Overview

Crystal Springs Campground, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Around 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape.

Natural Features:

Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres.

Recreation:

Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks.

Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months.

Facilities:

The campground consists of 76 sites, and most have water and electric hookups. The two group picnic shelters also have electricity. Other amenities include a dump station, fish cleaning station, hot showers, boat ramp, playground and a swim beach.

Adjacent to the campground is a day-use public beach with picnic tables, showers and an amphitheater.

Nearby Attractions:

Part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs just north of the lake. Here, hikers and mountain bikers can explore an array of breathtaking views in the Ouachita Mountains.