Arkansas' most brag-worthy lake has yet another reason to plan a visit. Including the main lake and its islands, the Ouachita has nearly 1,000 miles of stunning shoreline! Stay at the state park for an easy lakeside getaway or paddle around to find your perfect sandy island. Let's cruise around the lake to see this collection of beautiful beaches.
Lake Ouachita is undoubtedly a top Arkansas destination.
The 40,000-acre lake in the middle of the Ouachita National Forest has beautifully clear water and a nearly endless beach. Lake Ouachita has 690 miles of beautiful shoreline as well as an additional 300 miles of sandy islands to explore!
The water of Lake Ouachita is the main reason people visit, but we're more focused on the shoreside adventures today.
The lake has some of the cleanest water in the nation! The lake is so clear that harmless jellyfish and sponges that can only live in the most pristine environments thrive here.
Although it's not quite the same as a coastline, the beaches here still offer plenty of fun in the sun.
We prefer the surrounding natural skyscrapers (in this case pine) instead of a busy city any day! Dig your toes into the sand at one of the designated beaches for a family-friendly vacation.
You don't have to stay on the main shores, though!
Lake Ouachita contains over 200 islands that can be toured via kayak or boat.
These sandy islands add another 300 miles of beaches for all your sunbathing, castle building, and camping needs!
The islands vary in size and can either be dense forested chunks of land or smaller sand bars. Hotel Island and Wild Child Island are popular spots to reach but the numerous sand bars have stunning camping opportunities as well!
Whether you pitch a tent at the state park, rec areas, or private island, the views of Lake Ouachita never cease to amaze.
The variety of camping spots means any family's needs can be met. Stick with the hook-ups and nearby hot showers of the state park or pack-in-pack-out on an island.
Including the lake's 600+ miles of shoreline and the islands, your Lake Ouachita adventures can be completely different for every visit.
If you'd like to plan an island getaway at Lake Ouachita, visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' website right here. For more information on the state park head to this website.
Have you relaxed at Lake Ouachita before? We'd love to see your photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
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