Swimming and fishing enthusiasts will find Walnut Creek running directly through this Ouachita National Forest campground, creating natural pools and access points throughout the three-loop facility. The US Forest Service maintains 80 sites ranging from primitive tent spots to full hookup RV accommodations, with the creek-dammed swimming area near the entrance drawing day visitors during summer months.
Loop A sits atop a hill with forested primitive sites, while Loop C offers tent-only camping at the back with direct creek access. "The campsites were more isolated and there was easy access to and great views of Walnut Creek," notes Emily C.. RV campers can choose between partial hookups in Loop B or full service sites in Loop C, with the campground accommodating rigs up to 80 feet. Most sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and paved parking areas.
The creek maintains cold temperatures year-round, providing relief even on the hottest summer days. A Civilian Conservation Corps-era dam creates the main swimming hole, complete with jumping platforms. Anglers can work the creek pools, while a single trail connects to the broader Ouachita National Scenic Trail system for hikers seeking ridge views. The campground features flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water - amenities that distinguish it from many forest service facilities in the region.
Access requires navigating some rough roads, particularly after rain. Cell service varies by location, with stronger signals near the front entrance and swimming area but limited coverage in Loop C's tent sites. "Despite being close to the main road, it was very quiet," reports Jon D.. Nearby Camp Clearfork offers an alternative less than a mile away.
Reservations are recommended during peak season, with rates ranging from $15 for primitive sites to $40 for full hookups.
Description
Overview
Charlton Campground is located 17-miles west of Hot Springs National Park along Highway 270-West. This historic campground constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's has been upgraded with modern amenities. Known as one of the coldest swimming sites in the State of Arkansas, the cool water temperatures can be enjoyed through-out the summer months.
Recreation
Charlton Recreation Area offers a developed day use with swimming and picnicking facilities. A large pavilion is located in the day use area. The swimming area is known by area residents as being some of the coldest water through-out the summer months. Walnut Creek, a spring-fed stream provides refreshing water in the swim site. Hiking trails are located in and around the campground. An amphitheater is located in the day use area for group gatherings. Campsites are available from a basic campsite to more developed with additional amenities, to include 30-50 amp electrical service, water connections and some sites offering sewer connections. A dump station is located at the campground. Walnut Creek runs through the campground and access is available for wading and fishing in the creek.
Facilities
A-Loop campsites do not offer electric or water services available at the campsites. There is no bathhouse/restroom facilities in A-Loop. Campsites in A-Loop are basic campsites with each campsite having a fire ring, BBQ grill and picnic table. Community water spigots are available through-out the A-Loop. A-Loop Group Use Campsite does not have electric or water services available at the Group Use Campsite. B-Loop RV/Tent campsites offer 30-50 amp electrical service and water connections at the sites. C-Loop campsites, 1-10, offer 30-amp electrical service, water connections and some sites offering sewer connections. C-Loop campsites 11-19 and C-Loop Group Use Campsite do not have electric or water services available at the sites. Warm water showers and flush toilets. Paved roadways and campsites with gravel tent pads for setting up tents. Two Group Use Sites offering areas for large groups to set up tents, tents are only allowed at the Group Use Sites. Swimming and picnicking in the Charlton Day Use Area is included as part of the campsite fees. Two trail systems, one 1 mile interpretative trail system and a connector trail to the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) lead out from the Charlton Day Use Area.
Natural Features
Located in the valley between two tree covered mountains, the campsites through-out the campground are well shaded. The campground constructed along Walnut Creek, a natural spring-fed stream, temperatures are cool, even through the summer months.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Ouachita Vista - Hickory Nut Mountain Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) Lake Ouachita Hot Springs National Park Historic Hot Springs Quartz Crystal Mines
Charges & Cancellations
Charlton Campground is 100% reservable, moving from one campsite to another is not allowed. Camper must cancel their reserved campsite, before reserving a second campsite in the campground. Refunds will not be approved for campsites cancelled.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCharlton Campground is located in Arkansas
Directions
From Hot Springs, drive 17 miles west on Albert Pike Road (Hwy 270 West), Charlton Recreation Area is located along Hwy 270.
Address
Charlton Campground
11500 Albert Pike Road
Royal, AR 71968
Coordinates
34.516816 N
93.381811 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/1/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/1/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 26 min from Hot Springs, AR
- 1 hr 11 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 54 min from Fort Smith, AR
- 2 hrs 2 min from Texarkana, TX
