Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Little Fir Recreation Area and Campground.
We are fortunate in the sense that one of Arkansas' pristine lakes is situated right here in our backyard. Nestled in a beautiful setting, Lake Ouachita is surrounded by national forest land and provides outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities galore.
It sports nearly 1,000 miles of shoreline, producing in excess of 40,000 acres of surface water at normal pool elevation. And its depths range from literally inches to in the neighborhood of 200 feet.
More than 200 islands lurk within its perimeters, as a result of the mountainous terrain found throughout the Ouachitas. And its waters are noticeably clearer than a majority of the lakes throughout the state.
Diving enthusiasts take advantage of its visibility, both those who simply enjoy exploring the underwater world and those with hopes of bagging a delectable bounty.
But one doesn't necessarily have to be a diver to benefit from these clear waters. In fact, those who are lucky enough to be at the right place at the right time stand a chance of seeing rare and tiny freshwater jellyfish calling the lake home.
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A plethora of structure lurks below the surface, providing an optimal habitat for native fish species to thrive. And in turn, anglers of all descriptions gravitate to the body of water, especially during the warmer months of the year.
The lake is also a popular destination for those who would rather experience a pleasant boat ride. And one can rest assured that those who enjoy a faster pace can be found zipping to and fro on their personal watercraft and navigating the surface via skis.
Lake Ouachita is easily accessible, as 29 launching ramps can be found along the perimeter. And those who are more into experiencing an extended stay in the midst of the wonderful outdoors will likely be glad to learn that 20 recreation areas are scattered along the shoreline.
I have pretty much utilized all of its launching sites throughout the years, and I suppose I have stayed at all of its campgrounds.
Although a majority of the ramps are well maintained and lend to an easy launch, I'll have to be honest and admit that there are a couple that are hardly boater friendly, especially on the north side of the lake.
As for the aforementioned recreation areas, I have yet to find one that I didn't like. Of course, some are designed with primitive camping in mind, while others sport all of the bells and whistles. But regardless of their perks, each and every facility is practically within casting distance of good fishing, and they are all nestled in a beautiful, natural setting.
Although I have an appreciation for all of the recreation areas, of course, I have my favorites. In fact, I can think of four facilities where I have returned time and time again. And I suspect these will continue to be my go-to places in the years to come.
Most of the locations I prefer are on the north side of the lake, and for good reason. As an avid angler, I notoriously gravitate to facilities in close proximity of the waters where I prefer to wet a line.
However, there is one recreation area in particular, that is nestled on the western shoreline of Lake Ouachita, where I have slept beneath the stars time and time again.
Not only is Little Fir campground nestled in the midst of impressive scenery, it is also situated on the banks of a section of the reservoir that has notoriously proven productive throughout the years.
I understand that location is of importance to many, as a lot of folks prefer recreation areas that are in close proximity of their homes, jobs and even urban settings.
I'll be the first to admit that Little Fir is hardly within minutes of Hot Springs. In fact, the recreation area is in the neighborhood of one hour away. But on the other hand, one could drive for about 20 minutes to Mount Ida, where they would have access to a grocery store and a handful of eating establishments. And a marina is situated practically within sight of the campgrounds, where one can pick up bait, fuel and other essentials.
The recreation area sports 29 designated sites, all of which would suffice for both tent and RV camping. Each site sports electricity. And although my "homes away from home" often consist of nothing more than a Dutch oven and an ice chest filled with drinks and perishables, a bag filled with goodies and a hammock stretched between two trees, I'll be the first to suggest that electricity is an amenity that can be appreciated by all. And who wouldn't utilize the picnic tables and grills that are situated at each site?
Restrooms are yet another perk that we all are apt to find of great importance. Of course, vaulted toilets are capable of serving the purpose. But I'm confident it would be safe to say that there's not a camping enthusiast out there, with a lick of sense, that would rather use a restroom with flush toilets and running water. And it just so happens that Little Fir sports restrooms with such amenities.
Anglers who have previously utilized primitive campgrounds will likely be quick to agree that cleaning fish can turn into somewhat of a chore. However, those choosing Little Fir as their base camp will have access to a dedicated fish cleaning station.
Not only will those who experienced success have access to electricity, but they will also have running water, and a place to dispose of the portions of their catch that cannot be eaten.
Speaking of fishing, the ramp, located within the perimeters of the recreation area, is a great place to launch one's craft. The slope of the ramp lends to an easy task, both while loading and unloading the boat. And there is ample parking to accommodate a number of trucks and trailers.
OK, you have your boat in the water. Now what? Well, one can head in pretty much any direction with hopes of success. This section of the lake provides an optimal habitat for crappie to thrive, and in turn, often beckons those with a sweet tooth for this particular species.
However, I can say with all certainty that these waters are also bountiful with other native fish species, as well. It is not uncommon to return to the launching ramp with a limit of bass, and we have certainly caught our fair share of stripers, whites, walleyes and catfish from this section of the lake, as well.
Yep, the Little Fir Recreation Area and Campground is certainly one of my all-time favorite recreation areas situated on the banks of beautiful Lake Ouachita. And it's a spot where I anticipate sleeping beneath a beautiful night sky again in the near future.
To get to Little Fir, from Hot Springs, travel about 32 miles on Highway 270 west, and turn right onto Highway 27, at Mount Ida. Remain on Highway 27 for 4.7 miles and take a right onto Highway 188. Travel 8.2 miles, veer right and the destination will be on the left.
