For nature lovers seeking solace, lakeside picnics in Ouachita are a must-try experience. With majestic untouched mountains, pristine blue lakes, and the soothing sound of wind through the trees, it’s a perfect setting for unforgettable adventures. In this article, we’ll suggest the top 3 destinations for lakeside picnics in Ouachita and essential tips for a memorable lakeside picnics experience.
Why Must Try Lakeside Picnics in Ouachita?
The Majestic Beauty of Nature in Ouachita
Ouachita is blessed by Mother Nature with breathtaking landscapes rarely found elsewhere. Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the hills is the serene and captivating beauty of the emerald lakes glistening in the sunlight. Lakeside picnic is a wonderful opportunity for you to immerse yourself in this perfect beauty.
Exciting Activities
Indulge in a delightful feast amidst the sounds of nature. Lakeside picnics allows you to listen to the harmonious melodies of nature while enjoying a BBQ prepared by your own hands, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation.
Romantic Sunrise and Sunset Scenes
Witnessing the romantic scenery of sunrise and sunset over the lake is an unmissable activity during lakeside picnics in Ouachita. As the sun rises or sets, the entire lakeside scene is bathed in a romantic glow, leaving everyone mesmerized.
Go fishing – signature activities in Ouachita
The lakes in the Ouachita area are famous for their emerald green waters, providing an ideal habitat for various fish species such as Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, etc.. Fishing is a unique activity for visitors who have lakeside picnics. What could be more wonderful than the feeling of sitting and waiting for the fish to bite amidst the majestic natural scenery, dreaming of catching some type of rays?
Tips to Prepare for Your Lakeside Picnics in Ouachita
To ensure an unforgettable lakeside picnic experience, preparation is key.
Choose the Right Location
With diverse terrain, Ouachita offers numerous camping and picnic spots. Choose a location that suits your family’s needs and your personal preferences.
Pack Appropriate Food
BBQ is one of the activities that contribute to making great lakeside picnics in Ouachita. BBQ dishes are not only easy to prepare and marinate but also save time in execution. Most picnic areas in Ouachita are equipped with all the necessary tools for BBQ. However, to be sure, everyone should check before going camping.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to prepare some easy-to-make, portable, and outdoor-friendly dishes such as sandwiches, salads, fruits, light snacks, etc. And most importantly, make sure to bring enough drinking water to keep your body cool and energized.
Essential Items
Top essential items to bring when going on a lakeside picnic include:
- Picnic blanket, small tent, or sunshade pane.
- A lot of delicious foods and drinks.
- Specialized cooking utensils for picnics (optional)
- Outdoor toys like balls, badminton rackets, and board games for a lively and enjoyable picnic.
- Around the picnic areas, there are many trees, so it’s advisable to bring insect repellent and insect bite treatment to prevent mosquito bites.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and other sun protection items such as hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the bad types of rays like UVB and UVA.
Dress Appropriately
Need to check the weather forecast before going to lakeside picnics. If the weather is sunny with plenty of sunshine, it’s best to choose light and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities. When lakeside picnics in Ouachita, bring along an extra light jacket to keep warm when necessary. Because the lakeside temperature tends to change suddenly due to cold winds blowing from the lake to the shore, especially in the spring.
Explore more: The Complete Guide to Camping
Top Destinations for Lakeside Picnics in Ouachita
Below are the top 3 fantastic destinations for lakeside picnics in Ouachita, each offering its unique beauty and a range of amenities. However, all promise unforgettable experiences.
Lake Ouachita
At the top of the list of the most famous lakeside camping spots in Ouachita is Lake Ouachita. Lake Ouachita is the largest man-made lake in Ouachita, spanning up to 40,000 acres.
Famous for its clarity and cleanliness, Lake Ouachita is an excellent spot for diving activities. Divers can see the lake’s bottom clearly, formed by the valley and majestic Ouachita mountains. It’s also an ideal destination for fishing enthusiasts, with an ideal habitat for various fish species calling Lake Ouachita home.
Moreover, the picnic areas at Lake Ouachita are well-maintained and equipped with all the necessary amenities for an outdoor excursion: grills, tables, etc. Suitable for families and those seeking convenient outdoor adventures.
Lake Catherine
For those who enjoy adventurous exploration and cherish the tranquil wilderness, Lake Catherine is the perfect choice. Surrounded by the majestic Ouachita Mountains, the lake is nestled amidst forests with unique landscapes, accentuated by the soothing sounds of nearby waterfalls. There are various activities such as fishing, hiking, and leisurely lakeside relaxation suitable for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the serene nature.
Near the lake area is a beautiful park where you can stroll around or engage in horseback riding – one of the activities worth experiencing at Lake Catherine.
Lake Hamilton
Lake Hamilton is a charming small lake located in the heart of Arkansas, south of Hot Springs. It’s one of the smallest lakes in Arkansas, covering less than 8,000 acres.
Lake Hamilton is always vibrant and bustling, surrounded by homes, marinas, and restaurants. There’s a wide range of water activities here, such as fishing, leisure boating, swimming, and wakeboarding.
Whenever the weather in Ouachita is sunny, Lake Hamilton echoes with the laughter of children playing in the water, families cruising the lake, and jet skis zooming by. It’s a perfect outdoor destination for active individuals and nature enthusiasts. One of the most popular activities here is cruising on the Bella of Hot Springs and exploring the Graves forest area.
Conclusion
The lakeside picnic experiences in Ouachita are like a soothing balm for the soul, rejuvenating us after hard working days. They also provide an opportunity to connect and immerse ourselves in nature. It is hoped that this article will assist you in planning your visit to the beautiful land of Ouachita. Ouachita Adventures is waiting for you.
Explore more: Top 3 Best Picnic Spots in Ouachita for Nature Lovers