Cahoots Springs

For generations of Arkansas locals, Cahoots Springs is more than just a campground; it is a cherished, rustic slice of history and a quiet retreat tucked away near the town of Ben Lomond. This is the kind of place that whispers stories of the past, where the main attraction is the natural environment and a unique piece of history lovingly preserved by the community. Unlike modern, amenity-rich RV resorts, Cahoots Springs offers a traditional, back-to-basics camping experience, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic taste of the Arkansas wilderness and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Known affectionately by some long-time residents as "Ashley's Camp," this location’s charm is rooted in its simplicity and its central natural feature: a flowing artesian spring. This spring is not just a source of water; it is a landmark with tangible history. According to local accounts, the spring is enclosed by a small wall constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) many decades ago. This stonework forms a small pool, which has historically been utilized by local anglers as a holding spot for their fresh catch—a unique tradition that adds to the camp’s folklore and appeal.

The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, particularly fishing. A local review mentions the bridge right before the camp, which was once part of the old highway, as a favorite fishing spot, noted for having "some big'uns in there." This reputation for abundant and sizable fish is a major draw for weekend anglers and families looking to introduce their children to the joys of fishing in a low-key, accessible setting. The peaceful, unspoiled nature of Cahoots Springs is its strongest selling point, offering a place where childhood memories are made, just as they have been for generations of Arkansans before. It is a genuine local secret, perfect for a day trip or a quiet overnight stay beneath the stars.

While the camping experience here is rugged and focused on the essentials, the natural amenities are robust. The clear, fresh drinking water spring and the tranquil atmosphere are amenities that truly matter to those who value nature over noise. This environment is particularly well-suited for family outings, as it is noted as being good for kids. The simplicity encourages imaginative play and a genuine appreciation for the outdoors, far removed from digital distractions. Cahoots Springs is a testament to the enduring appeal of Arkansas's untouched natural beauty and the value of preserved local history.

For residents living in the Southwest Arkansas region, or those simply passing through, Cahoots Springs provides a unique opportunity to pause and reflect on the region's historical and natural heritage. It serves as a living, accessible monument to the simpler ways of life and the lasting impact of early conservation efforts like those by the CCC. The feeling of stepping into a place treasured by the community for so long is something you won't find at a chain campground.

Cahoots Springs is located in the beautiful, rural landscape surrounding Ben Lomond, a small community in Sevier County, Arkansas. This area is known for its dense woods, clear creeks, and proximity to larger natural recreational areas, though Cahoots Springs itself retains a quiet, local feel. Its exact placement is denoted by a geographic code, emphasizing its slightly off-the-beaten-path nature, which is part of its charm.

The general location and address for navigation are:

QVM4+98, Ben Lomond, AR 71846, USA

As a more rustic location, specific driving directions may be necessary, and local users often know the spot by its informal name or local landmarks, such as the old highway bridge. The road leading to the camp is well-known locally and leads visitors directly into the forested area. Crucially for any camping trip, on-site parking is available, allowing visitors to easily secure their vehicles while enjoying the grounds and the spring. Visitors should anticipate a natural, woodsy setting, making a vehicle with good ground clearance advisable, especially after heavy rains.

Cahoots Springs is characterized by its dedication to providing a fundamental, authentic camping experience, prioritizing natural resources over commercial facilities. The services available are designed to cover the absolute necessities for a short, comfortable stay.

• Primitive Campsites: The core offering is a classic camping area, suitable for setting up tents and enjoying the unblemished natural surroundings. The camping experience here is focused on simplicity and self-sufficiency.
• Drinking Water Spring: The key amenity is the artesian spring, which is a reliable source of fresh, cold drinking water. This natural resource is a significant convenience for campers.
• Basic Sanitary Facilities: An outhouse is provided on-site, offering essential and basic restroom facilities for campers.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is noted to be good for kids, providing a safe, natural space for exploration, learning, and outdoor adventure away from modern-day distractions.

The highlights of Cahoots Springs are deeply tied to its historical value and the unique natural features that have drawn locals here for decades. These elements are what truly set this campground apart from others in the region.

• The Artesian Spring and CCC Wall: The property's most famous feature is the constantly flowing artesian spring. This spring is contained by a small, stone wall, which is a historical structure attributed to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This relic from the 1930s not only serves a functional purpose but also gives the site a profound sense of heritage.
• Historic Fish Pool: The small pool formed by the CCC wall has a charming local tradition: it has been used by fishermen to store their live catfish catches while they continue to fish or camp. Seeing the fish in the pool is a fun attraction, especially for children.
• Excellent Local Fishing: The immediate vicinity, including the old highway bridge structure right before the camp, is locally renowned as a prime spot for "perch jerking" (a local term for fishing, likely for sunfish or bream) and finding larger fish, or "big'uns."
• Secluded, Natural Setting: Cahoots Springs offers a true wilderness feel, providing peace and quiet for reflection, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature. The camp's history of being accessed via ATVs through "the bottoms" speaks to its deep connection to the local landscape.
• Old-Fashioned Vibe: This is a genuine old-school camping experience. It’s a place where the focus is on a fire pit, a good fishing line, and the company you keep, a refreshing alternative to manicured park settings.

As a rustic, historical, and locally-known campground, Cahoots Springs does not operate with the same centralized management structure as large commercial facilities. There is no public-facing phone number provided for the specific campground at this time, which reinforces its simple, public-access nature. Visitors interested in the location should rely on the provided geographic code and address for navigation. Inquiries about the location, history, or local access are often best directed to local community resources or Ben Lomond area residents.

Address: QVM4+98, Ben Lomond, AR 71846, USA

For Arkansas campers who genuinely seek to escape the trappings of modern life, Cahoots Springs is an unparalleled choice. What is truly worth choosing here is the authenticity and the unique blend of history and nature. This location is ideal for the purist camper, the local fishing enthusiast, and families who value teaching their children about Arkansas's heritage and the simple joys of the outdoors.

This is the place you choose when a gravel pad and full hookups are precisely what you want to avoid. The presence of a historic CCC-built spring, noted by locals as a water source and an informal aquarium for caught fish, offers an experience that a modern park simply cannot replicate. The camp's established reputation as a beloved local spot, referred to by former campers as a place of childhood adventure, guarantees a genuinely unique and welcoming atmosphere.

Cahoots Springs is an important piece of local heritage that continues to function as a public resource. It provides a rare opportunity to camp on land touched by the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps and to fish in waters treasured by the Ben Lomond community. For those in Arkansas looking for a simple, memorable, and richly historical outdoor experience, Cahoots Springs is a hidden gem well worth the visit.

Cahoots Springs

QVM4+98, Ben Lomond, AR 71846, USA