Rapids on the Ouachita River and marinas on the lakes give Hot Spring County a strong connection to the water. The area also features the unusual geology of Magnet Cove and historic landmarks in Rockport.
Rapids on the Ouachita River
Below Remmel Dam, the Ouachita River is a major destination for swimming, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing during the warmer months. Water levels and river conditions vary, so check current conditions before planning a water activity. At Rockport, whitewater enthusiasts can run the rapids of the Ouachita River. At Ouachita River Park in Malvern, the river’s natural rapids offer popular water activities such as kayaking and tubing.
Choosing by location and activity makes the differences clear: at Rockport, you can run the rapids; at Ouachita River Park in Malvern, kayaking and tubing are popular; and the stretch below Remmel Dam offers a broader range of warm-weather activities, including swimming, fishing, and paddling.
Lakes, Marinas, and Park Programs
Lake Catherine State Park lies along the northern boundary of Hot Spring County and is a popular destination for fishing and boating. The park is home to the only full-service marina on Lake Catherine; in summer, the marina is open for bait, snacks, drinks, and fuel. Park staff offer hikes, lake tours, and programs year-round; individual offerings may vary.
DeGray Lake Resort State Park spans Clark County and Hot Spring County. Its full-service marina offers bait and fishing tackle, fuel, and boat rentals, including party barges and pedal boats. Rental boat availability may vary seasonally. The season matters at both lakes, but not in the same way: marina services at Lake Catherine are a summer offering, while rental boat availability at DeGray may fluctuate seasonally.
Geology and Mineral Collecting
Magnet Cove is an area of unusual petrological and mineralogical interest. Its name refers to magnetite in the soil and the basin-like shape of the area. If you want to collect minerals, you need permission from the relevant landowners; there is no public land for mineral collecting in Magnet Cove.
Recreation in the Jack Mountain WMA
Recreation is permitted in the Jack Mountain WMA insofar as it is compatible with timber production; seasonal rules apply.
Rockport: Local History in Specific Places
In Rockport, historical periods come into focus through dates and places. Rockport Methodist Church was built in 1836; ten years later, from 1846 to 1879, Rockport was the county seat of Hot Spring County. Rockport Cemetery is the largest and oldest community cemetery associated with the settlement and development of the town. The cemetery thus provides a local connection to the history of settlement alongside the town’s former role as county seat.
The Hot Spring County Museum/The Boyle House houses artifacts and memorabilia relating to local history, as well as Caddo pottery, quilts, and antique furniture. Call them directly before your visit to ask about opening hours.
Discover more destinations: Malvern, Drew, Sharp County, Jackson County, Washington, Benton, Scott County, Greene County.
For the broader travel overview: Arkansas.
