Top Dog Friendly Camping near Ouachita Lake

Looking to find an RV campground or tent campsite near Ouachita Lake that allows dogs? Finding a place to camp in Arkansas with your dog is easier than ever. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the woods or a place near local attractions, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect spot for you and your pup.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Ouachita Lake, AR (162)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    1. Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park

    72 Reviews
    200 Photos
    409 Saves
    Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

    Overview

    Gulpha Gorge campground is a tree lined retreat nestled on Gulpha Creek just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row. Open all year, the campground features 44 campsites all suitable for RVs and tents. This popular spot is the ideal base camp for all of your Hot Springs adventures and tends to fill up quickly, even in the fall and winter. Reservations are recommended.____

    Recreation

    Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row.__ The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.____

    Facilities

    Hot Springs National Park boasts 26 miles (42 km) of stunning trails. Gulpha Gorge Campground has a trail access to Hot Springs Mountain and Bathhouse Row.__ The campground sits adjacent to Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is perfect for wading, sitting and playing.____

    Natural Features

    Sit back and relax to the sounds of adjacent Gulpha Gorge Creek under the canopy of towering trees while being serenaded by the local winged inhabitants and you just may forget you are so close to downtown Hot Springs National Park.____ Enjoy a stunning hike to Bathhouse Row with mountain-top views along the way. Dip your toes in Gulpha Gorge Creek or stretch out on the cool grass to enjoy the breeze while planning a visit to one of the stunning spas on historic Bathhouse Row.

    Nearby Attractions

    Gulpha Gorge campground is just a few minutes from downtown Hot Springs National Park and historic Bathhouse Row.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (501) 620-6715.

    Charges & Cancellations

    __Cancellations more than 72 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 72 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    2. Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    82 Reviews
    280 Photos
    385 Saves
    Jones Mill, Arkansas

    This peaceful park makes great camping near Little Rock and is located on Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region. The only full-service marina on the lake is here at the park and open in the summertime for bait, snacks/drinks, and fuel. Boat rentals are available year-round. The park also includes a launch ramp, pavilion, picnic sites, playgrounds, and a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall.

    The park has 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. There are also many native stone and wood buildings on-site. The history of these structures dates back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. The park offers 70 campsites (47 Class AAA and 23 Class B), six primitive tent sites, one Rent-A-Camp, and one Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are on the lakeshore. Park interpreters offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round. Guided horseback rides are offered seasonally.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $15 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Ouachita State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    4. COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground

    43 Reviews
    53 Photos
    47 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Overview

    Crystal Springs Campground, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape.Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Facilities

    Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres.

    Nearby Attractions

    Part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs just north of the lake. Here, hikers and mountain bikers can explore an array of breathtaking views in the Ouachita Mountains.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    5. Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    99 Reviews
    541 Photos
    622 Saves
    Adona, Arkansas

    The campgrounds feature a total of 125 campsites (including 26 pull-through sites). Thirty-five of the sites—the Class AAA sites—have 30 and 50 amp electrical, water, and sewer hookups. The 90 Class B sites offer 30 amp electrical and water hookups. All sites are reservable. Campsites are divided into four campground areas. Each includes a modern bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets. Area "A" is near Lake Bailey and include sites along the lakeshore. Areas "B," "C," and "D" are located on the south side of Ark. 154 in wooded settings.

    Other campsite choices in the main camping area include a 44-unit Rally-style Area with 20 amp electrical service available for camping clubs.

    A trailer dump station is centrally located near the Rally-style camping area.

    Petit Jean is Arkansas's only state park with its own airport.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Denby Point

    6. Denby Point

    18 Reviews
    56 Photos
    100 Saves
    Mount Ida, Arkansas

    Overview

    Groups and families of all sizes come to camp at Denby Point for its scenic views, year-round fishing and convenient boating facilities. The campground promises to entertain jet skiers, boaters, hikers and birders alike. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour.

    Recreation

    World-class striper fishing brings crowds of anglers year-round, and incredibly clear waters attract scuba divers, hoping to explore the flooded forests and mountain valleys below the lake's surface. Hikers take pleasure in the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which lines the southern end of the lake.

    Facilities

    World-class striper fishing brings crowds of anglers year-round, and incredibly clear waters attract scuba divers, hoping to explore the flooded forests and mountain valleys below the lake's surface. Hikers take pleasure in the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), which lines the southern end of the lake.

