Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Lake Frierson State Park.
Although we have more than enough to keep outdoor lovers busy right here in the heart of the Ouachita Mountain region, one occasionally feels compelled to stray a little farther from home, and rightfully so.
Arkansas is blessed with a variety of environments. In fact, those of us residing in the vicinity of Hot Springs can travel an hour in pretty much any direction, other than west, and find themselves in a habitat that is noticeably different from what we are accustomed to seeing at home.
Gators, oil rigs and shallow murky waters await those who travel in a southern direction and the Arkansas River cuts its way through the River Valley section of the state, just above the Ouachita Mountains. Tug boats can be seen transporting goods to and fro along this large waterway. And let's not forget that the river provides anglers with opportunities galore.
Stray a little farther north, and we'll find ourselves in the midst of the Ozarks. And anybody who has spent much time in this particular section of the state would likely agree that the landscape is magnificent.
Its mountainsides are steep and jagged, while crystal-clear rivers and mountain-fed streams are often contained by sheer rock formations in the valleys below.
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Now let's talk about the Mississippi River Alluvial Plains. Folks automatically think of farmlands when this section of Arkansas comes to mind, and rightfully so. I have no idea how many acres of rice, cotton, soybeans and corn are grown on its fertile soils, but the number would be staggering. If not for occasional windrows of trees, crops would stretch as far as the eye could see.
However, The Mississippi Alluvial Plain (Delta) section of the state actually covers far more territory and supports a far more diverse environment than what many of us might realize. This particular region actually stretches from the very northeastern corner of Arkansas to the southeasternmost county.
Granted, much of the property is used for agricultural purposes. But there is one stretch of land that is somewhat of an anomaly. Crowley's Ridge is a geological formation that extends approximately 200 miles, all the way from Southern Missouri, through eastern Arkansas, to Helena West-Helena.
The ridge only rises in the neighborhood of 150 feet above the otherwise level substrate that is common throughout the Delta. And it only stretches 12 miles across at the widest point.
And with this stretch of land comes an environment that is totally different from the norm in eastern Arkansas. The ridge supports a forest that is bountiful with a lush mixed species of trees.
One can find oaks and hickories thriving on the hillsides, as well as beech, sugar maples and yellow poplars. Crowley's Ridge also supports its fair share of plants. In fact, there are wildflower species taking root in the soil that can hardly survive in any of the other regions of the state.
Not only does the ridge provide an optimal habitat for a plethora of plant life to grow, but the Native Americans also took advantage of the high grounds when heavy rains caused the Mississippi River to swell.
Early European settlers of the Delta also recognized the ridge as a "safe haven" from the floodwaters. In fact, the ridge is named after one of those early settlers, Benjamin Crowley, who moved to the area during the early 1800s.
That all being said, I have always been intrigued with this section of the state, let alone the fact that according to family members, I am supposed to be a descendant of Mr. Crowley.
But that's neither here nor there, as I am confident that those who have no family ties to the Crowleys would enjoy a visit to this section of the state as much as I do. And it just so happens that several state parks are located within close vicinity of the ridge, all of which I plan to cover in the weeks to come.
We'll start out this week with Lake Frierson State Park. Located about 10 miles north of Jonesboro, the facility is actually situated atop Crowley's Ridge.
The park is relatively small in comparison to those that are practically situated in our backyards. However, don't allow its small stature fool you. It has plenty to offer to those who choose to stop by and give it a visit.
The park has been welcoming visitors and sharing the importance of responsible stewardship of the environment for more than 25 years. It is situated on the eastern shoreline of a 335-acre reservoir, providing a great classroom and playground for those with a passion for the outdoors.
The reservoir is managed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. It is bountiful with timber and provides an optimal habitat for native fish to thrive. In turn, Lake Frierson is a reputable fishery.
Those casting in its waters are apt to see their fair share of success. However one's lure choice and presentation will play a huge role in the species they catch.
Those choosing to cast soft plastics, spinnerbaits, top-waters and crankbaits are most apt to entice bass into biting. However, saugeye (a hybrid produced by crossing a sauger and walleye) swim within the perimeters of the reservoir, and are apt to hit many of these presentations, as well.
Of course, crappie are most apt to hit minnows and small jigs, and bream seem to have a sweet tooth for crickets. And those who choose to soak their favorite catfish lure might just tie into a few channel cats.
Folks are welcome to bring their own craft and use the launching ramp. But the park also offers fishing boat, kayak and paddleboat rentals.
Bird watchers might consider spending some time on or alongside the perimeters of the lake as a plethora of wading and other water-loving species frequent the area.
In fact, the entire park is a great wildlife watching destination, as many native mammals might be seen going about their everyday rituals within the property lines.
Hiking enthusiasts might embark upon a short jaunt along the Dogwood Lane Trail. The self-guided interpretive path winds in the neighborhood of a half-mile and lends to an easy walk. Although dogwoods will not make another showing until next spring, this state park sports more of this particular tree species than any other of its size.
Of course, the facility welcomes and provides a designated area for picnicking. Each site overlooks the lake and sports tables, grills and access to potable water.
The park also provides camping enthusiasts the opportunity to experience their favorite outdoor activity, However, there are only seven sites on the premises, four of which are designated for RV camping and the remaining three for tent camping.
Yep, the Lake Frierson State Park is situated in a very special section of the state. And it is a destination that I anticipate visiting again during my next excursion into the northeastern section of Arkansas.
To get to the park, travel 10 miles north of Jonesboro on Highway 141. Or one can travel 12 miles west on Highway 412 from Paragould to Highway 141 and travel south for 8 miles. From Walnut Ridge, one can take Highway 412 for 16 miles and take Highway 141 south for 8 miles to the entrance.
