Summertime is here and if you're looking for the perfect place to getaway, may I suggest Lake Catherine State Park near Hot Springs, Arkansas.

I was feeling a little stressed out a few weeks ago and decided I needed a place to rejuvenate, unwind, and enjoy a little peace and quiet. so I decided to stay in one of their lakeside cabins and I wasn't disappointed. This cabin has all a man needs, a one bedroom, kitchenette, screened in porch, outdoor grill, and a dock with a great view of the lake. While most lakes in the Hot Springs area are overcrowded, this one was more serene and peaceful. Yes, there were people swimming and camping but everything is significantly far enough apart that you really don't hear much at all. While there were some boats on the lake it was not over populated with them like a lot of lakes around the area.

M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
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M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
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M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
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M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
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Lake_Catherine_swingset
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M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
M. Garcia, Townsquare Media
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Here's a video I shot from the back of the cabin standing on the nearby dock.

At Lake Catherine you'll find yourself surrounded by the beauty of the wooded hills from the Ouachita Mountains. If you love nature and the great outdoors this is the place for you and don't be surprised that you don't see plenty of furry critters. It has several nearby trails including a just-completed new concrete trail that winds through a wooded creek area near the entrance to the park. Guided horseback riding is also available during the summer months.

There are several trails on site that feature different levels of hiking but my favorite trail is the Falls Branch Trail a two-mile hiking adventure through the woods, over creeks, boulders, and all sorts of rugged terrain. Be prepared though. it takes about 2 hours to walk the entire trail leading to the prestigious Falls Branch waterfall. Or you could take a short cut to the falls through the camping area. Shhh!

Here's a video I shot when I finally reached the falls.

So whether you your vacationing or just want a quick getaway, I highly recommend you take the short drive to relaxation.

How to get to Lake Catherine.

From Texarkana travel East on I-30 then take Exit 97 in Malvern, then turn north on Highway 171 and travel approximately 12 miles to Lake Catherine State Park.

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