    Natural Features

    Lake Ouachita sits in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, just 28 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The lake stems from the Ouachita River and boasts 692 miles of shoreline and over 40,000 surface acres.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore Ouachita National Forest's 1.8 million acres, surrounding Lake Ouachita and extending across central Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park

    7. DeGray Lake Resort State Park — De Gray State Park

    30 Reviews
    156 Photos
    116 Saves
    Kaweah Lake, California

    This recreation area is part of Degray Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing

    8. Catherine's Landing

    23 Reviews
    116 Photos
    191 Saves
    Hot Springs, Arkansas

    Whether your perfect vacation is action-packed or laid back, you’ll find everything you need at Catherine’s Landing. Conveniently situated on 400 pastoral acres with a mile of frontage on beautiful Lake Catherine just outside historic downtown Hot Springs. 

    Catherine’s Landing offers an ideal natural environment mixed with a range of accommodations and on-site activities that appeal to every form of traveler. Choose from RV sites with modern concrete pads, fully-furnished resort cottages, yurts for a true "Glamping" experience, or raised and bordered tent sites. Add exceptional on-site amenities, a convenient concierge at your service, a beautiful lake right outside your door, Wi-Fi and cable, and you have everything you need for your next getaway.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Hot Springs National Park KOA

    9. Hot Springs National Park KOA

    20 Reviews
    34 Photos
    116 Saves
    Hot Springs, Arkansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
  • 10. Treasure Isle R.V. Park

    16 Reviews
    66 Photos
    13 Saves
    Royal, Arkansas

    Treasure Isle RV Park is located on the banks of Lake Hamilton. There are many types of RV sites including Concrete back-in, Concrete pull thru, gravel pull thru, and lakefront sites. Amenities include: coin laundry, bath house, pool, large playground, three covered pavilions with seating and grills available for use by the park guests, and fishing piers. There are kayaks and pontoons available to rent. Come enjoy your vacation with us!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $45 - $95 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 162 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews In Ouachita Lake

975 Reviews of 162 Ouachita Lake Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from J and J RV Park
    October 2, 2024

    J and J RV Park

    Clean and convenient

    Nice little campground with nice, clean restrooms and showers. The creek is nice and you can hear the water flowing over the rocks at night, the proverbial babbling brook. Owner is very friendly and helpful. It’s a short drive to Hot Springs to see the attractions

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake Complex
    October 1, 2024

    Cove Lake Complex

    Quiet and wooded

    Nice quiet campground with a nice lake, vault toilets, no electricity or water Wildlife in the area. We were able to listen to a Barred Owl before going to sleep, mature pine trees giving a lot of shade

  • Camper-submitted photo from Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park
    October 1, 2024

    Petit Jean State Park — Petit Jean State Park

    The trail was okay, but they need to do better.

    The trail was okay, but showing signs that it wasn't being maintained properly anymore. From litter found all along the trail to parts of the trail not being maintained. Even some of the stones placed to make walkways are coming out of place. 

    But inside was worse...

    The old white lady working the giftshop was absolutely horrible. While we were still shopping, this woman embarrassed us asking loudly çare yall planning to pay for that, while we were looking at the stuffed animals, and making us look like shoplifters. I absolutely recommend against spending a single dollar at that store, and I've previously spent decent amount of money there, but no more. I recommend avoiding the main building entirely, and that will me my recommendation until they fix this problem

  • Camper-submitted photo from Edgewood
    September 1, 2024

    Edgewood

    Sites 21-24 are very close together

    We stayed in tent site 22 for a weekend camping trip. You can’t tell by looking at the Recreation.gov reservation site but tent pad 22 is one of 4 in a grouping of tent sites. 21-24 are so close together. If you are with friends or a large family group then it would be ideal but if don’t want people right on top of you then pick another site. Thankfully, we had some cool neighbors but it was a very noisy and bright spot to camp. Also, your neighbors have to walk through your campsite to get to either of the two water spickets that serve all 4 campsites. There is no where to park your boat unless you rent an RV spot and there is no boat ramp in the camp ground. All of the spots were very shady and cool. We had a good time but we wanted to warn others so you know what you are getting into.

  • Camper-submitted photo from The Vista at the Lake
    September 1, 2024

    The Vista at the Lake

    Complete Scam, false advertising

    Upon arrival the campground looked to be deserted and a ghost town. The place was run down, falling apart, boarded up windows, a mold infested pool, overgrown weeds, and duct tape on bbq pits located at the campsite. Not at all what they advertise this place to be.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    August 18, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Great State Park!!

