ArkLaTex Guide to the best rivers and lakes around Texarkana.

This ArkLaTex guide to the best rivers and lakes around Texarkana will show you how to enjoy all that the region has to offer. Texarkana lies at the center of the four states region, where Texas and Arkansas come together and Louisiana and Oklahoma are nearby. From swimming, to paddle sports, to boating and fishing, you’ll find a spot for every type of outdoor, aquatic based adventure. This post is searchable by state by using clickable table of contents. Note: alligators live in some of these water ways therefore please exercise caution while exploring. Happy adventuring! Be sure to join the ArkLaTex Adventure Club on Facebook. Additionally, there are great waterfalls near Texarkana. This post contains affiliate links.

Best rivers and lakes around Texarkana: Arkansas.

The Arkansas side of Texarkana features some amazing lakes and rivers. Some are ideal for fishing and just a short drive away are some of the clearest waters in the entire state.

In Texarkana: Lake Dieffenbacher.

This small, urban lake is on the Arkansas side of Texarkana. It is stocked by the city recreation department. Fishing is available along any of the shoreline or from the pier extending onto the lake. Arkansas fishing permit required.

Millwood Lake.

Millwood Lake is just a few minutes north of Texarkana, near Ashdown, Arkansas. There is a state park on this lake and many boat ramps and campgrounds surrounding the lake. One of the best spots to put in for fishing is at Yarbourough Landing. Millwood Lake is a very broad, open lake and during high winds there are small craft advisories. Please also note that there have been very large alligators spotted on this lake. It’s known to be a great spot for bird watching because it’s on a migratory path! Here are some places to check out around Millwood Lake:

• Beards Bluff and Beards Lake Day Use Area
• River Run Park
• Saratoga Park
• Paraloma Park Day Use Area
• White Cliffs Recreation Area

Little River.

This river feeds into Millwood Lake on the northwest side of the lake. The Little River is a bit of a maze of a waterway, that’s ideal for fishing. Wilton Landing is the best boat ramp to access this river, just off of Highway 71 north of Ashdown, Arkansas. There are pit toilets available as well as signage. Be sure to have maps saved of the waterway and know your route. Due to the possibility of alligators, swimming is not recommended and it’s not ideal for inflatable water crafts. Just across the river is a first come first serve campsite at Cahoots Springs.

White Oak Lake.

This lake is absolutely stunning in the fall, but equally beautiful all year round. White Oak Lake State Park has a campground and small marina with canoes and kayaks available to rent. There is a boat ramp and a great place with channels to fish along the shoreline. This lake is great for fishing, paddling, and birdwatching. A very unique feature lies at near the spillway on the lower end of White Oak Lake: the “little grand canyon of Arkansas,” is a fascinating geological attraction. The erosion below the spillway causes the soft soil to form lines in a small canyon. There are hiking trails to explore around the area.

Lake Ouachita.

Lake Ouachita is one of the most beautiful lakes in Arkansas and one of the best rivers and lakes around Texarkana. In fact, it’s also one of the cleanest lakes in the entire United States! The lake is 40,000 acres and has 200 islands. Because it all lies within the Ouachita National Forest, you can camp on the islands! Lake Ouachita State Park is on the east side of the lake and offers tent camping, cabins, multiple places to swim, and a marina. The clarity of this lake is astounding and scuba divers have reported visibility of almost 40 feet! Lake Ouachita boasts one of the only places in the United States with the presence of freshwater jellyfish, which can sometimes be seen in August and September, but don’t worry, they’re harmless to humans. Here are some other fun things to check out at Lake Ouachita:

• Mountain Harbor Resort
• Tompkins Bend Campground
• Denby Point Campground
• Twin Creek Day Use Area
• Rent a houseboat with Wake Zone Rentals
• Go stand up paddleboard camping
• Paddle the Rabbit Tail water trail
• Learn more at Lake Ouachita.

Lake DeGray.

