Lake Charles is in Lawrence County, Arkansas in the United States. Situated in the The Ozarks along the Black River, 645-acre (261 ha) artificial Lake Charles.
The lake is a result of a partnership of four agencies to construct a multipurpose lake just north of Shirey Bay Rainey Brake Wildlife Management Area in an effort to control flooding and preserve the watershed. Construction on the lake began in 1964, and the park was dedicated in 1967.
The lake is maintained by the AGFC, who stock catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, white bass, and others. Camping is available at any of Lake Charles’ 61 campsites (23 class AAA, 37 class B, one RV). Lake Charles offers four trails for walking and hiking, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. There are picnic areas, a playground, a screened-in pavilion with fans, fishing and boat docks, an interpretive nature center and gift shop.
- Surface area (mi)
- 400.78
- Max depth (ft)
- 69.88
- Elevation (ft)
- 272.31
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 14.91
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Jet Skiing
Islands
Emerging from the shimmering waters, the islands of Lake Charles in Arkansas captivate visitors with their serene beauty and intriguing history. With a backdrop of towering pines and vibrant wildlife, these isles serve as recreational paradises, perfect for boating, picnicking, and fishing. Historical landmarks dot the landscape, whispering tales of the past where settlers once roamed. Hiking trails meander through lush greenery, leading to lookouts that unveil breathtaking vistas of the water’s expanse, making them ideal spots for photography enthusiasts seeking the perfect shot. The islands also host hidden gems like the historical remnants of a 19th-century lighthouse, echoing the area’s storied maritime heritage. Whether you’re drawn to its natural allure or the charming pockets of history, these islands are a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be explored.
Nearby amenities
A variety of amenities enhance the experience of visiting this picturesque lake in Arkansas. Boating enthusiasts will find multiple options including the Lake Charles Marina, which offers boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and a dedicated boat ramp for easy access. For those looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the water, a public dock and convenient facilities for fueling and washing boats are available. Nearby, the local general store supplies everything from groceries to fishing gear, ensuring visitors have all they need. Dining options abound with the Lakeview Restaurant providing scenic lakefront views and delicious meals. For overnight stays, consider renting a cabin at the Lake Charles Cabins or setting up camp at the local campground, which features tent sites and RV hookups. Nature lovers can explore hiking trails within nearby state parks, while a dedicated swimming area welcomes families looking to relax by the water. Facilities such as clean restrooms, picnic areas, and fire pits make this an ideal destination for travelers.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Charles has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Charles. You can swim at North Beach, a white-sand beach on Lake Charles, which is open daily from 10am to 8pm. However, swimming is subject to health advisories based on weekly water quality tests.
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Lake Charles is a popular destination because of its diverse attractions. It offers Vegas-style casinos like the Golden Nugget and L’Auberge Casino Resort, as well as outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and birdwatching in places like Sam Houston Jones State Park and Prien Lake Park. The city also features free museums and lively festivals.
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There are no daily limits for crappie in Lake Charles, Arkansas, but crappie must be at least 10 inches in length. This size restriction applies to prevent the possession of smaller crappie to help conserve the population. This rule is specific to Lake Charles and several other lakes in the state.
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There is no public beach at Lake Charles with a boat launch. However, there are several public boat launches in the area, such as Calcasieu Point Landing and Prien Lake Park Boat Launch, which provide access to various waterways for boating and fishing.
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Towns near Lake Charles, Arkansas, include Black Rock, Hoxie, Imboden, and Walnut Ridge, all located in Lawrence County. These towns are close to the lake, which is a 645-acre impoundment in the region. Other nearby towns include Alicia, Lynn, and Smithville, also within Lawrence County.