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🏊 Natural Swimming  ·  Ouachita Mountains

Walnut Creek / Charlton Recreation Area

📍 Glenwood
Nearest Town
$3 USFS day-use fee
Entry Fee
💧 Cold, spring-fed
Water Temp
🟢 Easy
Difficulty
📅 Spring–summer
Best Season
🏊 Natural Swimming 🟢 Easy $3 USFS day-use fee
🌊 About Walnut Creek / Charlton Recreation Area

A cold, spring-fed mountain stream frequently cited as one of the best swimming holes in Arkansas, centered on the developed Charlton Recreation Area.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$3 USFS day-use fee
Water Temperature
💧 Cold, spring-fed
Best Season
📅 Spring–summer
Reservation
Not Required
Water Type
Cold, spring-fed mountain stream
Managed By
US Forest Service (Ouachita National Forest)
County
Montgomery County, Arkansas
Access Difficulty
🟢 Easy
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
Charlton Recreation Area, Ouachita National Forest, near Glenwood, AR

Access Notes:
Easy, developed recreation area

GPS Coordinates
34.5492, -93.6334
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • $
    Bring cash or card for entry: $3 USFS day-use fee
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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