Boat docks and lifts for Hot Springs lakefront homes
Planning a new dock, adding a lift, or fixing storm damage? One call connects you with a local dock builder who works on your lake.
What do you need on the water?
- New boat docksFloating and stationary docks designed for your shoreline, boat and lake rules.
- Boat lifts and PWC liftsBoat lifts, personal watercraft lifts and lift repair for new and existing docks.
- Dock repair and storm damageFlotation, decking, cables, walkways and storm damage repair for existing docks.
- Boathouses and covered docksRoofs over slips, boathouses, and upper decks within lake height limits.
- Seawalls and shoreline protectionSeawalls, riprap and bank stabilization to stop erosion along your shoreline.
How it works
Call or send a request
Tell us your lake and what you need on your shoreline.
We connect you
Your call goes to an independent dock or marine contractor that serves the Hot Springs lakes.
They call you back
They look at your shoreline and quote the work directly.
Who is this for?
Lakefront owners in and around Hot Springs, Arkansas: on Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine south of town, on Lake Ouachita to the west, and on the private lakes of Hot Springs Village. Whether you're building your first dock, replacing an aging one, adding a boat or personal watercraft lift, or repairing damage after a storm, a local builder who knows your lake's rules makes the job go smoother.
What kinds of docks are built here?
- Floating docks ride up and down with the water level on encapsulated flotation, held in place by cables, pilings or arms to shore.
- Stationary (fixed) docks sit on pilings or posts and suit shallow, stable shorelines.
- Covered docks and boathouses add a roof over the slip to protect boats from sun and weather.
- Boat lifts and PWC lifts keep hulls out of the water when the boat isn't in use.
- Seawalls and shoreline protection stop erosion where the yard meets the lake.
Do I need a permit for a dock on Lake Hamilton?
Yes. Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine are part of Entergy's hydroelectric project, and Entergy requires the property owner to apply and receive a permit before building, placing or changing a dock, pier or deck. Entergy's single-family facility rules limit deck height to 5 feet and roof height to 15 feet above summertime full pool. Lake Ouachita is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Hot Springs Village lakes are governed by the Village's property owners' association. See the Hot Springs lake dock guide for details.
When is the best time to build or repair a dock?
Many owners plan dock work for the off-season so the dock is ready by spring. On Lakes Hamilton and Catherine, Entergy lowers the water in winter as part of its vegetation management plan, usually alternating 3-foot and 5-foot drawdowns starting in November, which exposes shoreline for seawall and shallow-water work. Permit reviews take time too, so start early if you want a new dock in place for summer.
How do changing lake levels affect a dock?
Water levels on the Hot Springs lakes aren't fixed. Winter drawdowns, heavy rain and dry spells all move the waterline. Floating docks handle this best, but their anchoring and walkways have to allow for the full range: cables need the right length and tension, and the ramp from shore needs enough length and hinge travel so it doesn't bind or get too steep. In shallow coves, a drawdown can leave a dock sitting on the bottom, so water depth at your shoreline matters when choosing the dock's location and design.
What decking holds up best in Arkansas summers?
Wood is the traditional choice and costs less up front, but needs regular sealing and board replacement. Composite and aluminum decking cost more but resist rot and splinters; some composites get hot in direct sun, so ask about heat-resistant options if you'll be barefoot on the dock. A roof over part of the dock also helps keep the surface cooler.
What does a new dock cost?
It depends on size, the number of slips, floating vs. stationary design, decking material, roof, lifts, electrical and water depth at your shoreline. The builder you're connected with looks at the site and gives you a written quote. We don't set or quote prices.
What should a dock builder handle for me?
- Measuring your shoreline and water depth, and designing a dock that fits your boat and lake rules
- Preparing drawings for the permit application, which the property owner submits
- Choosing flotation, decking, framing and anchoring suited to the lake's water-level changes
- Coordinating electrical work for lights, outlets and lifts with a licensed electrician
Is this a dock company?
No. Hot Springs Dock Builders is a referral service. We connect you with an independent dock or marine contractor that serves your lake, and that company designs, quotes, builds and warranties the work. Before you sign, read our tips for hiring a dock builder.
Areas we cover
Planning ahead? Read our Hot Springs lake dock guide.
Common questions
Who will build my dock?
An independent dock or marine contractor that serves your lake. We connect you with them. We don't build docks ourselves.
Is there a charge to use this site?
No. Calling or sending a request is free. The builder quotes and bills the work directly.
What lakes do you cover?
Lake Hamilton, Lake Catherine, Lake Ouachita, the lakes of Hot Springs Village, and other lakes within reach of Hot Springs.
Who applies for the Entergy dock permit?
The property owner named on the deed submits the application. Your builder can usually prepare the drawings and help you put it together.
Planning a new dock or fixing an old one?
Call now and a local dock builder will look at your shoreline and quote the work.