Fertile Lake Millwood offers an array of opportunities
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Millwood State Park.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting a number of the state’s lakes throughout the years, and each and every one sports their own personal characteristics. Some are crystal clear and deep, while others are murky to muddy and shallow.
There a few reservoirs where I have no intentions of returning. But there are others that have more than enough to offer to be on my list of locations where I will eventually revisit. And then there are those that are so special that I find myself gravitating toward these bodies of water time and time again.
I’ll be the first to admit that our local lakes are at the top of my list, and for good reason. Of course, the fact that they are right here in my backyard is of utmost importance, as I can have a hook in the water within a matter of minutes.
The fact that I am familiar with these waters also means a great deal, as it ups my odds of success. Let alone the beautiful landscape surrounding our area reservoirs.
Set aside these lakes, and it appears that my favorite bodies of water lurk in the western section of Arkansas. Many of these reservoirs are also scenic and provide a comparable landscape to the spots I am most accustomed to fishing.
But there is yet another landscape by which I am very intrigued. However, the terrain is far different from what I have grown to accept as the norm. I’m talking shallow murky reservoirs inundated with aquatic vegetation and mazes of standing timber. And it just so happens that my alltime favorite of these types of waters is nestled in the southwestern portion of Arkansas near the town of Ashdown.
Yep, I’m talking about Lake Millwood. This 289,260-acre lake consists of submerged timber, oxbows and marshes galore. And with this environment comes the perfect habitat for birds, reptiles and amphibians to thrive.
According to information posted on the internet, more than 300 of the 400 of the state’s bird species have been recorded in this particular reservoir. And I can say from experience that the frogs are abundant, as well. In fact, the night air becomes so inundated with the sounds of frogs and crickets that it is practically overwhelming.
As for snakes, just follow their food source. And it just so happens that frogs are a part of their diet. But there is yet another reptile which has been known to devour a few frogs as well. Yep, we’re talking the American alligator. And one can rest assured that these primitive-looking creatures are aplenty in Millwood.
Those who suspect that this type of environment is also conducive to fishing are exactly right. Of course, I am most interested in the fact that largemouth bass are plentiful on Millwood. But it is known as a productive fishery for other popular species, as well.
I have heard impressive crappie fishing stories, and I have a friend who catfishes on the reservoir on a fairly regular basis. White bass also flourish in these waters. And I would suspect that bream fishing enthusiasts might experience their fair of success, too.
Yep, Millwood is a fertile lake with an array of opportunities for folks to get out and enjoy a stint in the midst of Mother Nature. Fortunately, the Arkansas State Parks system recognizes this body of water’s potential, and in turn, chose to provide one of its facilities on the lake’s shoreline.
Situated on the main body of water, the park sports 45 dedicated campsites. Although 42 of the sites are designed with RV camping in mind, there are three sites that are built specifically for those who prefer getting back to the very basics.
However, spending an overnighter beneath the stars is not a prerequisite to enjoying the facility. In fact, a picnic/day-use area is close to the camping area.
A marina is also situated on the lake’s shoreline and within the perimeters of the state park. Of course, this is a great spot where one can get the most up-to-date fishing report. But the marina also stocks gifts, groceries and outboard fuel.
Boat rentals are also available at the marina. Fishing enthusiasts might consider renting a Jon boat rigged with an outboard, while others might prefer a canoe or kayak.
With such a diverse habitat, the park is a perfect medium for environmental education. That in mind, the park offers a number of interpretive programs throughout the spring, summer and fall.
But one does not have to attend interpretive programs to get acquainted with the interesting and bountiful environment. In fact, there are two different designated trails awaiting those who enjoy kicking around in the outdoors.
The Waterfowl Way Trail consists of 1.5 miles as it meanders through a section of a 600-acre wildlife sanctuary. The self-guided route makes its way along level terrain, lending to a casual journey where one is apt to see native wildlife going about its everyday rituals.
This particular trail is a popular destination for birding enthusiasts. In fact, several blinds are situated within feet of the beaten path.
An impressive number of bird species have been recorded in close vicinity of the route.
It’s not uncommon to see bald eagles wintering from December through February. And with the fall comes an influx of migratory waterfowl. But one is also apt to see ducks and wading birds throughout all seasons.
The Wildlife Lane Trail provides folks with hiking and biking opportunities. This particular path winds four miles through lowland bottoms and along the edge of the lake.
Those embarking upon an excursion along this trail are apt to see an array of plant life taking root in the fertile soil. And of course, this trail also makes its way through an environment where native wildlife is abundant.
In fact, the path meanders its way alongside an active beaver lodge. And one certainly stands a chance of seeing an alligator quietly basking in a swampy environment. That being said, I do feel compelled to share a little of the trail etiquette that is suggested by the state park. And by all means, one should use common sense.
Of course one should strive to leave the trails cleaner than they found them. But for one’s safety, it is also important to understand that alligators always have the right of way. And by all means, do not pester them. Simply enjoy them from a distance and quietly continue along the beaten path.
Spotting wildlife from the campground is also not beyond the realm of possibilities. Deer often browse within sight of the designated area, and foxes have also been seen slipping through under the cover of darkness, as well.
Millwood State Park is a destination where one can certainly get better acquainted with an environment that is far different from what we are accustomed to here in the Ouachitas. And it is a destination where I plan to return again in the very near future.
To get to the state park from Hot Springs, take Highway 7 south to Caddo Valley and head west on Interstate
30. Take Exit 30 and merge onto Highway 278 west toward Nashville. Go four-tenths of a mile and turn right onto North Hervey Street. Travel 1.6 miles and take a left onto Highway
73. Travel 19 miles and make a right onto Main Street. Go sixtenths of a mile and continue on Highway 32. Remain on 32 for 8.5 miles and turn right. Go a half-mile and the destination will be on the right.