Southern Living Ranks Arkansas Town #2 Best Waterfront Towns

Summer vacation time is just around the corner whether you're looking for a beach excursion on a white sandy beach or a mountain lakeside retreat for some fun in the sun with plenty of things to do for the whole family.

Good News! The website Southern Living has revealed the Top 15 Best Waterfront Towns in Every Southern State in 2024. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas made the list at #2 overall. Not bad when you consider Orange Beach, Alabama as the top spot.

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This resort town located in the central part of the state offers small-town charm with hot springs that have been bubbling under the surface for thousands of years.

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For years people have come here to bathe in the healing waters of the infamous Bathhouse Row in the historic district of downtown Hot Springs.

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Not only can visitors bathe in the thermal springs on Bathhouse Row but you can take home mountain spring water from the fountain located in Hill Wheatley Park just make sure to bring a jug. If you enjoy thoroughbred horse racing you'll love Oaklawn Racing Casino and Resort.

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One of the main reasons that Hot Springs is named a Best Waterfront Town is due to the three area lakes in the area Lake Hamilton is one of the most popular lakes for boating surrounded by the Ouachita Mountains there are numerous condo rentals, Airbnb's, and hotels right on the lake many have boat docks and are steps away from the lake.

Lake Catherine

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Lake Catherine is one of my favorites it's a little more secluded about 30 minutes from the city the lake is much quieter and this is a state park so there are two hiking trails to a scenic waterfall. The lake has a swimming beach, cabin rentals, and campsites available for relaxing from the everyday stress of work.

Lake Ouachita

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Lake Ouachita, a short drive from Hot Springs is the biggest lake in the region known for having over 200 islands for exploring or camping. The views are stunning on this lake which is considered one of the cleanest lakes in the United States. Diving is popular here due to the clear water and there's even a sunken town on Lake Ouachita. The lake also boasts Mountain Harbor Resort with a beautiful lodge, spa, cabin rentals, and boat and watercraft rentals. This lake is also a sportsman's paradise for those who enjoy fishing, all three lakes in the Hot Springs area get the name the Diamond Lakes.

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If you are planning a weekend getaway or week-long vacation in Hot Springs, Arkansas you can't go wrong by making this your vacation destination, take it from me I lived there for 11 years and it's still my go-to place when I want to get away.