Millwood State Park

This 824-acre park is located on Millwood Lake, a 29,500-acre fishing hotspot known nationwide. Boat lanes lead fishermen through the submerged timber to the marshes and oxbow lakes within Millwood. The diversity between the lake and the hills that surround it provides a wide variety of fish and wildlife habitat.

Famous for its bass tournaments, the reservoir abounds in largemouth, or black bass. Many trophy fish over 10 pounds have been recorded, and 4- and 5-pound catches are common. A patient angler can usually bring in the limit on largemouth, white or hybrid bass. During the spring and fall, Millwood offers some of the best crappie fishing in Arkansas, and summer provides excellent catfish and bream fishing. Just beyond the park, the lake empties into the Little River. When the spillway gates are open, fishermen cast for striped bass of up to 30 pounds with heavy deep sea fishing rigs or try their luck for the unusual spoon-billed catfish. Waterfowl Way, a 1+ mile self-guided hiking trail, provides an opportunity to explore the area and observe plants and wildlife in their natural environment. Birdwatchers will find the number of species unequaled by any other site in the area. Bald eagles winter here and are seen in large numbers from December through February. The fall brings mallards, canvasbacks, and other ducks, while the great blue heron is present year-round. Special blinds are located along Waterfowl Way for better viewing and photographing the birds and wildlife. One of the coves along the trail is home to an active beaver lodge. A quiet walk offers the hiker a chance to spot these secretive animals as they swim in the early morning or evening hours. A common but seldom seen inhabitant of Millwood Lake is the American alligator. They emerge from hibernation in April or May, and have been sighted in the secluded, swampy areas along Waterfowl Way. It is not necessary, though, to hike the trail to see wildlife at Millwood. Often on a quiet night, white-tailed deer and fox move right through the campgrounds.

The Visitor Center is the beginning point for "Meandering Around Millwood." This driving tour of the lake guides the traveler to many points of interest not seen by the casual visitor. From the cypress swamps to scenic overlooks and an ancient Caddo Indian Mound, this half-day trip provides an insight into the many moods and features of Millwood. Southwest Arkansas is also rich in history and geology. While visiting Millwood State Park, take time to visit nearby Old Washington Historic State Park, Arkansas' Confederate state capitol. There you can tour historic homes and inns once visited by Jim Bowie, Davy Crockett, and General Sam Houston. Only 40 miles from Millwood is Crater of Diamonds State Park, the only diamond field in North America open to the public. More than 600 diamonds are collected each year, and you can keep any you find!

Facilities

Camping - Nestled in the pine forest along the banks of Millwood Lake, 114 campsites with water and electric hookups offer a pleasant camping experience year-round. Always a popular campground for the spring and fall fishing season and the summer family vacation, Millwood is becoming a favorite for those seeking the beauty and solitude of winter camping. Each site has a picnic table and grill, and modern bathhouse with hot showers are located throughout the campgrounds. Reservations are available in some areas. For those who prefer more primitive camping, tent sites with no hookups are available. A trailer sanitary station is nearby.

Marina - A full-service marina is located within a short walk of the campgrounds. Check with the marina operator for tips on locating and landing some of the record "lunkers" brought into this popular floating store. Camping and picnicking supplies, Arkansas fishing licenses, live bait, and plugs used by champion fishermen are available. Shoppers can also choose from a selection of T-shirts and other souvenirs. Flat bottom boats and motors are available for rent, and paddle boats are popular with the more energetic visitor. Covered slips may be rented at the marina for private boats. Note: The marina is closed during the months of December, January, and February. Rental boats, slips and fishing licenses may be obtained at the park's Visitor Center.

Pavilion - Adjacent to the park marina is a large pavilion. This covered picnic shelter features ceiling fans, lights, tables, and a large grill. Check at the park office for information concerning rates and reservations.

Note: Campers must register at the Visitor Center before occupying a site. All sites are assigned; limited reservations available.

Location
From I-30 at Texarkana, take US 71 just 19 miles north to Ashdown, then 9 miles east on Hwy. 32 (Visitor Center on left before you get to dam and levee). If traveling west from Saratoga, go 9 miles, cross the dam and levee (3 1/3 miles) to park entrance.

For further information on park hours, fees, or activities, contact:

Millwood State Park
Route 1, Box 37AB
Ashdown, AR 71822
Visitor Center: (501) 898-2800
Marina: (501) 898-5334

For further information on Arkansas' other fine state parks, contact:

Arkansas State Parks
One Capitol Mall, 4A-900
Little Rock, AR 72201
Telephone: (501) 682-1191

All park services are provided on a nondiscriminatory basis. Arkansas State Parks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.