Couchwood: A Historic Lakeside Retreat

Explore Couchwood, the historic summer estate of Harvey Couch on Lake Catherine, a retreat once visited by presidents and a showcase of rustic architecture.

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Couchwood, the former summer estate of Arkansas industrialist Harvey C. Couch, is a 17-acre property on Lake Catherine featuring rustic architecture and sculptures. Once a popular gathering spot for notable figures like Presidents Roosevelt and Hoover, it offers a glimpse into early 20th-century life.

A brief summary to Couchwood

601 Couchwood Rd, Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, 71901, US
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Local tips

Check the Couchwood website for rental availability if you're interested in hosting an event or vacationing at this historic estate.
While in the area, explore Hot Springs National Park, which offers free admission and a variety of attractions, including historic bathhouses and hiking trails.
Take a scenic drive along Hot Springs Mountain Drive or West Mountain Drive for panoramic views of the park and surrounding area.

Getting There

Driving

From Hot Springs, head southeast on US-270 E. Continue for approximately 7 miles. Turn left onto Couchwood Road. Follow Couchwood Road to 601 Couchwood Rd. Parking is available on the property. Note that roads in the park can be winding.
Ride Share

From downtown Hot Springs, a rideshare to Couchwood will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a one-way trip. Confirm the destination with your driver before setting off.

Discover more about Couchwood

Couchwood, nestled on the north shore of Lake Catherine near Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a historic estate that offers a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of Harvey C. Couch, an influential figure in Arkansas's early 20th-century history. Couch, the founder of Arkansas Power and Light (AP&L), later known as Entergy, established Couchwood as his summer retreat in 1927. Spanning 17 acres, the estate comprises eight buildings, including the main lodge, known as the Big House, and several red cedar log houses: Calhoun, Little Pine Bluff, Remmelwood, and the Traincar. These structures showcase a distinctive rustic architectural style, with several designed by Arkansas architect John Parks Almand. The grounds also feature naturalistic sculptures by Dionicio Rodriguez, adding to the estate's artistic appeal. During its heyday, Couchwood was a hub of social and political activity, hosting prominent guests such as future President Herbert Hoover, humorist Will Rogers, and President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Couch often held annual "Round-ups," gatherings for industrial, financial, and civic leaders. The estate provided a place where these figures could relax, discuss ideas, and forge connections. Today, Couchwood remains in the Couch family and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While not generally open to the public, the estate is sometimes available for rent for events such as weddings, family reunions, and business retreats. A visit offers a chance to step back in time and experience the ambiance of a bygone era, surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Catherine.