Lakes & Rivers

Trout fishing is only one part of the Lakes & Rivers scene around Mountain View. There’s the scenery itself, featuring some of the most beautiful bluffs in all of the Ozarks. Others remember the river by the thin layer of fog suspended delicately above the stream each morning around sunrise.

Canoes, Kayaks & Rafts
There are numerous ways to get to know the White River. One option–and the choice of thousands of vacationers every year–is to hire a guide and a jonboat, relax in a deck chair, and head for a fishing hole. Another is to emulate the annual Boy Scout pilgrimage by putting a canoe in at Bull Shoals State Park and paddling like crazy all the way to Batesville–a distance of 120 miles. Canoeing, rafting and kayaking are popular on the river and creeks and allow a relaxed way to explore the nooks and crannies of the river as you float downstream.

No matter how they get on the river, visitors need to remember that the stream is subject to sudden fluctuations because of power generation at the dam. When all the turbines are in operation, the White River can become bank-full and very swift.

Summertime Swimming Holes
Swimming holes abound in this Ozark Mountain area and one of the finest is in the recreation area of Blanchard Springs Caverns. Located near the overnight campground, the swimming area features crystal clear water, towering rock bluffs, and a rock beach to catch a bit of sun.

Greers Ferry Lake/Little Red River and Surrounding Areas

Greers Ferry Lake is a favorite water playground nestled in the foothills of the Ozarks in north central Arkansas. It is a 40,000 acre masterpiece dedicated to please water enthusiasts of all types. The lake, formed by Greers Ferry Dam, was completed in July 1964. It is surrounded by an abundance of rock outcropping, trees, and wildlife that make Greers Ferry lake a leading tourist destination.

Greers Ferry Lake is noted for its pristine shoreline and deep crystal clear waters that provide a wonderful opportunity for enjoying nature at its finest. Excellent camping and hiking facilities are available. The lake has deep clean water for boating, water skiing, and scuba diving. There are vast stretches of water for sailing and other water sports.

The Corps of Engineers operate ten campsite areas with boat launches, restroom facilities and swimming beaches. There are eight marinas located on Greers Ferry lake that provide rentals of ski boats, pontoon boats, house boats, fishing rigs, and personal watercraft. The marinas provide boat service and sell recreational equipment and other supplies needed for a great lake experience.

Fishing on Greers Ferry Lake is superb throughout the year. Every game fish native to the state has been stocked by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. The lake holds the state record for Walleye and Striped Bass. Other fish like channel catfish, largemouth and white bass, and crappie are abundant and attract fishermen from all over the country.  The Little Red River that runs out of Greers Ferry Lake offers additional challenges for rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout. The river and the lake are stocked from a fish hatchery located just below the dam. Fishing guide services are available for both lake and river excursions.

There is a developed nature trail winding up Sugar Loaf Mountain, an island within the lake, which affords breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside from its summit which is 500 feet above the surface area of the lake.  There are sheltered coves and cliffs that enhance the lake experience that are enjoyed by all.

Adjacent to the lake are the communities of Clinton, Fairfield Bay, Greers Ferry, and Heber Springs that offer opportunities for other recreational activities, fine dining, and shopping. Motels, condos and other rental properties are available to accommodate visitors to the area. There are several noted golf courses located around the lake that are part of the Arkansas Golf Trail. Tennis facilities are available at many locations.