Crystal Springs (AR) Day-Use

Crystal Springs Day-Use Area, perched on the shores of Lake Ouachita in Arkansas, is an ideal spot for families, friends and couples. Approximately 1.2 million people visit the lake each year to explore its crystal clear waters and scenic mountain landscape. The Day-Use Pavilion has electrical hook-ups, picnic tables and lighting. Other amenities include a bathroom and shower facility, a playground and a swim beach. Visitors enjoy fishing, water skiing, hiking and boating. Scuba diving is particularly popular because of the lake's high underwater visibility. Small and rare freshwater jellyfish (non-stinging) can be found, in addition to many types of fish, including the striped bass, lazily drifting between rocks. Bald eagles are a big attraction for bird watchers and photographers in winter months. Lake Ouachita is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains just 10 miles west of Hot Springs National Park. The pool is fed by the cool waters of the Ouachita River and extends about 30 miles over 40,000 surface acres. Part of the scenic 223-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail runs just north of the lake, where hikers and mountain bikers can explore an array of breathtaking views in the Ouachita Mountains.