Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Lake Catherine State Park

Since its construction in the 1930s, Lake Catherine State Park has become one of the most popular state parks in Arkansas. The 2,180-acre park attracts countless visitors every year, and for good reason! While many folks tend to stay around Hot Springs, there’s actually a small town near Lake Catherine State Park that’s a bit of a hidden gem. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or just looking to take the path less traveled, consider Malvern as your home base when exploring the area.

Why This Town is the Perfect Base for Lake Catherine State Park

Tucked away on the eastern edge of the Ouachita Mountains, Malvern is only 13 miles southeast of Lake Catherine State Park. The town has a population that hovers around 10,000 residents, which puts it right on the border of small town/medium city (the perfect combo). You have access to all the benefits that come with bigger cities, yet it still maintains the small-town charm we love so much.

You can drive to Lake Catherine State Park in 20 minutes, giving you access to endless hiking trails, waterfalls, and aquatic adventures on the lake. Hot Springs is only 21 miles from Malvern, so you can easily squeeze a day trip to Hot Springs into your itinerary. 

What to Do in Malvern

Malvern’s history, like that of so many towns across America, has deep ties to agriculture and mineral resources. Known as “The Brick Capital of the World,” Malvern became the go-to source for bricks because the area's clay was ideal for brick production. Many buildings in Malvern, like the Hot Spring County Courthouse, were built from these locally produced bricks. The town embraced its claim to fame with the annual festival Brickfest, which ran from 1981 to 2023. Maybe it will return for the town’s upcoming 150th anniversary on July 18, 2026! Follow the Malvern Facebook page to stay up to date on any upcoming festivals, events, and more.

One notable building worth your while is the Hot Spring County Museum, which is located in the Boyle House. This two-story building was built in 1890 and purchased by Jacob and Angus Boyle in 1897. Here, you can learn more about the Boyles and the history of Malvern, including Native American pottery and a local collection of minerals and rocks found in the area. It’s a quick and informative side quest that will give you a better understanding of the town and how it came to be. 

If you’re on the hunt for a way to beat the heat outside of the state park, the Ouachita River Whitewater Park is one of the best things to do in Malvern. Even better if you’re a whitewater enthusiast!

Where to Stay Nearby

There are a handful of motels and hotels in Malvern, most notably the Holiday Inn. If you’re the type that likes a little more seclusion and space, I’d highly recommend renting a cabin in Malvern. From wooded cabins to tiny houses, there’s a nice range of affordable options in Malvern. I personally like going the Airbnb route when I’m visiting small towns; I really like embracing the local landscape and getting away from the main downtown scene. 

When you’re deciding where to stay near Lake Catherine State Park, I don’t think you can go wrong with Malvern. It’s affordable and accessible without making you feel like you’re worlds away from everything you want to do in the area. Share this article with someone you want to plan a trip to this small town near Lake Catherine State Park with and plan your next adventure today. 

Of course, Malvern isn't the only outdoorsy town in Arkansas worth seeking out. The Natural State is overflowing with charming small towns that will quickly steal your heart.