Overview Crystal Springs Day-Use Area, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour. Recre…
Overview Crystal Springs Day-Use Area, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape. Click here for the Lake Ouachita Virtual Tour. 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 Day-Use Pavilion has electrical hook-ups, picnic tables, and lighting. Other amenities include a bathroom/shower facility, a playground, and a swim beach. 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. 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. Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (501) 767-2101.
Photos
Crystal Springs Day-Use Area — USACE Lake OuachitaCrystal Springs Day-Use Pavilion 1 — Crystal Springs Day-Use Pavilion 1Crystal Springs Day-Use Pavilion 2 — USACE Lake Ouachita
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
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Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use
Heading to Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use?
No central reservation system listed for Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10120791) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use?
Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use has 2 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I contact Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use?
You can reach the park at phone: 501-767-2101 or email: [email protected].
