Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)

Horseshoe Bend Park, located along the Saline River just south of Dierks Dam, is home to a paddler's dream course. This aquatic whitewater park, built along three quarters of a mile of pristine river funneled over native river stone, offers four or more challenging drops. The course is designed with paddlers in mind and is an excellent training location; it was home to the Olympic trials in the late 90s. It depends on spillway releases from Dierks Lake dam, and when water conditions are right the course simulates Class II to Class IV rapids, all within a safe location that is easily accessible for paddlers to practice new techniques. For those looking to stay and play a while, 12 class A campsites are available along the riverfront. The park also has 1 day-use pavilion, 2 restrooms, 1 shower facility, and a playground. Dierks Lake is in the Ouachitas region of Arkansas and sits on the Saline River. Horseshoe Bend sits at the base of a 300-foot vertical cliff, offering scenic views along the steep wooded areas. A day trip to Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, just 30 miles from the park, is a popular activity; the diamond mine is the only one of its kind in the country, where visitors keep any diamonds and semi-precious stones they unearth, regardless of value. Hot Springs National Park, known for its naturally heated springs, is just an hour's drive away and offers multiple bathhouses, restaurants, and activities. The Choctaw Nation at Broken Bow, also about an hour away, offers a world-class gaming casino as well as a variety of natural features and restaurants.