Lake Catherine State Park, in central Arkansas. It is a beautiful destination known for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Are looking for a peaceful getaway? This park has something for everyone. Here’s an ultimate guide to Lake Catherine State Park to help you make the most of your visit.
If you’re planning a visit to this beautiful state park, here’s everything you need to know about the top things to do: hiking trails, fishing spots, and some tips for making the most of your time there. Trust us, it’s a place you won’t want to miss in your guide to Lake Catherine State Park!
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Where is Lake Catherine State Park?
Lake Catherine State Park is some 10 miles southeast of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The ride is a brief and picturesque one on U. Route 270 is a journey you won’t soon forget, with its twisting route through the scenic Ouachita Mountains with vistas around each bend.
The park is on the shores of Lake Catherine. Created in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it covers an area of 1,940 acres. This area is known as the Diamond Lakes district and encompasses Lake Hamilton, Lake Ouachita, Lake Greeson, and DeGray Lake. It’s a weekend retreat and outdoor recreation destination.
The Remmel Dam’s construction on the Ouachita River created Lake Catherine in 1924. Hydroelectric power is generated by the dam, which also controls the water level. The lake and park surroundings provide a serene space for hiking, fishing, boating and camping. This is a top spot in any guide to Lake Catherine State Park.
Before You Go: Essential Tips for Visiting Lake Catherine State Park
- Fees: FREE! no entrance fee for day use. The Visitor Center typically operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary by season. Questions? Call the park at (501) 844-4176.
- Weather: Arkansas weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before your visit. Bring layers if you’re hiking, as temperatures can change quickly, especially in the early morning or evening.
- Pets: You must keep your dog on a leash at all times in the park. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs. Be sure to bring waste bags to dispose of any waste in the trash bins.
- Trail Conditions: The trails are generally well-marked and easy to follow, but wear sturdy footwear, especially if you’re tackling the Falls Branch Trail, which can get a little slippery near the waterfall.
- Safety: As with any outdoor activity, remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. While the park is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going if you plan on hiking alone or heading out to a more remote area.
- The park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are: Spring (March to May): Ideal for wildflower blooms and mild weather. Fall (September to November): Beautiful fall foliage makes this time especially picturesque. Summer (June to August): If you’re looking to enjoy water activities, this is the peak season. Winter (December to February): Quiet with fewer crowds, but be prepared for cooler temperatures.
- Accommodations at Lake Catherine State Park: from rustic cabins to tent camping and glamping—set against lakeside beauty and CCC‑era “parkitecture” charm. Just be sure to book early, note the utility class, and decide if you mind the power‑plant view. Reservations are available up to a year in advance.
Things to do at Lake Catherine State Park: Visitor Center & Store
Start at the Visitor Center. It’s the best place to get maps, helpful tips and information about the area! The Visitor Center is close to the park entrance, making it easy to spot to find. It is the best place to get information. The staff here act like your personal guides, eager to share special tips about the best activities. We picked up a park brochure before exploring displays about the local plants and animals. We also picked up a souvenir, a cute mug and T-shirts with an Arkansas theme. The store offers a variety of outdoor supplies, including fishing gear, hiking equipment, water bottles and sunscreen. We picked up some quick snacks and drinks to help us feel refreshed while we explored the park. Make sure to check out their seasonal activities, such as guided nature walks, horseback riding or stargazing nights if you have the time.
1. Start Your Adventure at the Nature Cabin
Before hitting the trails, we kicked off our adventure at the Nature Cabin Interpretive Center near the swim beach. It’s the perfect starting point to dive into the park’s cultural history. Stepping inside, we discovered interactive exhibits about local wildlife. The cabin built by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which built the park in the 1930s. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Park rangers in the summer months (Memorial day thru Labor day) offer interpretive hikes.
2. Explore the Scenic Trails at Lake Catherine State Park
A fun activity at Lake Catherine State Park is to explore the trails. This park features clearly marked paths that provide a wonderful combination of stunning scenery and quiet forests. That’s ideal for taking some outstanding pictures.
Falls Branch Trail: This trail is the real gem when stopping by Lake Catherine State Park. It’s for everyone, and the 2-mile loop is as popular as it sounds. The trail winds its way along through a pretty hardwood forest before it gets up to a small but beautiful waterfall. This one cascades down into a small pool bordered by moss-covered rocks.
Dam Mountain Trail: This hike is challenging (+406 ft elevation). It is 3. 5 miles long loop, and it has a steep climb in the beginning. The trail diverges near the Falls Branch waterfall; follow the white trail markers. The trail rises steeply in the beginning, through the hardwood forest. Wear good hiking boots for the rocks can be slippery. As we reached the top, it makes it all worthwhile. There are amazing views of Lake Catherine, the power plant and the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. I must say our hard work payed off.
Horseshoe Mountain Trail: This is a scenic 2.7-mile hike that gains 538 feet in elevation. Following the marked with yellow blazes, this path keeps things interesting: one moment you’re picking your way over sun-dappled rocks, the next you’re pausing to catch your breath. The challenging climb is worth it once you reach the open ridge; the stunning views of Lake Catherine and the Ouachita valleys below in autumn are breathtaking. Sturdy shoes and water are a must, especially on the steeper sections.
