Horseshoe Bend

Open — Open year-round with reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Horseshoe Bend Park is located along the Saline River just south of Dierks Dam in Howard County, Arkansas. This U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground features 12 Class A campsites with electrical hookups positioned along the riverfront, offering scenic views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains and 300-foot vertical cliffs. The park is best known for its world-class whitewater paddling course, a three-quarter-mile stretch of river funneled over native stone that creates four or more challenging drops. The course hosted Olympic trials in the late 1990s and simulates Class II to Class IV rapids when water conditions are favorable, which depends on spillway releases from Dierks Dam. The easily accessible course makes it an excellent training location for paddlers to practice techniques in a controlled environment. Facilities include flush toilets, showers, a playground, picnic shelter, and day-use areas. The campground provides bank fishing access and water access for kayaks and canoes. Nearby attractions include Crater of Diamonds State Park 30 miles away and Hot Springs National Park about an hour's drive north.

Directions

From Dierks, travel west on Highway 70 toward DeQueen for approximately 3 miles. At the brown U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sign, turn right on Dierks Lake Road and travel approximately 5 miles. Horseshoe Bend Campground Road is the last road on the left before crossing Dierks Lake Dam.