Lake Leatherwood

Spring-fed Lake Leatherwood is defined by one of the largest hand-cut limestone dams in the nation. This 85-acre lake with over three miles of shoreline is the center attraction for Lake Leatherwood Park, a 1,600-plus-acre municipal park constructed during the 1940s. About 15 miles of trails offer some of the best hiking and mountain biking around. The park is also popular for swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, historic stone walls and bridges, unusual rock formations and the beauty of nature. The park is home to a diverse population of water foul and other birds, including heron, geese, bald eagles and wild turkey. Cabins are available for rent. Fishing: Its water is home to blue gill, crappie, bream, large mouth bass and channel catfish. Fishing is allowed from the bank or from boats. The park has a paved boat launch and a "no wake" rule applies to motorized boats. Lake Leatherwood is located just two miles west of Eureka Springs off U.S. 62. For more information: 532 Spring Street, Eureka Springs, AR 72632; 479-253-2866.