Lake Wedington is a 102-acre lake located amid a lush hardwood forest, and the 424-acre Lake Wedington Recreation Area. Born out of the Depression and completed in 1938 by that era’s Works Progress Administration (WPA), there are 18 family-unit campsites with showers at the restroom facility and 19 family-unit picnicking sites. Overnight guests can stay in any of the six refurbished cabins built by the WPA. The air-conditioned cabins have fully equipped kitchenettes and sleep from three to six persons. Playgrounds, swimming, volleyball courts, horseshoes and hiking are available March through November. A seven-mile hiking trail is open year-round. Other amenities include a lodge, pavilion, boat launching ramp, boathouse and overnight group camp. On the National Register of Historic Places, it is one of northwest Arkansas’s best-kept recreational secrets. The Forest Service manages the 16,000-acre Wedington unit of the million-acre Ozark National Forest through its Boston Mountain Ranger District.
The Wedington unit has also been established as a Cooperative Wildlife Management Area, with the Forest Service and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission entering into a partnership to improve area wildlife habitat. Game and Fish and the Forest Service work together to control land use and give wildlife special designation, restricting some hunting.
- Surface area (mi)
- 25.66
- Elevation (ft)
- 1125.33
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
Islands
Emerging like jewels from the shimmering expanse, the islands of Lake Wedington captivate with their enchanting allure and storied past. Located in the serene Ozark foothills of Arkansas, these small landmasses have long provided a tranquil retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The islands serve as rustic havens, ideal for recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing, while also offering vital passageways for adventurous boaters exploring the lake’s vast interior.
Wander along the winding hiking trails that meander through these wooded treasures, leading to breathtaking lookouts perfect for capturing the kaleidoscopic sunsets that transform the sky each evening. Historical landmarks, such as remnants of ancient campsites, whisper tales of early settlers’ lives and their deep connection to the land. For those seeking solitude or a unique backdrop for photography, these islands unfurl an intimate tapestry of natural beauty and rich history waiting to be discovered.
Nearby amenities
Start your outdoor adventure with a variety of boating and water access options at Lake Wedington. Take advantage of the Lake Wedington Marina, where you can rent canoes, kayaks, and pontoon boats. Public docks and a convenient boat ramp facilitate easy launching and docking. For those looking to fuel up, a gas station for boats is available. Nearby, the Lake Wedington Campground offers RV hookups and tent sites for overnight stays while enjoying the scenery.
To stock up on essentials, visit the Lake Wedington General Store or the bait and tackle shop to find everything needed for a day on the water. Dining options include the lakefront restaurant, perfect for enjoying a meal with beautiful views.
For relaxation, picnic areas equipped with BBQ grills invite families to enjoy meals outdoors, while restroom facilities and showers ensure your comfort throughout the day. Enjoy hiking trails and nature paths nearby for additional recreational activities.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Wedington 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 Wedington. There is a designated swim area that is wheelchair accessible, but pets are not allowed in this area except for qualified service animals. Admission is $5 per vehicle for day use activities like swimming.
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Lake Wedington is a popular destination because it offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking on its trails and around the 102-acre lake. The area also features historic cabins, volleyball courts, and picnic sites, making it a versatile spot for different interests.
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The daily catch limits for different species of fish in Lake Wedington, Arkansas, generally follow statewide regulations. For example, the daily limit for black basses is 10, with no more than 4 smallmouth bass, while the limit for crappie is 30 and for catfish (except bullhead) is 10. These limits apply unless specific lake regulations override them.
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Yes, there is a public beach at Lake Wedington. The beach area includes a swimming area and is part of the recreation area, though pets are not allowed there except for qualified service animals. The beach is also wheelchair accessible.
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The towns near Lake Wedington are Fayetteville, Prairie Grove, Siloam Springs, and Springdale. Lake Wedington is located about 12-13 miles west of Fayetteville on AR State Hwy 16. These towns are in the northwest region of Arkansas.