Posted in Arkansas
July 01, 2016
These Are The 9 Most Pristine Lakes In Arkansas… And They’re Positively Stunning
We know Arkansas lakes are beautiful, and probably the perfect place to spend the sweltering Arkansas summer, but which lakes are the most pristine? Which lakes in the natural state are still in their natural state? From the cleanest waters to the most untouched shorelines, here you’ll find nine of the most pristine lakes in Arkansas.
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/
Located near Hot Springs, Lake Ouachita is the biggest lake entirely in the borders of the Arkansas, and it is renowned for the clarity of its waters. There are also more than 100 uninhabited islands where you can camp.
This crystal-clear lake is a great destination for scuba divers, boating enthusiasts, and skiers alike. The entirety of this lake’s shoreline is publicly owned, so boaters can go ashore anywhere they want.
Mirror Lake is only three acres, but it is stunningly beautiful, located near the magnificent Blanchard Springs Caverns, and continuously spring fed by the cool waters of Blanchard Spring. It’s also known as a haven for rainbow trout, so don’t forget your gear.
Lake Fort Smith isn’t actually located in Fort Smith, it’s a ways north in the Boston Mountains near a town called Mountainburg. It supplies water to the Fort Smith metro area, so swimming is not allowed. Fishing and boating are permitted, and you can enjoy the lake from the stunning state park located there.
There is more than one lake designated “Spring Lake,” and the one we’re referring to here is the small 10-acre lake created by the damming of Mammoth Springs, which has the highest flow rate of any natural spring in Arkansas. The water is cold, and this lake is on the National Register of Historic Places.
DeGray Lake is crystal-clear perfection. It’s so clear that snorkeling is a popular activity there. In addition to the flawless waters, there’s also a full service marina on the north shore.
Located near gorgeous Mount Magazine, Cove Lake is as beautiful as the summit it sits in the shadow of. The swimming area is gorgeous too, but the shaded shoreline around the lake is perfect.
Lake Dardanelle is a renowned bass fishing locale, but its trails and beautiful waters bring all kinds of people to its gorgeous shores.
Built in the delta lowlands and surrounded by trails through marshes, at Wapanocca Lake you’ll find gorgeous waters and the perfect place for bird watching.
For more lakes you’ll love, try this list.
If you’re looking for swimming holes, you’ll find them here.
