Otter Creek is a popular community for families to settle in Metro Little Rock. The wealth of recreational amenities—from biking trails and basketball courts to a renowned racquet club and coveted pools—are powerful motivating factors.

Near the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and the Little Rock city limits lies the metro’s best-kept secret: Otter Creek, Ferndale and the Highway 10 “country living corridor.” Residents here boast of peace, quiet and lots of space. Scenic living is just a short drive from urban conveniences, and developments like the Gateway Town Center bring even more employment opportunities.

This part of Little Rock was already a favorite among families, but the reasons to settle here continue to grow. A Bass Pro Shop just opened, a big outlet mall is in the works, and the new Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park (above) just opened, offering go-karts, putt putt, batting cages, bumper boats and more. It’s the only attraction of its kind in the metro.

Ferndale boasts the shopping and dining perks of nearby Chenal Valley with more room to play. Otter Creek is little more than a mile from the town center and is jam-packed with amenities for members, including an 8,000-SF clubhouse, pools and fitness center. Fitness enthusiasts also enjoy walking, running or cycling more than 6 miles of maintained trials through the neighborhood.

In fact, all who live in the area have access to great recreational amenities. Eagle Hill Golf & Athletic Club offers more than just 18 holes of championship golf (and affordable monthly rates). The club, which is home to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock golf teams, also has a state-of-the-art fitness facility.

NEW SHOPPING

The Outlets of Little Rock in the Gateway Town Center is home to 75 stores, including LOFT, Nike and Old Navy. Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is nearby as well as Dave & Buster's.