Arkansas is one of the most underrated paddle boarding destinations in the country. With emerald lakes, rugged mountain backdrops, peaceful rivers, and some of the cleanest water in the South, the Natural State offers SUP adventures for every skill level. Whether you love flatwater cruising, SUP fishing, river running, or scenic day trips, Arkansas delivers in a big way.

Below is your complete guide to the best places to paddle board in Arkansas—including a brand-new section on the Rabbit Tail Water Trail.

Greers Ferry Lake is an Arkansas classic—40,500 acres of warm, clear water surrounded by the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. With nearly 350 miles of shoreline, you’ll find hidden coves, quiet inlets, cliff-lined pockets, and even small islands to explore.

One of the highlights is Sugar Loaf Mountain Island, a must-paddle destination. Glide to the shore, tie off your SUP, and hike one of the short trails to the summit for sweeping views of the lake—some of the best in Arkansas.

The lake is exceptionally clean (often ranked in the top tier nationally), ideal for swimming, floating, SUP yoga, and SUP fishing. Hybrid striped bass, white bass, redear sunfish, and more make this a dream for anglers on the Glide O2 Angler.

Greers Ferry also has SUP rentals and outfitters onsite, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding spots to paddle board in the state.

The legendary Buffalo National River was the first U.S. waterway protected as a National River (1972). Flowing 135 miles through bluffs, caves, waterfalls, and dense forest, this is Arkansas wilderness at its finest.

Depending on the section and water level, you’ll encounter everything from calm scenic drifts to Class I and Class II rapids, perfect for the Glide O2 Lochsa. You’ll likely spot wildlife as well—black bear, beavers, mink, otters, and soaring birds of prey.

With multiple outfitters, shuttle services, and multi-day trip options, Buffalo National River is a bucket-list SUP experience.

Beaver Lake is one of Arkansas’s most popular destinations—clear blue water, long winding coves, and about 483 miles of shoreline. SUP rentals and lessons are easy to find, and SUP yoga classes are frequently offered (the Glide O2 Lotus shines here).

The nearby towns of Rogers and Eureka Springs make this lake perfect for a weekend trip. Paddle by day, enjoy hot springs, cold springs, and local food by night.

Launch from Two Rivers Park Bridge near Little Rock for one of the most scenic urban-adjacent SUP routes in Arkansas. Paddle up the peaceful Little Maumelle River toward Pinnacle Mountain, soaking in views of forested banks and slow-moving water ideal for birdwatching.

On the return, you’ll float toward the Big Dam Bridge with views of the Arkansas River merging below. It’s an accessible, calm, and visually rewarding paddle suitable for all skill levels.

The Rabbit Tail Water Trail is one of Arkansas’s hidden SUP gems. Located in the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge, this designated water trail winds through a maze of wetlands, old-growth cypress stands, and quiet backwaters teeming with wildlife.

Expect glassy water, towering cypress knees, herons stalking the shallows, and a peaceful, slow-moving route ideal for beginners and nature lovers. The water trail is marked and easy to navigate, offering:

• Calm, sheltered paddling

• Abundant wildlife viewing

• Unique swamp-style scenery rarely found outside the Deep South

• A perfect environment for photography and SUP exploration

If you want a true “off the beaten path” Arkansas paddle, Rabbit Tail Water Trail deserves a spot on your list.

The Arkansas River offers a wide variety of paddling options depending on region and flow. Near Little Rock, you can connect it with the Little Maumelle River for a full-day adventure. It’s a big-water river, so check flow conditions and wind before heading out.

A favorite for recreation, DeGray Lake offers clear water, sandy beaches, and plentiful SUP-friendly coves. It’s also a solid spot for SUP fishing and overnight camping. Outfitters are available seasonally.

The Ouachita River is a scenic, winding river offering long stretches of quiet paddling through forested valleys. Expect gentle current, wildlife viewing, and multiple access points that make trip planning easy.

Known for trout fishing, the White River also makes a beautiful SUP destination, especially on calmer, wider stretches. Morning fog drifting across the water creates a peaceful, surreal paddling atmosphere.

Already featured above—but worth repeating if you want SUP rentals, calm conditions, and big open stretches for longer paddles.

Arkansas may not be the first state people think of for paddle boarding—but once you explore its crystal-clear lakes, wild rivers, and peaceful wetland trails, you’ll understand why locals are so passionate about SUP here. From Greers Ferry’s island views to the wilderness of the Buffalo, the calm serenity of Rabbit Tail Water Trail, and the variety offered by lakes and rivers statewide, Arkansas is a paddle paradise waiting to be explored.

Wherever you go, share your adventures with #glidesup—and enjoy every minute on the water in the Natural State.