Best Lake Beaches in Arkansas

Table Rock Lake, located near Oak Grove, Arkansas, is a stunning destination nestled within the Ozark Mountains. The lake boasts over 800 miles of shoreline, offering a vast array of activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake from various resorts and campsites, including the Ozarks RV Resort, which provides luxurious accommodations with lake views and a range of amenities like pools and golf courses. The area is also close to Branson, Missouri, known for its entertainment and family-friendly attractions.
The lake's crystal-clear waters and tree-lined shores make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities, Table Rock Lake is a perfect getaway for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
The surrounding Ozark Mountains add to the natural beauty of the area, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna.

Beaver Dam Site Park, located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a serene and picturesque destination. The park features a beautiful beach along Beaver Lake, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. It is surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring natural caves. The area is rich in wildlife and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. Visitors can enjoy the scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and recreational facilities available within the park.
The park's proximity to Eureka Springs allows easy access to local attractions like the Ozark Mountain Ziplines and Thorncrown Chapel. The natural beauty of Beaver Dam Site Park makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The park is well-equipped with amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and a boat ramp, making it a convenient choice for both day visitors and campers.

Lake Leatherwood Park, located just two miles west of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a stunning 1,600-acre municipal park. The park's centerpiece is the 85-acre spring-fed Lake Leatherwood, which is surrounded by over three miles of shoreline. This beautiful lake is impounded by one of the largest hand-cut limestone dams in the nation. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, picnicking, camping, and boating, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park's trails, including the popular Beacham Trail, provide opportunities for hiking and mountain biking amidst the Ozark Mountains' natural beauty.
The park's history is also notable, as it was developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can enjoy the park's diverse wildlife, including herons, geese, bald eagles, and wild turkeys. Cabins are available for rent from March to November, adding to the park's appeal as a getaway destination.
Overall, Lake Leatherwood Park offers a serene and adventurous experience, blending nature, history, and recreation in a picturesque setting.

Woolly Hollow State Park is a scenic destination located in Greenbrier, Arkansas, offering a classic state park experience. It features a 40-acre Lake Bennett, which was built in the 1930s by the Soil Conservation Service as its first watershed project. The park provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, along with a lifeguarded beach during the summer months. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats, and there are also hiking trails available for exploration. The park's history is preserved in the Woolly Cabin, an original 1882 one-room family homestead.
The park is well-suited for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with amenities like picnic areas, grills, and a snack bar near the beach. Additionally, there are campsites available for those who wish to stay overnight. The park's natural beauty and variety of activities make it a popular spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Woolly Hollow State Park is about 18 miles north of Conway, making it easily accessible for day trips or longer stays.

Norfork Lake, located in the Ozark Mountains of North Central Arkansas, offers a unique blend of crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, making it a standout destination in the region. The lake spans 42 miles and covers over 22,000 acres, providing ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. One of the most popular spots is Sand Island, also known as Jordan Island or Sandy Beach, which is a natural white sand beach on the southeast end of the lake. The surrounding area includes several parks and beaches, such as Barren Point Beach and Calamity Beach, offering a variety of recreational activities. The lake's pristine waters also make it an excellent spot for scuba diving, with numerous marked dive sites.

Norfork Lake is known for its uncrowded environment, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful retreat. The area is supported by marinas that offer boat rentals for those without their own vessels. Additionally, there are numerous resorts and camping sites available for accommodations, providing a range of options from rustic cabins to modern facilities.

The lake's beauty extends beyond its beaches, with stunning Ozark sunsets and rolling hills offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Whether it's a family vacation or a solo adventure, Norfork Lake provides something for everyone.

Lake Ouachita State Park, located in Mountain Pine, Arkansas, is a stunning destination surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. It offers 40,000 acres of pristine water, making it Arkansas' largest lake. The park is renowned for its clear waters, perfect for swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of day-use areas and overnight accommodations, including campsites and fully-equipped cabins overlooking the lake. The park's scenic beauty, combined with its diverse wildlife and outdoor activities, makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The park features a marina, hiking trails like the Caddo Bend Trail, and historic sites such as Three Sisters’ Springs. Interpretive programs, including guided hikes and eagle cruises, are available year-round. Its proximity to Hot Springs and Hot Springs Village adds to its appeal, offering a mix of natural beauty and nearby cultural attractions.
With its serene environment and abundant recreational opportunities, Lake Ouachita State Park is a must-visit for those seeking a tranquil yet adventurous getaway.

