Arkansas may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a beach vacation but the Natural State is actually better than most all of the big-name destinations. Arkansas beachgoers need not worry about shark bites or jellyfish stings. We skip the struggle with plane fare or car rides lasting days. Our sandy shores may be busy during summer but putting up with a crowd of a hundred sure beats out elbowing through a thousand. Let's soak up the sun at some of the best beaches in Arkansas.

1. Lake Ouachita - Mountain Pine

This postcard-perfect picture is from Lake Ouachita. The lake has the distinction of being one of the cleanest lakes in the entire nation which makes it perfect for scuba diving. Have an adventure and spend the night beachside in the park's cabins or tent sites.

Lake Ouachita is a beautiful lake with plenty of small islands perfect for camping. Join Gatewood Brown as he shows us an amazing kayaking and camping trip on Lake Ouachita:

2. Lake Bennett - Greenbrier

Part of Woolly Hollow State Park, Lake Bennett is a great first beach for small Arkansans. The park hosts an annual Fun Day in June on the beach which is a big draw for families looking for a unique day on the lake.

3. Lake Charles - Powhatan

Enjoy the 654 acres of Lake Charles by taking advantage of the park's kayak and party barge tours. Take a long walk on the beach while traversing the shoreside of Cedar Trail. Lake Charles State Park is a wonderful place to camp as well with spaces for tent, RV, and yurt camping.

4. Lake Dardanelle - Russellville

Sink your toes in the sand along the shores of Lake Dardanelle. The lake is popular for its fishing tournaments as well as water skiing. Stop by the visitor center to see their impressive aquariums and learn about the aquatic life that lives in the lake.

Head out to Lake Dardanelle State Park for excellent swimming beaches in Arkansas. Join Farhana Khandoker on a trip to the park in this video:

5. Lake Catherine - Hot Springs

This waterfall-featuring oasis doesn't require a cruise to a remote Hawaiian island to reach, but just a short hike along Lake Catherine in Hot Springs. The lake and Falls Creek Falls are great backdrops to your next waterside adventure. Stay at the state park or round out your vacation with the amenities at Catherine's Landing.

6. Jacksonport on the White River - Newport

A trip to Jacksonport can be tailored to just about any interest. Learn about the town's vital role in the Civil War at the historic state park or party on the beach during the music festival, PortFest. The beach along the White River is also great for family swim trips.

7. Lake Austell - Wynne

This beach is tucked away in Arkansas' second largest state park for land area, Village Creek State Park. Lake Austell is also a favorite for bass fishers.

8. DeGray Lake Resort State Park - Bismarck

This island beach vacation is the ultimate Arkansas getaway. The only resort state park in Arkansas, DeGray Lake has a week's worth of activities. Take a kayak tour around the shores, a guided snorkel excursion, or just relax lakeside.

Outdoors4Adventure takes us to DeGray Lake Resort State Park in this video showing even more Arkansas beaches to enjoy:

The best beaches in Arkansas have a whole lot more to offer than simply a sandy place to lounge on a hot day. With the incredibly scenic areas all over Arkansas, our beaches are a real outdoor adventure. What's your favorite Arkansas beach? Share with us in the comments!

For another island adventure, take this hike that can only be reached by boat.