Arkansas has some truly unique overnight options from hobbit hole lodging to open-air mountaintops. Perhaps one of the most stunning camping adventures is at the Lake Ouachita islands. Let's paddle around and pick an island for an experience of camping on Lake Ouachita that you'll never forget. It's time for some Lake Ouachita island camping in Arkansas.
Most Arkansans have enjoyed staying around Lake Ouachita, but not everyone knows about the area's island camping.
Maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, the lake's 200 islands can be used for camping. With so many to choose from, this is certainly the ultimate pick-your-own-adventure.
The islands range from sizable forests to small sandbars so you can customize your island adventure.
One of the best features of all the islands is that since they're part of the U.S. National Forest, camping is free. Just be aware that this will be a primitive camping experience.
A handful of the islands have names but most are simply numbered.
Hotel Island and Wild Child Island are popular spots but for a private island experience, you'll want to find one of the smaller numbered locations.
The lake has over 200 islands to choose from but some aren't quite developed enough for camping.
The only one you would want to avoid camping on is Bird Island since it's been designated an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. That particular island holds the record for the state's largest Purple Martin roost. The state park routinely hosts a daytime kayak tour around the island.
If you'd feel more comfortable on a guided tour to one of the islands, you'll want to take advantage of the state park's signature event.
Picking out an island for camping can be daunting the first time. Luckily the state park hosts the "Kayak Campout" in the fall. This overnight stay at one of the islands includes meals and informative guided tours.
Once you've set up camp, the islands offer all sorts of activities.
Depending on the size of the island you choose, a hike around the woods is a great way to explore the area.
As long as the water hasn't gotten too cold, this would be a prime opportunity to snorkel in some of the United States' clearest waters.
Take out the water toys or simply swim along the shore during your camping stay. Usually after the end of September, the water is too cold for swimming but you can still enjoy the area by kayaking or fishing.
A night out on one of the Lake Ouachita islands is a one-of-a-kind experience the whole family will love.
Most importantly, be sure to always leave no trace. This is one Arkansas adventure we certainly want to keep!
To get a feel for what an island adventure can entail, watch this video:
Have you ever done some Lake Ouachita island camping before, or taken a kayak tour? Do you know of other island camping spots in Arkansas? Let us know about your experiences and favorite places in the comments. For another Arkansas adventure, cross these spectacular waterfall hikes off of your bucket list:
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/ar-waterfall-hike-bucket-list/
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