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.

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.

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.

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

Important Notices

• All reservations must be made through recreation.gov.

• No off-road vehicles allowed.

• Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Available Activities

• Biking - Biking
• Boating - Boating
• Canoeing - Canoeing
• Birding - Birding
• Day Use Area - Day Use Area
• Hiking - Hiking
• Fishing - Fishing
• Kayaking - Kayaking
• Jet Skiing - Jet Skiing
• Motor Boat - Motor Boat
• Mountain Biking - Mountain Biking
• Picnicking - Picnicking
• Photography - Photography
• Sailing - Sailing
• Scenic Drive - Scenic Drive
• Skiing - Skiing
• Scuba Diving - Scuba Diving
• Snorkeling - Snorkeling
• Swimming Site - Swimming Site
• Water Activities - Water Activities
• Water Sports - Water Sports
• Water Skiing - Water Skiing
• Water Access - Water Access
• Tubing - Tubing
• Swimming - Swimming
• Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing

Contact Information

Phone: 501-767-2101

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip