Camp Site C19

For Arkansans seeking a serene and refreshing escape into nature, Camp Site C19 within the Charlton Recreation Area offers an exceptional opportunity. Located in Royal, AR, this specific campsite, like others in the Charlton Recreation Area, provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and essential amenities, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned campers and those looking for a peaceful family getaway. Imagine drifting off to sleep with the gentle sounds of a flowing stream right outside your tent or RV – that's the tranquility awaiting you at Camp Site C19. It’s a cherished spot for many locals, known for its pristine environment and the genuine sense of calm it provides.

Arkansas, often celebrated as "The Natural State," is rich with stunning landscapes, from the majestic peaks of the Ouachita Mountains to its numerous crystal-clear waterways. Camping is a fundamental part of the outdoor experience here, allowing residents to fully immerse themselves in the state's incredible natural assets. Camp Site C19, situated within the renowned Charlton Recreation Area, perfectly embodies this spirit. It offers a well-maintained and picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities, promising not just a place to stay, but a memorable experience filled with relaxation and adventure. The area's reputation for being super nice and beautiful, as echoed by visitors, confirms its standing as a prime spot for locals to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat or a base for exploring the wider Ouachita National Forest, this campground delivers.

Camp Site C19 is strategically located within the Charlton Recreation Area, at the address of Royal, AR 71968, USA. This places it directly within the heart of the Ouachita National Forest, a sprawling expanse of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Royal, Arkansas, itself is a small community in Garland County, known for its close ties to the natural environment and its proximity to Hot Springs. The immediate surroundings of the campsite are characterized by lush woodlands and the soothing presence of Walnut Creek, a cold, spring-fed mountain stream that enhances the natural ambiance.

The accessibility of Charlton Recreation Area, and by extension Camp Site C19, is a significant advantage for Arkansans. It's conveniently situated approximately 20 miles west of Hot Springs along Highway 270. This makes for a relatively short and straightforward drive from many parts of central Arkansas, allowing for easy weekend trips without extensive travel time. The well-maintained roads within the recreation area ensure smooth access for various vehicle types, including RVs and trailers. Campers appreciate the ease of finding their spot and the clear instructions for registration, ensuring a hassle-free start to their outdoor adventure. The balance of being deeply immersed in nature while still having relatively easy access to the amenities and attractions of nearby Hot Springs makes this location highly desirable for local residents seeking both solitude and convenience.

Charlton Recreation Area, where Camp Site C19 is located, offers a range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient camping experience. While Camp Site C19 itself might be a more primitive option, the broader campground facilities are well-equipped.

Services Offered within Charlton Recreation Area:

• Restroom Facilities with Showers: As highlighted by a customer review, there's a short walk to a bathroom with showers, providing essential comfort and hygiene for campers. Loop C, where C19 is located, is also noted to offer hot showers, a welcome amenity.

• Drinking Water Access: Potable drinking water is readily available nearby, ensuring campers have access to fresh water for cooking and hydration.

• Trash Cans: Conveniently located trash cans across from the site contribute to maintaining the cleanliness and natural beauty of the campground, encouraging responsible waste disposal.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite, including C19, is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, providing a dedicated space for outdoor meals, games, and social gatherings.

• Fire Pits/Grills: Fire pits, often with a grill grate, are provided at individual sites, perfect for enjoying campfires, cooking delicious outdoor meals, and enhancing the camping atmosphere. Lantern hooks are also a thoughtful addition for evening lighting.

• Campsite Variety: The Charlton Campground is made up of three loops with 46 campsites, ranging from no services to sites with electric, water, and even sewer hookups in some cases. Loop C, where C19 resides, may have limited services for some sites (e.g., C19 is non-electric), but the overall area offers diversity.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available within the campground for RV and trailer campers, facilitating proper waste management.

• On-site Hosts: The presence of "super nice" hosts who give campers space while being attentive contributes significantly to the welcoming and well-kept atmosphere of the campground.

