White Oak Lake State Park a gem just a few hours away
Well, the annual modern gun deer season is winding down. However, there are sections of the state that will still be open to hunting for yet another couple of weeks. That in mind, I decided to continue covering destinations where the sport is not allowed, until the annual event is behind us.
In turn, hunters can enjoy an activity that they have been preparing for and anticipating for the past several months. And outdoor enthusiasts who are not into the sport can still get out and enjoy stints in the midst of Mother Nature, as well.
This week, we’re going to embark upon a drive in a westward direction, to a quaint facility nestled in the state’s West Gulf Coastal Plain region. Situated in a beautiful and peaceful setting, White Oak Lake State Park is a location with plenty to offer, to both those who are more into a day trip, as well as those who are geared up and prepared for an extended stay in the wonderful outdoors.
Speaking of extended stays, let’s begin with the camping area. The facility sports 45 campsites in all, each and every one situated in a serene setting, close to the 1,700-acre reservoir. In fact, a portion of the designated sites are practically within a stone’s throw of the shoreline.
Most of the sites are equipped with 30-amp electrical hookups and are designed to accommodate RVS and trailers. Water and electricity are available at 41 sites, and the remaining four are dedicated exclusively to tent camping.
A dump station is located within the perimeters of the park, and folks will certainly appreciate the bath house, regardless of whether they plan to camp or utilize the day-use area.
Those who are planning a group gathering might find the large, screened-in pavilion of interest. The structure is situated atop a knoll, overlooking the lake and must be reserved for a fee by calling the visitor center at 870-685-2748.
Those with children will likely gravitate toward the barrier-free playground. And one might also find themselves compelled to visit the visitor center/park store.
Four trails also meander within the park’s perimeters, allotting the opportunity to get out and enjoy a pleasant jaunt through a wooded setting. Unlike the trails winding through our neck of the woods, here in the Ouachita Mountain Region, the paths at White Oak Lake make their way through a totally different terrain.
These particular trails are far less physically demanding. The hills are not remotely as steep and long, and the substrate is predominantly sandy.
But a lack of boulder fields and steep climbs is hardly an indication that they have nothing to offer. Those embarking upon hikes at the facility are apt to see native wildlife going about their everyday rituals.
Deer are plentiful in this particular section of the state, as are other mammals. In fact, I noticed quite a bit of sign suggesting the feral hogs had been using the area during a previous hike. That being said, I have not walked that particular trail in a couple of years, and the hog issue might have since been resolved.
Of course, various bird species find the environment favorable as well, as do various species of reptiles and amphibians.
Those who are into wildflowers might find the trails of interest, as well. In fact, I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if a few species that do not grow in our neck of the woods flourish in this particular environment.
The Beech Ridge Trail lends to an easy, 2-mile walk that should take in the neighborhood of 1.5 hours to complete. The designated path begins in the midst of bottomland hardwoods and makes a mild ascent into a predominantly loblolly pine setting.
Those striking out along this route are apt to notice an abundance of beech and hickory trees while in the bottomland section of the path. In turn, one shouldn’t be surprised if they hear acorn shells dropping or see bushytails navigating the canopy.
The Coastal Plain Trail is rated moderately difficult and stretches 3 miles during its journey. The designated path is actually a spur that ties in with the aforementioned Beech Ridge Trail.
According to the park brochure, the designated route makes a loop and acquired her name from the “geographic region in which the White Oak Lake State Park is located.”
It is suggested that the trail makes its way through “some of southern Arkansas’ most unique terrain.” Those striking out along the path should keep an eye out for unusual plant species, and “fascinating members of our woody flora” taking root on the sandhills.
The Spring Branch Trail is noticeably shorter than the previous two, as it lends to an easy, three-tenths of a mile jaunt through the park. The route is designed to feature examples of a portion of trees native to Arkansas.
The Fern Hollow Multiuse Trail is by far the most lengthy designated path lurking with
in the perimeters of the park. The route welcomes hikers and mountain biking enthusiasts, as well.
Stretching 9.8 miles the path can be hiked in the neighborhood of four to five hours, and mountain bikers should allow two to three hours to complete the entire ride.
The route begins at the Beech Ridge Trailhead, in the tent camping area and makes its way alongside a primitive camping area about halfway into the ride.
One will also find a cutoff back to the trailhead at the halfway point, lending to the opportunity to shorten the overall journey. Those who plan to make a night of it and camp at the designated primitive site must register at the visitor center prior to embarking upon the excursion.
Now let’s talk a little fishing. The launching ramp at the park provides folks with access to a lake that is renowned as a productive fishery. Constructed in 1960, White Oak Lake is the second-largest of AGFC lakes throughout the state. The reservoir actually has two sections, separated by a dam.
Consisting of 1,100 acres, the lower lake was drawn down for renovation in 2012. The AGFC took advantage of the low water level during the project by boosting habitat and increasing boating access. Gravel beds were added at strategic locations to improve spawning habitat. Large brush piles were placed throughout the lake, while rock piles and catfish dens were also put in key locations.
Nearly 114,000 largemouth bass fingerlings were stocked in 2014. Their efforts, including management practices and specific regulations were a success, as a number of double-digit bass have since been coaxed from its waters.
Yep, White Oak Lake State Park is a gem situated within a few hours of our hometown. It boasts a beautiful setting, plenty of hiking and fishing opportunities galore. And this is one particular destination where I plan to revisit again in the near future.
To get to the park from Hot Springs, take Highway 7 south for 27 miles to Interstate 30 at Caddo Valley and head west toward Texarkana. Travel 15 miles and take Exit 63 onto Highway 53 toward Gurdon. Go 5.1 miles and take a right onto North Elm Street. drive nine-tenths of a mile and turn left onto Main Street.
Go 11 miles and take a left onto Highway 24. Travel 5.5 miles and turn right onto Highway 299. Travel 450 feet and turn left onto Highway 387. G0 2.3 miles and veer left onto White Oak. Go twotenths of a mile and take a right onto campers lane. Go 250 feet and turn left. Go 250 more feet and the destination will be on the left.