So Much To Do & See
The Ouachita National Forest is located primarily in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma. Outstanding mountain views coupled with picturesque streams, rivers, and lakes provide a unique and highly valued setting for outdoor recreation. The forest offers high quality nature related-sightseeing, scenic driving, hunting, fishing, and dispersed camping. Learn about the areas rich history at wayside exhibits along a scenic drive or experience unique botanical, mineral, and prehistoric resources featured in information and educational programs. An extensive trail system provides for all types of uses including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicles (OHV) riding. A variety of services can be found at developed campgrounds ranging from rustic tent pads to full-service RV hookups. Enjoy exceptional water-based recreation opportunities including fishing, non-motorized boating, and passive enjoyment of streams, rivers and lakes.
To view a recreation area on the Recreation Map below:
Click on the district office Forest Service emblem in your area of interest, or
Click on "Find An Area" at right.
When viewing an area, use "+" and "-" to size map, and "Map" drop-down menu to choose style of map.
Portions of Charlton Recreation Area have reopened. The campground, located 20 miles west of Hot Springs, was closed in early 2011 when heavy rains and flooding caused major damage in the area.
Loop A, previously opened only when the remainder of the campground was full, and Loop C are both now open for overnight camping. Loop A is most often used by primitive camping enthusiasts, while Loop C offers amenities such as electricity, water and sewer. The Day Use area is also open.
Picnic, swim, hike, fish and camp 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.
Scenic 25-acre lake in remote mountain setting.The Civilian Conservation Corps developed the Shady Lake Recreation Area in 1937. The Shady Lake Trail traverses Saline Creek and passes the historic Shady Lake Dam. It continues along the eastern edge of the campground. The trail is ideal for day hiking. Mountain bikers may also use the trail.
Individual campsite temporary closings:
For your safety, the following campsites are closed while being evaluated for risk of flooding:
![[Picture]: Recreational Activities](/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/stelprdb5080523.jpg)
