Lake Ouachita offers pet-friendly camping opportunities across 40,000+ acres of water with 975 miles of forested shoreline. At 592 feet above sea level, the lake creates a moderate climate that typically remains comfortable for camping from April through October. Water temperatures reach the mid-80s during summer months, making it suitable for dogs who enjoy swimming alongside their owners.
What to do
Boat rentals at Crystal Springs: Pontoon boat rentals are available for those wanting to explore Lake Ouachita's extensive waterways with their pets. "We rented a pontoon boat for a day and had a blast (price was much less than I expected," notes Thomas W. about Crystal Springs Campground.
Paddling adventures: Kayaking is popular for accessing the lake's numerous islands with pets. "I visited several [islands] each day on a kayak. I arrived at Memorial Day and basically had the place to myself," shares Kyle G. from Brady Mountain.
Hiking with dogs: Several pet-friendly trails connect campgrounds to scenic viewpoints. "Great hiking the lake is always fun. It is near enough to Hot Springs. Also near plenty of quartz mines," writes Thomas W. about Crystal Springs.
Crystal digging excursions: Many campers take day trips to nearby crystal mines with their dogs. "We went crystal digging at Coleman which was also unbelievable," reports Ber M. from Crystal Springs.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer direct water access ideal for pets who like swimming. "We had a lovely time tent camping at Lake Ouachita... The campsites are on a small peninsula, so every site was right on the water," notes Chelsea K. from Lake Ouachita State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Wildlife encounters enhance the camping experience. "We saw eagles every day and fishing was great," reports Thomas W. about Crystal Springs, while Nancy C. shares about Denby Point: "We saw tons of deer everyday in the campground."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms make longer stays more comfortable. "Bathrooms were clean, warm, had good showers and dish sinks," notes Lorand D. about Denby Point.
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature swimming spots where dogs can cool off. "The swimming area is nice and is accessible by car or a short walk from any campsite," says Emily C. about Charlton Campground.
What you should know
Cell service varies: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the lake area. "Cell service (Verizon) was very good, picked up a good number of tv stations on regular TV," shares Thomas W. about Crystal Springs, while another camper notes about Lake Ouachita State Park: "The cell service was minimal (1 bar) but a cell booster gave us full service."
Road conditions: Access roads can present challenges in wet weather. "Be aware of the weather, as if it's raining hard, parts of this road are subject to being the pathway for the water to cross as it flows down the mountainside," warns Carole G. about Brady Mountain.
Campground busyness: Popular areas fill quickly, especially during summer. "We got the prime spot for tent camping. It was a haul to get all our gear to the end but they have carts available to help," notes Taylor C. about Lake Ouachita State Park.
Water hookups not universal: Water availability varies by campground. "Nice lake with beach area. Playground for kids. Clean restrooms. Some of the sites are small so check the length," advises Travis A. about Crystal Springs.
Tips for camping with families
CCC swimming hole at Charlton: This dog-friendly swimming area features historic architecture and cool water. "There's a beautiful CCC dam that forms a beautiful swimming area. There's a former CCC building that's been converted into a rustic bathhouse for the day use area," explains Cheri H. about Charlton Campground.
Beach options for kids and dogs: Several areas offer sandy beaches where children and pets can play. "Wooded lake and mountains with lots of water activities, sandy beach, a restaurant. The campground is decent sized, wooded, shady, privacy varies a lot," shares Kim B.
Day trips to Hot Springs: The national park makes a good excursion when dogs need a break from camping. "Beautiful location next to a stream, although the sites are tightly packed in comparison with most state and national parks. Lots of hiking trails accessible from the nearby trailhead and a quick drive to the historic and charming Bathhouse Row downtown," notes Patrick M. about Gulpha Gorge.
Free camping options: For budget-conscious families, some areas offer no-cost sites. "Campsite is very pretty (November) with changing leaves and quiet days and nights," reports Adam B. about Crystal Springs.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. "Our site was very large, on a peninsula shared with one other site. It was very close to the playground and restrooms," notes Kimberly about Brady Mountain.
Distance between camping areas: Lake Ouachita's size means driving between attractions takes time. "We arrived in the evening, did self check in and rangers came by the next day to verify. Hosts were friendly and made sure we were all set up for freezing temperatures and/or making sure we didn't break the spigot," shares Lorand D. about Denby Point.
Senior discounts available: Federal pass holders can save significantly at Corps of Engineers sites. "Normal cost is $22 a night but with National Parks Senior Pass the cost was only $11 per night! What a deal!" reports Don L. about Denby Point.
Sites with full hookups: Some campgrounds offer complete RV services. "We stayed in A35 which is a triple A site with level site with all the trimmings! Wooded campsite with adequate shade, picnic table, fire pit and raised grilling station," shares Don L. about Lake Ouachita State Park.
