Shady Lake: Special place in heart of Ouachitas
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-Record. Today, Deary writes about Shady Lake.
Sandy and I grew excited when Dave Hoffman accepted an invitation to join us on an outdoor excursion. It had been a while since our most recent opportunity to visit with our friend. And we couldn’t think of a better setting to fellowship in than the wonderful outdoors.
Time was limited, however, as his alma mater was scheduled to lock horns with North Carolina later that evening. As an avid Duck fan, he certainly wanted to be home in time to watch them compete for a position in the finals of the NCAA tourney.
That in mind, I began considering locations that were situated less than two hours from home. There are actually a lot of locations fitting this bill. But I quickly decided on Shady Lake, a secluded reservoir nestled in one of my favorite sections of the Ouachita National Forest.
Of course, we were eager to reach our destination. But I was also looking forward to traveling the pleasant stretch of highway situated between Hot Springs and the small, quaint lake.
From Hot Springs, we headed west on Highway 70. Eventually arriving at Glenwood, we remained on the highway for 4 more miles prior to turning right onto Highway 84 and traveling 21 miles to Athens. We turned right onto Highway 246 at Athens and traveled about 2 miles before taking a right onto Forest Road 38 and driving about 5 miles to the park’s entrance.
The road widened and made a sharp turn to the right just before reaching the drive entering the park. Of course, the view of the lake from the facility is beautiful, but there was plenty of room to park at this wide spot in the road, and for good reason.
Parking our rig, we embarked upon a short walk back in the direction from where we came, to a short flight of stairs leading to a vista overlooking the lower side of the dam.
I actually chose not to stop at this location during my first couple of visits to Shady Lake. But upon finally checking the view out from the vista, it quickly grew obvious that I had been missing one of the highlights of my journeys to this section of the Ouachitas.
As suspected, I could see the tailwaters of the lake cutting through a boulder-laden substrate. But I was awe-struck upon seeing a beautiful waterfall produced by the water pouring over the dam on the far side and cascading over a huge rock formation.
Although it was a distance across the steep and jagged draw to the waterfall, it lent to a great photo opportunity. In fact, the water spectacle lends to a great view anytime we have experienced rains significant enough to raise the lake’s level.
Although most people are not fans of snakes, I also found it very intriguing that a sign had been posted within feet of where we stood warning that we were among an area providing an optimal habitat for venomous snakes.
I did not notice any of these interesting creatures taking shelter in the cracks and crevices of a huge boulder structure that was situated within feet of where the flight of stairs had led. But it obviously produced an environment conducive to their lifestyle.
After taking several photos, we eventually hopped into our ride and embarked upon a short drive to the recreation area, which was situated on the opposing side of the 25-acre impoundment.
Parking near a large structure, we immediately gravitated toward an interpretive sign sharing an interesting history of the facility. According to information posted on the sign, “Work on the creation of the lake itself began on 1935.” A Civil Conservation Corps project, they began clearing all vegetation from a 21-acre plot of land where three creeks converged.
A core-trench was dug, and they began pouring concrete on April 23. The final yard of concrete was poured in July of the following year, and the dam was complete. The remainder of the year was dedicated to building a road to the recreation area and two stone bridges at the lake.
Construction of the recreation area began in the early spring of 1937. Of course, the building of the dam was an arduous project. However, the recreation area was equally time consuming, if not more so, as plans were to provide folks with top-notch amenities.
Original plans dedicated 79 acres to the facility. However, President Roosevelt eventually issued an executive order, enlarging the recreation area to 279 acres. When the project was finally completed, it was certainly a jewel lurking in the heart of the Ouachitas.
Of course, a good portion of the C.C.C. workers’ handiwork eventually fell victim to the elements of nature, but some of their craftsmanship is still standing and in use today. Those visiting the recreation area might consider a stroll along the Shady Lake Trail. The designated path traverses about 2.3 miles while making a loop around the lake.
The trail also welcomes those who enjoy the sport of mountain biking. The path is considered as easy, and might not provide the needed obstacles to keep the experienced rider occupied. However, it is a great location for those of us lacking the skill of the weathered biker.
I’m sure the large bath house, located on site, is also a result of the C.C.C. workers’ efforts. I had the opportunity to talk with a local during our recent visit that suggested there is even a canteen open at the structure during the summer months.
Although not in use during the colder months of the year, one would suspect that the swimming area is a local hot spot during the sultry days of summer. Folks should be aware, though, that there is no lifeguard on duty at this particular swimming area.
There are 65 campsites awaiting outdoor enthusiasts at the Shady Lake Recreation Area. Many of the sites are geared more toward primitive camping. But there are 20 sites offering water and electrical hookups.
And, of course, ample space has also been dedicated to those who favor heading home and sleeping in their own personal beds after darkness falls.
And now, for my favorite outdoor activity. That’s right, let’s talk a little fishing. A lot of folks take advantage of the fishing pier, as they are apt to experience their fair share of success soaking a worm, as the lake is stocked with both panfish and catfish.
Others, however, find the small impoundment a great destination where they can launch a johnboat, canoe or kayak and try their hand at coaxing a few bass into biting. The lake has since been drained and restocked, but I can recall catching bass from her waters, via kayak, several years ago.
I’ll be the first to agree that we are blessed with worlds of outdoor destinations right here in our backyard, many in closer proximity than the Shady Lake Recreation Area. But I’m also aware that Shady Lake is a very special place in a very beautiful section of the Ouachitas, and a place that will beckon a visit time and time again.