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Ouachita Lake - COE/Crystal Springs
Overview
Crystal Springs Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a premier destination located on the shores of Lake Ouachita. Known for its breathtaking lake views and well-maintained facilities, this park offers a serene escape into the Arkansas wilderness. RVers are drawn here for the opportunity to camp right along the water's edge in one of the state’s most scenic regions. The park provides a perfect balance of natural beauty and essential comforts for a relaxing outdoor stay.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Royal, AR, within the expansive Ouachita National Forest, the park is surrounded by lush woodlands and rugged mountain terrain. Lake Ouachita itself is famous for being one of the cleanest lakes in the United States, featuring over 40,000 acres of water and hundreds of uninhabited islands. The geography here is characterized by rocky shorelines and crystal clear water, making it a stark contrast to more turbid reservoirs found elsewhere in the region.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground offers a variety of sites equipped with 30 and 50-amp electric hookups to accommodate different RV sizes. Many sites feature concrete pads and picnic tables, providing a level and comfortable setup for travelers. On-site facilities include:
- Flush toilets and hot showers
- Multiple boat ramps for easy water access
- A designated swimming beach
- A convenient dump station for RVers
- Picnic shelters for group gatherings
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water-based recreation is the primary draw at Crystal Springs. Visitors can spend their days boating, kayaking, or fishing for world-class striped bass. For those who prefer land, the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) is easily accessible, offering miles of world-class hiking and mountain biking with stunning ridge-top views. Additionally, the historic downtown of Hot Springs National Park is just a short drive away, featuring famous bathhouses and diverse dining options.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal fit for water sports enthusiasts and families looking for a classic lakefront vacation. Because of its quiet, natural setting, it also appeals to retirees and nature photographers seeking tranquility. While it lacks the high-speed connectivity of urban resorts, it is perfect for boonies-style comfort where the focus is on the great outdoors. If you enjoy waking up to the sound of water hitting the shore, this is the destination for you.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Chris Hickey
We rented the pavilion on Saturday the 30th. Great spot. Close to the lake. Had two charcoal grills to work with. Only a few yards tip the lake. Beautiful spot. Bathrooms were very well taken care of
Terry Hastings
Very old campground with no full hookups. Campsites are gravel and many are small. Lots of shade and lake views though. Rustic! We wouldn't camp here except our adult daughter loves the quiet and camps here every year. It is where she got engaged. Our 41 ft trailer just barely fit in the site we chose. It was not designed for larger RVs. Inexpensive especially with America the Beautiful card.
sue houseman
Nice campground. No Ranger there full time though, so people are Very lax about keeping their dog leashed or picking up after them. We were in site 29 with a 42 ft 5th wheel and it was a challenge getting into the site. It did have plenty of space though and was close to the playground and beach. If you have the America the Beautiful senior pass it makes the price go down by half.
Liz
Beautiful area. Our site was a bit tricky to back into. We have full size super duty with 8 ft bed and 36 ft fifthwheel.
Holly Lorentz
Great spot on the lake. Beach, playground, rv hook ups. Sites pretty level. Would go back.