BOATING
By NBOA
January 29, 2025
1. Lake Ouachita 2. Beaver Lake 3. Greers Ferry Lake 4. Norfolk Lake 5. Bull Shoals Lake 6. Lake Hamilton 7. Lake Chicot
Nestled within the Ouachita National Forest, Lake Ouachita holds the title of Arkansas’s largest lake, covering a sprawling 40,000 acres. It's a part of the renowned Diamond Lakes in the Ouachita Mountains and celebrated as the “Striped Bass Capital of the World.”
Located near the iconic Ozark Mountains and along the White River, Beaver Lake in Northwest Arkansas is a man-made reservoir that’s a dream come true for fishing fans. It’s renowned for its abundant striped bass population and is a nationally recognized hotspot for fishing tournaments.
Greer Ferry Lake finds its home in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Covering more than 30,000 acres, it’s one of Arkansas’s largest lakes and a popular getaway, especially for people from Little Rock and nearby areas.
Also encircled by the Ozark Mountains, Norfork Lake is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise, covering over 22,000 acres. Its stunning and clear water sets the stage for an array of activities like water skiing, kneeboarding, swimming, and tubing.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, Bull Shoals Lake in the Ozark Mountains might be the place for you. With 1,000 miles of shoreline, the lake is dotted with secluded coves, offering plenty of space to anchor a houseboat and escape the stress of busier locations.
As a bustling social hotspot for boaters, Lake Hamilton is the place to be if you’re looking to mix water activities with socializing. Surrounded by various marinas and lakeside eateries, it’s ideal for those who enjoy pairing their boating adventures with dining experiences or mingling with other boating enthusiasts.
Formerly a channel of the mighty Mississippi River, Lake Chicot now holds the distinction of being both the largest natural lake in Arkansas and the biggest oxbow lake in North America. Located adjacent to the Mississippi Flyway, the lake is a hotspot for both birdwatching and fishing.
1. Arkansas requires boaters to be at least 16 years old and, if born on or after January 1, 1986, to carry a Boating Education Certificate obtained through a state-approved course.
2. A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is required for each person on board. Children under the age of 12 must wear their life jackets at all times while boating.
3. Just like driving a car intoxicated, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous and illegal.
4. Any watercraft that is not solely propelled by sails is required to be registered with the state of Arkansas, receive an Arkansas Certificate of Number, and must be marked with validation decals.
5. Boat insurance provides a safety net for unforeseen damages and liabilities, ensuring peace of mind throughout your trip. Therefore, it is required by law that all motorboats with 50 horsepower or more, as well as all personal watercraft, be covered by liability insurance.