Main Rivers and Lakes of Arkansas

Arkansas is water-rich, with major rivers draining to the Mississippi and numerous reservoirs for recreation, flood control, and water supply.

Major Rivers

• Arkansas River – crosses state west to east, navigation to Tulsa.
• White River – north Arkansas, famous for trout fishing.
• Ouachita River – south/central, forms Lake Ouachita.
• Red River – southwest border with Texas.
• Mississippi River – entire eastern border.

Major Lakes (mostly USACE reservoirs)

• Beaver Lake – NW, water supply, recreation.
• Bull Shoals Lake – N central, huge, fishing, boating.
• Lake Ouachita – Ouachita Mtns, clear water, 40,000+ acres.
• Lake Hamilton – Hot Springs area, residential/recreation.
• Lake Greeson – SW, flood control, recreation.
• DeGray Lake – S central, state park, fishing.

These water bodies define Arkansas's geography, economy, and outdoor lifestyle.