Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Lake Poinsett State Park.
A few months back, I wrote a series of articles covering five state parks situated in the northeastern section of Arkansas. Recently revisiting the Crowley's Ridge area, I decided it might prove advantageous to visit a few more facilities.
Spring break is just around the corner, and although this area is a pretty good drive from our neck of the woods, it's a great destination, especially when one is armed with an itinerary chocked full of opportunities to keep the family occupied and entertained for several days.
Located within an hour or so of Harrisburg, Lake Poinsett State Park is by no means the largest state park in their section of the state, but the facility has plenty to offer. Located on the banks of Lake Poinsett, it is a great destination for those who enjoy being on or near water.
Rolling into the visitor center during our recent visit, I immediately noticed a couple of fish hanging on the wall. According to the lady behind the counter, the large crappie and impressive largemouth had been taken from the reservoir.
Although I certainly wouldn't turn down an opportunity to coax a few largemouths from the water, the lady suggested that Lake Poinsett was most revered for the stringers of crappie that it produces on a regular basis.
Of course, one must be equipped with the proper gear to catch this species with consistency. That in mind, the facility sells a selection of lures. I would suspect avid crappie anglers would already have that "magic lure" in their box of baits, but one never knows. And those who do not keep up with the trends will certainly benefit from accepting any suggestions the staff might have to offer.
In many cases, an avid angler will have his boat secured to his vehicle. I, however, would also suspect there are those who would find it most convenient to simply rent a craft upon arrival.
Either way, the state park is prepared to cater to both groups. Those preferring to fish from their own personal craft will appreciate a nice launching ramp that is located within the perimeter of the facility.
Those visiting without a boat can simply rent a craft at the state park. The crafts, however, are not rigged with motors.
Lake Poinsett is also a great kayak fishing destination. Of course, there are pros and cons to fishing from these rigs, but as an avid kayak angler, I would suggest at least giving it try. If the fish aren't biting, it would prove a perfect opportunity to simply take a pleasant excursion along the edge of the shoreline.
There is also plenty to keep those who are not into the sport of fishing occupied, as well. In fact, hiking enthusiasts will likely enjoy a trek along Great Blue Heron Trail.
From the trailhead, the 1.1-mile path meanders along the backside of a nearby pocket before arriving at an intersection. It matters not the direction one chooses to walk at this point, as the designated route eventually loops back into itself. One might also consider embarking upon a short detour along the spur located on the eastern section of the loop, as it will lead the hiker to the lake's edge.
Although the trees in our forest presently appear as skeletons, it won't be long until their barren limbs begin to bear the crisp, green foliage that comes with spring. With this transformation, wildflowers will likely abound alongside the designated route.
We certainly benefit from a diversity of wildflowers here in the Ouachitas. The Crowley's Ridge section of the state, however, boasts many species that are indigenous to that specific area. That in mind, wildflowers enthusiasts might consider this park as a springtime destination.
The facility is also a great destination for those who enjoy extended stays among Mother Nature. The facility sports a camping area shaded by the canopy of native trees. Twenty-six sites are equipped with dual-voltage electrical services and freeze-proof water connections, lending to an opportunity to utilize them throughout all seasons. As one might suspect, a picnic table and fire grate are also provided at each designated camping spot.
Primitive campers are also welcomed to come and enjoy a stay under the stars, as there is ample space nearby to pitch a tent. Especially those who are not hanging their hats in an RV will appreciate the bath house that is open during the warmer months of the year.
Lake Poinsett State Park also caters to those who enjoy their days in the outdoors but favor the conveniences of their home when the night sky overtakes the day. Several picnic sites are dispersed throughout the facility, each and every one sporting a picnic table and grill.
Those looking for a destination to enjoy a group outing might also consider the state park as a destination, as the pavilion can be reserved for a "modest fee."
One would likely be right upon thinking all of the aforementioned perks would be more than enough to keep an adult occupied. But it's also a known fact that children are fueled with a great deal more energy than are their elders. But never fear. The younger kids will find the playground of great interest and can spend a portion of their day climbing on the equipment.
There is also ample room on the premises where a tag football game might come to fruition. And for those with a passion for what many once considered the greatest game in America, there's no reason one can't conjure up a friendly game of baseball. What the heck, one could even burn a few calories while cooling their youngster's jets by tossing a Frisbee to and fro.
During my most recent visit to Lake Poinsett State Park, I was not prepared to embark upon a fishing trip on this 640-acre reservoir, nor did I have ample time to simply kick back and soak up the beauty around me. But with a little luck, I'll return to this destination again in the near future, armed with my fishing gear and eagerness to get better acquainted with this bountiful section of Arkansas.
To get to Lake Poinsett State Park, from Harrisburg, travel east 1 mile on Highway 14, then take Highway 163 south 3 miles to the park. From Wynn, travel east on Highway 64 just 5 miles to Levesque, then turn north on Highway 163 and drive 21 miles to the park.
Local on 02/13/2015