Lake DeGray is located near Arkadelphia, Arkansas and is just over an hour drive from Texarkana. The lake has a resort state park, which features a lodge, restaurant, campground, yurts, marina, and swimming beach. This island also has many islands on it. A fun day trip: pack a picnic and paddle out from the marina to one of the islands. You can rent kayaks and boats from the marina. We also enjoy using our inflatable kayak and stand up paddleboards. The Islets Cove Paddle Trail is a 3 mile water trail that offers a great view of the shoreline, islands, and wildlife watching. There is a triathlon that takes place every year and the water is so clear, the bottom can be seen while racing. Additionally, the annual Eagles Et Cetera festival is fun and educational for all ages.

Cossatot River.

This is a beautiful river in west, central Arkansas. The water is clean, clear, and refreshing in the hot summer. During high water, a section of the river known as “the falls” provides class !V and V rafting and kayaking opportunities. There is a state park surrounding the river and it’s work a stop at the visitor center to get maps and chat with a ranger. Don’t forget to get your state parks passport stamp as well. The visitor center has a wonderful nature museum for kids of all ages. The River Corridor Trail runs the length of the park, staying close to the river. There are two remote campgrounds and both are first come first serve with pit toilets. Two of our favorite places to explore and spend the day are:

• The Sandbar area. This part of the park is best for younger children and is a more laid back, easy to access place to explore. Please camp in designated sites only and practice Leave No Trace principles. Water shoes with good grip recommended. We often play in the water in our hiking shoes. ( Kids shoes. Women’s shoes. Men’s shoes. )
• The Falls area. Also known as the “sheep’s den.” This is the area of the river with the rapids, due to the large rocks and boulders. The structures create lots of pools and some natural water slides. Shoes with good grip are a necessity to explore here. We usually take what we need for day in a waterproof backpack and hike out over the rocks. There is a small campground and pit toilets available.

Little Missouri Falls.

Little Missouri Falls is a popular destination near Albert Pike Recreation area in the Ouachita National Forest. It’s a series of cascading falls along the Little Missouri River. In the warmer months of summer, it’s a great place to cool off. There are several deeper pools and a nice swimming hole at the bottom of the falls. Park in the lot for Little Missouri Falls and follow the trail to the falls. The best way to get all of your things there is a large backpack. Be sure to wear water shoes and pack out what you pack in.

Ouachita River.

This river is pronounced “wash-ah-tah” and it’s a beautiful river that runs 605 miles in Arkansas and Louisiana. There are many places that are great for floating the river in Arkansas. It’s also a great river for fishing. Here are some places for float rentals and shuttle services:

• Ouachita River Haven.
• A floating guide to the Lower Ouachita River from AR Own Backyard.
• Ouachita Whitewater Park.

Caddo River.

This smaller river flows down from the Ouachita mountains and eventually flows in (and forms) Lake DeGray. It’s another great river for floating or fishing. Outfitters include: Caddo River Camping and Canoe, Caddo River Rats Kayak and Tubes and Lucky’s Caddo River Canoe and Kayak.

Little Maumelle River.

This is a beautiful river in Little Rock, Arkansas. It has a marked water trail that is accessible from three different put in spots. The river is heavily wooded with Bald Cypress in some areas. Details about the paddle, including a downloadable, geofenced map can be found here. This river is home to the only floating campsite in Arkansas! The Little Maumelle River camping platform is an incredible experience, to stop for lunch or to spend the night. Read all about our experience on the platform here.

Albert Pike Recreation Area.

Albert Pike is a recreation area in the southwest part of the Ouachita National Forest. The Little Missouri River flows through creating a beautiful swimming hole. Many years ago, a campground operated there however a tragic flash flood occurred in 2010 that killed 20 people. Since then, the park has operated as day use only. A bathroom is open seasonally however that is the only amenity. The roads are paved to the main recreation area, then it is forest roads to access the other areas, such as the Winding Stairs trail or Eagle Rock loop trail. It’s the perfect place to cool off in the warm summer months, with the river forming a deep, clear, and clean swimming spot. It’s also a great place for photos. Please be mindful of the weather and avoid the area during rain and flash flooding situations.

