Arkansas’ Wild Wonderland 

Surrounded by the 1.8-million-acre Ouachita National Forest, Lake Ouachita is one of the cleanest lakes in the nation. Spanning 40,000 acres, the lake contains 975 miles of untouched shoreline, making it a national wonder and Arkansas’ largest lake. Plus, at only 10 miles from Hot Springs, Lake Ouachita offers an idyllic respite from busy city life. 

The “Big Hunt” for Adventure 

Lake Ouachita’s unique name originates from the French and Choctaw Indian languages. “Ouachita” is the French spelling of the Choctaw word “Washita,” which is the combination of two other Indian words, “Owa Chito,” meaning “big hunt.” Indeed, these words reflect the wild landscapes of Lake Ouachita—home to deer, bears, turkeys, bald eagles, common loons, northern pintails, and wood ducks. 

This lake’s rugged, natural landscapes could lead visitors to believe it has been around for centuries. However, the lake is not yet 100 years old. Between 1946 and 1954, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers set out to construct Lake Ouachita to assist with flood control, hydropower, and navigation. The construction of the Blakely Mountain Dam created the lake. It rests on Ouachita’s southwest segment, producing 75 megawatts and measuring 231 feet high and 1,100 feet long.

Today, Lake Ouachita is the principal attraction of Ouachita State Park. This 360-acre park boasts 93 campsites, eight fully-equipped cabins, and four affordable camper cabins. Ouachita State Park guests can enjoy various adventures, such as hiking, picnicking, swimming, boating, and fishing. The park offers guided hikes, kayak trips, and eagle tours year-round. Additionally, residents can view on-site exhibits and buy snacks and trinkets from the gift shop. They also can rent boats and buy bait from the marina. 

One of Lake Ouachita’s most unique features is the Geo-Float trail. This marked water course corresponds with a brochure that details important geologic attractions along the lake. Additionally, those who enjoy staying ashore and biking can take advantage of the 233-mile-long Ouachita National Recreation Trail—the longest cycling course in the state. 

Many Lake Ouachita visitors also enjoy seeing the historic Three Sisters Springs. These waters allegedly possess healing powers for numerous ailments. Before the Army Corps of Engineers began to manage the Ouachita area, the former landowners would sell water from Three Sister Springs to the public for therapeutic purposes. Today, this water flows into Lake Ouachita. Perhaps it is why guests feel refreshed after their visit.

The Scuba Diver’s and Angler’s Paradise 

As a result of its pristinely clear waters, Lake Ouachita houses rare freshwater jellyfish, sponges, and shrimp. It is one of the only freshwater lakes in the world to have this capability since only the cleanest lakes can support these species. For this reason, scuba diving is a top activity at the lake. Divers enjoy descending to view these interesting species as well as examine the Ouachita crystal vein—one of the largest in the world. 

Lake Ouachita also boasts a diverse fish population. Anglers often catch large and smallmouth bass, bream, catfish, spotted bass, crappie, and world-class striped bass. Anglers should note that the average depth is 50 feet, with the lake reaching down to 200 feet at its deepest point. However, although the lake is quite deep, it can still present some boating hazards. Because the land was never cleared before being filled, some areas feature intact forests. Many trees under the lake’s surface are over 60 feet tall. So boaters should be cautious and scan for shallow areas and tree tops. 

The World’s Eight Wonder 

Lake Ouachita not only features stunning, secluded views but also showcases an incredibly diverse ecosystem. Imagine boating in crystal clear waters, biking through the untamed forest, and scuba diving for rare species—these could be your everyday adventures at Lake Ouachita.