Charlton Recreation Area

Charlton Recreation Area is located 20 miles west of Hot Springs along Highway 270.

Picnic, swim, hike, and fish along picturesque Walnut Creek, a cold, spring-fed mountain stream in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest. This historic recreation area features a captivating native stone dam that forms the swimming area and rustic bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps federal work program in 1935.

Charlton Recreation Area

Reservations

Make Reservations Here

All sites are reservable through Recreation.gov

Reservations must be made by calling 877-444-6777 or at the link below:

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10169450

General Information

The campground is made up of three loops with 47 campsites, ranging in amenities of no services to campsites with electric, water and sewer provided. Bathhouse with warm showers and flush toilets are provided.

A-Loop campsites do not have electric or water services. Community water spigots are available through-out the loop.
B-Loop RV/Tent campsites offer 30-50 amp electrical service and water connections.
C-Loop campsites offer 30-amp electrical service and water connections.

The day use area features a spring fed swimming site with some of the area's coldest water found in the area, even during the hottest of summer temperatures. A 1-mile nature trail can be found near the campground and connections to the 40-mile Lake Ouachita Vista Trail lead from the campground as well. Charlton Recreation Area is located 20 miles west of Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas.

Open seasonally.

Hunting is not allowed in recreational areas. Please read and follow the posted regulations. You are responsible for your fires. Build them in stoves, grills, and fire rings only. No fishing in the swimming area. All pets must remain on a leash while in the campground. No dogs allowed in the day use or swimming areas.

Overnight Use:
Single Site: $15 per night
Single Site with electric hook-up: $25 per night
Group Site: $40 per night

Day Use: $5/vehicle OR $2/person (walk-in/bike-in/drop-off)

Camping:

Single sites- $15/night
Single sites with electric: $25/night
Double sites with electric: $40/night

A self-serve automated fee machine is available on site.

All pets must remain on a leash while in the campground. No dogs allowed in the day use or swimming areas.

Address: 1523 Hwy 270E Mt Ida, AR 71957
Phone: (870) 867-2101
Hours: Visitor center open Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-4:30 pm. (Closed on federal holidays)