Pendleton offers interesting history, great fishing
Outdoor writer. and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Pendleton.
I usually have particular destinations in mind prior to striking out on a road trip through this beautiful state that we call home. It is not uncommon, however, to happen upon other locations along the way, some of which I was totally unaware existed.
I am naturally drawn toward sections of Arkansas where the terrain is more mountainous and the substrate jagged. In turn, I often find myself meandering to the west, deeper into the Ouachitas, or I head north toward the Ozarks.
In turn, I am far more familiar with those sections of the state and am less likely to happen upon a destination that I have not previously covered throughout the years. Although, I am aware that there are many locations throughout these particular sections of the state that I have yet to stumble upon.
My excursions into the eastern and southern sections of the state, on the other hand, are noticeably different. Granted, there are spots with which I am very familiar. But my chances of happening upon a new location, when I stray south and east, are far greater.
And as it turns out, some of these newly found destinations are worthy of sharing with those who read my articles. In fact, some prove equally as intriguing as my predetermined destinations, if not more so.
Todd Frazior and I recently embarked upon a drive to the southeastern section of the state with three locations on the agenda, all of which I was confident had plenty to offer to those who enjoy getting better acquainted with Arkansas.
But we happened upon yet another destination during our journey. I was confident folks who enjoy the outdoors would find Pendleton of interest. But little did I know that history buffs might find the location intriguing as well until I returned home and began researching this particular section of southeast Arkansas.
In fact, let’s begin with its history. Located in Desha County, Pendleton sports the only bridge spanning the Arkansas River between Pine Bluff and where it feeds into the “Mighty Mississippi.”
Those traveling this stretch of Highway 165 crossed the river via ferry until the bridge opened in 1971. However, I did find it interesting that the United States Congress approved the bridge in 1890, and it was not built until 81 years after the approval.
Two general stores were located at Pendleton, back in the day, and they even sported a post office from 1876 until 1926. Agricultural practices thrived, as the soil alongside the Arkansas River was fertile. And, in turn, the amount of labor necessary for these farms to thrive lent to a fairly large population.
Although the general stores and post office are no longer in existence, those who plan to visit the area might be interested in knowing that a restaurant and small motel are located at the base of the Pendleton Bridge.
There was also a time when the Desha County Prison Farm was located close to Pendleton. In fact, farmers benefited from the facility being located in their backyard, as they were allowed to hire prisoners to work on their farms for $1 per day. However, the prison farm was closed during the mid 1940s.
A railroad route made its way through Pendleton for a short period of time, from the mid to late 1800s. But the tracks were eventually relocated. Due to the fact that the railroad had such a short existence, the folks in the area mostly relied on travel via steamboat.
Of course, any community situated on the banks of the Arkansas River are at the mercy of Mother Nature. And Pendleton is no different from other communities and towns, in the sense that they fell victim to the flood of 1927. In fact, the levee eventually broke, threatening the homes of those who lived nearby.
The community has undergone its fair share of change since the late 1800s and early 1900s. In fact, the Wilbur D. Mills Dam was built just a few miles downstream, which eventually lent to an array of outdoor opportunities for those with a passion for the wonderful outdoors.
Local fishing enthusiasts gravitate to the shoreline just below the dam with anticipation of tying into one of the huge catfish that navigate between the banks of the large waterway.
Some boat owners prefer fishing below the dam, as well. However, there are also those who utilize the launching ramps that are located upstream from the structure. The dam is located at the end of Highway 212, which is accessible immediately after crossing the Pendleton Bridge.
With good fishing in the area, it only makes sense that folks might find an extended stay in the area of interest. With that in mind, a couple of recreation areas are situated alongside the roadway that parallels the river and ends near the aforementioned dam.
The Pendleton Bend Recreation Area sports 31 campsites, situated under the canopy of native trees. A two-lane launching ramp is also located on site. Although boat access is appreciated and utilized by many, folks also can be found fishing from the bank along this particular stretch of the river.
The facility also sports a day-use area, with a playground, picnic sites, and a group shelter. And one would think that both campers and those using the dayuse area would appreciate the comfort station, which includes restrooms and hot showers.
The Wilbur D. Mills Recreation Area is situated just downstream from the dam and is a destination where those who prefer fishing in its tailwaters might consider utilizing during their stay.
The park offers 21 campsites, all of which are situated in a beautiful setting overlooking the river. A covered picnic table is located at each site, and the terrain is level.
The Trusten Holder Wildlife Management Area is also located on Highway 212 between the Pendleton Bridge and the Wilbur D. Mills Dam. The property was purchased with intentions of protecting native bottomland hardwoods, which have grown sparse as a result of extensive farming activities in this particular region of the state.
Although its regulations differ from those throughout the national forest, hunting enthusiasts utilize the wildlife management area. I have never explored this particular area. However, one would suspect that those who embark upon a trek into this section of the forest during times when hunting season is closed would be apt to find plenty to keep them intrigued and occupied.
Yep, Pendleton turned out to be a location where I would gladly return in the future. It has an interesting history and plenty of fertile waters where one might spend time soaking a nightcrawler.
To get to Pendleton from Hot Springs, take Highway 270 east toward Malvern for about
60 miles and merge onto I-530 south, toward Pine Bluff. Travel about 12.6 miles and keep left on
I-530 toward U.S. 65 south, toward Dumas.
Go seven-tenths of a mile and continue onto Highway 65. Travel 29 miles and take a left onto Jackson Street. Go 8.4 miles to the intersection of Arkansas 212. Go
3.4 miles and turn left onto Great River Road. Travel two-tenths of a mile and take a right onto Arkansas 212. Go 350 feet and keep left on Highway 212. Go 450 more feet and take a left onto Pendleton Lane. Go 200 feet and take a right onto Old Hunter Lane. Travel 700 feet to the destination.