Lake Hamilton
FOR LOCALS, Lake Hamilton is the lake you grew up on. Summers were spent at your best friend’s parents’ lakehouse. It’s where you first learned to fish and water-ski. One of Arkansas’s most popular recreational and residential lakes, much of it is lined with condos, resorts and private homes, as well as restaurants. Located on the southern edge of Hot Springs, it is also where you can take a famous National Park Duck Tour, or board the Belle of Hot Springs for lunch, dinner and dance cruises. Relaxing and romantic, the dinner cruise is a perfect date night idea. Before dinner service, order a cocktail and cozy up on the top deck enjoying the breeze as the boat slowly circles the lake. After a delicious meal, return upstairs to watch the sun dip behind the Ouachita foothills.
The Hot Springs Fishing Challenge is held on Lake Catherine and Lake Hamilton every summer. “BIG AL” is the fish that bears the lucky tag worth $15,000.
BOAT RAMPS AND DOCKS:
Andrew H. Hulsey State Fish Hatchery
Clarion Resort
Garvan Woodland gardens Boat Dock
Hill Wheatley Park
Stephens Park
Sunnybrook Landing
WHAT WE LOVE:
Casual, laid-back vibe.
WHERE TO STAY:
Baymont Inn & Suites
501-520-5522 baymontinns.com
Home2Suites
501-520-4444 home2suites.com
Lake Hamilton Island Resort
501-282-0391 longislandlakeresort.com
SunBay Resort
501-525-4691 sunbayresort.net
The Wharf
501-525-4604 thewharfresort.com
WHERE TO RENT WATERCRAFT:
SunBay Resort Back Porch Grill
501-525-4691 sunbayresort.net