See A Whole New Side Of Arkansas At These 7 Snorkeling Spots
By Carol Ann Carson|Published August 05, 2019
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
The forests are lovely and the waterfalls are gorgeous but the beauty of Arkansas isn’t just surface-deep. These 7 snorkeling spots are just some of our favorite places to see the underside of the Natural State. Let’s dive right in and see what exciting treasures await beneath the water.
Water enthusiasts of every skill level can enjoy the clear waters of Beaver Lake. Scuba divers can explore sunken boats, cars, and even a bus during their excursion. Snorkelers will quickly be greeted by dozens of fish and other critters while looking along the shoreline. If you'd like to see the sunken boat at Beaver Lake, watch this video.
The wild rapids for kayakers aren't the only thing the Cossatot River has to offer. The different coves and calmer parts of the river have plenty of spots for snorkeling. The chilly waters stay consistently clear for families wanting to take a swim and snorkel break on the river.
It’s impossible not to love a trip to one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S! The lake is so clear that harmless jellyfish and sponges that can only live in the most pristine environments thrive here. Even if you don't spot a jellyfish, the other fish won't be shy. This is also the lake that contains an underwater memorial, if you'd like to learn more about that read this article.
No where will beat Lake Ouachita for its clarity but the Buffalo River still offers a fish-filled view beneath the water. The entire length of the river can technically be snorkeled but you'll have the best luck along the coves, especially around the Middle District. Pack your goggles to add another little adventure to your float or camping trip at the river.
The second-largest lake in Arkansas certainly has some of the best water for snorkeling. The Bull Shoals-White River State Park routinely offers guided kayak and snorkeling tours around the lake. Here's more information on those tours.
Another fantastic place to visit for your snorkeling adventure is Arkansas' island resort, the DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Find the perfect cove to snorkel during your kayaking along the water trail. This state park also offers guided snorkeling tours around the lake anyone ages 8 and up.
There's plenty of underwater adventure to be had at Norfork Lake. The clear waters have up to 60-ft. visibility for optimal treasure hunting. Divers can explore one of the 30+ dive sites that are all mapped out and highlight underwater caves, a playground, and typical fish schools to see. No matter how deep you dive, the underwater views here are astounding!
Where is your favorite spot to snorkel or dive in Arkansas? Share with us in the comments below! Feel free to add your underwater (or surface) adventures with us in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
You can add snorkeling to your island resort vacation or epic float trip this summer.
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