How do I access Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?

The best time to paddle at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?

Water conditions at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) include calm, sheltered.

Is Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) good for beginners?

Yes, Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a body of water with houses in the background

Photo by Yash Mannepalli on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)

Manila, AR · Boat Ramp · Public

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is a public boat ramp on Big Lake near Manila, Arkansas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Big Lake near Manila, Arkansas. calm and sheltered conditions.

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) provides shoreline access to Big Lake in Arkansas, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Manila, Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Manila area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?: Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?: Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?: The best time to paddle at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South)?: Water conditions at Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) include calm, sheltered.
Is Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) good for beginners?: Yes, Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge (South) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 35.8532, -90.1322