Camp Clearfork

Camp Clearfork, located approximately 20 miles west of Hot Springs, Arkansas, in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest, is a distinctive and historically significant establishment within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" platform category. Unlike typical individual campsites, Camp Clearfork is primarily a group-use recreational facility, available for general public use by reservation. Its heritage traces back to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which constructed the camp in the 1930s, imbuing it with a rustic charm and a sense of timelessness. This makes it an ideal destination for church groups, family reunions, civic organizations, scout troops, school groups, universities, and other large meetings seeking a dedicated space for gathering, learning, and outdoor recreation in a natural setting.

The environment of Camp Clearfork is deeply integrated into the beautiful and rugged landscape of the Ouachita National Forest. The camp is set amidst a rustic, forested area, offering a tranquil escape from urban bustle. A key natural feature of the camp is its small, scenic lake, created by a CCC-built dam, which serves as a focal point for water-based activities. The surrounding forest provides ample shade, fresh air, and opportunities for observing local flora and fauna. The camp's design, a "rustic descendent of the Civilian Conservation Corps days," means that while it is developed, it maintains a strong connection to its natural surroundings, blending seamlessly with the environment. The proximity to the Caddo/Womble Ranger District further ensures that the natural environment is well-managed and provides access to extensive forest lands for exploration. The camp's location across US Highway 270 from Charlton Recreation Area, known for its cold, spring-fed swimming hole, offers additional environmental benefits and recreational opportunities just a short distance away. This natural setting creates a refreshing and inspiring backdrop for group activities and personal reflection.

As a specialized offering within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category for groups, Camp Clearfork provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to large gatherings. The core services revolve around its lodging and communal facilities. The camp offers six dorm cabin units, each capable of sleeping up to 10 people, providing comfortable, shared accommodation for groups. Additionally, there are three staff cabins, accommodating 5 to 6 people each, ideal for chaperones or group leaders. A central, accessible dining hall serves as a hub for meals and large indoor gatherings, ensuring that groups can eat together and host events regardless of weather. Adjacent to the dining hall is a recreation building, offering a dedicated space for indoor activities and programming. Essential amenities include accessible flush toilets and showers, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers. For water-based activities, the small scenic lake on-site provides opportunities for swimming and non-motorized boating, such as canoeing. While there are no individual RV hookups, the facility is designed for group stays in its provided cabins. Reservations are required and must typically be made through the district office, often with a minimum 30-day advanced notice, reflecting its popularity and managed group-use nature. The camp is open seasonally, typically from May to November, requiring groups to plan their visits accordingly. Drinking water is available, and fees are charged for the use of various facilities like the dining hall, dorm cabins, and staff cabins.

The features of Camp Clearfork are designed to support a wide range of group activities and foster a sense of community. The historic architecture, dating back to the 1930s and built by the CCC, is a notable feature, contributing to the camp's unique character and listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The dorm cabins provide practical lodging, while the accessible dining hall and recreation building offer versatile spaces for meetings, workshops, and recreational activities. The small scenic lake with its CCC-built dam is a prominent feature, offering opportunities for swimming and canoeing directly within the camp grounds. A softball field is available for sports and games, promoting physical activity and teamwork. Other potential recreational features, depending on the specific program or event, include volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and areas for fishing. Day hiking opportunities are available within the camp and on nearby trails in the Ouachita National Forest, including potentially the Womble Trail. The camp's design facilitates organized activities for various ages, as evidenced by its use for youth camps with specific "tracks" (e.g., adventure, crafts, sports). The rustic but functional nature of the facilities, combined with the natural beauty of the setting, provides a conducive environment for both structured programming and informal group interaction. While not a typical RV park, its robust infrastructure for residential group stays is a key distinguishing feature within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category.

Promotional information for Camp Clearfork consistently highlights its unique identity as a "group use recreational facility" and its "rustic descendent of the Civilian Conservation Corps days." The primary promotional message centers on its suitability for various large organizations, such as "church gatherings, family reunions, civic groups, scout groups, school groups and other large meetings." Emphasis is placed on the availability of dorm cabins, a dining hall, and a recreation building, making it a comprehensive solution for group retreats. The scenic lake, with opportunities for swimming and canoeing, and the presence of a softball field, are often highlighted as recreational amenities. The operational season (May to November) and the requirement for advance reservations through the district office are crucial pieces of information for potential users. While specific pricing details are not always universally published, it is communicated that fees apply for the use of the various facilities, and interested parties are encouraged to contact the Caddo-Womble Ranger District directly for current fee information. The camp's location, approximately 19 miles west of Hot Springs and 16 miles east of Mt. Ida on US Highway 270, is provided to aid in planning. Testimonials from past groups often praise the camp's ability to host successful events in a beautiful, natural setting. For local users and organizations, Camp Clearfork is promoted as a historically rich and well-equipped venue that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and communal facilities, providing an ideal environment for purposeful group retreats and memorable gatherings within the extensive offerings of the Campgrounds & RV Parks category.