    Very beautiful place to stay!! Our site on the lake was very beautiful and every site on the water has a small dock you can fish off. Bugs were not bad at all. Would recommend this place to anyone.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Catherine State Park Campground
    July 29, 2024

    Lake Catherine State Park Campground

    Resort / Country Club

    This is a fantastic spot with tons of amenities (including a great pool) & many activities. Also, guests and campers were extremely nice! Clean and a well planned resort! Stay if you have a chance.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Catherine's Landing
    July 28, 2024

    Catherine's Landing

    Great amenities & nice sites

    We had an overnight here after visiting the hot springs national park. The euro delights food truck was a tasty treat. Loved that the pool was open until 10pm just wish the store was open past 5. Great sites. Full hook ups. Paved roads perfect for scootering.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground
    July 27, 2024

    Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground

    Great full hookup campground

    I keep coming back here to dig for diamonds. There are cheaper campgrounds in the area, but the State Park grounds are top notch. Very level camper pads, stable power and water and everything is well maintained. There are multiple bath “houses” — single shower room style privacy, not a large room with curtains. A playground in the sites for kids to play on also.

    The only downsides that come to mind are the iffy WiFi (the reservation system is pretty accurate on which sites have “good” WiFi and which do not) that is decent for casual web browsing but not likely to be streaming possible. And then a mixed pro/com is that satellite connections (direct or Starlink) is going to be rough due to the wooded aspect of the sites — although the trees do help keep the camper cooler. 🤷🏻‍♂️

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cove Lake Complex
    July 25, 2024

    Cove Lake Complex

    Hidden gem in the Ozarks

    Fantastic smaller campground minutes from Mount Magazine. It seems to be overshadowed by much larger, better known places like Devils Den, so it's fairly quiet even when it's 'busy.' We also learned that it has new management as of this year (2024), a young family that's extremely hands-on.

    We stayed as a group (three families with 7 kiddos total, ranging from 6-15), across two adjacent sites: 1 & 3. You could see the lake from our sites, but they don't sit right over the lake like some do. With so many kids in our group, we actually wanted that. Sites are extremely spacious and well spaced from each other, and would feel even more private later in the season when the trees are full. Bathrooms are simple pit toilets, but clean and well-maintained. 

    Boat rentals right onsite, concessions, even a small beach area! We will 100% be back. No cell service whatsoever with Verizon.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jack Creek Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 22, 2024

    Jack Creek Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Large wooded dispersed campsite near creek

    Coordinates: 35.02281, -93.81060. Located 2.5 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and almost 1 mile past the turn off to the shooting range. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite is well off of Jack Creek Road, down an undesignated dirt track, offering a lot of privacy. Access is easy although the dirt track may be muddy during the wet season. This is a large wooded dispersed campsite that has a short path down to Jack Creek. Depending on the water level, fishing and wading are possible at the creek. The site has a level dirt surface which can accommodate 4 rigs - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping are possible. The site has a clean rock fire ring. There is a lot of shade during the summer. Solar charging is possible in an open field at the entrance of the site. This is a wonerful site to camp in. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away. I received no t-Mobile cell service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 21, 2024

    Jack Creek Rd Pull Thru Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Small Pull Thru Site with Easy Access

    Coordinates: 35.02422, -93.81997. Located 2 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area, and 1/3rd mile past the turn off to the shooting range. It is a small pull though campsite with a small rock fire ring, close to Jack Creek Road (forest road); there is very little privacy from the forest road. Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. This campsite can receive dust from passing vehicles. The site can easily accommodate 2 vehicles, truck camper size and smaller, parked one behind the other. The site is shaded with a level dirt surface. Small tent & hammock camping is possible near rock fire ring which is located between the pull through driveway and the forest road. Easy access into the site. There is no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; no recreation, such as hiking trails, in the immediate vicinity. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jack Creek Road Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 19, 2024

    Jack Creek Road Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Large wooded site just off Jack Creek Road

    Not sure if the pin location is accurate, so here are the coordinates: 35.02802, -93.82913.  Located 1.3 miles past the entrance of the Jack Creek Recreation Area. It is a large site with a large rock fire ring, set back a little from Jack Creek Road (forest road). Jack Creek Road is a mixed dirt/gravel road, wider than a single track; it is well maintained with some minor erosion in a few places. The campsite has a mostly level dirt surface that can accommodate 2 vehicles - truck camper size and smaller. Tent and hammock camping is possible. The site is mostly shaded in the summer. There is an old undesignated track near the rear of the site; this may lead down to Jack Creek, but I was not able to verify this due to large mud puddles on the track. There was a little bit of trash at the site, but not too bad. I received no T-Mobile cell service. There is nothing special about this campsite; just a nice place to camp in for a night or two. Jack Creek Recreation Area and the Sugar Creek hiking trail are a short drive away.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Girard Rd/Forest Road 20 Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR
    July 17, 2024

