Explore Lake Catherine State Park in 360°
This campground has a full virtual tour with interactive campsite markers. Walk through every loop, inspect individual sites, and see the views before you book.
Launch Virtual Tour →✅ Amenities & Features
ElectricFull-hookupsNeeds CapturePetsPublic ParkSewerState ParkTentsWater
📖 About This Campground
Lake Catherine State Park in Hot Springs Arkansas provides RV and tent camping. Nestled in the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains on 1,940-acre Lake Catherine, one of the five popular Diamond Lakes in west central Arkansas. Renovated RV sites with full hookups.
Lake Catherine State Park in Arkansas is an exceptional camping destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and modern amenities. Located in the beautiful Ouachita Mountain region, the park is nestled along the shores of Lake Catherine, one of five lakes in the area, providing visitors with stunning views and a tranquil environment.
The park’s campground features 70 campsites, including 47 Class AAA sites with water, 50-amp electric, and sewer hookups, and 23 Class B sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups. For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are six primitive tent sites and a Rent-A-Yurt. Many of these sites are located on the lakeshore, offering campers scenic waterfront views. The campground is well-maintained and equipped with modern restrooms, showers, and a dump station, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.
One of the park’s main attractions is its full-service marina, the only one on Lake Catherine. Open during the summer, the marina provides bait, snacks, drinks, and fuel, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a day on the water. The marina also offers boat rentals, allowing guests to explore the lake at their leisure. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the lake’s abundant fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish.
The park features a variety of recreational activities to keep visitors entertained. The well-marked Falls Branch Trail leads hikers through the forest to the beautiful Falls Creek Falls, a highlight of the park. The trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels and offers stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape. For those who prefer horseback riding, guided trail rides are available seasonally, providing a unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
Lake Catherine State Park also offers several picnic sites, a pavilion, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings and group events. The park’s interpretive programs, led by knowledgeable park interpreters, provide educational opportunities and guided tours throughout the year, enhancing visitors’ understanding of the area’s natural and cultural history.
In addition to its outdoor activities, the park is home to 20 fully equipped cabins, including one two-bedroom cabin with a patio overlooking the water and private access to the lake from its own fishing pier. These cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, add a historical charm to the park with their native stone and wood construction.
Lake Catherine State Park’s serene environment, combined with its diverse activities and modern amenities, makes it a perfect destination for campers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re fishing on the lake, hiking to a waterfall, or simply enjoying the view from your campsite, the park offers a memorable outdoor experience.