Charlton Recreation Area: A Natural Oasis in the Ouachita National Forest
Escape to Charlton Recreation Area: Swim in cold waters, hike scenic trails, and discover historic charm in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest.
Nestled in the Ouachita National Forest, Charlton Recreation Area offers a refreshing escape with its cold, spring-fed swimming hole, scenic hiking trails, and historic CCC-built structures. Perfect for camping, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Arkansas.
A brief summary to Charlton Recreation Area
- 154 Milholen Trl, Royal, Arkansas, 71968, US
- +1870-867-2101
- Visit website
Local tips
- Reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak season, through Recreation.gov.
- Bring water shoes for wading and swimming in Walnut Creek, as the creek bed can be rocky.
- Explore the CCC-built dam and bathhouse for a glimpse into the area's history.
- Hike the Charlton Trail to Crystal Springs for beautiful views and access to Lake Ouachita.
- Be aware that dogs are not allowed in the day-use or swimming areas.
Getting There
-
Driving
Charlton Recreation Area is located approximately 20 miles west of Hot Springs, Arkansas. From Hot Springs, take US Highway 270 West. Follow US-270 W for approximately 20 miles. The recreation area will be on your left, with clear signage marking the entrance. There is a day-use fee of $5 per vehicle or $2 per person. Camping fees range from $15 to $40 per night, depending on the site's amenities. These fees can be paid at the entrance or online when making a reservation.
-
Walking
If you're already camping within Charlton Recreation Area, accessing the swimming hole and hiking trails is a breeze. From the A-Loop, follow the paved road towards the day-use area. The swimming hole is a short walk from the parking area, and trailheads are clearly marked near the amphitheater. There are no additional costs for accessing the swimming hole or trails if you are a registered camper. Remember to bring appropriate footwear for hiking and water shoes for swimming.
Discover more about Charlton Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sutherlands
26.4 km
Explore Sutherlands in Hot Springs for all your home improvement needs, from building materials to garden supplies, all in one convenient location.
Hot Springs, AR
28.3 km
Uncover Hot Springs' scandalous past at the Gangster Museum of America, where mobsters and gambling ruled in this unique spa city.
Best Court
29.3 km
Experience the unique blend of history and comfort at Best Court Hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where charming cottages meet natural beauty.
1890 Williams House Bed & Breakfast
29.6 km
Experience Southern hospitality at the 1890 Williams House Bed & Breakfast, a charming retreat in Hot Springs, Arkansas, blending history and modern comfort.
The Reserve at Hot Springs
29.7 km
Experience Gilded Age luxury in Hot Springs. Stay in a historic mansion with modern amenities, beautiful gardens, and Southern charm.
The Courthouse Chapel
29.8 km
Discover The Courthouse Chapel in Hot Springs, a picturesque wedding venue that offers elegance and charm for your special day amidst Arkansas' natural beauty.
Happenings
29.9 km
Explore Hot Springs, Arkansas through Happenings, your essential tourist information center for local events, attractions, and insider tips.
Trex Fun Spot Go Karts
29.9 km
Experience the thrill of racing at Trex Fun Spot Go Karts in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where families and friends come together for a day of fun and excitement.
Trex Fun Spot Ropes/ZipLine/Gyroscope
29.9 km
Experience the thrill of zip lines, ropes courses, and gyroscope rides at Trex Fun Spot in Hot Springs, Arkansas, an adventure for the whole family.
T-Rex Golf
29.9 km
Embark on a thrilling indoor mini-golf adventure amidst life-sized dinosaurs and vibrant Jurassic scenery in Hot Springs National Park.
Gangster Museum of America
30.0 km
Explore the intriguing history of organized crime at the Gangster Museum of America in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where legends come to life.
Hot Springs Haunted Tours
30.0 km
Discover the haunting side of Hot Springs with spine-tingling tales and ghostly encounters on the Haunted Tours, a thrilling experience for adventurous travelers.
Desoto Rock and Gift Shop
30.0 km
Discover a world of geological wonders at DeSoto Rock and Gift Shop in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Explore unique rocks, minerals, and handmade jewelry.
Hot Springs Trolleys
30.0 km
Discover Hot Springs' history and beauty aboard a charming trolley tour through downtown and Hot Springs National Park.
It's About Rocks
30.0 km
Explore a unique metaphysical supply store in Hot Springs, AR, offering a delightful selection of crystals, gifts, and spiritual tools for all seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Crystal Springs Recreation Area
3.7 km
Escape to Crystal Springs Recreation Area on Lake Ouachita for camping, boating, and outdoor fun in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest.
Hickory Nut Mountain Vista
5.5 km
Breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Ouachita from a unique stone overlook. Perfect for hiking, picnics, and enjoying nature's beauty in Arkansas.