    Girard Rd/Forest Road 20 Dispersed, Ouachita National Forest, AR

    Somewhat private dispersed site off of unbusy forest road

    Coordinates: 35.02531, -93.88228. Located just off of Girard Road (Forest Road 20) - a maintained gravel/dirt forest road. This road is mostly a single track - narrow with some minor erosion in a few places. A lifted 4x4 vehicle is NOT needed to drive to the site. The dispersed site is located 1.3 miles south of the turnoff to Jack Creek Recreation Area. This site is set off from the forest road on a narrow undesignated dirt track which is easy to miss. It is a small site with enough room for one vehicle - truck camper size and smaller. The site is mostly level on a dirt surface with a rock fire ring. It is mostly shaded, although solar recharging may be possible during the afternoon with solar panels being placed on the access track in front of the site. Tent and hammock camping are possible. Received a strong T-Mobile 5G signal here. Except for some peace and quiet, there is nothing remarkable about this particular campsite. However, is is located in the Jack Creek area of the Arkansas Ouachitas. This area has a few nice swimming holes and hiking trails which one can drive to. OHV recreation is also possible in the area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Ashley Creek Recreation Area
    July 17, 2024

    Ashley Creek Recreation Area

    Pretty Location, Free Primitive Camping

    I didn't camp here, but thought I leave an updated review. Previous review still applies. This is a free primitive campground, but a permit is required to camp here; see COE Web site for info. There is a very clean portable john with tp in the campground. It appears that the campsites themselves have not been maintained in a while, although the campgound itself looks nice, with a view of the lake. Some of the sites are close together offering no privacy. I received T-Mobile cell service. Convenient boat ramp nearby. I wouldn't make this campground a multi-day vacation destinition, but it's convenient for an overnight stay and for those using the lake for recreation.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mount Magazine State Park Campground
    July 8, 2024

    Mount Magazine State Park Campground

    Nice Two Day Place

    There is not a lot to do, and it is pretty far from the city. However, there are big RV sites and amazing sunsets. There is also a lake nearby. 

    Dog friendly.

    There are lots of nature trails, but none very long.

    Lots of ticks, tricky to get good starlink connection.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 23, 2024

    FR132/152 T-Junction Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Convenient Dispersed Camping 2 Miles from Lake Sylvia

    Large dispersed campsite located 2 miles west of Lake Sylvia State Park, where Forest Road 152 meets Forest Road 132. Clean site with one rock fire ring. Can fit a couple of vehicles. Because of the position of the trees on the site, maneuvering a truck camper into the site may be a challenge; don't recommend anything larger. Tent camping is possible. This is a level dirt site with some embedded rocks jutting up. Nice wooded area around site to stroll through. Seasonal track FR132C is adjacent to the site; this track is hikeable. Since the site is at the intersection of popular forest roads, there will be vehicles driving by. The site is set back enough that dust may not be a concern. No T-Mobile cell service. This is convenient, pretty campsite.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine
    June 23, 2024

    Crystal Ridge RV Park at Ron Coleman Mine

    Quiet grounds and perfect for a trip for crystal digging

    The campground is on the small side, but with a nice shower area and coin laundry. The paved areas (including the Rv pads) are a bit rough, but ok. Leveling pads were needed for our site . Lots of crystals just laying around also. Something out of the control of the campground, but the Oakworms were crazy. That’s not rain you hear falling from the trees! lol Stay under the awning.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR
    June 22, 2024

    FR132 Small Dispersed, Ouachita NF, AR

    Overnight Dispersed Site

    Coordinates: 34.85431, -92.88115. Small dispersed campsite in the woods just off of Forest Road 132. Close to the forest road; easy access. There is a clean rock fire ring. Good campsite for a quick overnight stay. The surface of the site is dirt with a little bit of pea gravel. This site is only big enough for one rig, truck camper and smaller size. Pitching a tent is possible in a small clearing to the left of the rock fire ring. Slight downward slope but not bad. Shaded in summer. Nice wooded area. No T-Mobile cell service. There are no hiking trails nearby or remarkable natural features here, but the forest at this site is pretty. This is a nice site in the autumn.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Mountain Dispersed
    June 21, 2024

    Crystal Mountain Dispersed

    Good View with Difficult Access

    I haven't camped here recently. Forest Road 132A, which climbs up to the Crystal Mountain Overlook fom Forest Road 132, is not maintained and badly eroded. Drivers with high clearance 4x4 vehicles and OHVs will enjoy driving up this track, but I don't recommend this drive for the average passenger vehicle. I no longer attempt this with my stock AWD Subaru Outback - just not enough clearance. There are two rock fire rings at the top. Despite the nice views at the top, the dispersed campsites are usually trashy. I included an older photo of the view with Lake Winona in the distance.

