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Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool

Watson, Arkansas · Arkansas County

Lock no. 2 is located on the man-made Arkansas Post Canal that connects the Arkansas River with the White River. Wilber D. Mills Dam is located on the main stem of the Arkansas River. Overnight camping is available in Merrisach Lake Park near Lock No. 2, Wilbur D. Mills Park downstream from the dam, and Pendleton Bend …

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33.98893, -91.30917
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About Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool

Lock no. 2 is located on the man-made Arkansas Post Canal that connects the Arkansas River with the White River. Wilber D. Mills Dam is located on the main stem of the Arkansas River. Overnight camping is available in Merrisach Lake Park near Lock No. 2, Wilbur D. Mills Park downstream from the dam, and Pendleton Bend Park upstream from the dam. World-class bass and crappie fishing is found in Pool 2. The tailwaters of the dam and Joe Hardin Dam upstream provide excellent opportunities to catch catfish. In the Arkansas area visitors can experience history at the national memorial at Arkansas Post. Here, in 1686, Henri de Tonti established the first village west of the Mississippi River. In 1819 Arkansas Post became the capital of the Arkansas Territory until the Civil War. Parks offer modern amenities such as boat launching ramps, drinking water, camping areas, picnic sites and other facilities for the convenience of all.

Plan Your Visit to Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool

Heading to Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool? 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 Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool?

No central reservation system listed for Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/521) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool?

Wilbur D. Mills Dam is about 13 miles north of Dumas. Lock No. 2 is about 47 miles south of Stuttgart.

How do I contact Arkansas River - Wilbur D. Mills Pool?

You can reach the park at phone: (870) 548-2291.