Crystal Springs

About

Crystal Springs Campground occupies a prime position on Lake Ouachita, a 40,000-acre reservoir fed by the cool Ouachita River in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. The campground serves as a gateway to one of the state's most popular lakes, drawing approximately 1.2 million visitors annually for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional underwater visibility. Sites are positioned along lake coves with pine tree shade throughout. The campground features 74 total sites: 63 standard electric sites with water and electric hookups (50/30/20 amp service), and 11 tent-only sites. Each site includes a concrete picnic table and grills. Two handicap-accessible sites are available (#22 and #73). Facilities include flush restrooms, hot showers, a dump station, and a fish cleaning station. Two group picnic shelters with electricity can be reserved. Recreation centers on the lake, with scuba diving being particularly notable due to the high underwater visibility. Anglers target striped bass and other species, while the Charlton trailhead at the campground entrance provides access to a four-mile hiking and mountain biking trail that connects to the 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail. Winter months bring bald eagles for bird watching and photography.

Directions

From Hot Springs, Arkansas, take US 270 west about 15.4 miles to North Crystal Springs Road. Turn right and follow access road three miles north to the park.