Camp Albert Pike Spring, Camp Albert Pike, Arkansas

## Overview Camp Albert Pike is a beloved recreation area nestled deep in the Ouachita National Forest in Montgomery County, Arkansas, near the small community of Caddo Gap. Situated along the Little Missouri River, this area is renowned for its rugged natural beauty, forested mountain terrain, and — most notably for spring seekers — its crystal-clear spring water that flows naturally from the surrounding mountains. The recreation area is named after Albert Pike, a prominent 19th-century figure in Arkansas history who was a lawyer, writer, soldier, and Freemason. Pike explored much of the Ouachita region in the 1830s, and the area bearing his name has been a popular destination for camping, hiking, swimming, and enjoying the natural springs for generations. Multiple trails wind through the hills around Camp Albert Pike, leading visitors to natural springs where water emerges cold and clear from the mountainside. The spring water has historically been used as a drinking water source by campers and visitors, and many have reported that it tastes exceptionally clean and refreshing. The springs are fed by the geology of the Ouachita Mountains, where ancient folded sedimentary rock layers channel rainwater deep underground before it resurfaces as spring flow. ## Directions Camp Albert Pike is located off Albert Pike Road near Caddo Gap, AR 71935. The GPS coordinates are approximately **34.372093, -93.878754**. **From Hot Springs, Arkansas (approximately 55 miles, about 1.5 hours):** 1. Start at the Hot Springs Convention Center on Convention Boulevard, Hot Springs, AR 71901. 2. Head east on Convention Boulevard to Opera Street (about 167 ft). 3. Continue straight on Opera Street for approximately 466 ft (0.1 mi). 4. Make the first left onto **Spring Street** and go 0.1 mi. 5. Turn left onto **Central Avenue** and follow it 0.5 mi to the end. 6. Turn right onto **W Grand Avenue** and go 0.9 mi. 7. Turn left onto **US-270 BUS W / US-70 W** and continue for 1.2 mi. 8. Turn left onto **Airport Road / US-70 W** and continue following US-70 W for approximately 29 miles (about 45 minutes). 9. Take a slight right onto **Broadway Street** and travel 0.9 mi. 10. Continue following **AR-27 N / AR-8 W**, then turn left onto **N 1st Street / AR-276 N / AR-8 W** and go 5.6 mi (about 9 minutes). 11. Turn left onto **AR-244 W** and travel 9.8 mi (approximately 15 minutes). 12. Take a slight right onto **NFW 517** and continue 3.4 mi (about 9 minutes). 13. Continue straight onto **Fancy Hill Road** for 1.6 mi (about 6 minutes). 14. Turn left onto **Albert Pike Road** and follow it, staying on Albert Pike Road through two additional turns (a left and then a right), for approximately 2.8 mi until you reach the recreation area. *Note: The nearest address is Albert Pike Road, Caddo Gap, AR 71935. Roads in this area are rural and winding — allow extra time and drive carefully, especially after dark.* ## What to Expect Camp Albert Pike offers a rustic, immersive outdoor experience in one of Arkansas's most scenic forest settings. The recreation area sits along the Little Missouri River, surrounded by dense hardwood and pine forest typical of the Ouachita Mountains. Once you arrive, you'll find multiple trails branching off into the hills that lead to natural spring sources. The springs produce clear, cold water that flows from rock outcroppings on the mountainside. Visitors have long reported that the spring water tastes clean and pure, though as with any natural water source, conditions can vary. The area is best visited during **spring and summer months**, when trails are fully accessible and conditions are ideal for camping, hiking, and swimming in the Little Missouri River. Some trails may be closed or difficult to navigate during winter. Camping and cabin facilities are generally available during the warmer months. The terrain is moderately rugged — wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven, rocky trails when hiking to the springs. The Little Missouri River canyon is strikingly beautiful, with exposed rock bluffs and lush vegetation. **Important safety note:** Camp Albert Pike is located in a river valley that is susceptible to flash flooding. The area experienced a devastating flash flood in June 2010. Always check weather forecasts before visiting, and heed any flood warnings or advisories from the U.S. Forest Service. For additional information, the area is managed by the **Ouachita National Forest** (U.S. Forest Service).