About JEFFERSON RIDGE
Overview Jefferson Ridge Campground is located on Dierks Lake in southwestern Arkansas. Rugged ridges bordering the lake create stunning views, and visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hunting. Recreation The 1360-acre lake offers excellent boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming opportunities. Dierks Lake is known for its excellent bass and crappie fishing. Hunters will find nearly 600 acres of public hunting lands in the upper reaches of the project. Game species include white-tail deer, bobwhite quail, mourning dove, grey and fox squirrel, cottontail rabbit, and a variety of waterfowl. A playground, two swimming beaches and two boat ramps provide additional recreation opportunities. Facilities This year-round campground offers 85 family sites and two day-use group picnic shelters. All sites include full electric and water hookups. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water, and dump stations. Natural Features Sitting in the Ouachita Mountain Region of Arkansas, Dierks Lake is fed by the Saline River. Nearby Attractions Crater of Diamonds State Park, Little Missouri Falls, and Cossatot River State Park are popular recreational areas located in close proximity to Dierks Lake.
How to Get There
From Dierks, Arkansas, travel 5 miles west on US-70, then 5 miles north on Green Chapel Road. Follow signs into campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to JEFFERSON RIDGE
Heading to JEFFERSON RIDGE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for JEFFERSON RIDGE?
No central reservation system listed for JEFFERSON RIDGE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232611) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to JEFFERSON RIDGE?
From Dierks, Arkansas, travel 5 miles west on US-70, then 5 miles north on Green Chapel Road. Follow signs into campground.
How do I contact JEFFERSON RIDGE?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-286-3214.
References & Official Resources