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This is
the best way to view Lake Ouachita - being out on the water instills
a sense of wonder at the vastness of this manmade lake - 40,000
acres of sparkling clean water completely surrounded by the greenery
of the Ouachita National Forest. One of the reasons this lake remains
so clear and pristine is no houses are allowed to be built along
its 975 miles of shoreline. There are just 8 homes that have been
"grandfathered" in and allowed to remain - what lucky
folks to have this kind of view virtually to themselves.
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Water
skiers enjoy the 80° water temperature on this Labor Day holiday.
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Towing
the kids behind the boat on an inner tube - you could just hear
their squeals of joy!
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The lake
is so immense that there are markers to guide boaters around the
outstretched fingers and inlets. This is Point 50 Peninsula that
can also be reached by land by hiking the Caddo Bend Trail - a 4
mile trek that meanders through the forests and along the shoreline.
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Crawdad
Island - One of the most popular primitive camping sites that used
to be a mountaintop before the river was dammed to create the lake.
Lake Ouachita is one of very few in the nation where the Corp of
Engineers allows camping on island shores - just pull up your boat
and enjoy! No fee or permission required, but stays are limited
to two weeks and you must bring and pack out everything you're gonna
need for this rustic but beautiful experience.
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Just one
of the many gorgeous views of the shoreline you'll enjoy.
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Our captain,
Lydell Lively, shared his navigation duties with the kids on board,
to their delight and fascination. He's been exploring Lake Ouachita
for over 30 years and has been working with the park for 2 years.
He says he never has a problem coming to work in the mornings, and
he obviously enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience of this
special place.
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| What
sunset cruise would be complete without a breathtaking sunset? This
one did not disappoint any of us! Book your cruise at the Visitors
Center - it is worth every penny! |
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