MONDAY MUSINGS: Once you've visited Arkansas you'll understand why we are called the Natural State. To start the New Year State Parks offered trail tours on the first.. And yours truly was one of those participants...
So many choices but I knew very little about DeGray Lake. This reservoir on the Caddo River was constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers in Arkansas about an hour from Little Rock. It's our only State Park with a resort and is situated in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountain range.Starting 2026 with a gorgeous sunny, 57 degree day with a hike with blue skies- a sweatshirt type of day.
As our Park Ranger Reana pointed out its natural features and provided historical info, we could see for ourselves what paradise looks like with stopping points vista glimpses of the 13,800-acres with fishing and water sports. Although land had been appropriated in the 50's, the Korean War delayed the funding and in November 1955, the USACE held a hearing in Arkadelphia attended by Senator John McClellan and Congressman Oren Harris, both proponents of the project. Congress included the dam in the 1959 Water Supply Act but failed to attach any funding to it. Finally, in 1961, money was appropriated for the project. The dedication finally took place in '72 with a price tag of 64 million dollars.
Ranger Reana shared the purposes of the resevoir near Arkadelphia to manage the water supply and support local needs such as:
*Providing a reliable source of drinking water for surrounding communities.
*Supporting recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.
*Helping with flood control by regulating water flow in the Ouachita River and hydro power.
*Enhancing local wildlife habitats and promoting biodiversity.
*Offering opportunities for environmental education and conservation efforts.
*Contributing to regional economic development through tourism and recreation.
The Island Trail was laden with fallen leaves hiding jagged stones and large tree roots, which required extra caution as these old bones don't need a fall. It was surprising to have such stillness and I only spotted one gaggle of geese as well as some yearling eagles and turkey buzzards/vultures circling overhead.
By the way on weekends there are boat tours to go eagle watching with a Ranger Guide at 2 pm. Just call the DeGray Park lodge at noon when the desk opens on the weekend day you want to make a reservation.The waters were calm.
So very quiet during this holiday weekday.
Our public monies pay for our state parks and they are ours to enjoy. How foolish to not take advantage of these recreational areas and appreciate the investment in preserving nature for the future.
Happy 2026!
