Explore the Region
The Experience
Serenity Woods is your basecamp for the best of the Arkansas Ouachitas — world-class rivers, national forest, a National Park city, and some of the South's best dining. All within 30 minutes.
Caddo River
The Caddo River is one of Arkansas's crown jewels — crystal-clear, spring-fed, and winding through ancient Ouachita forest. Spend your days floating, kayaking, fishing, or simply wading in the cool current. Local outfitters like Caddo River Outfitters offer tube and canoe rentals all season long. The scenery is truly spectacular in every season.
Ouachita National Forest
Step outside your cabin door and into 1.8 million acres of breathtaking Ouachita wilderness. This is world-class hiking and mountain biking country, with hundreds of miles of trails winding through pine-hardwood forests, past crystal-clear streams, and over mountain ridges with sweeping views. Fall foliage here rivals New England. Star-gazing is unbeatable — no light pollution for miles.
DeGray Lake State Park
DeGray Lake is one of Arkansas's most beautiful reservoirs — 13,800 acres of pristine water surrounded by forested hills. The state park features a resort lodge, golf course, marina, and miles of shoreline for fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. Rent a pontoon boat for the afternoon or just relax on the beach.
Lake Greeson & Narrows Dam
Lake Greeson is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts and kayakers alike. Known for excellent bass, crappie, and striper fishing, the lake also offers beautiful scenery and several campgrounds along its shores. The Narrows Dam area is a favorite local spot for a scenic walk and picnic.
Crater of Diamonds State Park
The only diamond mine in the world where the public can dig — and keep whatever they find. Visitors have unearthed thousands of diamonds over the years, including some significant gems. Bring your tools and spend the morning sifting through the plowed field. It's a uniquely Arkansas experience that guests absolutely rave about. Perfect for families.
Glenwood Golf & Country Club
A beautiful 9-hole course surrounded by Ouachita hills. Perfect for golfers looking to mix a nature retreat with their favorite sport. The clubhouse offers casual dining and a relaxing atmosphere. Book a tee time the morning of — it's rarely crowded and the greens are well-kept.
Mount Ida — Quartz Crystal Capital of the World
Mount Ida is officially recognized as the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, and it's just 30 minutes from the cabin. The surrounding Ouachita Mountains are home to some of the highest-quality quartz crystal deposits on Earth. Visit mines like Wegner Crystal Mines or the Stanley Mine on Fisher Mountain where you can dig for your own stunning crystals to take home. The town also features crystal shops, galleries, and a charming small-town atmosphere that rockhounds and gem lovers adore.
Hot Springs National Park & Bathhouse Row
A National Park unlike any other — right in the heart of a small city. The historic Bathhouse Row features eight stunning Gilded Age bathhouses along Central Avenue. Buckstaff Bathhouse still offers traditional thermal baths. Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the park's visitor center with fascinating exhibits. Stroll the Grand Promenade, hike Hot Springs Mountain, and take in the jaw-dropping architecture.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the American South, perched on a 210-acre peninsula jutting into Lake Hamilton. Operated by the University of Arkansas, Garvan features stunning seasonal displays — spring azaleas and dogwoods, summer water gardens, and a spectacular Christmas lights show. The Evans Children's Adventure Garden is a delight for families.
Lake Hamilton & Lake Catherine
Hot Springs sits between two gorgeous lakes — Hamilton and Catherine — both offering excellent boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and lakeside dining. Rent a boat or jet ski from one of the marinas, grab lunch at a waterfront restaurant, and spend an afternoon on the water. The scenery from the water looking back at the wooded hills is stunning.
Mid-America Science Museum
An outstanding hands-on science museum that's a favorite for families and curious adults alike. Features a van de Graaff generator, live animal exhibits, a nature trail through 10 acres of forest, and rotating exhibits that cover everything from physics to natural history. One of the best kept secrets in Hot Springs.
Rolando's Restaurante — Hot Springs
One of Hot Springs' most beloved restaurants and a true local institution. Rolando's serves exceptional Nuevo Latino cuisine in a warm, colorful atmosphere on Central Avenue. Think creative tacos, enchiladas with house-made sauces, and fresh margaritas. Known for incredible service and portions that don't quit. Reservations recommended on weekends.
McClard's Bar-B-Q — Hot Springs
An Arkansas legend since 1928 — and still worth every bit of the hype. McClard's slow-smokes their meats over hickory and serves them with their famous sauce, which you can buy by the bottle to take home. Bill Clinton was a regular. Cash only, simple atmosphere, absolutely extraordinary BBQ. Lines form early on weekends.
Fisherman's Wharf — Hot Springs
Perched on the shore of Lake Hamilton, Fisherman's Wharf is the quintessential lakeside dining experience in Hot Springs. Feast on fresh catfish, fried shrimp, and hand-cut steaks while watching boats glide by. The sunset views over the lake from the dining room are absolutely stunning. A must-do for any visit to the area.
Superior Bathhouse Brewery
The only brewery in the world inside a National Park — and they brew with thermal spring water. Superior Bathhouse Brewery occupies a beautifully restored 1916 bathhouse on Bathhouse Row. Enjoy house-crafted beers, a full gastropub menu, and the most unique bar atmosphere you'll find anywhere. The patio overlooking Central Avenue is perfect for people-watching.
Café 1217 — Hot Springs
A charming breakfast and lunch café tucked just off Central Avenue, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Known for creative Southern-influenced dishes, excellent coffee, and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect start to a day of exploring Hot Springs. The French toast and eggs Benedict are consistently excellent. Gets busy on weekend mornings — arrive early.
Hot Springs Quick Guide
Everything you need to plan a perfect day trip — about 40 minutes away
Must-See
- • Hot Springs National Park
- • Bathhouse Row (Fordyce)
- • Grand Promenade Walk
- • Garvan Woodland Gardens
- • Arlington Hotel
Where to Eat
- • Rolando's — Nuevo Latino
- • McClard's BBQ (since 1928)
- • Fisherman's Wharf — lakeside
- • Superior Bathhouse Brewery
- • Café 1217 — breakfast
Shopping & More
- • Central Avenue boutiques
- • Galleries & antique shops
- • Oaklawn Horse Racing
- • Lake Hamilton boat rentals
- • Mid-America Science Museum
Ready to explore?
Book your stay and start planning your Ouachita adventure.
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