Overview Horseshoe Bend Park, located along the Saline River just south of Dierks Dam, is home to a paddlers 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…
Overview Horseshoe Bend Park, located along the Saline River just south of Dierks Dam, is home to a paddlers 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. The water park was home to the Olympic trials in the late 90’s and is dependent on spillway releases from Dierks Lake dam. 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 Recreation Camping Day use Playground Shelter Paddling Facilities 12 Campsites (Overnight) 1 Pavillion (Day Use) 2 Restrooms 1 Shower Facility Playground Natural Features Dierks Lake is in the Ouachitas region of Arkansas and sits on the Saline River. Horseshoe bend sets at the base of a 300 foot verticle cliff offering scenic views along the steep wooded areas Nearby Attractions 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 get to keep any diamonds and semi-precious stones they unearth, regardless of value. Hot Springs National Park known for its naturally headed springs ust an hours drive away offers a multiple bathouses, resturants, and activies. Choctaw nation located just an hour away at Brokenbow offers world class gaming casino as well a variet of natural features and resturants
Photos
Kayaker at Horseshoe Bend — USACEDierks Lake Spillway — USACESaline River — USACEHometown Throwdown Festival — USACEWhitewater — USACEHometown Throwdown at Horseshoe Bend — USACEHorseshoe Bend Paddlers — USACEKayak Race — USACEDierks Tailwater Stage Chart — USACERiding the Rapids at Horseshoe Bend — USACE
How to Get There
From Dierks, travel toward DeQueen on Hwy 70 for approximately 3 miles. At the brown U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sign, turn right on Dierks Lake road and travel approximately 5 miles. Horseshoe Bend Campground Road is the last road located on the left, before crossing Dierks Lake Dam.
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 Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)
Heading to Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)? 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 Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)?
No central reservation system listed for Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10050257) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)?
Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake) has 13 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to Horseshoe Bend (Dierks Lake)?
From Dierks, travel toward DeQueen on Hwy 70 for approximately 3 miles. At the brown U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sign, turn right on Dierks Lake road and travel approximately 5 miles. Horseshoe Bend Campground Road is the last road located on the left, before crossing Dierks Lake Dam.
