By: 
Jenn Menge
 Updated: 
Purple Martins on Lake Ouachita

Part of our mission at Lake Ouachita State Park is to provide access to Lake Ouachita, which is filled with many wonderful natural resources.

One of the most unique sights – a huge roost of purple martins – is only visible for a small portion of the year. From mid-July to mid-August, thousands of purple martins flock to a small island on the lake to gather and rest before continuing their migration to South America for the winter.

In this short video, join Park Interpreter Jenn Menge for a virtual boat ride out to this small island. See flocks of birds fill the sky and hear the flapping of thousands of wings. This sight, along with a beautiful sunset, is one Lake Ouachita experience you can’t miss.

The park offers full-service housekeeping cabins, more primitive camper cabins, and a variety of campsites to make your Lake Ouachita State Park visit a comfortable and relaxing nature vacation. Visit our website and book your reservations!