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Spring-fed Lake Leatherwood is defined by one of the largest hand-cut limestone dams in the nation. This 85-acre lake with over three miles of shoreline is the center attraction for Lake Leatherwood Park, a 1,600-plus-acre municipal park constructed during the 1940s. About 15 miles of trails offer some of the best hiking and mountain biking around. The park is also popular for swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, historic stone walls and bridges, unusual rock formations and the beauty of nature. The park is home to a diverse population of water foul and other birds, including heron, geese, bald eagles and wild turkey. Cabins are available for rent.
- Surface area (mi)
- 21.4
- Elevation (ft)
- 1023.62
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 3
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Leatherhood has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Leatherwood. There are designated swimming areas near the WPA era diving platform, and the lake has a sandy-bottomed swimming area.
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Lake Leatherwood is a popular destination because of its diverse recreational opportunities. It offers hiking and biking trails, fishing, boating, and camping, along with a historic hand-cut native limestone dam and various wildlife. The park also provides boat and kayak rentals, a bait shop, and a variety of fish species to catch.
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Yes, you need a fishing license to fish on Lake Leatherwood in Arkansas. If you are 16 or older, you must carry a valid Arkansas fishing license to take or attempt to take aquatic wildlife, unless you are fishing in a licensed “put-and-take” pay lake. A trout permit may also be required if you are targeting trout in specific waters.
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There is no public beach at Lake Leatherwood. The park offers swimming, but it does not have a designated beach area. Instead, it provides various other recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
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The town closest to Lake Leatherwood in Arkansas is Eureka Springs. Lake Leatherwood Park is located just two miles west of Eureka Springs off U.S. Highway 62. The park is situated in the headwaters of the West Leatherwood Creek valley near the town.
