Wise management of natural resources on and around Gillham Lake is necessary and important to maintain the quality environment we enjoy. The public land that surrounds the lake provides a buffer that ensures high quality water, as well as habitat for the abundant wildlife and plants found here.

Our goal for managing this land is to restore it to natural conditions and enhance native plant and animal populations. Comprehensive natural resource plans are developed to guide our efforts toward accomplishing this goal. The Corps of Engineers, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and volunteer groups play important roles in the cooperative management of hunting and non-hunting areas.

The diverse habitats around Gillham Lake support a wide variety of wildlife including whitetail deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, waterfowl, and numerous songbird species. The lake and river systems provide critical habitat for fish and aquatic species, while the surrounding forests offer shelter and food sources for mammals and birds throughout the year.

Government Property Boundaries

The Corps of Engineers owns approximately 8,600 acres of land surrounding Gillham Lake. At conservation pool of 502.00 ft, Gillham Lake provides 36 miles of shoreline to its visitors. The boundary line between this government land and private property is irregular and is not a set distance from the lakeshore.

Locating Boundary Markers

Survey monuments placed at ground level define the boundary line. A 5-foot red steel fence post is set about one foot from the marker as an aid to location. Trees along the boundary line are marked with a 4-inch wide red band as an additional aid to location of the line. These trees, however, are off line and indicate only that the line is nearby.

Permits and Modifications

Important: Gillham Lake is not zoned for the placement of boat docks. The Corps of Engineers does not provide permits for land alterations, vegetation modification, paths, or fire protection on Gillham Lake. Park Rangers are available for assistance in the locating of government boundary lines.