Lake Charles State Park
Ozark Mountain Lake Retreat
Lake Charles State Park sits on a clear 645-acre lake in the Ozark Mountains. Known for excellent swimming, fishing, and scenic camping near Powhatan.
Camping
| Type | Sites | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Class AAA | 23 | Water/electric/sewer, paved pads |
| Class A | 31 | Water/electric |
| Class B | 10 | Tent sites |
Reserve: arkansasstateparks.com or (877) 879-2745.
Swimming
Designated swimming beach with clear mountain lake water—Arkansas’s cleanest swimming lakes!
Fishing
Bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. Boat ramp on-site. Arkansas license required.
Is the lake clear?
Yes! Lake Charles is fed by springs and has excellent water clarity—great for swimming.
Things to Do
Arkansas state parks showcase the Natural State’s stunning Ozark and Ouachita landscapes — ancient mountains, spring-fed rivers, dramatic bluffs, and pristine caves. Activities include hiking scenic bluff trails with panoramic views, swimming in clear Ozark streams and resort-style park pools, fishing in trophy bass lakes and trout-stocked rivers, camping in forested valleys, kayaking and canoeing spring-fed waterways, caving on guided tours, mountain biking world-class trail systems, rock climbing sandstone bluffs, and exploring Native American heritage sites and Civil War battlefields. Devil’s Den, Petit Jean, and Pinnacle Mountain rank among the finest state parks in the South.
Best Time to Visit
Arkansas parks are best from March through November. Spring brings wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and comfortable hiking temperatures. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid (90s°F) — swimming, floating, and early morning hikes are the way to go. Fall (October–November) delivers beautiful Ozark foliage peaking mid-to-late October, with excellent hiking conditions. Winter offers peaceful trail solitude and mild temperatures (40s–50s°F) that make hiking pleasant. Arkansas’ extensive lodge system means comfortable indoor stays are available year-round at many parks.
Visitor Tips
Arkansas state parks are free to enter — no vehicle or entrance fees. Camping, cabins, and lodge rooms vary in price. Reservations through arkansasstateparks.com. Arkansas is unique in offering full-service lodges with restaurants inside many state parks — a great option for non-campers. The Diamond Crater and Crystal Mine parks let visitors keep whatever gems they find. Cell service is spotty in the Ozark backcountry. Ticks are very active March through October — take precautions.
Explore More Arkansas State Parks
Lake Charles State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Arkansas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Arkansas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
