Some Corps parks remain closed along the Arkansas River

Arkansas River visitors are reminded that many Corps of Engineers’ parks remain closed because of record flooding this spring.

“Several parks along the Arkansas River were severely damaged during the flood,” said Col. Eric M. Noe, commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Little Rock District. “We’re asking visitors to please be patient as we determine the way forward in making repairs and opening parks, as well as restoring the commercial navigation system and hydropower generation.”

The following facilities along the Arkansas River will remain closed until the Corps has the resources to make sufficient repairs and the parks are determined to be safe: Sheppard Island, Rising Star, Toad Suck, Cherokee, and Riverview.

The following facilities will remain partially open with limited services: Old Post Park, Clear Creek (day use only), Tar Camp (day use only), and Notrebes Bend.

“The floodwaters destroyed roads, electric lines, RV power outlets, septic tanks and water lines in our parks,” said Noe. “The damage we know about is pretty extensive, some parks may not offer the same services when they reopen.”

A complete list of closed parks in the Little Rock District can be found here: www.swl.usace.army.mil. Hundreds of other Corps parks in the region remain open for business as usual and reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov.

Officials with Army Corps of Engineers regret any inconveniences the closures may cause and ask the public to exercise caution while boating and visiting parks along the Arkansas River. 

Daily river information can be obtained at www.swl-wc.usace.army.mil or the Corps’ mobile App which can be found in mobile App stores by searching for USACE Little Rock.