Albert Pike Recreation Area photo courtesy of Sarah Farrell of @thefarrellfolk.

Blaylock Creek and Crooked Creek.

These two creeks also flow through the Albert Pike area of the Ouachita National Forest. They are smaller creeks but they still offer some great places to cool off in the warmer months. Both locations will show up in a Google search. There is no phone service so be sure to save an offline map and start the navigation before you start driving. Please also note that both sites are dispersed camping sites in the national forest. If someone is already camping there, respect their space. Blaylock Falls has become very popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a gorgeous spot but the water isn’t often flowing like you see in the photos on social media. Both creeks offer plenty of spots to pull off the road, hop in, and cool off. Be aware of snakes in the warmer months.

Best rivers and lakes around Texarkana: Louisiana.

Louisiana has some great bodies of water for paddling, fishing, and some water sports. Alligators do reside in many of these waters, so please use caution. From open lakes, to swamps and bayous, there’s a little something for everyone.

Lake D’Arbonne State Park.

This beautiful lake is in a state park in north central Louisiana. It’s a great spot for boating, kayaking, fishing, and bird watching. The state park has many amenities like multiple campsites, a swimming pool, boardwalks, and tennis courts.

Lake Bistineau State Park.

Another beautiful lake in north west Louisiana, this lake is close to Shreveport. The state park offers camping, boardwalks, a boat ramp, and trails. Lake Bistineau is a great place for kayaking and offers views of large Bald Cypress trees along the shoreline. It’s a great place for birdwatching and fishing, both on the lake and along the shoreline.

Lake Claiborne State Park.

This is one of the few lakes in northwest Louisiana to offer a swimming beach. Lake Claiborne State Park has a fun public swimming area that is protected from boaters with a no wake zone. The lake is open to water sports like skiing but is also perfect for paddling a kayak or canoe along the shoreline. Fishing is fantastic and so is the birdwatching, all year round.

Caddo Lake.

Located just south of Shreveport, Caddo Lake is a large lake and bayou that spans from Louisiana to Texas. The Texas side of the lake features the largest naturally formed lake in Texas and the largest cypress tree forest. It is a peaceful and beautiful lake for paddling. It’s also a good fishing lake, however you should be aware of alligators.

Cross Lake.

This recreational reservoir is a man made lake in Shreveport, Louisiana. It’s over 8000 acres and offers plentiful aquatic recreation opportunities. Fishing in Cross Lake includes bass, crappie, catfish and pan fish. Marinas include Barron’s Marina and boat launch, and Melvin’s Landing.

Best rivers and lakes around Texarkana: Texas.

Not to be outdone, Texas offers some more great lakes for aquatic recreation near Texarkana. There are a few that are great for swimming, all are great for fishing, and there are even some with some very unique features.

In Texarkana: Bringle Lake.

Bringle Lake is on the Texas side of Texarkana and managed by the Texarkana, Texas Parks and Recreation Department. It’s a beautiful, urban lake that brings some nearby nature for all residents to enjoy. Two parks sit on the shoreline, connected by a boardwalk and walking trail. A nature trail encircles the entire lake as well. There are two boat ramps on this lake, one at Bringle Lake East and one by the spillway. Paddle TXK operates a kayak rental business on the east side as well, be sure to check their Facebook page for updates and hours.

Lake Wright Patman.

This is a great lake close to Texarkana, in Atlanta, Texas. It’s a 30,000 acre reservoir. Atlanta State Park sits on this lake and has camping, hiking, and a swimming beach. Recreation opportunities include fishing, paddling, and bird watching.

Lake of the Pines.

A great place for fishing, this lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in east Texas. There are six parks around the lake and three campgrounds. Boat ramps are at many spots around the lake, with at least ten of them. Additionally, there are three marinas: Big Cypress Marina, RV Marina and Inn, and Marley’s Bullfrog Marina. The lake has cabins and short term rentals around the lake. It’s a great place for bass fishing and birdwatching.

