How do I access Spillway Dam Recreation Area?

Spillway Dam Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Spillway Dam Recreation Area?

Spillway Dam Recreation Area 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 Spillway Dam Recreation Area?

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

When is the best time to visit Spillway Dam Recreation Area?

The best time to paddle at Spillway Dam Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Spillway Dam Recreation Area?

Water conditions at Spillway Dam Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Spillway Dam Recreation Area good for beginners?

Yes, Spillway Dam Recreation Area 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 boat on a body of water with trees in the background

Photo by Yash Mannepalli on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Spillway Dam Recreation Area

Friendship, AR · Boat Ramp · Public

Spillway Dam Recreation Area is a public boat ramp on Caddo River - DeGray Lake near Friendship, 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Launch into Caddo River - DeGray Lake near Friendship, Arkansas. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Spillway Dam Recreation Area is a public access point on Caddo River - DeGray Lake in Arkansas, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Friendship takes about 10 min, putting Spillway Dam Recreation Area within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Spillway Dam Recreation Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Spillway Dam Recreation Area?: Spillway Dam Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Spillway Dam Recreation Area?: Spillway Dam Recreation Area 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 Spillway Dam Recreation Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Spillway Dam Recreation Area?: The best time to paddle at Spillway Dam Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Spillway Dam Recreation Area?: Water conditions at Spillway Dam Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Spillway Dam Recreation Area good for beginners?: Yes, Spillway Dam Recreation Area 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: 34.2197, -93.1014