Lake Ouachita dominates the camping landscape near Royal, Arkansas with over 40,000 acres of clear water and 975 miles of shoreline. The area sits within the Ouachita Mountains at elevations between 600-800 feet, creating a mix of pine forests and rocky outcroppings that characterize campgrounds in the region. Water temperature in Lake Ouachita typically ranges from 85-90°F during summer months, making it comfortable for swimming from May through September.
What to do
Hiking on the Vista Trail: One of the trailheads to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail is accessible from Crystal Springs Campground, offering visitors scenic hikes through the surrounding Ouachita National Forest. "One of the trailheads to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail is adjacent (about a 10 minute walk). This hike was a standout for me!" notes a camper who enjoyed the trail system.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ouachita provides excellent fishing conditions throughout the year. At Brady Mountain Campground, anglers report good catches directly from shore. "We fished at night for catfish and caught what we needed. The campground is pet friendly," reports a visitor who enjoyed the convenience of fishing right from camp.
Crystal hunting: The Royal area is known for its mineral deposits, especially quartz. A camper at Lake Catherine State Park mentioned, "It was flooded when we went and dead but still incredible! Clean bathrooms and friendly DNR. The lake was really nice and good fishing! The scenery was great and lots of wildlife. Went crystal digging at Coleman which was also unbelievable."
Swimming in cool springs: For a refreshing alternative to lake swimming, Charlton Campground offers a CCC-built swimming hole fed by natural springs. "The swimming area is a big draw, accessible to the public for day use, and has quite chilly water. On the hottest summer days, it's a better bet for cooling off than warm lake water on nearby Lake Ouachita."
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: Many campers appreciate the direct water access available at several campgrounds near Royal. At Brady Mountain - Lake Ouachita, a visitor shared their experience: "We took my nieces on a weekend trip in our camper to Lake Catherine State Park. Our campsite backed up to the lake, so we had a great view. The campsite was a great size and well spaced out from our neighbors."
Quiet natural setting: The less developed areas around Royal provide a peaceful camping experience away from crowds. One visitor to Charlton Campground noted, "The campground was beautiful and not over crowded. Everyone was friendly including the camp host. The campsite offered privacy while still being in a short walking distance to the well kept bath house."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area are well-maintained with good amenities. A visitor to Catherine's Landing mentioned, "Well kept park on Lake Catherine right outside of Hot Springs. It has a quiet remote feel with easy access to sightseeing in Hot Springs. The park is immaculate and the grounds crew is really amazing, cleaning every site thoroughly before the next camper arrives."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers good opportunities for bird and animal watching. At Crystal Springs Campground, a camper shared, "We saw eagles every day and fishing was great."
What you should know
Site reservations: Some campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. About Gulpha Gorge Campground, a camper noted: "It was warm outside but not overly hot at the time which was nice. However, because the summer was still winding down, unfortunately this campground was full as it is a first come first serve campground."
Water access limitations: Not all campsites have direct water hookups. A Brady Mountain camper pointed out, "There is no water at the sites...you have to tote your own water to and from the dispersed water spigots."
Wind conditions: Lake Ouachita can experience significant wind, particularly in exposed areas. Sites on peninsulas or without tree cover may be windier than more sheltered locations.
Distance to amenities: Some campgrounds are quite remote from stores and supplies. A camper at Hot Springs National Park KOA observed: "It is about 20 min off the main highway. Things close up early here and once off main highway there really is nothing as you drive to the park. Make sure you come in with all of your supplies."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access camping: Families with children appreciate dedicated swimming areas with sandy beaches. A visitor to Brady Mountain shared: "Wooded lake and mountains with lots of water activities, sandy beach, a restaurant. The campground is decent sized, wooded, shady, privacy varies a lot. 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 facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Crystal Springs noted that the campground "features amenities like a sandy beach, playground, and boat launch within a no-wake zone."
Activity options: Campgrounds with multiple recreation opportunities keep families entertained. A camper at Catherine's Landing mentioned: "Kid friendly. Great upkeep and sites that are easily accessible. 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."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the Royal area have terraced or uneven sites. A camper at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground noted: "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. It was very clean and well kept."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "The cell service was minimal (1 bar) but a cell booster gave us full service," reported one camper at Lake Ouachita State Park.
Hookup variations: RVers should check specific hookup availability when booking. A camper at Brady Mountain noted, "There are no water hook-ups at the sites, only electric. The cell signal on the 'down the hill' portion of the campground is pretty non-existent."
Site spacing: Some RV areas offer more privacy than others. At Treasure Isle RV Park, a visitor observed: "But our spot was on gravel with little wiggle room. Low hanging wires were scary pulling into our site, scraping up against our ac units (13.5')."
