Crystal Springs (Ar)
4.37408 reviews1330 N. Crystal springs Rd., Royal, AR 71968
Crystal Springs (Ar)
$14.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates apply from May 1 to September 30, with prices ranging from $14 for tent-only sites (non-electric) to $80 for group sites with electric and water hookups. Non-peak season rates are slightly lower.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shoreline of Lake Ouachita, Crystal Springs Campground has earned its reputation as one of Arkansas's most sought-after outdoor destinations. This waterfront haven offers 63 spacious sites equipped with electric and water hookups, perfect for RV enthusiasts seeking comfort in nature. For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, five secluded tent-only sites provide an intimate connection with the wilderness, while a dedicated group camping area welcomes gatherings of friends and families. Every convenience has been thoughtfully provided, from the modern dump station and fish cleaning facilities to rejuvenating hot showers after a day of adventure. Launch your boat directly from the campground's ramp, watch children play at the well-equipped playground, or simply unwind on the inviting swim beach as the sun sets over the water.
Crystal Springs Campground offers a diverse range of camping accommodations including electric and water hookup sites, tent-only sites, and group campsites with amenities.
Historical SignificanceCrystal Springs serves as a gateway to the rich heritage of the Ouachita region. Just a short drive away, the legendary Hot Springs National Park beckons with its historic bathhouses and thermal waters that have drawn visitors for centuries. Adventure seekers will discover the renowned Ouachita National Recreation Trail nearby, a pathway that winds through forests and ridges while telling the story of Arkansas's natural and cultural evolution. This campground offers more than just a place to stay - it's your launching point for exploring the deep-rooted traditions and timeless landscapes of the American South.
Weather and SeasonsCrystal Springs transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own magic to the lakeside setting. Summer arrives with warm, humid days perfect for swimming and water sports, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through the mountains, bringing dramatic skies and refreshing relief. As autumn gives way to winter, the campground reveals a different charm - crisp, mild days draw nature enthusiasts and bird watchers from across the region, all hoping to glimpse the majestic bald eagles that make their seasonal home along the lake's shores.
ElevationPerched within the embrace of the Ouachita Mountains, Crystal Springs Campground offers the perfect vantage point for experiencing Arkansas's stunning highland terrain. The mountainous setting creates a natural amphitheater around the campground, providing both shelter and spectacular views that change with the light throughout the day.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Ouachita Mountains cradle Crystal Springs in a landscape of extraordinary beauty, where ancient forests cascade down to meet the sparkling waters of Lake Ouachita. Towering pines and hardwoods create a verdant canopy overhead, while the lake stretches endlessly before you, its 40,000 acres of crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding hills like a mirror. This pristine ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife - from the magnificent bald eagles that soar overhead in winter months to the deer that quietly graze at forest edges during dawn and dusk. Every sunrise brings new discoveries, whether it's the morning mist rising from hidden coves or the gentle lapping of waves against the shoreline.
Geological RegionCrystal Springs Campground rests within the ancient Ouachita Mountains, a geological wonderland formed over 300 million years ago. These time-worn peaks and valleys, cloaked in dense forests, create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures. Lake Ouachita itself is a masterpiece of both nature and engineering - this massive reservoir captures the waters of the Ouachita River, creating countless fingers and inlets that wind between forested ridges. The result is a landscape of stunning contrasts where rugged mountain terrain meets expansive waterways, offering visitors endless opportunities to explore scenic vistas and hidden treasures around every bend.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include reservable group campsites and a swim beach. Users report mixed accessibility: 'Great location right on the lake.' (User Review).
Sites SizeSome sites are described as spacious, and others closer together: 'Our site was roomy enough for our truck, tent trailer, 2 hammocks, and all of our chairs, with room to spare.' (User Review).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is mixed; some sites have good privacy, while others are clustered: 'Campground is very crowded with virtually no privacy.' (User Review).
Total Campsites68 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 45 in Loop C is popular for its direct lake access, shade, and hammock-friendly trees. Loop B is recommended for quieter, more secluded sites.
Best CampsitesSites 16, 17, and 44 are praised for views and proximity to the water, though some lack privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights allowed during a rolling 30-day period during peak season (May 1 - September 30). From October 1 to April 16, stays can extend up to 56 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits depend on site, but generally sites accommodate standard family sizes.
