Anthem Hills Park | Henderson

Lake Catherine State Park is a protected natural area located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It encompasses a significant portion of the Ouachita Mountains and the lake it is named after.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a 1,940-acre reservoir with water depths varying from 15 to 60 feet. The surrounding terrain is characterized by dense hardwood and pine forests, with elevations ranging from 100 to 500 feet. Rock formations, including sandstone outcrops, are visible throughout the park. The park's infrastructure includes a historic stone dam and several CCC-era stone and timber structures.

Location & Access Logistics

Lake Catherine State Park is situated approximately 10 miles southwest of downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. Access is via State Highway 171. The park entrance is clearly marked. Ample parking is available at trailheads, picnic areas, and the marina. Public transportation options to the park are limited; private vehicle is the primary mode of access.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in the 1930s as part of the New Deal initiatives, with significant development undertaken by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The lake itself was formed by the construction of the Catherine Dam, completed in 1951, to provide flood control and recreational opportunities. Ecologically, the park is situated within the Ouachita Mountains ecoregion, known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking on 11 miles of trails, including the Falls Branch Trail (0.7 miles, moderate) leading to a waterfall, and the steeper Mountain Tower Trail (1.5 miles, strenuous). Boating, fishing, and swimming are permitted on Lake Catherine. The park offers boat rentals and a marina. Interpretive programs are conducted seasonally. Overnight accommodations include cabins and a campground.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at various locations, including the visitor center, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Shaded picnic sites are provided. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the park, though it can be intermittent in more remote areas. A park store offers basic supplies, and food vendors are not present within the park boundaries, but are available in nearby Hot Springs.

Best Time to Visit

For hiking and general exploration, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild temperatures and visible fall foliage. Summer (June-August) is suitable for water activities but can be hot. Photography is best in the early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting on the landscape. Lake levels are generally stable year-round, with no specific tide requirements.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature of the park is the presence of "petrified wood" formations, which are actually fossilized remnants of ancient plant material. Local folklore sometimes refers to the area as having been a gathering place for Native American tribes centuries ago, though specific historical documentation is limited.

Nearby Landmarks

• Hot Springs National Park (10km Northeast)
• Garvan Woodland Gardens (12km Northeast)
• Mid-America Science Museum (11km Northeast)
• Ouachita National Forest (Adjacent, West)
• Lake Ouachita State Park (25km West)