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Lake Leatherwood City Park: A Historic Ozark Mountain Retreat

Discover natural serenity and historic charm at Lake Leatherwood City Park in the Ozark Mountains. Hiking, biking, fishing, and more await!

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Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Lake Leatherwood City Park offers a serene escape with a rich history. The 1,610-acre park features an 85-acre spring-fed lake formed by a hand-cut limestone dam built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and camping in this picturesque setting.

A brief summary to Lake Leatherwood City Park

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the extensive trail system.
  • Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the lake and enjoy the scenery from the water.
  • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic spots around the lake.
  • Check the Eureka Springs Parks and Recreation website for information on events and activities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Spring Street and Main Street in downtown Eureka Springs, head west on Spring Street for about 0.5 miles. Continue onto N Main Street/County Road 204 for approximately 1.5 miles. The entrance to Lake Leatherwood City Park will be on your right. No cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Eureka Springs Transit offers a Purple Route trolley that provides access to Lake Leatherwood City Park. From the Transit & Welcome Center, take the Purple Route towards the northwest. Check with the driver or transit employee for the exact stop for Lake Leatherwood City Park. The all-day ride pass is $6 for adults and $2 for children (ages 7-11).

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    From downtown Eureka Springs, a taxi or ride-share to Lake Leatherwood City Park will cost approximately $15-$25, depending on the company and demand. The ride is about 3 miles and takes approximately 10 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Lake Leatherwood City Park

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Discover more about Lake Leatherwood City Park

Lake Leatherwood City Park, a 1,610-acre natural area surrounding an 85-acre spring-fed lake, is a testament to both natural beauty and human craftsmanship. Located just west of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the park's centerpiece is the impressive Lake Leatherwood Dam, one of the largest hand-cut native limestone dams in the country. Constructed in the late 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the dam and other park structures stand as a reminder of the New Deal era. The park offers a wide array of recreational activities. Over 25 miles of hiking and biking trails wind through diverse terrains, offering solitude, wildlife sightings, and views of cool springs and unique rock formations. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines for bluegill, crappie, bass, and catfish in the lake's waters. Boating is also popular, with a paved boat ramp available for launching. Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats are available for rent at the marina. Lake Leatherwood City Park is also a haven for nature lovers. Birdwatchers can spot over 120 different bird species, including herons, ducks, geese, bald eagles, and wild turkeys. The surrounding woodlands provide habitat for white-tailed deer, bobcats, raccoons, and other wildlife. For those seeking an extended stay, the park offers a variety of lodging options, including fully furnished cabins, mini-cabins, RV sites, and campsites. The park is open year-round, though some services and facilities may have seasonal hours. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Lake Leatherwood City Park provides a unique blend of outdoor recreation and historical significance. Whether you're hiking along the trails, fishing on the lake, or simply enjoying the scenery, a visit to Lake Leatherwood is a memorable experience.

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