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ground equipment.

The park also caters to those of a competitive nature. Evidently, the facility is a popular destination for volleyball enthusiasts. The sand court appears to be well-used and the net is well maintained.

How about playing a round at the 18-hole disc golf course that is located on the premises? Although I have never embarked upon a game of disc golf, it does certainly look intriguing, and the sport is growing in popularity.

This particular course was established in 2011 and makes its way through a predominantly flat and open wooded area. Although I had no Frisbee with me during our recent visit, I did walk the course. I could only imagine how fun it would be to play the game, but I did make a mental note to return during cooler weather and give the game a try.

Sections of the path leading around the disc course are also used as a fitness trail. This designated route makes its way to four different fitness stations. Each station is dedicated to specific exercises.

The first station certainly posed the greatest challenge. Although the situp and leg-over bench lent to little difficulty, the hand walk and dip apparatus proved a humbling experience.

Continuing along the fitness trail, we took advantage of equipment that was designed for doing body raises, reverse pullups, push-ups, curls and military presses.

The exercise equipment at each station was interesting as it was all constructed from metal tubing or treated 4-by-4s. Despite the equipment’s simplicity, each and every station was extremely effective.

As for the trail leading from station to station, I was not so impressed. In fact, it was in need of maintenance. In all fairness, however, we did happen upon a couple piles of gravel that I suspected would be used to resurface the path when the temperatures became somewhat more bearable.

We were also reminded, during our walk along the trail, that with summertime conditions come those pesky chiggers. That being said, I would not suggest embarking upon a walk along this short trail during the next couple of months without first spraying one’s legs and shoes with your favorite insect deterrent.

Despite a bait of chiggers, our recent visit to Lower Lake Recreation Area was an enjoyable experience. And I would suspect that out next excursion to this location will prove even more fun, as the days will be cooler and we’ll likely experience our first try at pitching a Frisbee through the woods and from hole to hole.

To get to the Lower Lake Recreation Area from Hot Springs, take Highway 7 south to Caddo Valley and turn right onto Highway 390 just before reaching the I-30 bridge. Follow 390 for a couple of miles and the park’s entrance will be located on the left.