Welcome to Arkansas, also known as ‘The Natural State’. Situated in the south-eastern region of the US, Arkansas is a state that boasts a diverse landscape, ranging from lowlands to highlands. The state is home to three broad ecoregions, each offering its own unique natural beauty. From the majestic Ozarks to the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
One of the standout features of Arkansas is its abundance of lakes and reservoirs, which provide the perfect setting for a variety of recreational activities. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water, Arkansas has a lake for you. So, if you find yourself in the Natural State on a hot summer day, make sure to check out at least one of the 15 best lakes in Arkansas.
Exploring the Best Lakes in Arkansas
1. Bull Shoals Lake; Marion County
- Location: Northern Arkansas
- Highlights: Boating, fishing, swimming
- Attractions: 19 developed parks with campgrounds and boat launches
- Fun Fact: Home to one of the largest dams in the country
2. DeGray Lake; Clark & Hot Spring Counties
- Location: South of Hot Springs
- Attractions: Arkansas Scenic Byway 7, DeGray Lake Resort State Park
- Fun Fact: Created in 1972 with the damming of the river
3. Greers Ferry Lake; Cleburne & Van Buren Counties
- Location: Formed by Greers Ferry Dam
- Highlights: Cliff diving, scuba diving, fishing
- Attractions: Two connected lakes with over 545 kilometers of shoreline
4. Beaver Lake; Benton & Carroll Counties
- Location: Ozark Mountains
- Attractions: Limestone cliffs, caves, hiking
- Fun Fact: Source of drinking water in Northwest Arkansas
5. Norfork Lake; Baxter County
- Highlights: Fishing, water sports, camping
- Attractions: Known for its striped bass fisheries
- Fun Fact: Portion of the lake lies within Missouri
6. Lake Ouachita; Garland & Montgomery Counties
- Highlights: Scuba diving, crystal veins, Striped Bass Capital of the World
- Attractions: Surrounded by Ouachita National Forest
7. Lake Dardanelle; Pope, Yell, Logan, Johnson & Franklin Counties
- Location: Western Arkansas
- Attractions: Lake Dardanelle State Park, wildlife, camping
- Fun Fact: 80 kilometers long with 510 kilometers of shoreline
8. Lake Conway; Faulkner County
- Highlights: Fishing, rumoured ‘Fouke Monster’, bass, bream
- Attractions: Largest game and fish commission made lake in the country
- Fun Fact: Located near the city of Conway
9. Lake Greeson, Pike County
- Location: Daisy State Park
- Highlights: 15 parks, hiking, ATV trails
- Attractions: Surrounded by Ouachita Mountains
10. Millwood Lake; Little River County
- Highlights: Superb fishing, bass fishing
- Attractions: Millwood State Park, wildlife trails, marina
11. Lake Chicot; Chicot County
- Highlights: Largest oxbow lake in North America
- Attractions: Cypress stumps, Lake Chicot State Park
- Fun Fact: Formed around 600 years ago
12. Lake Maumelle; Pulaski County
- Location: Primary drinking water source for Little Rock
- Highlights: Boating, fishing, sailing
- Attractions: No swimming allowed, regattas
13. White Oak Lake; Nevada & Ouachita Counties
- Attractions: Submerged trees, crappie, bass, bream
- Highlights: White Oak Lake State Park, hiking trails, wildlife
14. Nimrod Lake; Perry & Yell Counties
- Highlights: Angling, water skiing, boating
- Attractions: Ouachita and Ozark National Forests, six parks
15. Table Rock Lake; Carroll County
- Location: Ozark Mountains
- Highlights: Scuba diving, boating, fishing
- Attractions: Camping grounds, full-service marina on Missouri side
Planning Your Adventure
Before you head out to explore the best lakes in Arkansas, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
– Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated under the Arkansas sun.
– Check for any permits or fees required for fishing, boating, or camping at the lakes.
– Respect the wildlife and natural surroundings by leaving no trace and following park rules and regulations.
– Try out different activities at each lake, from hiking and biking to water sports and picnicking, to truly experience the beauty of Arkansas.
So, whether you’re a seasoned angler, a water sports enthusiast, or just looking to unwind in nature, Arkansas has a lake for you. From the stunning beauty of Bull Shoals Lake to the tranquil waters of Lake Ouachita, each of these lakes offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to explore the best lakes in Arkansas!