Surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Ouachita is known for its scenic natural beauty and the clarity of its waters. These pristine waters form the largest manmade lake within Arkansas's borders. Named one of the cleanest lakes in America, 40,000-acre Lake Ouachita is a water sports mecca for swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, and fishing. Angling for bream, crappie, catfish, stripers, and largemouth bass can be enjoyed in open waters or quiet coves along the lake's 975 miles of shoreline.
Located just a short drive from the spa city of Hot Springs on the lake's eastern shore, Lake Ouachita State Park is your gateway to this popular water sports lake.
The park features historic Three Sisters' Springs, natural spring water accessible through a springhouse featuring exhibits. Fully-equipped cabins include seven that overlook the lake and one that offers a woods view. Situated on the lakeshore, the cabins feature an airy, one-story contemporary style designed around their lakeshore view of Lake Ouachita.
Park campgrounds feature 93 campsites (58 Class AAA, 23 Class D, and 12 Walk-in Tent Sites). There are also four camper cabins are located near camping area C. These single room cabins are furnished with heat/AC, electrical service, one queen bed, two bunk beds, a small table, and a small screened porch. They do not include kitchens, bathrooms, or linens.
Other park offerings include picnic areas; trails; two swimming areas; and marina with boat rentals, bait and supplies. The park visitor center includes exhibits and a store/gift shop.
Directions to the park
From Little Rock, Benton, Bryant, or south Arkansas to Lake Ouachita State Park (via I-30):
Take I-30 west and continue to Hot Springs Exit #111 (U.S. 70 west). Take the U.S. 270 West Bypass (also known as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Expressway) through Hot Springs staying in the left lane and eventually passing Hot Springs Exit #1. This lane will turn into the right lane of U.S. 270 West as the expressway merges with the highway. Travel three miles to the junction of Ark. 227 North. Go right on Hwy. 227 North and follow it approximately 12 miles to the park.
From northwest Arkansas to Lake Ouachita State Park (via Scenic Highway 7):
Take I-40 Exit #81 at Russellville. Go south on Ark. 7 and continue traveling through Jessieville. Four miles past Jessieville look for Ark. 192. At Ark. 192, turn right and travel west six miles to Ark. 227 north. Turn right on Hwy. 227 north and travel two miles to the park.