Groups
Reservable group campsite includes electrical and water hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into multiple loops (A, B, C, D), offering varying levels of privacy and amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to December 31 yearly. Reservations begin June 20 for the following season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are reservation-only with no walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fees. Group site cancellations under 14 days lose their first night's fee completely.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking, and boating. Scuba diving is popular due to high underwater visibility. 'Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility.' (Authoritative Source).
Hiking
Hiking trails available, including part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail. User Review: 'Did a 14-mile round trip hike to Camp Charlton and the 19-mile round trip to the vista overlook.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities include striped bass and freshwater jellyfish sightings. User Review: 'Fishing from the bank rendered a few bream and a keeper largemouth.'Swimming
Swimming areas include a swim beach and lake spots accessible directly from campsites. 'Beautiful River! Campground is kept clean. There was a swimming area with a sand beach.' (User Review).Boating
Boating opportunities include pontoon rentals and docking options directly from campsites. User Review: 'Boaters were respectful of the no-wake zone.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes bald eagles, Canadian geese, and rare freshwater jellyfish. Seasonal highlights include bird watching in winter months.Beach activities
Beach activities available at the swim beach; however, some complaints about geese droppings: 'Dang geese at swimming area! Makes it hard to find clean spots to swim.' (User Review).Winter Activities
Bird watching and quiet camping during off-season months.Water Sports
Scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing popular among campers.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings. Campers are encouraged to use local firewood.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsOccasional unlevel campsites may pose difficulties for larger RVs. Wildlife such as geese can be a nuisance, and water activities require caution due to boat traffic.
Active alertsNo active park alerts were listed.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital is National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs (approximately 16 miles). Police and emergency services reachable via Hot Springs municipal services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection available; however, some reports of overflowing dumpsters: 'Dumpsters running over.' (User Review).
Proximity to water featuresMost sites have direct access to Lake Ouachita, with swimming areas and boat docking available.
Common complaintsComplaints often include unlevel sites, noise from neighboring campers, and the presence of geese causing sanitation issues.
HostCamp hosts are present but limited in availability. Reviews suggest friendly but sometimes unresponsive hosts.
Campground Map
1330 N. Crystal springs Rd., Royal, AR 71968
Driving directionsFrom Hot Springs, Arkansas, take US 270 west about 15.4 miles to North Crystal Springs Road. Turn right and follow access road three miles north to the park.
Access road is paved and suitable for all vehicles. No off-road vehicles allowed within the park.Nearby places
Hot Springs (approximately 16 miles / 25 minutes), Mount Ida (approximately 20 miles / 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Hot Springs offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel. Mount Ida has limited shopping options, primarily small local stores.
Camper Reviews
4.4
408 reviews
Crystal Springs (Ar) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Crystal Springs Campground receives highly positive reviews for its scenic location, cleanliness, and variety of activities but mixed reviews on site privacy and maintenance issues. 'Absolutely beautiful place! Beautiful lake, well kept campground.' (User Review).
Review Summaries
Based on 408 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean bathrooms, scenic lake views, and friendly hosts: 'We enjoyed a great experience at Crystal Springs Campground over Xmas 2021. The campground is quiet & well kept.' (User...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on site leveling issues, crowded conditions, and maintenance delays: 'Sites are close together.' (User Review).
Based on 408 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommended activities include visiting Hot Springs National Park and hiking the Ouachita National Recreation Trail. Tips include bringing leveling blocks and avoiding certain spots during busy...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter months are praised for bald eagle sightings and peaceful camping. Summer reviews highlight water activities but mention crowds and maintenance concerns.
Based on 408 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful River! Campground is kept clean.' (User Review). 2. 'The lady at the check-in was helpful and friendly. Our site was clean and level.' (User Review).
Based on 408 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 16 and 17 have water views but are close together. Site 18 is on a steep slope. Site 19 has electrical issues. Group D sites lack privacy despite being marketed as private.
Based on 408 reviewsAccessibility Features
Mixed accessibility reviews. Some find the campsites suitable for larger RVs, while others struggle with tight roads and unlevel spots.
Based on 408 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some complaints about unattended dogs barking and causing disturbances. 'The camp next to us had two dogs barking all day and night until the campers returned to camp.' (User Review).
Based on 408 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025