Greers Ferry Dam In Arkansas Just Turned 60 Years Old And It's The Perfect Spot For A Day Trip
By Melanie Johnson|Published February 27, 2024
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Melanie Johnson
Author
I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
In October of 1963, our beloved President John F. Kennedy came to Arkansas and stood on a podium to dedicate Greers Ferry Dam in Heber Springs. This event would be remembered as his last public appearances prior to his tragic demise. Now that 60 years have passed, we recommend commemorating this anniversary with a trip to Greers Ferry Dam. You’ll be amazed at how much there is to do there. It’s an incredible day trip destination in Arkansas.
If you live in Arkansas, you know that Greers Ferry Lake is one of the best lakes in the state. Its pristine waters make it the ultimate haven for water recreation. While the 40,000-acre lake is the crown jewel of Heber Springs, we're giving some attention to the historic dam.
Completed in 1963, the Greers Ferry Dam was formed by the damming of the Little Red River. After it's completion, President John F. Kennedy made a special trip to Arkansas to dedicate the dam in a grand ceremony.
Unfortunately, this event was his last public appearance. The good news is, there is a park, an overlook, and a memorial site built to pay tribute to his visit.
There is so much to do and see that you'll probably need more than just a day to explore it all. For instance, there is a visitor center, where you can learn the history of the dam as well as about the native wildlife and flora.
Additionally, there are walking trails around the visitor center as well as an overlook, so you'll have different views of the dam. And those views will take your breath away!
Aside from the visitor center, there is a campground rightfully named the John F. Kennedy Park Campground. There you'll find more hiking trails, including the well-known Collins Creek Trail.
Because the campsite is below the dam, you'll get to see it from a different vantage point. You'll want to take some pics while you admire the incredible structure.
Plus, there is a fish hatchery, a marina, swim beaches, and more, near the dam. If you want to make this more than a day trip, RV and tent camping are available.
Folks, I could go on and on about how much there is to do at Greers Ferry Dam, but you need to experience it for yourself. If you ask us, it's one of the best day trip destinations in Arkansas.
So, have you been to Greers Ferry Dam in Heber Springs lately? If not, we encourage you to plan a visit soon to celebrate its 60th anniversary. After all, one of the best presidents in our lifetime visited Arkansas to dedicate this historic structure.
