Millwood Lake, AR

Millwood Lake in southwest Arkansas was formed when the state's longest earthen dam (3.33 miles) was completed across the Little River.

Millwood is a renowned fishing lake, with much of its more than 29,000 acres being flooded timber that provides exceptional cover for its wide variety of fish, including largemouth and spotted bass, crappie, white bass, striped bass, channel and flathead catfish and bluegills. Boat lanes lead the way through the timbered waters, and there are 5,000 acres of open water near the dam. Each year, the lake hosts numerous bass fishing tournaments and fishing derbies held by local and out-of-state organizations.

The lake and its surrounding environs are also rated one of Arkansas's best birding locations. As of early 2001, 333 different species had been sighted in the area, including the first-ever Arkansas sightings for at least 15 of them. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' project office near the Millwood Dam has wildlife displays and free brochures on such subjects as area birding and hunting.

Located on the lake's southeast shore, Millwood State Park offers a full service marina and boat dock, 117 campsites, and hiking and biking trails. Corps of Engineers' recreational areas on the lake offer 230 campsites, picnic areas, boat launching ramps and group picnic shelters available by reservation.