Located in the beautiful Ouachita National Forest of Arkansas, Lake Ouachita is a stunning gem that spans 40,000 acres and boasts over 690 miles of mesmerizing shoreline, as well as an additional 300 miles of islands to explore. While the lake is known primarily for its pristine waters and breathtaking beauty, it is also the perfect destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Diving in Lake Ouachita is an unparalleled experience, as underwater visibility can reach up to 50 feet, revealing fascinating sights like shipwrecks, ghost town ruins, and mesmerizing rock formations. The lake boasts several diving spots showcasing unique features, such as 'Tip of Snoopy’s Ear,' 'Buzzard’s Chin,' and 'Disappearing Island,' allowing divers to explore mesmerizing underwater flora and fauna, including trees, fish, and an old homestead.
Blakely Mountain Dam, one of Lake Ouachita's prime diving sites, invites divers to discover the remnants of a once-thriving town in this area. The Joplin and Three Sisters Spit, with its unique rock formations lined up like three sisters, offers divers an opportunity to spot sunken boats in the area.
Divers can witness a diverse array of aquatic life, including bream, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and largemouth bass, while exploring the placid lake's serene waters. The pristine water conditions provide the perfect habitat for rare freshwater jellyfish, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the already captivating underwater experience.
Diving in Lake Ouachita is sublime year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees. However, spring boasts the clearest water, ideal for diving.
For those in need of scuba certification, the Ocean Extreme Dive & Travel Center Inc is the perfect place, offering access to experienced guides, equipment rentals, air fills, plus a friendly, knowledgeable lake-loving staff.
If you're a diving enthusiast or merely curious about diving, Lake Ouachita is a must-visit destination. Its crystal-clear waters, coupled with unique diving sites, make for an unforgettable underwater experience. Be sure to pick up one of our State Park scratch-off maps at the Visitor’s Center, scratch off that Lake Ouachita spot and let us know about your experience by tagging Arkie Travels. Happy adventuring!
Lindsay Jordan is the Head of Operations and Sarah's trusted right-hand at Arkie Travels. With an unwavering passion for all things Arkansas, her dedication to promoting the state shines through in her role. For the past six years, she served as the Executive Director for the Gann Museum of Saline County, where her deep appreciation for history and love for her home state was evident in the exceptional exhibits, compelling newsletters, and captivating tours she curated.
Away from the office, Lindsay finds immense joy in experiencing the wonders of the Natural State with her family. From camping under the stars to hiking along breathtaking trails, and even exploring picturesque waterways on kayaks, she embraces these outdoor adventures wholeheartedly and is happy to share all the beauty of Arkansas with everyone around her.