PRO Tip: Time your hike for golden hour—those lake views turn downright magical in the late afternoon light.
Slunger Creek Nature Tail
Slunger Creek Nature Tail is a paved mile-long loop. It is perfect for when you want to stretch your legs without tackling rugged terrain. This is an easy paved one-mile loop. It’s great for a quick stretch. The trail winds along the creek. We kept our eyes peeled for flashes of movement, hoping to see a deer bounding through the underbrush or a red-tailed hawk circling overhead. It’s ideal for a family or anyone who prefers a leisurely walk. There are interpretive markers that tell about the flora and fauna of the area. No slick hills or uneven trails here; just a smooth sidewalk that lets you relax and take in nature.
Don’t let the cold keep you inside—winter at Lake Catherine State Park holds one of nature’s most delicate surprises. If you time it just right, the Slunger Creek Nature Trail becomes a stage for frost flowers, those fleeting, ribbon-like curls of ice that seem to bloom straight from the earth.
All these trails showcase the natural charm of the Ouachita Mountains. At least one of these trails should be a top recommendation in any Lake Catherine State Park travel guide.
3. Hit the Water at the Lake Catherine State Park Marina
If you want to enjoy some fun by the water during your visit, check out the Lake Catherine Marina. Even though we visited on a cold winter day and didn’t go into the water, I can imagine that this place really comes to life during the warmer months.
You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing boats. If you have your own boat, that’s fine too as there is a good boat ramp available for use. If you want to paddle fish or simply enjoy a pleasant ride on the lake, the marina is the perfect place to start your adventures on the water.
4. Reel in the Fun at Lake Catherine
Cast your line into Lake Catherine’s sparkling waters, where lunker bass, feisty catfish, and slab crappie are always on the bite! Lake Catherine is a fisherman’s dream. Drop your line from the fishing pier, rent a boat, or wade into quiet coves. We tested the waters ourselves—just after dawn, with mist still curling off the lake, we hauled in three spunky largemouth bass from the shady shoreline near the campground. Don’t forget your Arkansas fishing license—available online in minutes.)
Fishing Hot spots: The Dam Zone is “Where the magic happens!” Local anglers swear by the deep waters here, especially for catfish hugging the bottom structure. Slunger Creek Inlets are perfect for crappie chasing minnows in the submerged timber. We always look for rocky points where bass ambush prey along these drop-offs (try topwater lures at golden hour!).
5. Spend Time by the Lake Swimming or Picnicking
Not in the mood to hike or fish? Don’t worry, there are tons of gorgeous spots in this park ideal for unwinding and appreciating the views. You can pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water in one of the picnic areas. There are plenty of picnic tables and even pavilions for larger groups if you’re traveling with family or friends.
PRO Tip: Arrive early on weekends! The best picnic spots and boat rentals tend to go quickly—especially in peak summer months.
Although swimming was not an option in today’s cold weather, in summer you many want to escape the summer heat. Lake Catherine State Park has a nice swimming area that’s great for relaxing in the clear waters. I imagine in summer it’s a great place for families—kids. Here they can safely have fun splashing and playing.
6. Camping at Lake Catherine State Park
We really enjoyed our campsite near the lake. It was close to swimming, fishing, but best of all for us was just relaxing at the lake. The park has plenty of hiking trails close to the campground for us to walk Sage. These trails enable you to walk through the woods and see local wildlife. It’s a great place for picnics with the family or on a quiet weekend with friends. I loved waking up to the birds singing and a gentle breeze along the lake. With Lake Catherine State Park, you get that every morning. Whether you’re arriving with your RV or pitching a comfortable tent beneath the starry sky, there’s a campsite here for you.
Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring, with walking distance is clean and well-maintained bathrooms. This is campground is great for finishing out your day around the fire, roasting marshmallows, and swapping stories with your fellow campers.
What to Bring for Your Getaway to the Lake
For a great day (or weekend) at Lake Catherine State Park, pack sturdy footwear for hiking, water gear like life jackets, bug spray and towels for boating or swimming, and all your camping essentials if you’re staying overnight. Don’t forget binoculars and a camera for spotting wildlife and snapping scenic views. Be sure to bring sun protection—hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses—as well as plenty of snacks and water, especially if you’ll be out on the trails or by the lake all day.
Final Thoughts on Our Guide to Lake Catherine State Park
Lake Catherine State Park is one of the best-kept secrets in Arkansas. The park gives you a chance to enjoy nature, whether you’re walking on beautiful trails, fishing in the clear lake, or just relaxing by the shoreline. You can find everything from waterfalls and critters to boating and peaceful camping spots here. There’s something for everyone to enjoy. We had an amazing day discovering all the fun things at Lake Catherine, and we know you will enjoy it just as much.
Have you visited Lake Catherine State Park? Share your favorite memories or tips in the comments below. And if you haven’t yet, add it to your must-explore list—you won’t regret it!
