100 CAMPGROUNDS CLOSED IN THE OUACHITA NATIONAL FOREST?

[Moniker]

Just saw a report on KFSM TV out of Ft.Smith that said the USFS is closing a hundred campgrounds in the Ouachitas to study flooding potential.Seems logical to do this in the middle of a drought.Will try to get more info and post later.First they said a hundred thousand then a hundred,maybe it was a hundred campsites.

[Jim E]

This news was posted already Wed. and has a link to some more info.

http://forums.arkansascanoeclub.com/vie ... =1&t=21682" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Moniker]

Thanks Jim,I I drove down to Shirley Creek today and the first thing I noticed was the sign on Highway 88 that did say "Shirley Creek Float Camp" now reads "Shirley Creek Recreation Area".The next noticeable change was the new gate at the top of the hill at the entrance.There is now a sign mounted between two 4x4 posts by the bulletin board that says "Day use only".The one thing that did'nt change was the clean,well kept appearance of the area.This is thanks
to the Montgomery County Parks Department.All the signs look permenant so I would'nt expect these sites to reopen for camping anytime soon if ever.I have been using Dragover and Shirley Creek Campground since I moved to Mena 11 years ago,was concerned when they stopped charging fees and the Montgomery County Park Department took over maintenance but they have done a better job than the USFS.If the ACC is'nt showing our appreciation to Montgomery County this might be a good time to start.
I guess it's time to start researching private campgrounds along the Ouachita River,it's a hard job but I will do the best I can and report back.

[RomanLA]

I guess it's time to start researching private campgrounds along the Ouachita River,it's a hard job but I will do the best I can and report back.

We stayed at the Ouachita River Haven Resort a couple years back to paddle Dragover.
http://www.ouachitahaven.com/