15 Best Lakes in Arkansas

Arkansas, the “Natural State,” lives up to its name with a dazzling array of pristine lakes, each offering a unique slice of paradise. Imagine waking to the gentle lapping of water, the scent of pine, and the promise of a day filled with adventure, whether you’re casting a line, paddling serene waters, or simply soaking in the sun on a quiet shore. From the crystal-clear depths of the Ozarks to the tranquil bayous of the Delta, these aquatic jewels are more than just bodies of water; they are vibrant ecosystems and playgrounds for every type of traveler.

This guide will whisk you away on a journey through Arkansas’s 15 best lakes, unveiling their hidden gems, practical tips, and detailed cost breakdowns to help you plan your perfect escape. The best time to visit is typically spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak, though summer offers prime swimming and boating opportunities. Prepare to be captivated by Arkansas’s watery wonders!

Bull Shoals Lake; Marion County

Bull Shoals Lake, sprawling across the Arkansas-Missouri border in the scenic Ozark Mountains, is often hailed as one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the United States. Its deep, sapphire waters are a testament to its pristine condition, making it a diver’s dream and a paradise for anglers seeking trophy-sized bass, crappie, and walleye. You will discover over 1,000 miles of rugged, tree-lined shoreline, perfect for secluded coves and hidden swimming spots. The lake is formed by the massive Bull Shoals Dam, an impressive engineering marvel that offers tours and panoramic views.

Beyond the water, the surrounding Bull Shoals-White River State Park provides excellent camping, hiking trails, and a marina. This destination is perfect for families seeking a peaceful retreat, avid fishermen looking for a challenge, and anyone who appreciates unspoiled natural beauty. Its history is tied to the dam’s construction in the 1950s, which transformed the landscape and created this recreational haven. Visit in the spring or fall for ideal weather and fewer crowds, though summer brings vibrant boating activity.

DeGray Lake; Clark & Hot Spring Counties

DeGray Lake, located in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, stands out as Arkansas’s first State Park Resort, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and upscale amenities. Its clear, warm waters are perfect for swimming, wakeboarding, and even scuba diving, with several submerged structures to explore. What makes DeGray truly special is the island golf course, a championship layout accessible by a causeway, offering stunning lake views at every hole.

You can enjoy guided horseback riding, hiking trails through diverse forest, and excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. The park also hosts interpretive programs, boat tours, and even a fishing guide service. This lake is ideal for families seeking a resort-style vacation with plenty of activities, couples looking for a relaxing escape, and anyone who enjoys a blend of outdoor adventure and comfort. Its resort status ensures well-maintained facilities and a wide range of services.

Greers Ferry Lake; Cleburne & Van Buren Counties

Greers Ferry Lake, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Ozarks, is renowned for its extraordinarily clear, cold waters, which are fed by the Little Red River. This clarity makes it a prime spot for swimming, scuba diving, and particularly, striped bass fishing, for which it holds several world records. The lake’s irregular shoreline boasts numerous coves, bluffs, and sandy beaches, offering endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. You can explore the impressive Greers Ferry Dam, which holds back the waters, or visit the nearby William Carl Garner Visitor Center to learn about the lake’s history and ecology.

Beyond the water, enjoy hiking trails, camping, and picnicking. The lake is divided into two distinct sections, connected by a narrow channel, offering varied experiences. It’s a fantastic destination for serious anglers, families looking for clean swimming areas, and nature lovers drawn to its pristine environment. The lake was created in the 1960s, bringing significant economic and recreational development to the region.

Beaver Lake; Benton & Carroll Counties

Beaver Lake, carved into the rugged Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, is a true gem known for its stunning limestone bluffs, clear waters, and abundant fishing opportunities. As the primary drinking water source for much of the region, its pristine condition is carefully maintained, offering excellent conditions for swimming, boating, and scuba diving amongst submerged timber and rock formations. You will find over 487 miles of picturesque shoreline, dotted with numerous parks, campgrounds, and marinas.

The lake is particularly famous for its bass fishing – both largemouth and smallmouth – as well as crappie and bream. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding bluffs, providing breathtaking vistas. Beaver Lake is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families seeking active water adventures, and anglers of all skill levels. Its creation in the 1960s with the construction of Beaver Dam transformed the region, providing flood control, hydroelectric power, and immense recreational value.

Norfork Lake; Baxter County

Norfork Lake, a vast expanse of clear, deep water in the Arkansas Ozarks, is a fishing paradise, particularly renowned for its diverse species including striped bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and crappie. With over 500 miles of shoreline and numerous coves, it offers endless opportunities for anglers, boaters, and swimmers seeking solitude or adventure. The lake’s clarity makes it excellent for scuba diving, with several submerged towns and structures to explore, offering a unique underwater experience.

