
Arkansas is “the natural state,” and it’s bursting with natural beauty. Lakes, state and local parks sprinkled across the area present endless opportunity for outdoor enjoyment.
Lake Catherine State Park, located in Hot Springs in the Quachita Mountains offers leisure and activity all year-round. On the shore of the 1,940-acre Lake Catherine, 18 rustic cabins offer a unique lodging experience. To better accommodate visitors, one fully handicapped accessible cabin was recently built. The park’s 70 campsites, overlooking the lake and wooded areas, are sure to please. Take a guided hike, horseback trail ride or boat tour during the summer months, but don’t forget to fish, picnic and play.
The highlight of Lake Quachita State Park has to be its 40,000-acre manmade lake. Its clean, pristine waters tempt water sports fans to ski, swim, and scuba dive. Fishing is a must! Crappie, largemouth bass, catfish, stripers and bream inhabit these bountiful waters. The marina provides an array of supplies and boat rentals. Lodging options, including a variety of campsites and cabins right on site at Three Sister’s Springs, proves there is no reason not to spend a few days.
A trip to Saline River promises a grand display of wildlife and undisturbed nature at its best. Ample fishing and hunting opportunities make this untouched countryside a great escape. About an hour’s drive from Benton is the amazing DeGray Lake Resort State Park, a virtual wonderland of outdoor activities and a 96-room lodge perfect for larger functions or just a few nights stay in a lake-view room.
Local parks in Benton offer walking trails, basketball courts, skate parks, softball fields, playgrounds, picnic spots and pavilions and local lakes provide anglers and boaters close-to-home relaxation.
Fitness Unlimited, Saline County’s largest health and fitness complex, totals 35,000 square feet. Expert staff and certified instructors are available to educate and train. Equipment, classes, fitness testing and so much more make it easier to achieve healthy living practices for all ages.