Lake Ouachita near Royal, Arkansas sits at approximately 578 feet above sea level and features over 200 islands throughout its 40,000 acres of clear water. Summer temperatures typically reach highs in the mid-90s with winter lows dipping into the 30s. The area's dense pine forests provide natural shade at many campsites, though tent campers often need to prepare for rocky terrain at dispersed sites.
What to do
Kayak to islands: Lake Ouachita's numerous islands are accessible by kayak from Brady Mountain. "We rented a pontoon boat for a day and had a blast (price was much less than I expected). Incredible hiking all around you. We saw eagles every day and fishing was great," shares Thomas W.
Visit mountain overlooks: Take a short 20-minute drive from Charlton Campground to scenic vistas. "If you're in the area check out Lake Ouachita, Crooked Creek Falls (45 min), or the Vista off Hickory Nut Mountain Rd (20 min)," recommends Erik F.
Cool off in crystal-clear water: The swimming area at Charlton Campground provides a refreshing alternative to lake swimming. "The swimming area is nice and is accessible by car or a short walk from any campsite," notes Emily C., while another camper adds, "The water is crystal clear and cold even in the hottest days of summer."
Explore hiking trails: Several trails connect to the Ouachita National Scenic Trail network. "The trails in the area connect to the Ouachita National Scenic Trail, and the views are pretty impressive," says Mike A. from Charlton Recreation Area.
What campers like
Quiet mornings and evenings: The more secluded areas of COE Lake Ouachita Crystal Springs Campground offer peaceful experiences. "This is a nice campground with three loops (primitive, partial, and full hookups). Loop A, atop a hill, has the forested primitive sites, and is the prettiest of the three loops," explains a reviewer.
Multi-generation family traditions: Many families return year after year to these campgrounds. "6 generations of my family have camped there," shares Mike A. about Charlton Recreation Area.
Waterfront camping: Sites directly on the lake offer premium views. "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. There were trees to hang our hammocks," writes Alison C. about Lake Catherine State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse bird and animal populations. "We saw eagles every day and fishing was great," notes a Brady Mountain reviewer, while Crystal Springs Campground visitors frequently report seeing various waterfowl.
What you should know
Water access varies by site: Not all campgrounds offer water hookups at individual sites. "All sites have water, 50/30 amp, sewer, cable, and wifi. Fire pits and picnic tables accompany all sites," reports Nancy W. about Catherine's Landing, but at Brady Mountain, "There are no water hook-ups at the sites, only electric."
Reservation requirements differ: Some campgrounds fill quickly and require advance booking while others operate first-come-first-served. "This SP will fill up quickly in the spring and fall, reservations are recommended," warns one Lake Catherine visitor.
Cell service is inconsistent: Coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds. "The cell signal on the 'down the hill' portion of the campground is pretty non-existent," notes a Brady Mountain camper, while others report surprisingly good coverage at Treasure Isle.
Some campgrounds lack showers: Check amenities before booking. "There is no shower available only a restroom," notes a Gulpha Gorge visitor, while at Catherine's Landing, "The shower rooms are large and stone tiled."
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational opportunities: Park rangers often offer programs suitable for children. "Ranger programs, educational displays, swimming beach, cabins and traditional tent/RV camping," are available at Lake Ouachita State Park Campground, according to Lynn G.
Consider campgrounds with playgrounds: Several locations offer dedicated play areas. "Playground for kids. Clean restrooms. Some of the sites are small so check the length. Not far from Hot Springs," notes a Crystal Springs visitor.
Choose sites near swimming areas: Some campgrounds offer safer swimming options for children. "The campsites were more isolated and there was easy access to and great views of Walnut Creek," reports Emily C. about Charlton Campground.
Pack extra water containers: Water access points may be far from some sites. "There is no water at the sites...you have to tote your own water to and from the dispersed water spigots," explains a Brady Mountain visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have varied site sizes. "Sites 40' or less, so be careful about picking your site. You may have to park at an angle to get slide outs open," advises an RVer about Brady Mountain.
Bring leveling equipment: Some sites require significant leveling. "Good spot, close to bath rooms/shower house/cafe. Pretty level - just 1 leveling block was all we needed for our pop-up," shares Angie N. about Hot Springs National Park KOA.
Consider private campgrounds for amenities: When full hookups are needed, private parks offer advantages. "If you get a lakeside spot, they look lovely. 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')," cautions Stacy W. about Treasure Isle R.V. Park.
Reserve early for waterfront sites: Premium RV sites with water views book quickly. "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," recommends Don L. about Lake Ouachita State Park.
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