The Ouachitas mountains feature ridges that stretch from east to west - unusual in North America. Near Murfreesboro, visitors can hunt for - and keep - diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park. Other state parks offer more typical recreational options, including golf. A number of recreational areas and private resorts that accommodate a complete array of watersports, including scuba diving, dot the shores of five lakes.

The Cossatot, Caddo and Ouachita rivers invite canoeing enthusiasts. Below the dams on the Little Missouri and Ouachita rivers, winter fishing for trout can be enjoyed. The Ouachita National Forest includes Shady Lake and Albert Pike camping sites, trails and scenic byways. Queen Wilhelmina State Park contains a lodge and spectacular views.

The Ouachitas region boasts the city of Hot Springs, the state's premier tourist destination and home of Hot Springs National Park. Family attractions, such as rollercoasters and waterparks, are abundant. There also are live music, shows and thermal baths. Other tourist draws in the Hot Springs area are the Belle of Hot Springs, Garvan Woodlands Gardens and the city's noted arts district.

The region's numerous museums include the Lum and Abner Museum and Jot 'em Down Store in Pine Ridge.