• Reservations: Campsites at Charlton Recreation Area are 100% reservable through Recreation.gov, allowing campers to plan their trips in advance and secure their preferred spot. Note that booking a Friday night often requires booking for Saturday night as well.

The Charlton Recreation Area is rich with natural features and highlights that make a stay at Camp Site C19 truly special.

Features / Highlights:

• Walnut Creek Access: Camp Site C19 is located "right by the creek," allowing campers to "sleep to the sounds of running water." Walnut Creek is a cold, spring-fed mountain stream, perfect for wading, fishing, and enjoying the serene sounds of nature. It's a significant draw for those seeking a tranquil experience.

• Cold Water Swimming Hole: Charlton Recreation Area is renowned for its historic, Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)-built native stone dam, which forms one of the coldest, clearest, and cleanest swimming holes in Arkansas. This is an incredibly popular feature, especially during the warmer summer months, offering a refreshing way to cool off.

• Historic CCC Structures: The area features charming rustic bathhouses and the impressive native stone dam built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, adding a historical and aesthetically pleasing dimension to the natural setting.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: Access to a 1-mile nature trail near the campground and connections to the 40-mile Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT) lead from the campground. The Charlton Trail also connects to Crystal Springs Campground on Lake Ouachita, offering diverse options for hikers and mountain bikers to explore the Ouachita National Forest.

• Shaded Campsites: The campsites throughout Charlton Recreation Area are well-shaded by mature trees, providing a cool and comfortable environment, even during warmer seasons. This natural canopy adds to the overall beauty and comfort of the camping experience.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently note the quiet and peaceful nature of the campground, particularly in the fall, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and escaping the crowds often found at more bustling locations. While summer may see more visitors, the overall design promotes tranquility.

• Proximity to Hot Springs Attractions: The campground's location offers the best of both worlds: deep immersion in nature with the added convenience of being "close enough to Hot Springs for a quick town trip," allowing campers to explore the historic bathhouses, dining, and other urban amenities when desired.

Contact Information:

Address: Royal, AR 71968, USA (Charlton Recreation Area)

While a direct phone number specifically for Camp Site C19 is not available, general inquiries for Charlton Recreation Area, which manages this site, can be directed to the Ouachita National Forest - Caddo-Womble Ranger District.

Office Phone: (870) 867-2101

For reservations and the most up-to-date information on site availability and policies, it is highly recommended to visit the Recreation.gov website for Charlton Recreation Area. Online booking is typically the preferred method for securing your spot at this popular destination.

Conclusion: Why Camp Site C19 and Charlton Recreation Area are Suitable for Locals

For residents across Arkansas, Camp Site C19 within the Charlton Recreation Area represents a highly suitable and desirable destination for a truly authentic outdoor experience. Its location in Royal, AR, deep within the Ouachita National Forest and along the charming Walnut Creek, provides an immediate sense of escape from the everyday hustle. For Arkansans, the relatively short drive means more time spent enjoying the natural surroundings and less time on the road, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, more deliberate vacations.

The positive reviews from fellow local campers speak volumes: the tranquil sounds of the creek, the cleanliness of the facilities (including the convenience of nearby showers and drinking water), and the helpfulness of the hosts all contribute to a consistently excellent experience. The availability of amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and lantern hooks ensures that even a more primitive site like C19 is well-equipped for comfortable camping. Furthermore, the ability to enjoy the famously cold swimming hole, explore extensive hiking trails, and still be within a reasonable drive of Hot Springs' attractions offers a versatility that appeals to a wide range of interests.

Choosing Charlton Recreation Area and Camp Site C19 allows Arkansans to fully embrace and appreciate the natural heritage of "The Natural State." It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can gather in a beautiful setting, and individuals can find peace and rejuvenation amidst the sounds and sights of the forest. It is a genuine local gem, continually drawing visitors back for its serene environment and abundance of recreational opportunities, affirming its status as a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Arkansas.

Camp Site C19

Royal, AR 71968, USA