Greers Ferry Lake & Dam

About

Greers Ferry Lake sits in the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks, a 31,500-acre reservoir created by the construction of Greers Ferry Dam in 1962. President John F. Kennedy dedicated the dam just weeks before his assassination, making it one of his final public appearances. Today, the lake and its surrounding facilities draw visitors year-round for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and sightseeing.

The centerpiece for first-time visitors is the William Carl Garner Visitor Center, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It's a great starting point where friendly volunteers greet you at the front desk and help you plan your time at the lake. Inside, you'll find educational exhibits about the dam's construction, local wildlife, and the ecological story of the Little Red River below the dam, which is now famous as a world-class trout fishery.

Outdoor exploration is a major draw. The Buckeye Nature Trail, designated a National Recreation Trail, stretches 660 feet along a fully paved, smooth surface path. It's an easy and enjoyable walk through the woods near the dam. Nearby, the Mossy Bluff Trail meanders along a bluff overlooking the Little Red River, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding forest. Together, these trails give visitors a taste of Ozark scenery without a strenuous hike.

The lake itself offers dozens of recreation areas, swim beaches, marinas, and campgrounds spread across Cleburne, Van Buren, and Faulkner counties. Fishing is excellent, whether you're casting from the shore or heading out on a pontoon boat. The clear water and wooded shoreline make it one of the most scenic lakes in the mid-South.

Spring and fall bring mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is peak season with warm water and full marina services. Winter visits are quieter but rewarding, especially for trout fishing below the dam. No matter when you visit, Greers Ferry Lake offers a relaxing, scenic escape in the Ozarks.

Accessibility

The William Carl Garner Visitor Center is ADA accessible, providing a comfortable and informative starting point for all visitors. Volunteers are available at the front desk to assist with questions and help plan your visit.

The Buckeye Nature Trail is a standout accessible feature. This 660-foot National Recreation Trail is fully paved with a smooth surface and is wheelchair accessible. Located near the dam, it offers an easy outdoor experience through a wooded area without steep grades or rough terrain.

The Mossy Bluff Trail, also a National Recreation Trail, is approximately one-half mile in length. A portion of this trail is wheelchair accessible, though some sections may present challenges due to natural terrain along the bluff. Check current trail conditions before visiting if mobility is a concern.

For lake recreation, accessibility can vary significantly between the many recreation areas, boat ramps, and swim beaches around the reservoir. Some facilities are older and may not have been updated to current ADA standards. Contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Greers Ferry Lake office at (501) 362-2416 for current details on accessible fishing piers, boat launches, restrooms, and campground facilities at specific recreation areas.

Parking areas near the visitor center and dam overlook are paved. For details on accessible restrooms, picnic areas, and other amenities at individual recreation sites around the lake, it's best to call ahead or visit the Corps of Engineers website, as conditions and available features vary by location.

More accessible places in Arkansas

• Arkansas Post National Memorial (Gillett)
• Buffalo National River (St. Joe)
• Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site (Little Rock)
• Pea Ridge National Military Park (Garfield)
• Beaver Lake & Hobbs State Park (Springdale)
• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville)