Nature Center offers entertaining glimpse of the outdoors
After spending several weeks kicking around in the vicinity of Crowley’s Ridge, I thought we might meander in a westward direction today. In fact, the destination I plan to cover is situated within 15 minutes of the Oklahoma line.
We actually spent several weeks kicking around in the northwestern extremities of the state a few months ago. However, I failed to feature the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center. That in mind, I thought this would prove a great time to backtrack and share what this particular facility has to offer.
The nature center is nestled in 170 acres of property that was previously part of Fort Chaffee. The setting is beautiful during all seasons. And I would suspect that it’ll prove even more impressive during the days to come, as the leaves will begin to turn soon, and the peak of fall foliage is but weeks away.
However, one must ponder if the lack of rainfall we have experienced throughout the summer months will have an adverse effect on this year’s colors.
But regardless of the outcome of the fall season, the nature center is certainly a location worthy of a visit. It’s the perfect location where one can enjoy natural beauty while getting better acquainted with where the River Valley and Ozarks meet.
Although I have visited this location several times throughout the years, I am always impressed upon entering the large interpretive center. I was instantly mesmerized upon noticing three large enclosures.
Although many have a healthy fear of snakes, it is important that we have somewhat of an understanding of their habits and their preferred environment. And what better atmosphere to hone one’s identification skills than in a controlled environment?
That being said, these three enclosures safely lent to an opportunity to see a huge timber rattler, a copperhead and a cottonmouth from a close, yet safe, perspective.
I also spent my fair share of time gazing at the native fish species, as they slowly went about their business in the 1,200-gallon aquarium. The “life-sized oak tree exhibit” was intriguing as well, as several game and non-game animal displays could be found within the man-made environment.
Several interactive displays were also situated throughout the building, as well as a classroom, that is used for various educational programs, including hunters and boating safety courses.
But enough of being inside. I was more than eager to step out, onto the back deck and experience the wonderful outdoors first hand. The view was wonderful, as Wells Lake was nestled just downhill from the interpretive center.
The 12-acre reservoir was built in the 1940s as a means of collecting water during the construction of Fort Chaffee. However, the reservoir must be a reputable fishery, as well. Several anglers were strewn alongside the shoreline during my recent visit.
I watched as one distant fisherman managed to coax a panfish from its waters. And another shared stories of catching catfish on a fairly regular basis. In fact, the fishing enthusiast explained that largemouth bass, redears and bluegills also swam within its perimeters. He also suggested that rainbow trout are released in the reservoir on occasion, as well.
A small flock of Canada geese browsed in the manicured property, between the interpretive center and the lake for a short time prior to waddling to the shoreline and taking a plunge. I, too, felt compelled to get closer to the water. So I trotted down the flight of stairs, to the sidewalk leading alongside the lake.
Speaking of designated paths, several trails also meander through the property. In fact, the sidewalk where I was standing was actually a section of the Wells Lake Trail.
This particular path makes a half-mile loop, following the contour to the lake’s edge. The ADA path is paved and lends to an opportunity to see an occasional native mammal going about its everyday rituals, as well as wading birds browsing the shallows for their next potential meal.
The Beaver Creek Trail
consists of a boardwalk making a quarter-mile jaunt along the skirts of a braided stream. Those embarking upon this short excursion will have the opportunity to see indications that beavers have been frequenting the area. Several native plant species that are dependent upon wetlands might be seen growing within sight of the boardwalk.
The Field and Forest Trail only extends a half-mile and makes its way through a totally different environment. The designated path meanders through the remnants of old farm fields and in the midst of a young oak-hickory forest setting.
This path offers an opportunity to see a variety of birds that depend upon such an environment as a food source and for shelter. Those with a passion for native pants might also find it of interest that rain lilies can be found blooming within sight of the beaten path following precipitation during September and October.
The Oak Savannah Trail also stretches a half-mile during its short journey. Those traipsing along the path might find it interesting that oak savannahs were once common throughout the Ozarks.
According to information posted by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Nature Center, “prescribed, fires have slowly returned some of the forests to a more open landscape with a few large oaks in a grass and shrub understory.” It is also suggested that hikers experiencing a jaunt along the trail “look carefully for an indigo bunting nest in the shrubs.”
The Upland Trail also stretches a half-mile. However, it makes its way through yet another environment. The designated path is a spur of the Oak Savannah Trail and leads hikers through a shortleaf pine forest.
Those embarking upon this particular walk are apt to find themselves in the midst of little bluestem and might see indications that coyotes and deer frequent the area.
The North Boundary Trail is the longest of all, stretching 1.1 miles during its journey. The path makes its way across a wet-weather creek and eventually leads to a drier upland region that is situated along the nature center’s boundary.
Deer are commonly seen and heard along this path, as are several bird species. And I suppose one is apt to see other native critters going about their business from time to time. The trail eventually ties into a road that leads back to the facility.
Yep, the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is a location where one can find plenty to keep them entertained and occupied. And it is a destination I anticipate revisiting again in the future.
To get to the Nature Center from Hot Springs, take Highway 270 west for about 73 miles and turn right onto Highway 71 at Y City. Remain on 71 for 41 miles and merge right onto Arkansas 549 north.
Travel 2.9 miles and take Exit 190. Go four-tenths of a mile and turn left onto Massard Road. Travel seven-tenths of a mile and take a right onto Wells Lake Road. Go three-tenths of a mile and turn left into the parking lot.