Lake Ouachita State Park is a popular state park that is located on the eastern end of Lake Ouachita, the largest lake in the state. The vast size of the lake is sometimes misunderstood and is something to take into account when visiting. “Spanning approximately 30 miles in length and extending into two different counties, the lake features around 20 access points,” said James Wilborn, park superintendent at Lake Ouachita State Park. "Consequently, visitors often end up at the incorrect access location when directed to 'Lake Ouachita,' unaware of the numerous possible destinations within the area.”

There are many lures for visitors to the park. “The availability of full-hookup campsites, cabins, marina services, and boat rentals, coupled with the fact that we remain open year-round, all contribute to our popularity,” Wilborn said. “Furthermore, the lack of entrance fees at our state park likely adds to its allure.”

Lake Ouachita was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is a strong magnet for visitors, with boating, fishing, sailing, scuba diving, kayaking, island camping and other water adventures available to enjoy from its waters. The lake has little shoreline development and is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest, which adds to the natural beauty found there. A water trail highlights the geology of the lake. “The Ouachita Geo Float Trail showcases the interesting geological features along the lake,” said Wilborn. “The trail was developed and is maintained by the [U.S.] Army Corps of Engineers. Many geology enthusiasts visit the lake to float the trail and explore its geological wonders.”

The history of the surrounding area is also an interesting aspect of the park, including the history of Three Sisters Springs. “Three Sisters Springs is a cold-water spring located north of Hot Springs National Park,” said Wilborn. “The theory behind its significance is that if the water from Hot Springs National Park could cure ailments a hundred years ago, surely the cold-water springs just 12 miles north could have similar healing properties. After the lake was built, the resort that developed around the springs became the foundation for an Arkansas State Park, Lake Ouachita. Due to this history, we are often referred to as Three Sisters by locals and other resorts along the lake.”

Along with the action of the lake, the state park also has interpretive programs that highlight both the lake and land. 

Hiking trails can also be found here, including the Caddo Bend Trail and the short Dogwood Trail. The Caddo Bend Trail circles a peninsula and there are views of Lake Ouachita from here and also small footpaths that take one from the trail to the water’s shore. Interpretive signs can be found at various points along the trail. Further trails can also be found near the state park including trails at Hot Springs National Park, the Northwoods Trails, the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail, the Ouachita National Recreation Trail and more. 

The park’s location near other popular Arkansas destinations also adds to its year-round allure. “Most people come to the lake to swim and engage in recreational activities along the shorelines, such as fishing, hiking and camping,” said Wilborn. “The proximity to Hot Springs National Park, one of the major tourist attractions in the area, further enhances our popularity.”

More details about Lake Ouachita State Park can be found at arkansasstateparks.com/parks/lake-ouachita-state-park.