8 Best Lakeside Towns in the Mid-South

What is it about maritime recreation that always stands out against its counterparts? Is it the peace and tranquility, the seafood, the swimming part…? The Mid-South region of the USA is one part of the country with an inexhaustible supply of fine lakeside towns. The area is still informally defined, but usually, everything from West Tennessee to Missouri Bootheel falls under this incredible landscape. Whether you are looking to explore Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, experience the Mississippi Riverfront, or hike and explore Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas, the Mid-South has no shortage of breathtaking attractions. So pack up your camping gear, maybe bring a fishing rod, and get ready to embrace the heavenly lakeside views.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

You cannot go wrong with Eureka Springs. Just south of the downtown area lies Black Bass Lake, with its incredibly relaxing still waters. Hop in a car and take a 45-minute drive, and you will find Beaver Lake, with 487 miles of shoreline and excellent fishing opportunities—particularly bass and crappie. The downtown area itself is a pleasure to explore, with its Victorian-era architecture and numerous buildings currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Just outside of town, you will find Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Eureka Springs has made quite a bit of conservation efforts for big cats like tigers there. Try to make it between May 30 and June 2 for the Eureka Springs Blues Party!

Cadiz, Kentucky

You can find Cadiz (pronounced KAY-diss) near Lake Barkley, which has hundreds of miles of shoreline and is perfect for boating and other relaxing water-based activities. If you are a fan of hiking, though, this town also has access to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, where you can hike and check out the Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory! You could check out the downtown area before embarking on that trip. There are excellent antique shops and the great, historic Janice Mason Art Museum, both worth investigating. You can also visit West End City Park if you are looking for something less physically demanding and nearby.

Guntersville, Alabama

Right down the Tennessee River, Lake Guntersville is Alabama’s largest lake and quite popular for largemouth bass fishing. This small town can be quite cozy, with places like Lake Guntersville Dam offering perfect picnic spots. You could also visit Guntersville State Park if you are a fan of birdwatching—specifically Bald Eagles—or something more daring, like ziplining. The Whole Backstage Theatre hosts performances year-round, so Guntersville has a fun way of connecting residents to the performing arts. You can also visit the Guntersville Museum, a former 1936 military armory, for those mellow afternoons!

Granbury, Texas

If you are still looking for sandy beaches, Granbury Lake and Granbury City Beach Park are favorites for family-friendly swimming. This town has quite a few tricks up its sleeve. Just 20 minutes away, you will find Dinosaur Valley State Park with life-sized dinosaur models and well-preserved prehistoric footprints. Its downtown area is designated a historic district with the Granbury Opera House as an interesting focal point. Speaking of history, you can also visit the Acton State Historic Site if you are done strolling along the Brazos River. Finally, a performing arts theater lies just south of Squaw Creek Park, and The Promise in Glen Rose is definitely worth watching—worth the detour.

Benton, Kentucky

You will find Benton near Kentucky Lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S., providing excellent hiking and fishing opportunities, making this a great lakeside destination. That is not all Benton is known for, though. Just 10 minutes away from the Kentucky Opry, this local venue is famous for bluegrass and country music. Benton is a town with a heritage, and you can find its local businesses selling handcrafted furniture shops and artisan studios. Annual events like Tater Day are one of the oldest continuous festivals in the U.S. Of course, a trip like this is not complete without a picnic near Kentucky Lake, just east of town.

Dandridge, Tennessee

Sitting on Douglas Lake, Dandridge provides a plethora of water skiing and paddleboarding opportunities. This wonderfully positioned town was founded in 1783 and has a number of well-preserved historic sites like the Dandridge Courthouse. Visitors can set up near Rimmer Creek or head to the Field of Dreams Activity Center. Also, the Appalachian Quilt Trail runs through the area, and tourism is almost always booming in these parts. There are, of course, annual events, like the Scots-Irish Festival, that further attract visitors interested in the regional heritage. It is not uncommon for tourists to pay their respects to those who served at the famous Revolutionary Graveyard just before the Chestnut Hill Road bridge.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

If you are looking for a recreational lake with some historic parks, Hot Springs can offer both! Bordering Lake Hamilton, this is an excellent spot for jet skiing and lakeside dining. The hot springs are where this town got its namesake, and nearby Hot Springs National Park provides hiking trails, historic bathhouses, and more. Visitors can head directly to Oaklawn Hot Springs or check out the Mid-America Science Museum west of town—the place includes interactive exhibits for all ages. The Ouachita River to the south should be the primary destination, and visitors often grab a bite at Waffle House just before reaching this prized stop.

Heber Springs, Arkansas

Heber Springs by Greers Ferry Lake is full of things to see and do. The Ellen Hobgood Gallery features works by local artists, while the Ozark Country Market is a favorite for fresh produce and handmade goods. Families can check out the Ruland Junction Toy Train Museum, and antique lovers will enjoy the Vintage Market Home and Garden Decor.

For outdoor fun, Sugarloaf Mountain offers trails with stunning views, and Collins Creek Cascade is a peaceful spot with a waterfall and stream. Spring Park, with its mineral springs and picnic areas, is a relaxing option, while Sandy Beach provides swimming and volleyball right by the lake. The town’s annual Ozark Trail Festival brings the community together to celebrate its natural beauty and heritage.

A Lakeside Retreat Worth Exploring

Nothing compares to a lakeside view paired with a meal and the peaceful sounds of nature. The Mid-South is home to stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant landscapes that invite exploration. There's no need to stick to bustling cities and commercial hotspots when the true treasures of the region are found by the water. These destinations offer unique experiences for those with a spirit of adventure and a love for tranquil retreats.