Arkansas Ozark Mountain Region

Travel Writer: Jill M. Rohrbach

Greers Ferry Lake is a favorite water playground nestled in the foothills of the Ozarks in north central Arkansas. This 40,000-acre masterpiece pleases water enthusiasts of all types. The lake is surrounded by an abundance of rock outcropping, trees, and wildlife making it a leading tourist destination.

The lake, formed by Greers Ferry Dam, was completed in July 1964 at a cost of approximately $46,500,000. The lake and dam were dedicated in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, his last public appearance before his fateful trip to Dallas. A 50th anniversary celebration will take place Oct. 3, 2013 at the lake in Heber Springs.

Greers Ferry Lake is noted for its pristine shoreline and deep crystal clear waters. The lake has deep clean water for boating, water skiing, and scuba diving. There are vast stretches of water for sailing and other water sports.

The Corps of Engineers operate 10 campsite areas with boat launches, restroom facilities and swimming beaches. There are eight marinas located on Greers Ferry lake that provide rentals of ski boats, pontoon boats, house boats, fishing rigs, and personal watercraft. The marinas provide boat service and sell recreational equipment and other supplies needed for a great lake experience.

Fishing on Greers Ferry Lake is superb throughout the year. Every game fish native to the state has been stocked by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. The lake holds the state record for walleye and striped bass. During the winter months, many anglers catch huge walleyes. Fifteen- to 18-pounders are caught yearly during the late-February to mid-March spawning time, and many think this is the probable home of another world record. Most walleyes are caught in three tributaries – the Middle Fork, South Fork and Devil's Fork of the Little Red River. Other fish like channel catfish, largemouth and white bass, and crappie are abundant and attract fishermen from all over the country.

The Little Red River that runs out of Greers Ferry Lake offers additional challenges for rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout. The river and the lake are stocked from a fish hatchery located just below the dam. Fishing guide services are available for both lake and river excursions.

Contact: Joe Harper, Chief Park Ranger, Greers Ferry Project Office, Heber Springs; 501-362-2416; joseph.D.Harper@usace.army.mil

Visit website: www.swl.usace.army.mil/parks/greersferry

For further details on this or other story ideas in north central Arkansas, contact Jill Rohrbach at jill.rohrbach@cox-internet.com.