It’s hot, fellow adventurers. This is not news. August is the time of year we really start to yearn for fall in Arkansas, but there’s no sense wishing our lives away when there’s plenty of excellent Arkansas adventure at our fingertips now. Where? We thought you’d never ask!
Lake Catherine State Park By now many of our lakes have come to resemble tepid bath water, but not this little gem. Thanks to its narrow contour it stays nice and chilled for, well, chililn’. Not only that, since the cabin cruisers and other lake monsters stick to the other side of Carpenter Dam Lake Catherine is kayak, stand up paddle board and Jonboat friendly. There’s plenty to see, too, including Falls Creek Falls, accessible by water and land.
Falls Creek Falls via Falls Branch Trail, Lake Catherine State Park. Courtesy of Arkansas State Parks
And, if your crew tires of the lake you can always spend some time in one of our best state parks (that’s a high bar to clear). One word of caution – if you go, beware the infamous Lake Catherine Pringle Bandit.
Note: Lake Catherine State Park welcomes furry family members (even Pringle bandits). Just be sure to comply with park regulations including keeping your pup leashed. After all, there are only so many Pringles to go around.
Swimming Holes Swimming hole hunting is a time honored Arkansas tradition. For an outstanding day of Arkansas adventure throw the crew, some towels and a cooler of your favorite grub and beverages in the family truckster and get after it. We won’t tell you exactly where to look, but we will give you a hint.
P.S. Take a close look at the cover photo. Look familiar?
Remmel Dam to Rockport, Ouachita River When other rivers around The Natural State have slowed to a trickle never fear, Entergy is here! Every summer weekend between Memorial and Labor Days they release clear, cold water from Remmel Dam into the Ouachita to give floaters an opportunity to play. This is a class I float suitable for canoes, kayaks, rafts, inner tubes, air mattresses, inflatable unicorns………..you get the idea. Just use common sense, especially when you reach the ledge immediately above the takeout. Years ago it was enhanced for whitewater play boaters and as such presents hazards to unwary floaters who venture too far river right. Stay river left close to the shore and you’ll be fine!
Unexpected River Running It seems the last few years the river gods have seen fit to bring unseasonable late summer rain to our rivers. We’ve been taking advantage of their largesse this summer and you should too. The Buffalo, upper Ouachita and other typically too low rivers have been in play at different times. Check the gauges whenever the wet stuff comes and you just might be pleasantly surprised.
Do be sure to follow regulations when you’re on moving water: no glass, all trash stored securely in a container attached to your boat and a properly fitted life jacket for everyone aboard are the three biggies. And hey, as long as you’re there why not remove a little bit of trash? If we all lend a hand we can make a difference.
These are just a few suggestions, and we are fully aware they’re all water based adventures. Like we said – it’s hot!
See you out there!
Deuce
