Lake Catherine State Park

Lake Catherine State Park is nuzzled in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. It dates back to its preservation in the 1930s, and its scenic trails provide a variety of landscapes for hikers to enjoy.

Trails

Lake Catherine State Park boasts four hiking trails that are a photographer’s dream. Hidden Creek is an easy loop trail that is great for hikers of all levels and is less than a mile in length. Fall Branch Trail starts near the campground and winds through the hardwood forest. The trail is two miles long and crosses Little Canyon Creek several times. The highlight of this trail is the scenic waterfall, which appears on the way back to the trailhead. Dam Mountain Trail is four miles long and passes through the pine forest to the Peak of Dam Mountain. Hikers walk along a variety of wildflowers, plants and animal life and enjoy the solitude of the streams surrounding them. Horseshoe Mountain Trail passes through the forest and along the ridge top of the mountain. This 3-1/2 mile trail offers scenic views and unique rock formations.

Lodging

Overnight lodging is available in the park. The CCC Fisherman’s Barrack, the park’s historic landmark, includes two cabins. The rustic setting includes a lakeside, screened-in porch overlooking Slunger Creek. In addition to the 20 standard cabins, the park also provides a cabin designed to meet the needs of disabled visitors. Polly Crews Cabin includes its own fully accessible boat dock and fishing pier. In addition, Lake Catherine State Park offers 68 campsites with wooded and lake views.

Activities

There are a variety of activities for the park’s visitors including swimming in the Olympic-sized pool, golfing on the 18-hole course, boat tours and guided hikes and horseback rides.

Lake Catherine State Park offers something special for day visitors and overnight guests. Summer programs are available, and there is a junior ranger program. Why not consider spending time at this beautiful park?