Spring Lake

Spring Lake is located in an area known for its beautiful natural scenery of sandstone bluffs, flowing streams and lakes and pristine landscapes. This 82-acre lake is in the Magazine Ranger District in the Arkansas River Valley on the western edge of the Ozark National Forest. Spring Lake is a favorite area for water sports, swimming, and fishing. Facilities include 13 family campsite units, 19 family picnic units, central restrooms, drinking water, picnic shelters, swimming beach and bathhouse with showers. Boating is allowed, but there is a "no wake" restriction at all times. Camping trailers are allowed, but no special facilities are available. Spring Lake Recreation Area includes a two-mile loop trail, which leads hikers through scenic hardwood forests. Wildflowers generally bloom year-round. The recreation area is open to visitors from Memorial Day through Labor Day but is closed the rest of the year. Fishing: The lake is home to catfish, bass, and perch. While the recreation area is closed in the off season, the lake is accessible for fishing year-round from dam and spillway area. To get there, take Ark. 27 (paved) southwest from Dardanelle for 9 miles, then right (west) on Ark. 307 (paved) 3 miles to Forest Service Road 1602 (gravel) continuing on 4 miles to Spring Lake. Or take Ark. 307 (paved) north from Belleville for 4 miles to Forest Service Road 1602 (gravel), continue on 1602 for 3 miles. For more information: Magazine Ranger District, P.O. Box 511, Ark. 22 East & Kalamazoo Road, Paris, AR 72855; 479-963-3076