  • Camper-submitted photo from FR132 Grindstone Mountain Area Dispersed, Ouachita NF. AR
    June 21, 2024

    FR132 Grindstone Mountain Area Dispersed, Ouachita NF. AR

    Forested Group Dispersed Site near Crystal Mountain Overlook

    Coordinates: 34.83903, -92.94556.  Set back from Forest Road 132 off of an old track - a short distance west of Forest Road 75. There is some minor erosion on the access to this site from FR132. Large site; good for groups. Should accommodate 4 rigs -  truck campersize & smaller. This site can accommodate 4x4 drivers that are planning to tackle Forest Road 132A to the Crystal Mountain Overlook - a short distance east of this site. FR132A is hikeable for those who do not drive high clearance 4x4s. The dispersed site has a level dirt surface. There are two rock fire rings. Beautiful forest backdrop. No T-Mobile service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground
    June 21, 2024

    Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground

    Great little state park campground

    This is a quiet campground with plenty of shaded and nearly perfectly level pull ins. Power is consistent. Water pressure fluctuates from good to high — regulator necessary. Wifi is spotty, but the reservation center is pretty accurate on strength of WiFi at various sites. The site we are in right now, WiFi is sketchy.

    In cool weather, a walk to the diamond field would be fine. In hot weather, no way.



Guide to Ouachita Lake

Camping near Ouachita Lake, Arkansas, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful views and plenty of activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing right off your campsite! At Lake Catherine State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "Our site on the lake was very beautiful and every site on the water has a small dock you can fish off." It's a great way to relax and catch dinner.
  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the campgrounds. One visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground noted, "If you enjoy hiking, this is an excellent location." The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Swimming: Cool off in the lake! Campers at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground enjoyed the swimming areas, with one reviewer saying, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground remarked, "Cleanest shower house I've ever seen." Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers love the roomy sites at Denby Point. One happy camper shared, "Very clean, well maintained, and HUGE sites." This space allows for a more comfortable camping experience.
  • Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere is a highlight for many. At Catherine's Landing, a reviewer said, "The staff was amazing, and we had a great time." Friendly staff can make a big difference in your camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground, may not have full amenities. A camper noted, "Only negative was our bathroom was still closed for the season." Be prepared for some basic facilities.
  • Wildlife: Expect to see wildlife! Campers at DeGray Lake Resort State Park mentioned, "We saw lots of deer and other wildlife." Keep your camera ready for some great nature shots.
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Gulpha Gorge Campground mentioned, "A little close to a busy road, but if you have a creek spot you can hear the water flowing!" Choose your site wisely for a quieter experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Catherine's Landing, one family enjoyed, "Plenty of room for the kids to play behind our water site." Space to roam is essential for family fun.
  • Safety First: Always supervise kids near water. A camper at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground advised, "The lake is beautiful and all tent sites have access to the water." Make sure everyone knows the rules around water safety.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals. A visitor at Daisy State Park Campground mentioned, "The camp store sold firewood, ice, and souvenirs." Having supplies on hand can make meal prep easier.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Accessibility: Some sites can be tricky to access. A camper at Denby Point noted, "Only problem is some sites are hard to get to." Make sure to check site details before booking.
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for a more comfortable stay. At Treasure Isle R.V. Park, a reviewer said, "The sites are pull through but not paved." Knowing what to expect can help you prepare.
  • Stay Connected: If WiFi is important, check reviews. A visitor at Catherine's Landing mentioned, "Serious Problem is Very Poor WiFi." Plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.

Camping near Ouachita Lake, Arkansas, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Ouachita Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Ouachita Lake is Gulpha Gorge Campground — Hot Springs National Park with a 4.1-star rating from 72 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Ouachita Lake?

    TheDyrt.com has all 162 dog-friendly camping locations near Ouachita Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.