20 Attractions to Explore Near Shady Lake

Caney Creek Wilderness, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a pristine and secluded area within the Ouachita National Forest that offers a true wilderness experience for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and backpackers. This remote and unspoiled wilderness is a haven for those seeking a rugged outdoor adventure and an escape into the heart of nature.

Wolf Pen Gap, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a popular outdoor recreation area and trail system situated in the Ouachita National Forest. Known for its extensive network of trails and off-road opportunities, Wolf Pen Gap is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of the natural wonders of the Ouachita Mountains.

Cossatot River State Park - Natural Area is a stunning and ecologically significant park located in southwest Arkansas, known for its rugged beauty and exceptional outdoor adventures. The park is often called "The Cossatot" and is celebrated for its challenging rapids, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Dierks Lake, located in Howard County, Arkansas, is a picturesque reservoir known for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and outdoor adventures. This man-made lake provides a tranquil escape for visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.It is a beautiful and serene destination for those seeking outdoor recreation, fishing, and relaxation in a natural setting. The lake's clear waters, wooded surroundings, and recreational amenities make it a wonderful spot.

Bethesda Lake is a small but charming body of water located in Polk County, Arkansas. While it may not be widely recognized, it offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for outdoor and recreational activities. Bethesda Lake is celebrated for its natural beauty and serene ambiance. Nestled within the Ouachita Mountains, it provides a tranquil escape for those seeking a quiet and scenic outdoor experience.

Daisy State Park, located in Pike County, Arkansas, is a scenic and family-friendly recreational area that encompasses the shores of Lake Greeson. Nestled amidst the Ouachita Mountains, this state park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, water lovers, and those seeking a relaxing escape.

The Kansas City Southern Depot in Polk County, Arkansas, is a historic and iconic railway station that reflects the rich railroad history of the region. This beautifully preserved depot stands as a testament to the role of the railroad in the development of local communities and serves as a valuable historical and cultural landmark.

Janssen Park, located in Pike County, Arkansas, is a beloved and well-maintained community park that offers a serene and family-friendly environment for both residents and visitors to enjoy. This park is a place for relaxation, recreation, and community engagement, providing a variety of amenities and activities for people of all ages.

Lake Greeson, located in Pike County, Arkansas, is a beautiful and serene reservoir nestled amidst the Ouachita Mountains. This man-made lake, created by the Narrows Dam on the Little Missouri River, offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing a wide range of recreational opportunities.

The Talimena Scenic Drive, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a breathtakingly beautiful and nationally recognized byway that winds through the Ouachita Mountains, offering stunning vistas, lush forests, and a remarkable scenic experience. This drive is celebrated for its natural beauty and the opportunities it provides for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Narrows Dam, located in Pike County, Arkansas, is a vital and strategically significant structure that serves multiple purposes, including flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and the creation of Lake Greeson. This engineering marvel stands as a testament to human ingenuity and plays a crucial role in the management of water resources and the generation of clean energy in the region.

Lake Wilhelmina, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a serene and picturesque reservoir known for its natural beauty, recreational activities, and the historic Queen Wilhelmina State Park that adjoins its shoreline. This lovely lake provides a tranquil escape for visitors who seek to enjoy the great outdoors and offers a range of leisurely and recreational opportunities.

The Womble Trail, located in the Ouachita National Forest in Montgomery County, Arkansas, is a premier hiking and mountain biking trail that offers outdoor enthusiasts a captivating journey through the rugged beauty of the Ouachita Mountains. Renowned for its scenic vistas, diverse landscapes, and challenging terrain, the Womble Trail is a beloved destination for those seeking adventure and a close connection with nature.

The Ouachita National Forest, encompassing parts of both Arkansas and Oklahoma, is a vast and diverse natural wonderland that extends over 1.8 million acres in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains. Known for its pristine wilderness, rugged terrain, and an array of recreational opportunities, this national forest offers visitors the chance to connect with nature and explore the beauty of the southern United States.

Rich Mountain, situated in Polk County, Arkansas, is a prominent peak in the Ouachita Mountains, known for its natural beauty, hiking opportunities, and the stunning vistas it provides from its summit. As the second-highest point in Arkansas, Rich Mountain offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors and experience the breathtaking landscapes of the region.

Nashville is a charming city located in Howard County, Arkansas. With a rich history, a welcoming community, and a variety of attractions, Nashville offers a unique blend of small-town charm, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.It embodies the essence of a charming Southern town. With a blend of historical charm, outdoor recreation, local culture, and friendly residents, it offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

Crater of Diamonds State Park, located in Pike County, Arkansas, is a unique and captivating destination known as the "World's Only Diamond Mine" that allows visitors to search for genuine diamonds in a 37-acre plowed field. This natural wonder has drawn diamond hunters, geology enthusiasts, and curious travelers from all over the world.

Crater of Diamonds State Park, situated in Pike County, Arkansas, is a one-of-a-kind and world-renowned destination where visitors have the unique opportunity to search for genuine diamonds in a 37-acre plowed field. Often referred to as the "World's Only Diamond Mine," this park has been a fascinating draw for diamond hunters, geology enthusiasts, and curious travelers from around the globe.

Diamond Springs Water Park, located in Murfreesboro, Pike County, Arkansas, is a popular family-friendly aquatic destination that offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. This water park provides a wide range of water-based activities and attractions, making it an ideal place for fun, relaxation, and splashing excitement.

The Ouachita National Recreation Trail, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a renowned and scenic long-distance hiking trail that traverses the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. Stretching for approximately 223 miles, it offers hikers and outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the natural beauty, rugged terrain, and diverse ecosystems of the region.