How do I access Lock and Dam No. 8?

Lock and Dam No. 8 is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lock and Dam No. 8?

Lock and Dam No. 8 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Lock and Dam No. 8?

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

When is the best time to visit Lock and Dam No. 8?

The best time to paddle at Lock and Dam No. 8 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Lock and Dam No. 8?

Water conditions at Lock and Dam No. 8 include mild current.

Is Lock and Dam No. 8 good for beginners?

Yes, Lock and Dam No. 8 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Boat on a wide river with forested banks and bridge.

Photo by Alexander Holmes on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Lock and Dam No. 8

Calion, AR · Boat Ramp · Public

Lock and Dam No. 8 is a public boat ramp on Ouachita River near Calion, Arkansas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Lock and Dam No. 8 offers river paddling on Ouachita River in Arkansas. Located near Calion.

Located in Arkansas, Lock and Dam No. 8 puts you on Ouachita River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

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.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Lock and Dam No. 8 sits about 5 min from Calion, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lock and Dam No. 8?: Lock and Dam No. 8 is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lock and Dam No. 8?: Lock and Dam No. 8 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lock and Dam No. 8?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lock and Dam No. 8?: The best time to paddle at Lock and Dam No. 8 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Lock and Dam No. 8?: Water conditions at Lock and Dam No. 8 include mild current.
Is Lock and Dam No. 8 good for beginners?: Yes, Lock and Dam No. 8 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 33.2983, -92.4666