Lake Ouachita — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Ouachita, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Ouachita today is 17.7°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 26 | 20.2°C | 22.2°C | |
| OCT 27 | 20.3°C | 22.2°C | |
| OCT 28 | 20.1°C | 22.2°C | |
| OCT 29 | 19.9°C | 22.2°C | |
| OCT 30 | 19.1°C | 22.2°C | |
| OCT 31 | 19.2°C | 22.2°C | |
| NOV 1 | 19.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| NOV 2 | 17.7°C | 16.8°C | |
| NOV 3 | 16.8°C | 17.7°C | |
| NOV 4 | 16.8°C | 17.6°C | |
| NOV 5 | 16.8°C | 17.6°C | |
| NOV 6 | 16.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 16.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 16.8°C | 17.4°C | |
| NOV 9 | 16.8°C | 17.4°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| February | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| March | 6°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| April | 12°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| May | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| June | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| October | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| November | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
Lake Ouachita: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Ouachita: Weather Forecast
November 2
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Lake Ouachita, located west of Hot Springs in the Ouachita Mountains, is the largest lake in Arkansas and one of the cleanest freshwater lakes in the United States. Its water temperature changes noticeably throughout the year due to its great depth and clear mountain inflows. In winter, surface temperatures generally range from 7–10 °C (45–50 °F), making the water too cold for swimming. During spring, the lake gradually warms to 15–20 °C (59–68 °F) as the days grow longer. By midsummer, surface temperatures typically reach 25–29 °C (77–84 °F), while deeper sections remain much cooler. In autumn, the lake slowly cools again to around 15–20 °C (59–68 °F) as the weather transitions toward winter.
Swimming in Lake Ouachita is officially allowed and widely enjoyed during the summer months, from late May through early September, when the water is warm and calm. The lake’s excellent clarity and clean, mineral-rich water make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Designated swimming areas are found in Lake Ouachita State Park and other recreation sites along its shoreline. Outside the warm season, swimming becomes less comfortable due to cooler water and windier conditions, but the lake remains a year-round destination for boating, camping, and outdoor recreation.