8 Best Lakeside Towns in Arkansas
Aptly nicknamed the Natural State, Arkansas is a gorgeous landlocked state in the middle of the US. Its nature, culture, and arts diversity make it attractive as a travel destination. The state is also a culinary adventure, with restaurants for every palette and style. The cultural and natural charms that define it blend in the small towns.
Small lakeside towns embrace Arkansas's rugged spirit. These communities are surrounded by beauty, primarily the Ozark Mountains, natural springs, and quaint downtown areas packed with retail stores and eclectic restaurants. There are numerous lakes throughout Arkansas, each offering ample boating and fishing opportunities. Check out the best lakeside towns to visit.
Eureka Springs
For good reason, Eureka Springs is one of the most visited towns in the Ozark Mountains. It has many natural springs, stunning views, and a historic downtown centering around the highly photographed Flatiron Flats building. Found on Spring and Center Streets, the iconic structure offers visitors rental flats and a boutique coffee shop. It is set between landmark restaurants like the Grotto and the Spring.
Beaver Lake, a massive 31,700-acre Lake, surrounds the town. The waterway is 70 miles long and has 487 miles of shoreline. Several parks along the coastline offer modern camping options and electricity. Starkey Marina is a notable point of interest on Beaver Lake and the closest marina to Eureka Springs.
Hot Springs
The resort town of Hot Springs offers pampering and natural beauty. It is bordered by three lakes: Hamilton, Catherine, and the Ouachita. Lake Hamilton is a pleasant mix of rustic and modern resorts and restaurants. Lake Catherine is a wooded oasis that feeds the Carpenter Dam. Lake Ouachita is one of three manmade lakes flowing into the Ouachita River and is a popular angling and boating destination. The lakes are part of the Diamond Lakes Region, a top hiking, camping, and angling destination.
The notable region is also home to Hot Springs National Park. Native Americans called the park the "Valley of the Vapors" due to the steam rising from its thermal waters, which is a sight to behold. Lake Catherine is another natural point of interest and has the only full-service marina in the area.
Arkadelphia
Arkadelphia is in the scenic Vicksburg District, just south of DeGray Lake, which is over 13,000 acres and has 208 miles of shoreline. The town is also close to the Ouachita and Caddo Rivers, popular for canoeing, kayaking, and watersports. Arkadelphia is also known for its restaurants and very old lodging at inns like the Captain Henderson House Bed and Breakfast.
The historic inn boasts the fun moniker of Adelphia's Front Porch. The Captain Henderson House is over 150 years old and is now operated by Henderson State University. Strolling through the quaint town and discovering hallmarks like Juanita's Candy Kitchen and Buck's Country Store is a fun way to spend the afternoon. Arkadelphia captures Arkansas's natural and cultural spirit and is one of its best lakeside towns.
Bella Vista
Bella Vista boasts seven impressive lakes: Ann, Avalon, Brittany, Norwood, Rayburn, Windsor, and Loch Lomond. The elegant scenery provides a scenic backdrop for a relaxing stay. Other natural attractions include a sizeable natural surface trail area, ideal for hikers of any skill level. A popular trail is the Back 40.
The trail encompasses 21 miles of terrain and is built for mountain biking, though hikers are encouraged to experience it. Golfing is also popular in Bella Vista at links like the Bella Vista Country Club and Scotsdale Golf Course. Cultural attractions include the stunning Mildred B. Cooper Memorial, designed by the notable architect E. Fay Jones and his partner Maurice Jennings.
Jacksonport
Jacksonport State Park is a nature lover's dream vacation destination. It includes 20 Class A camping lots, a swimming beach, and the half-mile Tunstall Riverwalk. An 1872 courthouse is now a museum that interprets the riverport's history. Audio and self-guided tours are available through the visitor center.
Round Lake is near the state park, and the White and Black Rivers converge near the town. The rivers made the small town an essential port of call, and its history is fun to explore. Several restaurants near the Jacksonport State Park and Little Rock call many visitors to experience the Old Mill.
Powhatan
Powhatan is on the banks of Lake Charles, a 645-acre impoundment built in the 1960s. It is a favorite among kayakers and canoers. The shoreline includes a state park with hiking trails, playgrounds, a launch ramp, and Sandy Beach. Visitors can also take lake tours and enjoy guided kayak adventures.
Cultural attractions are in and around Powhatan. The Arkansas History Commission manages the 3,965-acre Northeast Arkansas Archives, but the public can explore the grounds and discover Lawrence County's history. Powhatan State Park includes six historic structures in their original 19th-century locations.
Mountain Pine
Mountain Pine is surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest and near Lake Ouachita. The lake is the largest in Arkansas at 40,000 acres and is a top location for boating and fishing. The park has a total of 93 camping sites and four camping cabins. There is also the historic Three Sisters' Spring, a must-see attraction.
Echo Canyon Resort and Marina is a tranquil one-stop destination. The secluded resort is away from the busyness of the town and includes camping, hiking, fishing, and more. Echo Canyon includes camping and RV sites and cabin rentals. Mountain Pine is an excellent combination of outdoor adventure and modern tranquility and has something to offer everyone.
Russellville
Russellville overlooks Lake Dardenelle and the Arkansas River. It is famous for its vibrant downtown area, restaurants, and local cultural scene. Lake Dardanelle State Park is on the lake's shoreline and offers hiking trails, a boardwalk, and camping sites. The Sport Fishing Weigh-in Pavillion is in town and many visitors visit during fishing tournaments.
The state park is also a Trail of Tears historic site. The visitor center, overlooking the lake, has exhibits that tell the sad story of Native American removal. The small town has three other state parks: Mount Nebo, Mount Magazine, and Petit Jean. Russellville boasts 14 recreational parks, a testament to the community's love of the outdoors. The outdoor adventure and scenic beauty make Russellville one of Arkansas's best lakeside towns.
Why These Lakeside Towns Define Arkansas’s Scenic Spirit
These eight lakeside towns in Arkansas are the best places to visit for their outdoors and cultural attractions. In addition to the gorgeous lakes, the small towns are known for their natural springs, which make them ideal for relaxation. It is easy to see how Arkansas got its nickname, the Natural State, and towns like Powhatan and Arkadelphia embrace the true spirit of the state.
Many visit these lakeside towns for boating, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. What makes the trip memorable is the abundant artistic and culinary offerings the towns offer in the entertainment districts. You can spend the day exploring Arkansas's best lakes and state parks and relax at night at a winery, craft brewery, or live theatre. This is truly a unique state to visit, and the lakeside towns represent the best of what Arkansas has to offer.
