Visit the Arkansas Ozarks This Summer

When the heat of summer becomes too much to bear, the Arkansas Ozarks offer sparkling lakes, refreshing breezes, and fascinating underground caverns to provide a welcome break from the rising summer temperatures.

The Arkansas Ozarks are well-known for their natural beauty and the abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nowhere is that more evident than in the number of natural and man made lakes nestled in the mountains. Bull Shoals Lake draws visitors from all over the region for top notch fishing, as well as swimming in the clean clear water, scuba diving, water skiing, swimming, camping and just all around relaxing. The state record for hybrid bass, a 29 pound 1 ounce catch, was reeled in at Bull Shoals by Mountain Home resident Frank Talbert Jr. Bull Shoals offers a great day excursion, but there is enough to do to keep the whole family busy for an extended vacation. Boats and motors are available for rent. The Corp of Engineers operate launching ramps for campers who have their own boats.

If you're feeling more adventurous, the Buffalo National River provides rafting opportunities for both the novice and experienced rafter. Placid areas give families an opportunity to enjoy quiet time in the wilderness, while areas of whitewater rapids provide a workout for the more adventurous visitor. "Floating the Buffalo" is a popular Arkansas past time. The river is one of the few rivers in the continental U.S. without dams. Campgrounds are available for a nominal fee, and fishing guide services are available. Cabins are also available. For the history buff, the Buffalo meanders past early Arkansas settlements like Rush.