You can also visit the Norfork Dam, an impressive structure that created the lake in the 1940s, providing flood control and hydroelectric power. Surrounding the lake are various campgrounds, hiking trails, and picnic areas, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination. Norfork Lake is perfect for serious fishermen, divers, and families who appreciate a quieter, less commercialized lake experience focused on natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Its history as one of the first major impoundments in the Ozarks adds to its allure.

Lake Ouachita; Garland & Montgomery Counties

Lake Ouachita, often called the “Diamond Lake” for its crystal-clear, deep waters and abundant quartz crystals found along its shores, is Arkansas’s largest lake and arguably its most pristine. Nestled within the Ouachita National Forest, it boasts over 700 miles of undeveloped shoreline, making it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. You will discover countless islands, perfect for primitive camping, and numerous hidden coves ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The lake is renowned for its excellent bass and crappie fishing, and you might even spot an eagle overhead. Lake Ouachita State Park offers modern camping, cabins, and interpretive programs, including guided lake tours and nature walks. This destination is perfect for wilderness adventurers, serious anglers, families who love camping, and anyone desiring an escape into untouched natural beauty. Its designation as a “Corps of Engineers Cleanest Lake” further solidifies its reputation as a natural wonder.

Lake Dardanelle; Pope, Yell, Logan, Johnson & Franklin Counties

Lake Dardanelle, a sprawling 34,300-acre reservoir on the Arkansas River, is a major hub for fishing tournaments and recreational boating, offering a diverse experience from wide-open waters to secluded coves. It’s particularly famous for its bass fishing, attracting anglers from across the nation, and hosts numerous professional fishing events. You will find excellent opportunities for water skiing, jet skiing, and pleasure boating.

Lake Dardanelle State Park, located on both sides of the lake, provides modern camping, a visitor center with aquariums, and interpretive programs. The lake’s connection to the Arkansas River creates a unique environment, with varied aquatic life and birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons. This lake is perfect for competitive anglers, active boaters, birdwatchers, and families looking for a lively lake experience with good amenities. Its role as part of the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System highlights its importance for both recreation and commerce.

Lake Conway; Faulkner County

Lake Conway, located just minutes from Little Rock in Faulkner County, holds the distinction of being the largest Game and Fish Commission lake in the United States, designed primarily for fishing. Its shallow, cypress-filled waters are a haven for crappie, bass, bream, and catfish, making it an angler’s dream, especially for those who enjoy fishing from a small boat or a pier. The lake’s unique structure, with numerous submerged stumps and timber, provides ideal habitat for fish, though it requires careful navigation.

You will find several public access points, boat ramps, and fishing docks. Beyond fishing, the lake offers opportunities for birdwatching, particularly for waterfowl, and quiet paddling among the cypress trees. Lake Conway is perfect for local anglers, families looking for an easy day trip from the city, and anyone who appreciates a tranquil, natural setting focused on fishing. Its shallow depths and abundant aquatic vegetation create a unique ecosystem.

Lake Greeson, Pike County

Lake Greeson, nestled in the scenic Ouachita Mountains, is a multi-purpose lake renowned for its clear waters, excellent fishing, and vibrant recreational opportunities. It’s particularly famous for its rainbow trout fishing below the dam on the Little Missouri River, and for its diverse warm-water species like bass, crappie, and catfish within the lake itself. What makes Lake Greeson truly unique are the opportunities for diamond hunting at the nearby Crater of Diamonds State Park, making it a perfect base for a treasure-seeking adventure.

You can enjoy swimming, boating, waterskiing, and exploring numerous coves and islands. The lake also offers several Corps of Engineers parks with camping, picnicking, and hiking trails. This destination is ideal for families combining a lake vacation with a unique attraction, anglers seeking diverse fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate clear water and mountain scenery. Its creation in the 1950s provided flood control, hydroelectric power, and a thriving recreational area.

Millwood Lake; Little River County

Millwood Lake, located in Southwest Arkansas near the Texas border, is a vast, shallow reservoir known as one of the state’s premier fishing destinations, particularly for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Its unique character comes from the abundant standing timber and aquatic vegetation, creating an ideal habitat for fish but requiring skilled navigation. What makes Millwood special is its reputation as a birdwatching paradise, attracting numerous species of waterfowl, wading birds, and raptors, including bald eagles, especially during migration.

You will find several public access points, boat ramps, and Millwood State Park, which offers modern camping and excellent birding opportunities. The lake’s shallow nature makes it less ideal for traditional water sports like waterskiing but perfect for kayakers, canoers, and anglers who appreciate its rich biodiversity. It’s an excellent choice for serious birdwatchers, dedicated anglers, and anyone seeking a tranquil, nature-focused experience. The lake was formed in the 1960s for flood control and recreation.

