Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area

Rivervale, AR · Boat Ramp · Public

St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area is a public boat ramp on Ditch No. 59 near Rivervale, 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

Public launch on Ditch No. 59 in Arkansas. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Rivervale.

Paddlers visiting Ditch No. 59 in Arkansas can launch from St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

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

St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area sits about 5 min from Rivervale, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

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 St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area?
St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area?
St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management 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 St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area?
The best time to paddle at St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area?
Water conditions at St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area include calm, sheltered.
Is St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management Area good for beginners?
Yes, St. Francis Sunken Lands State Wildlife Management 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: 35.6573, -90.3973

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Rivervale
Get Directions

35.6573, -90.3973

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