Joplin Use Area
8.5 km
Experience pristine lakefront camping at Joplin Use Area on Lake Ouachita, offering scenic views and outdoor recreation in the Ouachita Mountains.
Tompkins Bend Campground
9.9 km
Experience lakeside camping at Tompkins Bend Campground on Lake Ouachita, offering scenic views, water activities, and access to the Ouachita National Forest.
Denby Point Campground
10.8 km
Scenic Lake Ouachita campground with boating, fishing, hiking, and family-friendly amenities for a perfect outdoor escape.
Brady Mountain Recreational Area
12.7 km
Escape to Brady Mountain Recreational Area on Lake Ouachita for camping, boating, and scenic views near Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig
14.4 km
Discover the thrill of crystal mining at Arkansas's oldest public dig site. Unearth your own quartz crystals at Fisher Mountain!
Twin Creek Crystal Mine Ark
17.2 km
Unearth stunning quartz crystals at Twin Creek Crystal Mine in the scenic Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas for a unique and memorable gem mining adventure.
Quachita Forest
17.5 km
Explore the Ouachita National Forest: Arkansas and Oklahoma's premier destination for outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and rich history.
Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT, east)
17.7 km
Hike or bike along Lake Ouachita's southern shore, enjoying scenic vistas and diverse terrain in the Ouachita National Forest.
Highway 27 Fishing Village
19.1 km
Lakeside camping and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest near Story, Arkansas.
Collier Springs
20.0 km
Escape to Collier Springs in Ouachita National Forest: a historic picnic spot with a natural spring and CCC-built shelter near Mt. Ida, Arkansas.
Little Blakely Trailhead
20.6 km
Explore scenic trails, old-growth forests, and stunning lake views at Little Blakely Trailhead in Arkansas's Ouachita National Forest.
Crystal Vista
21.2 km
Hike to a former crystal mine in Arkansas' Ouachita National Forest for panoramic views and a chance to dig your own quartz crystals.
Caddo Bend Trailhead
21.5 km
Hike the scenic Caddo Bend Trail in Lake Ouachita State Park for stunning lake views, natural beauty, and a memorable outdoor adventure.
Essential places to dine
Lake Ouachita
8.5 km
Experience tranquility at Lake Ouachita – Arkansas's largest lake known for its clear waters and outdoor adventures.
Back Porch Grill
27.9 km
Discover delicious steaks and American classics at Back Porch Grill in Hot Springs - where flavor meets friendly service.
McClard's Bar-B-Q Restaurant
28.2 km
Experience authentic Southern BBQ at McClard's Bar-B-Q Restaurant in Hot Springs National Park – where every bite tells a story.
Luna Bella
28.5 km
Discover the exquisite blend of American and Italian cuisine at Luna Bella in Hot Springs - where culinary artistry meets exceptional service.
Fisherman's Wharf Steak & Seafood
28.5 km
Experience the best seafood and steak in Hot Springs at Fisherman's Wharf Steak & Seafood - where flavor meets beautiful views.
J&S Italian Villa
29.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at J&S Italian Villa in Hot Springs – where every dish tells a story.
The Purple Cow Restaurant
29.0 km
Experience the whimsical charm and delicious American cuisine at The Purple Cow Restaurant in Hot Springs National Park.
LongHorn Steakhouse
29.1 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and classic American cuisine at LongHorn Steakhouse in Hot Springs - perfect for families and meat lovers alike.
Best Cafe & Bar
29.4 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Best Cafe & Bar in Hot Springs – where local flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Bleu Monkey Grill
29.4 km
Discover Bleu Monkey Grill: A delightful blend of grill and pub culture in Hot Springs with mouth-watering dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Rocky's Corner
29.7 km
Savor the flavors of authentic pizza at Rocky's Corner in Hot Springs - where every slice tells a story.
Colorado Grill
29.7 km
Experience vibrant Tex-Mex cuisine at Colorado Grill in Hot Springs, where family-friendly dining meets bold Southwestern flavors.
Phil's Family Restaurant
29.7 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Phil's Family Restaurant in Hot Springs National Park, where every meal feels like family.
Waffle House
29.8 km
Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality at Waffle House in Hot Springs – your go-to spot for delicious all-day breakfast.
Stubby's BBQ
29.8 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Stubby's BBQ in Hot Springs - where every bite tells a delicious story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
2 Drunk Hippies
3.2 km
Discover unique health and beauty products at 2 Drunk Hippies in Mt. Ida, Arkansas, where local charm meets wellness.
Blue Moon Crystals & Jewelry
3.5 km
Explore Blue Moon Crystals & Jewelry in Mt. Ida, Arkansas – your ultimate destination for stunning gemstones, unique jewelry, and crystal education.
