Lake Charles has a little something for everybody
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Lake Charles State Park.
One would be hard-pressed to find more impressive lakes than we have right here in our own backyard, but we are fortunate in the sense that there is a multitude of reservoirs throughout the state, all of which are special within their own rights.
Some of the reservoirs are reputable fisheries, some provide a great playground for those who enjoy partaking in various water activities, while others offer beauty unsurpassed. And then there are those that are blessed with all of these particular attributes.
That being said, there are times when it is nice to simply try new waters, in spite of what awaits only minutes from our homes. One of those places is Lake Charles, a small reservoir nestled in northeastern Arkansas.
But there’s even more awaiting those who choose to visit this destination. It just so happens that Lake Charles State Park is situated on the banks of the 645-acre reservoir, deeming it even more intriguing.
As are practically all of the state parks throughout the state, Lake Charles is easily accessible and easy to find. From Highway 67, at Hoxie, take Highway 63 north for 8 miles. Take a right onto Highway 117 just after crossing the Black River bridge and entering the Black Rock community. Travel just a few hundred yards and take a right onto Highway 25. Remain on Highway 25 for about 8 miles and the park entrance will be located on the right-hand side of the road.
Those who choose to come in from Highway 167, at Cave City, can head east on Highway 230 for 14 miles to Strawberry. Continuing straight at the four-way stop, connect to Highway 25 north and travel 12 miles to the destination. The entrance will be on the left hand side of the road.
It’s not difficult to find something to keep visitors occupied at the state park. Those planning to spend only the portion of a day at the facility might consider packing a lunch and utilizing the picnic area. Modern restrooms are nearby and the picnic sites are shaded under the canopy of native trees.
The swimming area, located in the day-use area, will remain a popular spot during the next few months, as well. Although some might like nothing more than sunbathing on the sandy beach, I would suspect a majority of those visiting the beach will be most interested in cooling themselves in the water. The terrain lends to a gentle slope, which is perfect for both standing and swimming. One should be aware, however, that there is no lifeguard on duty. Alcohol, glass bottles and pets are prohibited on the beach.
Hiking enthusiasts might be interested in the fact that four separate walking trails meander within the perimeters of the state park. Although the Butterflies and Blooms Trail only extends three-tenths of a mile, that’s no indication it has little to offer.
The path makes its way alongside an array of wildflowers during its short journey. And anyone who spends much time admiring wildflowers will be quick to agree that the palette of colors change practically on a weekly basis during the blooming season, as not all species make a showing at the same time.
Of course, where you find flowers, you will also find a plethora of insects, including butterflies. And this is also a great walk for those who enjoy bird watching.
The Cedar Trail extends 1.5 miles and is considered as easy. The paved path runs along a section of the lake, providing ample opportunity to see water-loving birds going about their everyday activities.
Some folks also utilize this particular path as a means of reaching various locations where they might wet a hook. Of course, wildflowers can be found thriving near the water’s edge, and wildlife often browses for its next potential meal from within sight of the path, as well.
The Mockernut Trail extends about one mile and also lends to an easy and pleasant walk. Mockernut hickory trees are plentiful along this section of the park. And it just so happens that woodpeckers and songbirds seem to gravitate toward this particular tree species. It’s also not uncommon for folks to see whitetails, other native mammals and turkeys while walking along this particular path.
The White Oak Trail is 1.5 miles in length, and also lends to an easy and pleasurable stroll through the forest. The designated path runs along the shoreline and crosses intermittent streams during its journey, so it might prove advantageous to don sturdy footwear prior to embarking upon this walk. Although the path makes its way alongside the lake and crosses streams, one might also consider carrying along ample drinking water, especially during the hottest season of the year.
The park is also designed to accommodate those with a need to experience an extended stay amongst Mother Nature. Twenty-four Class AAA campsites are on the premises, as are 34 Class B sites. All of the sites are situated in the midst of native trees, which cast a much-needed shade during the sultry days of summer. A yurt is also available at the facility.
OK, I can’t stand it any longer. Let’s talk about my alltime favorite outdoor activity. That’s right, I’m referring to fishing. There are four launching ramps, one of which is in the state park, accessing the reservoir and lending to ample opportunities for one to wet a hook. And there are two barrier-free fishing piers located at the state park, as well.
As one might suspect, this lake provides the needed habitat for all native fish species to thrive. But I am most interested in the fact that this particular body of water has been touted as “the place where the largest number of 20-inch bass have been caught in northeast Arkansas.”
That in mind, bass anglers might consider carrying along their gear during their next adventure to this section of the state. In fact, one might make the drive simply to try their hand at coaxing a few largemouths from the waters.
Even those who are not avid bass anglers might consider the lake as a potential destination. In fact, I talked with a couple of bank fishermen during our most recent visit, who shared tales of catching catfish and bream on night crawlers. And I would suspect those pitching a minnow in the water are also apt to coax a few crappies into biting.
A full line of live bait and tackle is available at the visitor center from March through October, as are snacks, drinks and souvenirs. Yep, the Lake Charles State Park is a destination that has a little something for everybody. And it’s a location where I will gladly return during my next venture to the northeastern section of Arkansas.