Paddleboarding on Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Destinations Midwest Missouri The Ozarks

Paddleboarding on Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Lake Ouachita, located near Hot Springs, Arkansas, stands out as one of the largest and clearest freshwater lakes in the United States, making it a premier destination for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Encompassed by the breathtaking Ouachita National Forest, the lake spans over 40,000 acres, offering calm waters, serene coves, and an immersive natural escape. Paddleboarding here is not only a recreational activity but also a chance to discover a waterway renowned for its exceptional clarity and abundant wildlife.

Adventure Guide to Paddleboarding on Lake Ouachita

1. Brady Mountain Area

The Brady Mountain Area is a fantastic starting point for paddleboarding. Its boat ramps and easy water access make it ideal for individuals and families. The calm coves near Brady Mountain Marina allow beginners to practice their skills in a safe environment, while more experienced paddlers can venture out toward panoramic open-water views. Rentals are often available nearby, with staff knowledgeable about the best routes.

2. Turtle Cove

For paddlers seeking tranquil exploration, Turtle Cove is a favored spot. This sheltered bay is perfect for observing local wildlife such as herons, turtles, and even bald eagles in their natural habitat. The shoreline here features unspoiled forest, creating a peaceful environment ideal for early morning or sunset paddling. The near absence of motorized boats in this area ensures a serene experience.

3. Crystal Springs Recreation Area

The Crystal Springs Recreation Area offers access to some of the lake's clearest waters. Paddleboarding here provides a unique opportunity to spot underwater features like quartz crystals—one of the area's most famous natural resources. This area also includes picnic facilities, clean restrooms, and plenty of parking, making it particularly convenient for day trips.

Local Insights

Lake Ouachita’s water clarity is a result of its composition, as it’s largely free of chemicals and sediment. The lake is also dotted with over 100 uninhabited islands, which paddlers can explore for a remote getaway. Many locals embrace paddleboarding here as a way to connect with nature and practice mindfulness.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Spring through early fall offers warm temperatures and calm waters. Early mornings and late afternoons minimize sun exposure.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, water shoes, a dry bag, and a reusable water bottle.
Getting There: From the Ozark Mountains, take US-270 for approximately 2 hours to reach Lake Ouachita's main access points.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Captain Jonathan Meyera year ago

What a GEM! We were invited out to the Brady Point access for a boat safety summit and this lake was amazing. Very clean water, and excellent facilities.

BennyCriss12a year ago

Best lake I’ve been to. Had some good fishing and really fun islands. Anyway here’s some cool lake facts. Did you know…lakes can die? Once formed, lakes do not stay the same. Like people, they go through different life stages—youth, maturity, old age, and death. All lakes are either open or closed. If water leaves a lake by a river or other outlet, it is open. All freshwater lakes are open. If water only leaves a lake by evaporation, the lake is closed. Closed lakes usually become saline (salty). This is because as the water evaporates, it leaves behind solids—mostly salts. The Great Salt Lake, in the U.S. state of Utah, is the largest saline lake in North America. The lowest lake in the world is the Dead Sea, on the edge of Israel and Jordan. The surface level is 418 m below sea level. The highest lake in the world is the crater lake of Ojos del Salado, on the border of Chile and Argentina at 6,390 m above sea level. The deepest lake in the world is Lake Baikal in Siberia, Russia, it is 1,637 m at its deepest point. The longest lake in the world is Lake Tanganyika in Africa at 660 km and it is also the second deepest lake. Anyway 10/10

Ratheesh Kannana year ago

Stunning scenic view around the lake… Calm and peaceful atmosphere

Cynthia McCallan8 months ago

Only giving 3 stars because when we got to our reserved spot 2 dogs were tied to a tree and when my husband got out of our truck the owner told him that the dogs would bite us. They were tied to a tree that was on our reserved spot. We have a small child and I wasn’t going to take any chances. The guy up front at the gate had already left so we couldn’t get a different spot. Other then that it’s a beautiful place. Nice big lake,showers, playground for the little ones, areas to hike in, boat docks, etc.

Joseph Sa year ago

some of the most relaxing atmosphere ever experienced. tons of interesting trails. majestic sunsets and spacious camping. a great place to connect with nature.