Camping options near Sims, Arkansas center around Lake Ouachita, a 40,000-acre reservoir with 975 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline. The Ouachita National Forest surrounds the area with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,600 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region. Winter camping temperatures often drop below freezing at night while daytime temperatures remain moderate enough for comfortable hiking conditions.
What to do
Crystal mining excursions: 30-45 minute drive from Crystal Campground to several dig sites. "We came down every year to go to the Crystal mines. And THIS year we watched the total eclipse as well!!" notes a visitor to Denby Point campground.
Ouachita Mountain hiking: Walk directly from camp to access interconnected trails. The Joplin campground provides "Incredible hiking all around you. Campground is secluded and quite. We saw eagles every day and fishing was great," according to one camper who stayed for five days with teenage grandchildren.
Lakeside swimming: Access from most sites at Tompkins Bend, where "Every site had a lake view and most are right on the water. Our site was not level but not terribly off either. The sites are wooded, with paved pads and are very large and spacious."
Wildlife spotting: Dawn and dusk optimal for viewing. "We saw tons of deer everyday in the campground," reports a Denby Point visitor, while others frequently spot bald eagles, blue herons, and smaller woodland creatures throughout the forest areas.
What campers like
Clear, spring-fed water sources: The creek at Crystal Campground provides both scenic beauty and practical benefits. "The creek is AWESOME and there's some great trails. Lots of other campsites in that area too," reports one visitor. Another adds, "The spring water is refreshing! There are bear proof trash cans and pit toilets."
Spacious, well-designed sites: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds feature thoughtful layouts. At Denby Point, "The spots are HUGE sites. We come down every year to go to the Crystal mines," according to a regular visitor. Another notes, "Bathrooms were clean, warm, had good showers and dish sinks."
Quiet, secluded atmosphere: Even during busy periods, many campgrounds maintain a peaceful setting. At Charlton Campground, one camper shared that "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."
Reliable facilities: Despite remote locations, most campgrounds maintain good amenities. "Our site had 50, 30 and 20 amp electric as well as a frost hydrant with decent water pressure," notes a Denby Point camper who visited during Thanksgiving weekend.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Service varies significantly by provider and location. "Phone service was OK on AT&T, Sprint was 'roaming' and pretty slow," reports a Denby Point visitor. At Crystal Campground, one camper noted "zero T-Mobile service" despite enjoying other aspects of their stay.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are active in certain areas. At Tompkins Bend, a camper reported, "There seems to be a bear that likes to roam around. He stayed clear of my tent but was getting into every trash can around camp and created quite a ruckus a few times."
Seasonal water level changes: Lake levels fluctuate throughout the year. "When the lake floods the water does come up to some of the tables that are near the edge," warns a Tompkins Bend camper, while another noted, "The lake is very low right now. I was told that the state is drawing down the lake for hydro power."
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustments. "Some, like 63-D shouldn't be allowed as sites as too small and not remotely level," warns a Joplin Campground visitor, while another mentioned their site was "one of the most difficult sites to back in we have ever had."
Tips for camping with families
Check playground proximity: Some campground layouts place play areas far from campsites. At Charlton Campground, "The swimming area at the entrance of the campground 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."
Consider rental boats: Affordable options exist for day trips. One visitor to Crystal Springs noted, "We rented a pontoon boat for a day and had a blast (price was much less than I expected." The family spent five days with four teenage grandchildren and reported excellent fishing.
Select sites with natural boundaries: Water access points can serve as activity centers. A Tompkins Bend camper explained, "Coves for kids to play in" were a highlight of their experience, calling it "Our favorite campground on Lake Ouachita. Quiet. Water/boat access."
Plan for creek explorations: Cold, clear creeks offer natural play areas. "Wander to the Little Rock pool!!! It's so worth it," advises a Crystal Campground visitor, while another adds that the "crystal clear Spring fed creek" creates one of their favorite campsites.
Tips from RVers
Reserve lakeside sites early: Premium spots book quickly at dog friendly campgrounds near Sims. At COE Lake Ouachita Little Fir Campground, "Beautiful location and you can park your RV or pitch your tent right by the lake. Is a bit remote so I recommend that you make sure you have everything you need before you head out this way."
Arrive fully supplied: Remote locations have limited services. "Very remote so make sure you have everything you need before you get out there because there aren't any stores even convenience stores or gas stations nearby," advises a Little Fir Campground visitor.
Check site dimensions carefully: Some spots have deceptive descriptions. At Joplin Campground, a camper warned "Not all sites are created equal. A few are fantastic. Some, like 63-D shouldn't be allowed as sites as too small and not remotely level."
Plan for outdoor living space: Weather-protected areas enhance comfort. At Crystal Springs, a visitor appreciated that "The sites are pretty big and has a shelter because it rains pretty often here."
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