I must make a comment regarding two other reviews. A lake is generally deeper than a pond. You weigh the depth and surface to judge if a body of water is one or the other. In Arkansas you will find a pond on a ranch or a farm. Now in some areas of the United States there are lakes that cover masses of acres and I had to laugh at the fact that Lake Charles was being called a pond. In the south we consider Lake Charles a lake even if it is only 645 acres. Please don't take offense, I meant none, we just look at things a bit different, we are also very proud of Arkansas and the fact that it is considered "The Natural State."
Folks if you travel to very many state parks or Corp of Engineer COE parks in Arkansas you will encounter another southern foible. Narrow roads. Most of Arkansas is rural and you will find that most roads are older, narrow and farm equipment or ranching equipment uses the roads. That also leads toward the "charm" of Arkansas. If you stay in the larger towns you will manage to get by fairly well but venture towards the campgrounds and we hope you enjoy the state. Take your time.
Lake Charles State Park is 1/2 more or less hour from Jonesboro on a quiet country road. It has a 645 acre lake with bass, crappie, bream and catfish. This park operates year round. From March to October to will be able to purchase bait and tackle at the Visitor Center. There are Class AAA sites to tent sites with many on the lake. There are yurts available. From November to February a 3-D Archery range is open. You will find 4 hiking trails and there are several programs offered by the rangers. Check on the programs offered through the Arkansas State Parks, find the park you want, and plan your stay. It will be a learning experience for young and old. So map out everything you want to do and learn.
Fish, kayak, hike, ranger talks, camping, picnicking, what more can you ask for. Lake Charles was established in 1963 and was dedicated on May 28, 1967.
Picnic tables, grills, lantern hooks and paved pads are at each campsite. Restrooms and bathhouses are modern and "air conditioned" which come in handy when you are dealing with Arkansas heat and humidity. There is a dump stationed and trash area shortly after coming into the park. All sites may be reserved. Beautiful shades trees, level sites with some a bit tight. No waterskiing or tubing is allowed.
Four walking trails with the Cedar Trail being paved. The Butterflies and Blooms Trail is a short gravel trail and the Native Plant Trail uses plants that will attract butterflies and local wildlife.
Swimming area is free of charge and is located in a day use area. You will not find life guards so please watch over all. Alcohol, glass bottles and pets are not allowed. You will find a gently sloping sandy beach.
A short distance away from the park is Davidsonville Historic State Park and Powhatan Courthouse State Park. There is plenty to keep you busy and we hope you enjoy a laid back southern vacation.
Word of warning. Even a native Arkansan quakes when it come summer time and the dreaded flies and mosquitoes come out to play. Research, find all kinds of options for keeping them at bay, screens on your doors, campfire smoke, anything just don't let them stop you from enjoying.
Have Fun - Stay Safe Leave No Trace Better Than You Found It