Bull Shoals-White River State Park is a 732-acre park located in Baxter and Marion counties, Arkansas, near Mountain Home. It is situated on the shores of Bull Shoals Lake and the White River, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. The park is renowned for its trout fishing, with the White River being one of the nation's premier trout-fishing streams. Visitors can enjoy lakeside and riverside facilities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and trails like the one-mile Lakeside Trail. The James A. Gaston Visitor Center provides a dramatic view of the White River and Bull Shoals Dam, along with interpretive exhibits and guided tours.

The park's history dates back to 1955 when it was established after the construction of Bull Shoals Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The dam was built for flood control and power generation, transforming the area into a popular recreational destination. The park hosts various events throughout the year, such as Troutfest and eagle watches, making it a vibrant spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Bull Shoals-White River State Park offers a serene and natural environment, perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure amidst the Ozark scenery.

Lake Catherine State Park is nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, offering a serene getaway with its pristine lake and lush surroundings. Located about eight miles southeast of Hot Springs, Arkansas, the park spans 2,180 acres and features a diverse range of activities and amenities. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the park's sandy beach, fishing in the lake, and exploring over ten miles of hiking trails that lead to scenic waterfalls. The park's history is rich, with structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, including rustic cabins and a marina. Whether you're interested in boating, kayaking, or simply relaxing in nature, Lake Catherine State Park provides a peaceful retreat.
The park is also known for its guided horseback rides, which offer a unique way to explore the scenic trails of the Ouachita Mountains. With its well-equipped cabins and campsites, it's an ideal destination for both families and nature enthusiasts.
The park's proximity to Hot Springs makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding area, including the historic city of Hot Springs with its natural hot springs and vibrant cultural scene.

Jacksonport State Park is located in Jackson County, Arkansas, and offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The park is situated near the confluence of the White and Black rivers, which made it a significant trading center in the 19th century. Visitors can explore the restored 1872 courthouse, now a museum, and learn about the region's history through various exhibits and interpretive programs. The park also features a sandy beach along the White River, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Additionally, it offers camping sites, picnic areas, a playground, and nature walks, making it a great destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.

The park's historical significance is highlighted by its role in the Civil War and its importance as a steamboat stop. The community of Jacksonport was once a thriving commercial center but declined after being bypassed by the railroad. Today, the park serves as a memorial to this river community, preserving its history and cultural heritage.

With its rich history and scenic landscapes, Jacksonport State Park is an ideal place for those interested in exploring Arkansas's past while enjoying outdoor activities.

Lake Charles State Park, located in Powhatan, Arkansas, is a serene destination nestled along the 645-acre Lake Charles. The park offers a variety of activities and amenities, including camping, picnic sites, hiking trails, and a sandy beach. It is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species like bass, crappie, and catfish. The park's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Visitors can enjoy guided kayak tours and explore the surrounding Ozark landscape. The park is about a half-hour from Jonesboro and approximately 1.5 hours from Memphis, making it accessible for both locals and travelers.

One of the park's highlights is its diverse wildlife and the chance to catch large bass, making it a popular spot for anglers. The park also features a YURT for alternative lodging options, adding to its appeal for those looking for a unique outdoor experience.

Overall, Lake Charles State Park combines natural beauty with recreational activities, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Lake Sylvia Recreation Area is nestled within the scenic Ouachita National Forest, offering a serene 18-acre lake known for its swimming and fishing opportunities. Located about 38 miles west of Little Rock, it provides a tranquil escape amidst pine and oak-clad mountains. The area is now managed by Arkansas State Parks, ensuring well-maintained facilities and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, including connections to the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, and explore interpretive nature walks. The park also features a swimming beach, picnic sites, and bathhouses, making it a popular spot for families and nature enthusiasts.
The area's history dates back to the Great Depression when the Civilian Conservation Corps developed Lake Sylvia as part of the New Deal programs. Today, it continues to attract visitors seeking both natural beauty and historical significance. The park's facilities are open year-round, with no day-use fees, making it accessible for all.
Lake Sylvia offers a peaceful retreat with its natural surroundings and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities.

Village Creek State Park, located in Wynne, Arkansas, is a 6,909-acre park that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It features two lakes, Lake Austell and Lake Dunn, which are perfect for boating and fishing. The park is also home to the Ridges at Village Creek, a 27-hole championship golf course designed by Andy Dye, which has been rated as the #1 golf course in Arkansas. Additionally, it includes a segment of the Trail of Tears, providing a glimpse into the region's rich history. The park's diverse landscape includes forested hills and clear streams, creating an environment unlike any other in Arkansas.
The park offers a variety of accommodations, including 10 modern cabins and 96 campsites, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy hiking on seven miles of trails, horseback riding on 25 miles of multi-use trails, and other activities like swimming and fishing.
The park's visitor center provides interpretive displays about the local culture and history, adding an educational element to the visit.