WATCH: River Road Park — Great destination for all kinds of outdoor lovers

River Road Park is situated at the base of Nimrod Dam, just south of Plainview. - Photo by Corbet Deary of The Sentinel-Record
River Road Park is situated at the base of Nimrod Dam, just south of Plainview. - Photo by Corbet Deary of The Sentinel-Record

Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to River Road Park.

I don't suppose I am the only person who is intrigued by dams. These structures are often massive and capable of containing millions of gallons of water.

Dams were built with various purposes in mind. And I would suspect that river navigation, hydroelectric power, flood control and a reliable water source are the four most important to Joe Public.

The Hoover Dam is likely the most popular of these human-made structures throughout the United States, and rightfully so. It is massive, towering 726 feet in height. But a hefty price was paid during its construction between 1931 and 1936, as more than 100 lives were lost during the project.

There is yet another dam in the United States that is even taller. Nestled in a canyon in California the Oroville Dam is more than 770 feet tall.

Although we do not sport any of the largest of these human-made wonders, Arkansas certainly has its fair share of dams staggered throughout its rivers. In fact, we have three right here in our backyards, all of which produce hydroelectric power.

There is yet another dam, located less than one hour north of Hot Springs. And although the Nimrod Dam is not responsible for producing electricity, it does play an important role.

Containing the Main Fourche Lafave River, it provides a source of flood control for those residing downstream of the waterway.

Nimrod is no different from its sister dams in the sense that its uses extend beyond their original purpose. In fact, I think it would be safe to say that most of these structures provide a playground for those with a passion for the wonderful outdoors.

With that in mind, recreation areas have been built both above and below dams. And the Old River Road Park is a destination where I have returned time and time again throughout past excursions.

Located at Fourche Junction, 9 miles south of Plainview, the dam was completed in 1942. The dam stretches 1,012 feet across and extends 97 feet above ground level in the drainage area -- 104,400 cubic yards of concrete were used during the construction of the project, and it contains 18,300 acres of surface area at the top of the flood control pool.

Situated at the base of Nimrod Dam, this quaint recreation area is a popular destination throughout all seasons. Of course, those who enjoy fishing gravitate to the park, and for good reason.

Those wetting a hook in the reservoir's tailwaters are apt to experience their fair share of success. Of course, those who prefer soaking a glob of chicken liver or a juicy night crawler are most apt to tie into an occasional catfish. But this section of the river is also revered by anglers as a good crappie fishing destination.

I have caught a few bass in these tailwaters, as well, and I would suspect that bream swim within the perimeters of the shoreline. But one must be aware that the water levels and current vary drastically, as a result of releasing water from the lake on a regular basis.

Of course, swimming, pleasure boating and other such water activities are not feasible immediately below the dam. In fact, they would prove downright dangerous.

But there are opportunities awaiting those who chose to put their crafts in above the dam. However, I feel compelled to warn people that the lake is rather shallow and inundated with standing timber and stumps.

There is a designated ski zone within the perimeters of the lake. But I would suggest that there are far more skier-friendly waters right here at our area lakes.

There are also designated swimming areas at a couple of the recreation areas located on the reservoir's shoreline.

Now let's talk fishing. Nimrod Lake is a very popular destination for those with a passion for catching crappie, as an abundance of the aforementioned natural obstacles provides an optimal habitat for this particular game fish species to thrive.

Bream fishing enthusiasts also gather at the lake during the annual spawn. Bass thrive in its waters, as well. And although the lake is not necessarily known as a trophy bass reservoir, it does cough up a dandy from time to time.

I can recall fishing for catfish on the reservoir, with my father, a number of years ago. And if memory serves me, we did manage to coax our fair share into biting.

Anglers are not the only outdoor enthusiasts who take advantage of the 15 campsites and the picnic sites waiting at the River Road Park. In fact, hunters are apt to be seen utilizing the facility in the weeks to come.

Several thousand acres of national forest land is located within minutes of the park. This public property is bountiful with whitetails. In fact, it's not uncommon for those hunting this section of the forest to bag trophy bucks. Black bears are also plentiful in this section of the state, as are any other huntable wildlife that is known to roam this section of the state.

One does not have to be a hunter or fisherman to enjoy the park. In fact, there are plenty of interesting scenes and opportunities awaiting those who savor Mother Nature.

Several wildflower species can be found growing in the area during the spring and summer months. In fact, I have returned to the facility a number of times, with intentions of photographing a colony of leather flowers that make an annual showing alongside the trail leading from the park to the base of the dam.

Speaking of trails, those who embark upon a trek along the top of the dam will be greeted with a nice dedicated path beginning at the opposing side of the structure.

The path makes a loop consisting of about 1.5 miles prior to tying back into itself at the trailhead. The route makes a mild ascent to and follows the ridgeline for a short distance prior to winding slightly down the hill and running alongside the reservoir. Although the beaten path runs predominantly through the forest, it does lend to occasional glances the lake.

The trail is not overly used, and in turn is a great location where those who are quiet are apt to see native wildlife unsuspectingly going about their everyday business.

Those who enjoy bird watching might find it exciting that the reservoir is a resting area for migratory waterfowl. And don't be surprised if you see a bald eagle soaring overhead in the months to come.

Of course, those who stray a little farther are apt to see native critters in the nearby national forest lands as well. But bear in mind that we are in the midst of the annual deer hunting season.

We've already discussed a few of the River Road Park's attributes, but there are a few more perks that deem it even a better destination. Let's not forget that drinking water is on site, as are toilets and showers.

Yep, the River Road Park is certainly worthy of consideration. And it is a destination where I will likely return in the weeks to come.

To get to the recreation area from Hot Springs, travel north on Highway 5 and turn left onto Highway 7 at the junction, just past Fountain Lake School. Travel 37 miles and the entrance will be on the left.

River Road Park is a great destination for hunters, anglers and outdoor lovers of all descriptions. - Photo by Corbet Deary of The Sentinel-Record
River Road Park is a great destination for hunters, anglers and outdoor lovers of all descriptions. - Photo by Corbet Deary of The Sentinel-Record

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