Do you ever feel like you need to escape the hum and buzz of regular life for a day? Luckily, as the Natural State, we have many lakes that offer relaxing getaways. With pristine waters, swim beaches, and more, the gorgeous lakes in Arkansas are the best destinations for a day trip or a weekend getaway. But there is one lake where you can unwind and cure all your worries. Of course, it’s Lake Dardanelle in Arkansas. This pretty lake is a paradise for water enthusiasts, and it’s the perfect place to spend the day.

Located along the Arkansas River is Lake Dardanelle, a 34,000-acre man-made reservoir that is the best place to watch the sun go down.
Thomas Roberts/Google
The lake has two access points located inside Lake Dardanelle State Park. But the Russellville location offers the best water recreation.
Ahmet ARDUC/Google
At this location, you’ll find a visitor center with five aquariums and lots of interactive exhibits that the kids will love.
In addition, it’s famous for year-round fishing and its fishing tournaments, but it is the plethora of water sports that keep visitors flocking to the lake.
Lake Dardanelle in Arkansas
Steve Minor/Google
It’s a paradise for water enthusiasts, where you’ll enjoy kayaking, fishing, sailing, waterskiing, jet skiing, swimming, and more.
Swetha Vijayaraghavan/Google
But what makes this lake a great place to relax, are the incredible sunsets and the many locations to witness them.
Thomas Roberts/Google
The fishing pier is a favorite spot to unwind and watch the sky change colors in real time.

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You can also take a walk on the jetty to watch the sun go down…
Thomas Roberts/Google
…or you’ll love watching the sunset from the waterfront campground.
Michele L/Google
There are also benches on the edge of the lake that offer stunning views…
Thomas Roberts/Google
…or peacefully drift on the water in a boat or in a kayak for a more tranquil experience.
Lake Dardanelle in Arkansas
Thomas Roberts/Google
Regardless of where you choose to watch the sun go down, one thing is for sure, Lake Dardanelle sunsets will cure any worries that you have.
J YZ/Google
So, the next time you feel the need to unwind, head to Russellville and spend the day on the water. And when you’re done drifting, grab your favorite spot to witness the spectacular views of the incredible sunsets.  

Have you witnessed the sunsets at Lake Dardanelle? If so, where was your favorite place to watch it go down? Tell us in the comments below.

Wanna go on an adventure at Lake Dardanelle in Arkansas? Here’s a quick YouTube video by Arkie Travels exploring the gorgeous lake. 

And if you’re searching for more ways to unwind, here’s another lake In Arkansas that’s perfect for a relaxing day.

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LAKE DARDANELLE IN ARKANSAS & RELATED INFO

Melanie J. | June 20, 2023

What are the most popular lakes in Arkansas?

There are over 2,000 lakes in Arkansas, and while Lake Dardanelle is one of the most popular ones, here are some more Arkansas lakes that are worth your bucket list: 

  • Lake Ouachita, Mountain Pine
  • Norfork Lake, Mountain Home
  • DeGray Lake, Bismarck
  • Mirror Lake, Fifty-Six
  • Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Springs
  • Bull Shoals Lake, Mountain Home
  • Beaver Lake, Rogers
  • Lake Fort Smith, Mountain Home
  • Lake Greeson, Murfreesboro
  • Table Rock Lake, Near Beaver


To discover more about these pristine lakes, check out this previous article with 9 of the most popular lakes in Arkansas. 

What are the best swim beaches in Arkansas?

If you’re searching for a place to cool off during the warmer months, here are the best swim beaches in Arkansas that are great for a day trip adventure.

  • Sandy Beach, Heber Springs
  • Crown Lake, Horseshoe Bend
  • Brady Mountain Recreational Area, Royal
  • Lake Bennett, Greenbrier
  • Balboa Beach (Private), Hot Springs Village
  • Lake Charles, Powhatan
  • Blue Mountain Lake, Havana
  • Old Highway 25 Park Beach, Tumbling Shoals
  • Storm Creek Lake, St Francis Township
  • Lake Austell, Wynne


Also, be sure to read this previous article telling you more about the best swim beaches in Arkansas.

What are some of the best day trips in Arkansas?

There is no shortage of things to do in our state, and here are some of the best day trips in Arkansas that we would recommend: 

  • Magic Springs, Hot Springs
  • Buffalo National River, Compton
  • Crater of Diamonds State Park, Murfreesboro
  • Mount Magazine State Park, Paris
  • Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs
  • Blanchard Springs Cavern, Fifty-Six
  • Little Rock Zoo, Little Rock
  • Arkansas Air & Military Museum, Fayetteville
  • Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, Eureka Springs
  • Chase Waterfalls Inside The Ozarks
  • Natural Bridge, Clinton
  • Hike the Lost Valley Trail, Ponca


If you’re searching for more fun ideas, here’s an article with more day trips in Arkansas.

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Featured Addresses
Lake Dardanelle State Park, 100 State Park Drive, Russellville, AR 72802, USA