Lake Hamilton
Lake Hamilton, one of the state's most popular lakes, is an excellent choice for an Arkansas day trip, especially if you are in or around Hot Springs. The 7,200-acre lake is approximately 18 miles long, providing plenty of shoreline for resorts, condominiums, motels, and restaurants.
The artificial lake was created in 1932 when the Carpenter Dam impounded the Ouachita River. The dam was built to generate hydroelectricity, but the resulting reservoir proved to be a valuable tourist attraction that continues to benefit Hot Springs’ economy. All the usual water sports are available here, including swimming, waterskiing, parasailing, boating, and fishing. The Belle of Hot Springs Riverboat offers sightseeing cruises on the lake.
For a little break from the water, consider an outing to Garvan Woodland Gardens, located on a 210-acre peninsula that juts into the lake and is accessible by boat. The botanical gardens, which belong to the University of Arkansas’ Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, are fantastic for fans of photography. A bonsai garden, beautiful bridges, a koi pond, and a children’s adventure garden are just a few of the attractions here. If you want to see the ground blanketed with tulips and wildflowers, make sure to stop by in spring.
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5
- Website: https://www.arkansas.com/hot-springs/tours-experiences/lake-hamilton
- Opening Hours:
- Admission: $10 per adult (12 and over) and $5 for kids
- Location: Arkansas