Lake Chicot; Chicot County

Lake Chicot, located in Southeast Arkansas, is the state’s largest natural lake and North America’s largest oxbow lake, formed by a meander of the Mississippi River that was cut off centuries ago. Its unique crescent shape and rich history make it a fascinating destination. The lake is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for crappie, bass, and catfish, thriving in its fertile, nutrient-rich waters.

You will experience a distinct Delta landscape, with cypress trees lining the shores and abundant birdlife, including pelicans and eagles. Lake Chicot State Park offers modern camping, cabins, and interpretive boat tours that delve into the lake’s formation and ecosystem. Its historical significance, including early steamboat navigation and plantation history, adds another layer to its appeal. This lake is perfect for anglers seeking a unique fishing environment, birdwatchers, history buffs, and families who enjoy a tranquil, educational outdoor experience.

Lake Maumelle; Pulaski County

Lake Maumelle, a pristine drinking water reservoir for the city of Little Rock, offers a serene and beautiful escape just a short drive from the state capital. While swimming is prohibited to protect water quality, the lake is a popular destination for sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. What makes Lake Maumelle unique is its strict environmental protection, ensuring incredibly clear waters and a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere.

You will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains and Pinnacle Mountain State Park, which borders a portion of the lake. The area is also excellent for birdwatching, with bald eagles frequently spotted, especially in winter. This lake is perfect for paddlers, sailors, anglers who enjoy catch-and-release, and anyone seeking a tranquil, scenic outdoor experience close to urban amenities. Its role as a vital water source underscores its importance and pristine condition.

White Oak Lake; Nevada & Ouachita Counties

White Oak Lake, located in Southwest Arkansas, is a serene and relatively undeveloped lake known for its excellent fishing and abundant wildlife, particularly in its two distinct sections: Upper White Oak Lake and Lower White Oak Lake. The lake’s shallow, fertile waters are teeming with largemouth bass, crappie, and bream, making it a favorite among local anglers. What makes White Oak Lake unique is its tranquil, uncrowded atmosphere and the extensive surrounding bottomland hardwood forest, which provides fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, including deer and waterfowl.

You will find several public access points and boat ramps, with the state park offering camping and picnic facilities. This lake is ideal for anglers seeking a peaceful fishing experience, birdwatchers, and families looking for a quiet, nature-focused getaway away from the hustle and bustle. Its natural beauty and rustic charm offer a genuine escape into the Arkansas outdoors.

Nimrod Lake; Perry & Yell Counties

Nimrod Lake, Arkansas’s oldest Corps of Engineers lake, offers a tranquil and scenic retreat in the Ouachita Mountains. Its relatively shallow waters, compared to some of the larger mountain lakes, make it an excellent choice for fishing, particularly for crappie, bass, and catfish, and for less intense water sports. What sets Nimrod apart is its quiet, laid-back atmosphere, often less crowded than other major lakes, providing a peaceful environment for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

You will find numerous Corps of Engineers parks around the lake offering camping, picnicking, and boat ramps. The surrounding forested hills provide a beautiful backdrop and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. This lake is perfect for families seeking a relaxed camping trip, anglers looking for consistent catches, and anyone who appreciates a serene natural setting without the heavy commercialization. Its long history as a recreational spot contributes to its local charm.

Table Rock Lake; Carroll County

Table Rock Lake, though primarily in Missouri, extends significantly into Carroll County, Arkansas, offering a stunning portion of its vast, clear waters within the Natural State. This deep, clear lake is famous for its exceptional bass fishing, including largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, attracting anglers from across the country. Its rugged, rocky shoreline and numerous coves provide excellent opportunities for boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and swimming. What makes Table Rock truly special is its dramatic scenery, with towering bluffs and dense forests creating a picturesque backdrop for all activities.

You will find numerous marinas, public access points, and campgrounds. While the Arkansas side is generally less developed than the Missouri side, it offers a quieter, more natural experience. This lake is perfect for serious anglers, active water sports enthusiasts, and families who appreciate breathtaking scenery and a wide range of water-based fun. Its sheer size and clarity are truly impressive.

Plan Your Visit

Arkansas’s lakes are truly a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, offering an unparalleled diversity of experiences for every traveler. From the deep, clear waters perfect for scuba diving and fishing to the tranquil bayous teeming with wildlife, you will discover that each lake holds its own unique charm and an invitation to explore.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, an adrenaline-pumping water sport adventure, or a family-friendly camping trip, the Natural State delivers. Don’t just dream about your next getaway; start planning your Arkansas lake adventure today! Remember to book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always factor in a buffer for unexpected costs. Dive into the heart of Arkansas, and let its incredible lakes refresh your spirit and create unforgettable memories.