The Ouachita Mountain and Diamond Lakes Region around Hot Springs is known for world-class resorts, camping, rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, breathtaking vistas, and real diamonds. The Hot Springs National Park features springs of 147-degree thermal water, rich history and beautiful architecture.  The Diamond lakes region is great for crystal hunting, fishing, water sports, hiking, golf, camping, site seeing and horseback riding.  Year round outdoor activity is abundant with plenty of activities for every member of the family.

Come explore the beauty of Lake Ouachita and the surrounding area.  Have fun on the lake while seeing wildlife such as deer, turkey, and eagles.  When you tire of the lake, take in some of the many area attractions including digging for diamonds.  Within a reasonable drive (no more than 100 miles) you can dig for diamonds at Murfreesboro, Arkansas and even experience some world class trout fishing below the dam at Lake Greeson.

You can also find a spectacular mountaintop scenery with royal hospitality at Queen Wilhelmina State Park with the original “Castle in the Sky” that graced this same lofty locale high above the Ouachita Mountains for over a hundred years.  Find more information here:
            Queen Wilhelmina State Park 
            Talimena Scenic Drive

The lake boosts several world class resorts that provide many activities for guests or simply relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.  Here are some of the best resorts on the lake:

     http://www.shangrilaresortar.com
    http://www.crystalspringsresort.com
    http://www.bradymtn.com
    http://www.mountainharborresort.com

Nestled in the hills of the Ouachita National Forest, where no homes are allowed, Lake Ouachita has over 1000 miles of shoreline and over 200 islands where you can find your own private beach.  At least 3 of the above resorts have houseboat rentals to allow you to find your own private island and explore the lake at your leisure.  Most of the resorts also have scuba diving facilities if you are adventurous.

Here are some links to vacation planning and Hot Springs, Arkansas to provide you other opportunities for lodging and activities within the city.  
     http://www.arkansas.com/  
     http://www.hotsprings.org/visitor_info/

If you have a family and are planning a summer vacation, you probably have not come to a consensus as to where to go as yet.  The wife wants to go here, each one of the kids has a favorite place, and you have a idea of where and what you want to do.  The problem is, none of the ideas match.

If you happen to be an RV’er, you probably are wanting to go somewhere you can camp in comfort, possibly hike a little, possibly fish a little, possibly swim a little, maybe horseback ride a little, go out to eat some fine food once or twice and camp in a beautiful setting.

If you are not a RV’er, you very well may have the same expectations.

The problem is everyone has a favorite place and activities they want to go and do.

How about a destination that has all of your favorite activities!  Lake Ouachita does provide all of most everyone’s favorite activities.

·        Beautiful, spacious campgrounds.
·        Several world class resorts with affordable prices.
·        Full service marinas with boat, including house boats, and water toy rentals.
·        Resorts have excellent restaurants with affordable pricing.
·        Hot Springs, just a short drive from the lake, has most any cuisine you could want.
·        Horseback riding stables available around the lake.
·        Hiking trails, including the Ouachita Vista Trail, throughout the area.
·        Mountain biking trails.
·        World class bass and striped bass fishing.
·        Several places within the area to trout fish.
·        Lots of peace, quiet, and relaxation.
·        Swimming beaches at all major campgrounds.
·        Area attractions including Arkansas’s largest amusement park.
·        Dig for diamonds and keep all you find at Murfreesboro Crater of Diamonds State Park.
·        Dig for crystals in Mount Ida.

As you can see, this destination has something for everyone in the family.  This could be your one destination for a very exciting and enjoyable family vacation.