Charlton Recreation Area

Summary

Charlton Campground is a historic CCC-built campground located 17 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. It offers swimming, picnicking, and two trail systems in a valley between two tree covered mountains. Its cool spring-fed water is a popular attraction among locals. Nearby attractions include Lake Ouachita Vista, Lake Ouachita, Hot Springs National Park, Historic Hot Springs, and Quartz Crystal Mines.

Overview

Charlton Campground is located 17-miles west of Hot Springs National Park along Highway 270-West. This historic campground constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's has been upgraded with modern amenities. Known as one of the coldest swimming sites in the State of Arkansas, the cool water temperatures can be enjoyed through-out the summer months.

Recreation

Charlton Recreation Area offers a developed day use with swimming and picnicking facilities. A large pavilion is located in the day use area. The swimming area is known by area residents as being some of the coldest water through-out the summer months. Walnut Creek, a spring-fed stream provides refreshing water in the swim site. Hiking trails are located in and around the campground. An amphitheater is located in the day use area for group gatherings. Campsites are available from a basic campsite to more developed with additional amenities, to include 30-50 amp electrical service, water connections and some sites offering sewer connections. A dump station is located at the campground. Walnut Creek runs through the campground and access is available for wading and fishing in the creek.

Facilities

A-Loop campsites do not offer electric or water services available at the campsites. Community water spigots are available through-out the loop. B-Loop RV/Tent campsites offer 30-50 amp electrical service and water connections at the sites. C-Loop campsites offer 30-amp electrical service, water connections and some sites offering sewer connections. Warm water showers and flush toilets. Paved roadways and campsites with gravel tent pads for setting up tents. Two Group Use Sites offering areas for large groups to set up tents, tents are only allowed at the Group Use Sites. Swimming and picnicking in the Charlton Day Use Area is included as part of the campsite fees. Two trail systems, one 1 mile interpretative trail system and a connector trail to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) lead out from the Charlton Day Use Area.

Natural Features

Located in the valley between two tree covered mountains, the campsites through-out the campground are well shaded. The campground constructed along Walnut Creek, a natural spring-fed stream, temperatures are cool, even through the summer months.  

Nearby Attractions

Lake Ouachita Vista - Hickory Nut Mountain

Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT)

Lake Ouachita

Hot Springs National Park

Historic Hot Springs

Quartz Crystal Mines