Ouachita Lake features over 40,000 acres of water surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest in central Arkansas. The area sits at an elevation ranging from 578 to 1,100 feet, with seasonal temperature fluctuations that make fall and spring particularly popular for camping. Cell service can be spotty in areas farther from Hot Springs, with better connectivity available at campgrounds closer to town.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Caddo River: The Caddo River offers a gentler alternative to lake recreation with moving water. A camper at Caddo River Access RV Park notes, "The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages! There's so much to see and the water actually moves instead of you having to paddle the whole way."
Crystal mining adventures: Many visitors come specifically for crystal hunting opportunities. Stays at Crystal Ridge RV Park provide easy access to adjacent mines. A visitor shares, "I don't think camping at this RV park is about the camping experience; it's about the proximity to the crystal mines... Ron Coleman Mining is the site closest to the RV park and the Rock Shop is located on the corner of main st."
Water access from campgrounds: Several rv sites near Ouachita Lake provide direct water access. At J and J RV Park, campers appreciate the natural water features: "It is right on a little creek, and there are turkeys somewhere nearby. We enjoyed the full hook ups."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptional restroom facilities. A camper at Leisure Landing RV Park raves, "The bathhouse reminded me of a dayspa! The campsites are very small and tight. People and staff are friendly. They have a dogpark!"
Quiet camping environments: Campers consistently mention the peaceful settings at rv parks near Ouachita Lake. One reviewer at Leisure Landing noted, "Stayed here for 4 weeks. Except for the occasional dog barking contest (not at night usually around midday), it's a quiet and comfortable place to stay."
Proximity to Hot Springs attractions: Location matters to many visitors. A camper at J and J RV Park mentioned, "Great value for the price, $48 cash/$53 card. No online reservations. Owner is really nice and helpful. Clean facilities. Quiet. Sites along the stream have a great view and a great place to sit and enjoy nature. About 10 minute drive to the National Park/Downtown Hot Springs."
What you should know
Site spacing varies widely: Some parks offer more spacious sites than others. At Crystal Ridge RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "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."
Reservation policies differ: While some parks take online reservations, others operate differently. At Finish Line RV Park, a visitor shared, "I called and got one of their specials. I paid $50 for the night and ended up staying 2 more! Great managers and the park is really nice."
Water pressure considerations: Water systems can vary between parks. One J and J RV Park camper advised, "Recommend using a water pressure regulator, one of my pipes started leaking from the pressure."
Tips for camping with families
Look for river access for younger kids: Moving water can be safer than lake swimming for families. A visitor to Caddo River Access noted, "This is an awesome place to camp and get away without going too far! The camp sites have good shade and are all close to the water. The float is also so much fun and accessible for all ages!"
Find parks with secure facilities: Safety features matter for families. A camper at Finish Line shared, "The campground itself is safe and secure, all sites are paved with fire rings and picnic tables. Sites are not too close together and it is quiet. They have a dog run, club house, laundry and showers available."
Check for noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. A Caddo River Access camper warns, "Be warned that the campsite is right off a highway bridge so a decent amount of traffic through at all times."
Tips from RVers
Watch overhead clearances: Some parks have potential hazards for taller rigs. At Treasure Isle, a camper cautioned, "Low hanging wires were scary pulling into our site, scraping up against our ac units (13.5')."
Consider access road conditions: Road quality varies around the lake. A visitor to Cloud Nine RV Park advised, "Be careful on the road in. It's a little bumpy but it evident they do try to maintain it. It also has two turns that you want to take wide."
Check site leveling needs: Not all rv sites near Ouachita Lake have perfectly level pads. A Cloud Nine camper noted, "The sites are level. Be careful on the road in. It's a little bumpy but it evident they do try to maintain it."
