Lake Ouachita and Lake Catherine define the landscape around Hot Springs, Arkansas, with over 40,000 acres of clear water surrounded by the forested Ouachita Mountains. The region maintains relatively mild winters with average lows around 30°F, while summer temperatures regularly reach into the 90s with high humidity. Most glamping sites sit at elevations between 600-1,200 feet, providing varied perspectives of the surrounding mountains.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 1-3 miles round trip at Lake Catherine State Park Campground. "We really enjoyed hiking the Falls Branch Trail with my nieces (8 and 10 years old). I would highly recommend this trail," writes Alison C. The trail leads to a photogenic waterfall with swimming opportunities during summer months.
Crystal mining: $25 per person near Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine. "For $20 you can go spend the day diggin through dirt and finding crystals. I don't think everyone has the luck we had but we came after a rain and cleaned up," notes Justin M. The mines provide tools and guidance for finding quartz crystals you can take home.
Kayaking: Hourly rentals available at Lake Ouachita. "It's a great lake for kayaking as the water was calm and there were only a couple of boats on the water," shares Alison C. Many campgrounds offer direct lake access where you can launch personal watercraft or rent equipment.
Zipline courses: Starts at $35 at Catherine's Landing. "There's an affiliated zip line just outside of the park. The hiking paths are lovely and wooded," says Taylor D. The course offers multiple difficulty levels suitable for various ages and abilities.
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: Reserve early at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground. "The campsites are on a small peninsula, so every site was right on the water. Being so close to the water kept the temperature comfortable, and having direct access to the lake was perfect for swimming," Chelsea K. notes. These premium sites often book 6-12 months in advance.
Modern bathhouse facilities throughout the area. "The shower water pressure is amazing and maintenance cleans daily," reports Duke L. about Alpine Ridge. Many campers mention the consistently clean and well-maintained facilities even during peak season.
Disc golf courses: Free with stay at several parks. Catherine's Landing has "many amenities such as a pool, store, boat rentals, zip line and trash pickup," according to Kimberly L. Multiple campgrounds feature disc golf courses ranging from beginner to advanced skill levels.
Privacy between sites at DeGray Lake Resort State Park. "This is not a small park. There are lots of sites, but somehow they've maintained enough wooded space between each site to feel fairly secluded," writes Stacy M. Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering more separation than others.
What you should know
Reservation timing: 6-12 months ahead for premium sites. "Area A is full hookup while B-D have electricity & water only... My 1st suggestion: RESERVE EARLY to get a spot in Loop A or Loop B," advises Shana D. about Petit Jean State Park. Holiday weekends and summer dates often book solid within days of becoming available.
Site leveling challenges at older campgrounds. "Many sites are unlevel and require significant leveling chocks to get it truly level," notes Ryan S. Bring leveling equipment, especially when staying at established parks with older infrastructure.
Cell service limitations in mountain areas. "AT&T coverage was basically nonexistent with 1 bar of LTE service but very little if any throughput," reports Ray & Terri F. Service varies widely by carrier and specific location within each park.
Water access varies by site at Brady Mountain - Lake Ouachita. "There is no water at the sites...you have to tote your own water to and from the dispersed water spigots," explains Donna H. Some parks have full hookups while others require filling containers at central locations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Check water levels before planning water activities. "The beach area is nice. Lake was low at the time," mentions Duke L. about Alpine Ridge. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, potentially affecting swimming areas and boat launch access.
Kid-friendly hikes: Under 2 miles for younger children. "The trails are far from challenging, and the Park Rangers are very helpful," Michael H. notes about Degray Lake State Park. Many parks offer educational programs and ranger-led activities specifically designed for children.
Splash pads and pools: Summer months only at select locations. "Playground, splash pad, and pool. We were not able to access the pool because of the time of year, but we will definitely be back in warmer weather," shares Bridget C. about Catherine's Landing. Most water features operate May through September, weather permitting.
Lakefront tent sites: Request upon booking for direct water access. "We had a site overlooking the lake. We had plenty of room to hang our hammocks and play yard games," Alison C. recalls about Lake Catherine State Park. These premium sites often cost $2-5 more per night but provide easier supervision for children playing near water.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Areas A and B at Petit Jean State Park. "Areas A and B can accommodate large rigs and towables... The site had water and 30amp service," advises Fred S. Areas C and D typically accommodate smaller rigs under 30 feet.
Full hookup availability varies widely between parks. "Thirty-five of the sites are Class AAA sites which have 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. There are 90 Class B sites offering 30 amp electrical and water hookups," details Fred S. Always confirm hookup specifications when booking.
Water hose length: Pack 30+ feet for some parks. "The water spigot was in the back of the site away from the sewer and electric so we needed about 30' of water hose," notes MickandKarla W. about Stephens Park Campground. Site layouts aren't standardized, requiring flexibility with hookup locations.
Campsite angles and access challenges at certain parks. "Some sites are angled differently and there is no clear indication how you have to enter the loop to be able to access your site," explains Ryan S. Research site layouts or call ahead to determine the best approach for larger rigs.