Lake Bob Sandlin.

Another great state park to visit, Lake Bob Sandlin State Park offers a 9000 acre reservoir to enjoy. There are marinas for boat rentals and many short term rental cabins available as well. The state park has a campground. For fishing, there are stocked ponds at the state park or plenty of opportunities for bass fishing on this beautiful lake.

Daingerfield State Park.

This state park has a charming 80 acre lake. It’s a deep water lake that remains cool even in the hot summer months. The state park has a great swimming beach with a sandy bottom and a platform you can swim out to and jump off of. It’s great for fishing and paddling. Motorized boats are welcome but there is a 5 mph speed limit on the lake. Cabins and campground available.

Ellison Creek Reservoir.

Another fun lake just north of Lake of the Pines, Ellison Creek Reservoir has even more aquatic recreation opportunities. What sets this lake apart is one thing: Rocky Point Adventures. It’s the only inflatable obstacle course and floating water park in far east Texas! It features a sandy beach, restaurant, water obstacles and more. Admission is $29 for the day and it’s open daily from May 25 to September 9 (summer season).

Caddo Lake State Park.

This state park is on the Texas side of Caddo lake. There are some incredible paddling spots, where you can enjoy massive bald cypress forests and bayous. Paddle trails can be found here. Swamp tours are a fun and unique thing to do on Caddo Lake. Check out Captain Ron’s or Mossy Brake’s.

Best rivers and lakes around Texarkana: Oklahoma.

Oklahoma is home also home to some beautiful waterways. Several of which are within a short hour and a half drive from Texarkana. There are also lots of things to do in Broken Bow and Hochatown with kids. For finding fun places to stay, check out Broken Bow Travel Sisters on Instagram.

Broken Bow Lake.

This lake is the gem of southeastern Oklahoma. It’s clear, deep, cold water is especially inviting in the summer time. Beaver’s Bend State Park sits on the the lake and offers cabins, camping, and canoe rentals. Here are some other water adventures on Broken Bow:

• Wild Goose Canoe and Kayak Adventures.
• Tree Frog Canoe and Kayak Rentals.
• Beavers Bend Marina.

Mountain Fork River.

This is the river that feeds into Broken Bow Lake. It’s a beautiful river that is known for fly fishing opportunities, especially for rainbow and brown trout. It has some whitewater in high water conditions.

• Mountain Fork Park – camping.
• Beavers Bend Flyfishing – shop and guide services.
• For hiking along the river, we recommend the Friends Trail.

The best lakes for camping and swimming.

While you could technically swim in any of these, there are some we would definitely avoid due to alligators. Here are our favorite places to swim in the ArkLaTex and four states area:

• Arkansas: Lake DeGray, Lake Ouachita, Lake Catherine, Albert Pike Recreation Area, and the Cossatot River.
• Louisiana: Nope. We don’t swim here.
• Texas: Daingerfield State Park and Rocky Point Adventures.
• Oklahoma: Broken Bow Lake and Mountain Fork River.

The best lakes for fishing.

Almost any of the bodies of water listed in this post are good for fishing. However, some of best lakes for big bass and other fish are: Millwood Lake, Lake Ouachita, White Oak Lake, Lake of the Pines, Lake Wright Patman. For trout, check out the Little Missouri River, Cossatot River, and Mountain Fork river.

The best rivers for floating.

There are not a ton of places to float around the ArkLaTex but there are a few nearby in Arkansas. These include: the Ouachita River, the Caddo River, the Cossatot River, and the Little Missouri River.

Summary: guide to ArkLaTex lakes and rivers.

As you can see, there are lots of options for exploring waterways and bodies of water around Texarkana. From fishing, to paddling, to boating and swimming there is something for everyone! Please remember to follow all DNR rules and have life jackets for everyone in your boat. Life jackets should be worn at all times for younger children. Familiarize yourself with the rivers before heading out to fish, so you know where you’re going and how to navigate once there. Happy exploring!