Joplin Store
7.0 km
Discover the charm of Joplin Store in Mt. Ida, Arkansas—a unique convenience store offering local products, gas, and friendly service.
It's All About the Food
7.4 km
Explore 'It's All About the Food', a charming bookstore in Mt. Ida, Arkansas, where culinary passion meets literary treasures.
Crystal Meadow Rocks
8.6 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Crystal Meadow Rocks, Mt. Ida's premier rock shop featuring an extensive collection of minerals and gemstones.
Ruth's Twin Creek Bait & Tackle
10.7 km
Explore the best fishing adventures in Mt. Ida, Arkansas at Ruth's Twin Creek Bait & Tackle, your one-stop shop for all fishing needs.
Fiddler's Ridge Rock Shop
12.7 km
Explore Fiddler's Ridge Rock Shop for a unique collection of natural stones, crystals, and geological wonders in the heart of Mt. Ida, Arkansas.
Safe Harbor Brady Mountain
12.7 km
Discover the beauty of Safe Harbor Brady Mountain, your ultimate destination for boating, relaxation, and adventure in Arkansas's stunning landscapes.
Marilyn's RV Park & Old Country Store
13.4 km
Explore Marilyn's RV Park & Old Country Store, where camping meets nostalgia in beautiful Mt. Ida, Arkansas, featuring an antique store and health food options.
Real Earth Creations
15.4 km
Experience the beauty of nature through unique rocks and handcrafted jewelry at Real Earth Creations in Mt. Ida, Arkansas.
Melba's Antiques & Collectibles
18.2 km
Uncover unique treasures and vintage finds at Melba's Antiques & Collectibles in Mt. Ida, Arkansas, a must-visit for antique enthusiasts.
New Life II Upholstery
19.9 km
Discover expert upholstery services in Jessieville, Arkansas, that transform your furniture into cherished pieces with unique styles and craftsmanship.
Keen's Bait and Tackle and More
21.5 km
Explore the great outdoors of Arkansas with Keen's Bait and Tackle – your trusted source for fishing, camping, and outdoor gear.
Jay's Crystal Bonanza
22.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of crystals and fossils at Jay's Crystal Bonanza, a must-visit rock shop in Mt. Ida, Arkansas, perfect for nature lovers and collectors.
Crystal Town Music
22.2 km
Explore the rhythms of Arkansas at Crystal Town Music, your ultimate destination for musical instruments and local culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crystal Springs Marina Village
3.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and adventure at Crystal Springs Marina Village, a unique blend of dining, lodging, and outdoor fun in Arkansas.
Compass Fire Grill Tavern
3.5 km
Experience Southern hospitality and delicious cuisine at Compass Fire Grill Tavern in Royal, Arkansas - a must-visit diner for every traveler.
Lodge Restaurant
7.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine with stunning views at the Lodge Restaurant in Mount Ida, Arkansas, a perfect destination for travelers.
Subway
8.0 km
Discover fresh and delicious sandwiches at Subway in Mt. Ida, the perfect stop for travelers seeking quick, satisfying meals in Arkansas.
Brady Mountain Resort Grill
12.7 km
Experience delightful family dining at Brady Mountain Resort Grill, where delicious food meets breathtaking views in the heart of Arkansas.
Bubba Brew's Sports Pub & Grill
14.0 km
Experience the ultimate sports dining at Bubba Brew's Sports Pub & Grill in Bonnerdale, where delicious food meets an exciting game-day atmosphere.
Los Roosters
14.0 km
Discover the vibrant tastes of Mexico at Los Roosters, Bonnerdale's top destination for authentic Mexican cuisine and warm hospitality.
Water-N-Hole
16.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Water-N-Hole, the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing in Royal, Arkansas.
501 Lakeside
18.2 km
Discover the perfect lakeside dining experience at 501 Lakeside in Royal, Arkansas, offering delectable dishes and stunning views.
Saddlebags Bar & Grill
18.6 km
Discover the best of Southern dining at Saddlebags Bar & Grill in Hot Springs, where delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Wards Crawfish Hole
20.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern seafood at Wards Crawfish Hole, a beloved dining destination in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
North Shore Restaurant
21.2 km
Discover the flavors of Jessieville at North Shore Restaurant, where local ingredients and warm hospitality create an unforgettable dining experience.
Dairyette Burgers & Shakes- Mount Ida
22.6 km
Discover Dairyette Burgers & Shakes in Mount Ida, Arkansas, where classic American diner fare meets a family-friendly atmosphere.
270 Diner
22.9 km
Discover the heart of American comfort food at 270 Diner in Mt. Ida, where hearty breakfasts and friendly service await every visitor.
Ouachita Bootleggers BBQ
22.9 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Ouachita Bootleggers BBQ in Story, Arkansas—where smoky flavors and hospitality meet.
