Posted in Arkansas
June 14, 2019
12 Water Wonderlands In Arkansas That Will Take Your Summer To A Whole New Level
The heat has set in and summer will officially be here in a week. Have you made your summer bucket list? No matter if you’re wanting a lake, waterfall, splash pad, swim hole, or full blown water park – Arkansas can certainly deliver. Let’s dive right in!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
A perfect way to kick off summer is at the Parrot Island Water Park in Fort Smith. The 20,000-sq. ft. water park has an attraction for every age group, including a new surfing machine for this season. Visit their website for more information.
Address: 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, AR 72903
Address: 7300 Zero Street, Fort Smith, AR 72903
If you'd rather have a more natural water park, head to the Charlton Rec Area. The spring-fed Walnut Creek stays chilly even during the hottest days. Swim for a few hours or set up camp for a relaxing weekend in the Ouachita National Forest. For more details on this area, read our full article right here.
Address: 154 Milholen Trail, Royal, AR 71968
Address: 154 Milholen Trail, Royal, AR 71968
One of the most underrated treasures in NWA is the Kayak Park of Siloam Springs. Work on your paddling skills in this human-engineered white water adventure or just pick a swim hole along the river's edge. Read our full article to learn more about this awesome park.
Address: 19253 Fisher Ford Road, Siloam Springs, AR 72761
Address: 19253 Fisher Ford Road, Siloam Springs, AR 72761
Located in Crowley's Ridge State Park, Lake Ponder is an enhanced swimming experience. Slide down one of the tubes for a bit of fun before snorkeling with the small fish. The state park has plenty to do from trails to cabins for an extended stay. For more details about the lake, go right here.
Address: 2092 Highway 168 North, Paragould, AR 72450
Address: 2092 Highway 168 North, Paragould, AR 72450
Arkansas' only resort state park is perfect for a family vacation (and you won't even need plane tickets)! The island resort has endless water-based activities including guided kayak tours and stand-up paddle boards for rent. Keep your retreat as a simple camping weekend or splurge at the lodge and golf course. For more highlights, read this article.
Address: 2027 State Park Entrance Road, Bismarck, AR 71929
Address: 2027 State Park Entrance Road, Bismarck, AR 71929
White sand beaches don't have to be thousands of miles away. Norfork Lake has some of the prettiest beachfront in the Ozarks. There's no where better to dig your toes in than at the lake's Sand Island. It's definitely worth the paddle trip! You can learn more about the lake by reading this article.
Address: 151 Panther Bay Loop, Mountain Home, AR 72653
Address: 151 Panther Bay Loop, Mountain Home, AR 72653
Lake Ouachita has some of the cleanest water in the entire country, which means freshwater jellyfish as well as summer-lovin' Arkansans thrive here. There's too many attractions and activities to list for this lake but we do suggest adding their island camping or water trail to your itinerary.
Address: 5451 Mountain Pine Road, Mountain Pine, AR 71956
Address: 5451 Mountain Pine Road, Mountain Pine, AR 71956
Enjoy a day trip to the War Memorial Park Splash Pad for an urban adventure. The splash pads of Little Rock really put all others to shame. The interactive features and natural rock facades will thrill young splashers all summer long. For directions to all three of Little Rock's splash pads, visit this site.
Address: 5511 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Address: 5511 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
Jumping back into nature, no Arkansas summer would be complete without a waterfall excursion. The waterfall-fed swim hole at Falling Water Falls doesn't require hiking either! Just drive up and enjoy this beautiful area. To see more of this gorgeous waterfall, read our full article right here.
Address: Forest Service Road 1205, Mt Pleasant Township, AR 72686
Address: Forest Service Road 1205, Mt Pleasant Township, AR 72686
Swimming is always but don't forget a paddle trip or two this season. The Little Maumelle River is one of our favorite kayak trips for its beauty and surprising pit stop. The river has a floating platform for literal on-the-water camping! You can read all the details right here.
Address: 8803 Ranch Boulevard, Little Rock, AR 72223
Address: 8803 Ranch Boulevard, Little Rock, AR 72223
The Buffalo National River has dozens of swimming holes (and water activities for that matter) but Woolum might be our favorite. The stunning bluffs and clear waters make this standout spot a must-visit. One good place to begin planning your Buffalo adventure is this outdoor center.
Address: 4699 AR-43 Highway, Ponca, AR 72670
Address: 4699 AR-43 Highway, Ponca, AR 72670
We'll end our trip inspiration with a big splash at Magic Springs. Whether you diligently visit every year or have yet to take the plunge, this water park is a beloved treasure. Ride a roller coaster or drift in the lazy river for a day of summer fun. For more details, visit their website.
Address: 1701 East Grand Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901
Address: 1701 East Grand Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901
Have we inspired a summer trip or three? What other places would you add to the list? Share your favorite water spots with us in the comments below!
If you prefer to dive, here’s an underwater adventure you shouldn’t miss.
