Lake Ouachita surrounds Pencil Bluff with 40,000 acres of clear water and 200 miles of undeveloped shoreline. The Ouachita National Forest offers camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the region. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F while summer months can reach 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Crystal digging adventures: Several campsites provide access to nearby quartz crystal mining areas. At COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground, you'll find "Coleman crystal digging which was also unbelievable. Will definitely go back when half the US isn't underwater!" according to Ber M.
Mountain biking trails: The Lake Ouachita Vista Trail system offers excellent mountain biking options. Near Tompkins Bend, "the surrounding wilderness has several great trails nearby, including Lake Ouachita Vista trail system—great for hiking and mountain biking" as noted by Kelli P.
Lake swimming spots: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access outside designated swimming areas. At Tompkins Bend, campers appreciate that "most sites are right along the lake. Well shaded and spaced sites. The campground and lake were very quiet while here."
What campers like
Lakeside tent camping: The peninsula setup at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground creates unique camping spots. Chelsea K. notes, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers ample wildlife spotting opportunities. At Crystal Campground, Izzy T. reports, "Heard rattle snakes but did not see any. Bugs were not too bad." Thomas W. mentions seeing "eagles every day" at Crystal Springs.
Peace and quiet: Many campers value the secluded feel of these campgrounds. At Denby Point, Lorand D. notes, "If you want to be out in the middle of nowhere, this is the place for you. After Sunday morning, most people cleared out, leaving the whole loop to us."
What you should know
Cell service varies: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the area. At Hickory Nut Mountain, Mark F. reports "T-Mobile cellphone reception" while others note spotty service elsewhere. Kelli P. found "Verizon signal good enough for making reservations" at Tompkins Bend.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. For Crystal Campground, Stephanie W. warns it's "not far off the main road but could probably get muddy during the rainy season." Cheri H. adds, "Take care driving down the well maintained dirt road to get here. It's nicely graded and hard packed but narrow."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Denby Point, Lorand D. mentions "bathrooms were clean, warm, had good showers and dish sinks," while Hickory Nut Mountain has what Nicole G. describes as "basically a portapotty."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: The designated swimming areas provide safe spots for children. Kim B. from Crystal Springs mentions, "We were lucky to reserve a site right on the water so the kids spent all the time splashing down there within sight of our picnic table."
Playground options: Some campgrounds feature playgrounds for younger visitors. Travis A. notes Crystal Springs has a "nice lake with beach area. Playground for kids." Similarly, Crystal Campground has "nice open areas" suitable for play.
Seasonal timing: Consider visiting in spring or fall for more comfortable temperatures. At Lake Ouachita State Park, Hannah L. suggests avoiding peak times when "the campground was crowded and the spots were all very close together."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring careful setup. At Joplin Campground, Paul Y. warns that "some sites, like 63-D, shouldn't be allowed as sites as too small and not remotely level." Bruce F. adds, "Some sites are off camber due to the mountain side."
Hookup availability: Options range from primitive to full-service. Don L. at Lake Ouachita State Park recommends "A35 which is a triple A site with level site with all the trimmings!" while noting most sites in the park offer electric and water.
RV size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. South Fork RV and Camping offers big-rig friendly sites with full hookups including 50-amp service, though only has four total sites. In contrast, Crystal Campground can only accommodate "small RV" setups with no hookups available.
Legend
