Lake Catherine State Park, Timberlands Travel Guide

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Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Lake Catherine State Park in the Ouachita Mountains near Hot Springs, Arkansas.

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Lake Catherine State Park

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Lake Catherine State Park offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park features a 1,940-acre lake, rustic architecture, hiking trails, and diverse recreational activities. It's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

A brief summary to Lake Catherine State Park

1200 Catherine Park Rd, Hot Springs, Arkansas, 71913, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lake Catherine State Park.

Visit the Nature Cabin to learn about the park's natural and cultural history.
Hike the Falls Branch Trail to see the beautiful waterfall.
Rent a boat at the marina for a day of fishing or exploring Lake Catherine.
Make reservations for camping or cabins, especially during the summer and on holiday weekends.
Check the park's event schedule for guided hikes, boat tours, and other interpretive programs.

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Explore Lake Catherine State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Lake Catherine State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Hot Springs, Arkansas, head southeast on US-270 E/US-70 E. Continue to follow US-270 E for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto AR-171 N and follow it for about 6 miles. AR-171 will dead end into Lake Catherine State Park. Parking is available throughout the park, including at the visitor center, marina, and trailheads. Parking is free. Be aware that the park can be busy during the summer months, so parking may be limited.

Discover more about Lake Catherine State Park

Lake Catherine State Park, a 2,180-acre recreational area, is located on the southern shore of Lake Catherine, approximately eight miles southeast of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park's history dates back to the 1930s when the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed many of its enduring structures. These include native stone and wood cabins, a former concessions building, and bridges, all showcasing the CCC's signature rustic architectural style. Several of these structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.Lake Catherine itself was created in 1924 by Remmel Dam, the state's first major hydroelectric project. In 1935, Harvey Couch, founder of Arkansas Power and Light Company, donated the land for the park's creation. During World War II, from 1942 to 1945, the park served as a rest and recreation facility for wounded servicemen from the Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs. German prisoners of war were even employed to help complete some of the CCC's original construction.Today, Lake Catherine State Park is a popular destination for a wide range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the lake's pristine waters. Anglers will find largemouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass, crappie, bream, catfish, and walleye. The park also boasts several well-maintained hiking trails, including the popular Falls Branch Trail, which leads to a scenic waterfall. Other trails include the Dam Mountain Trail and the Horseshoe Mountain Trail.The park offers various accommodation options, including 20 fully equipped cabins and 70 campsites. The marina provides boat rentals, bait, snacks, and fuel during the summer months. Visitors can also find picnic areas, pavilions, playgrounds, and a swimming beach. During the summer, park interpreters offer guided hikes, lake tours, and other programs. Horseback riding is also available seasonally.