. Pick up remaining vehicles from shuttle as needed.
Step 5. Return to HWC and enjoy a night of camping if you booked a campsite.
Step 6. Repeat steps 1-5.
Season Starts
May 1st, 2025
HWC is a PRIVATE campground. You must book online before arrival.
There is no public river access without a camping reservation or purchasing a River Access Pass.
Important- The Ranch House and all infrastructure is Off Limits to all guests. Please do not disturb the tenants. Thanks
FLASH FLOOD WARNING
FLASH FLOOD WARNING: Camp or float at your own risk! The main campground is on a gravel bar very close to the river which can and does get completely submerged during highwater. A flash flood can occur without warning, day or night, 365 days a year. You are responsible for monitoring river levels and weather conditions. HWC does not monitor or send notifications to guests regarding changing conditions. There are several links offered on this website to assist you in your own research.
If you choose to camp on the gravel bar and heavy rain is present on site or upriver, be prepared to break camp and move to higher ground. If you notice the river rising while you are camping, move to higher ground and get off of the gravel bar immediately. Its is highly recommended that you do not leave vehicles unattended on the gravel bar during your float, especially if the water levels are already high and more rain is expected. You may park vehicles in the main parking area or in the meadow. Please cancel your trip if heavy rain or flooding is forecasted. We want everyone to be safe. It is 100% up to you to be responsible for your own safety while camping and on the river. I don't want to scare anyone away, but I want you to be fully informed so you can make your own decisions.
ALTERNATE CAMPSITE: You may also choose to camp in the meadow if the river levels are high or expected to rise. You do not need additional permission or a separate reservation to use this option. It is always available to our camping guests. It is up to you to decide which location is best for your group.
LIFE SAFETY RISK: Flash flooding is a real concern and the consequences could be severe. You could die. For legal and liability concerns, that is about as blunt as I can state it. Seriously, if you have any concerns about your ability to safely exit the gravel bar or river from a flashflood, either camp at the Alternate Campsite or do not stay here.
Okay, now that I am done scaring the crap out of you….On a better note, when the weather is good, the river and the beach here are pretty darn nice. The point is, you need to be vigilant and have a plan. If you are still reading this and have not already booked a campsite at another location, Welcome to HWC, where we don’t sugar coat the liability information.
