As if a theme park, ATV trails, and crystal mining weren't enough to attract the masses, Hot Springs, Arkansas harbors two unforgettable lakes: Ouachita and Hamilton. Vacationers visit these lakes to windsurf, kayak, and to snorkel in the extremely pure waters. Fishermen look forward to reeling in Crappie, Walleye, Trout, and a variety of Bass. In fact, Arkansas boasts some of the best Striped Bass the world has to offer! Everyday fish aren't the only animals lurking in the water. Don't scream in a high-pitched voice and flail if a few jellyfish brush against you; they're harmless.
Lake Ouachita's near 1,000 miles of shoreline is engulfed by the Ouachita National Forest. An enormous man-made lake, it was born of the Blakely Mountain Dam and Ouachita River. Some companies that rent out houseboats on it also offer water sports supplies. For instance, a Mountain Harbor Resort called Big Tiny's Water Toys provides wave runner rentals. I stayed at the marvelous Brady Mountain Resort and Marina because it offered more choices. Besides, their boat slips can be used overnight for a minimal fee, and security is well enforced.
During the day, due to the vast amount of options, it can be difficult to choose what to rent! Ski boats, jet skis, party barges, inner tubes, and the like promise loads of fun. The annual Spear Fishing Tournament is also held here. Divers can head on over to the floating Lake Ouachita Dive Center, where scuba rentals and dive charters are available to everyone. For newbies, three day certification programs can be attended so long as one preregisters at least one week in advance. Classes (and many rental shops) aren't open after October since the water temperature drops dramatically.
Lake Ouachita is a blast and half, and Lake Hamilton is just as entertaining. Hamilton was created when Entergy Corporation built the Carpenter Dam in 1932. It's a commercial area, so restaurants, hotels, and houses line the shore. This is not the place to pitch a tent and "get away from it all." It is where people go to get the most they can out of Lake Hamilton! While The Salty Dog Boat and Jet Ski Rental rents out party barges, Sea-Doos, and even deck boats, Marineland offers smaller items like inner tubes and Pontoon Boats. A handful of other shops have even more "water toys" that visitors can give a whirl. Water sport adventures should begin early since a number of rental Marinas close by 5p.m.
Hamilton and Ouachita can brighten vacations meant for relaxation, adventure, romance, or all of the above. Everyone in the area is more than willing to share helpful advice. This is especially true of the numerous Hot Springs fishing guides, who know where the best catches are waiting each season. It's alright if fishing, jet skiing, and even sailing aren't your cup of tea. One of the most soothing things one can do in these lakes is to simply dive in and stay for a while.
This guide to the amazing water sports available to you in Hot Springs, Arkansas was brought to you by Shannon Beineke.