We will have video and photo features, a blog on local outdoors information, and a Bragging Board for you to tell your stories.
Be sure to check out Bryan's Blog, Send us your photos, and comment on the features around the site. Come back for updates on regulations and equipment.
Beaver Lake’s parks mostly undamaged
Many sites open; most damage near dam
LITTLE ROCK — Contrary to widespread rumors, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers parks around Beaver Lake remain largely high and dry and undamaged in the aftermath of recent flood surges.
“All the lakeside parks and marinas are open with accessible launch ramps and plenty of available campsites,” Park Ranger Alan Bland said Monday.
Among the total of 670 campsites in the Corps parks, only 125 are affected by the current high water level of the lake, he said.
Bland also laid to rest the rumor about the water being too high for boats to pass under the Arkansas 12 bridge over the lake near Prairie Creek.
“Right now, there’s 5 feet of clearance under the bridge, so you can get a bass boat under it,” Bland said.
Most of the damage from recent flooding is confined to fishing and camping areas below the dam that have been affected by the opening of the spillway gates and the high water level of Table Rock Lake.
“The camping and fishing area closest to the dam is closed because of damage from the high water releases, and the Parker Bottoms camping area is closed because the road leading to it is prone to flooding during big releases from the dam,” Bland said.
Problems at lakeside parks are mostly confined to the flooding of some shoreline picnic areas and low-lying campsites.
The current status of the more popular parks includes the following:
Prairie Creek Park: All facilities open and accessible, including camping and day-use areas, launch ramps and marina.
Dam Site Park: Campsites along the main shoreline are available, as well as most of the campsites on the island portion of the park.
Lost Bridge Park: All campsites at Lost Bridge North are open, and all except seven sites are open at Lost Bridge South. The marina is open and launch ramps are accessible.
Horseshoe Bend Park: The park has been more affected by high water than others, with the day-use area closed and several dozen campsites flooded, However, about 100 campsites remain available and launching is possible from the camping area.
Hickory Creek Park: Of 65 campsites, 40 remain open. The marina is open and launching is possible.
War Eagle Park: All facilities open and accessible.
Starkey Park: Fully open.
Bland said all Corps parks around the lake are expected to be completely open by Memorial Day based on current projections for the lowering of the lake level.
