Hot Spring County: Water, Geology and History

Rapids, boating opportunities and a geologically remarkable area give Hot Spring County a variety of attractions. When planning your trip, it’s worth distinguishing between the locations and seasonal conditions: offerings range from park programs and marinas to river activities in the warmer months. Rockport’s local history and the geology of Magnet Cove round out the picture.

Water Sports on Lakes and Rivers

Lake Catherine State Park is located on the northern border of Hot Spring County. Fishing and boating are among the activities at Lake Catherine. The park is also home to the lake’s only full-service marina. In summer, it is open for bait, snacks and drinks, as well as fuel. Park staff offer hikes, lake tours and programs year-round; individual programs may vary.

DeGray Lake Resort State Park extends across Clark County and Hot Spring County. Its full-service marina offers bait and fishing gear, fuel, and boat rentals. Rental boats include party barges and pedal boats; boat rental availability may vary seasonally. The offerings also differ in timing: the marina at Lake Catherine is open in summer, while park staff there offer programs year-round.

At the Ouachita River near Rockport, whitewater enthusiasts can navigate the rapids; river conditions vary. The Ouachita River Park in Malvern offers popular water sports such as kayaking and tubing at the river’s natural rapids. In the warmer months, the Ouachita River below Remmel Dam is a popular destination for swimming, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and fishing. River conditions and water levels vary there. Check the conditions before taking part in river activities.

The seasonal information offers different guidance for choosing when to visit: the section below Remmel Dam is a focus in the warmer months, while offerings at Lake Catherine also include year-round park programs. Boat rental at DeGray Lake Resort State Park may vary seasonally.

Rockport and Its History

Rockport brings together several distinct periods in the town’s history. Rockport Methodist Church was built in 1836. From 1846 to 1879, Rockport was the county seat of Hot Spring County. Rockport Cemetery is the largest and oldest community cemetery associated with the town’s settlement and development. Together, these facts show different aspects of local history: an early church building, the town’s former role as county seat, and a cemetery connected to Rockport’s development.

The Hot Spring County Museum/The Boyle House houses artifacts and memorabilia related to local history, as well as Caddo pottery, quilts and antique furniture. The collections bring together regional history and a variety of items from everyday life and culture. Confirm opening hours directly with the museum before visiting.

Geology and Recreation

Magnet Cove is an area of unusual petrologic and mineralogical interest. Those interested in rocks and minerals will find a different focus here than at the rivers and lakes. You need permission from the respective landowners to collect minerals; there is no public land for mineral collecting in Magnet Cove. Be sure to get permission from the relevant landowner before collecting.

The Jack Mountain WMA also has specific conditions: recreation is allowed there as long as it is compatible with timber production; seasonal rules apply. This condition is important if you plan to include recreation in your trip.

Discover more destinations: Sebastian, Clay County, Ashley County, Carroll County, Mississippi County, Lawrence County, Cleburne County.

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