Lower Ouachita River

[prometheus]

I have read reports that say from Remmel dam to Rockport Ledge, there are no serious hazards. Is there a safe take out point just above the hazards associated with the ledge with access to parking. We actually plan to kayak in the Mt Ida area, but are looking for alternative day trips in case the water is to low.

[AR-Nimrod]

I don't have info on the takeout for this area

but I can't help myself.....

I have to ask "Where's Bob?"

Oh, and welcome prometheus

[Jim Krueger]

Prometheus,

The five mile float from Remmel Dam, Ramp,is such a nice float trip! Here shortly, with Summer time coming on with little rain, the level will fall off to about 3300 cfs and that's just right! You can put in at the ramp and plan for one stop about mid way for lunch and swimming on a nice gravel bar, then enjoy the current as it takes you on to The Ledge, and right below to the Ledge Ramp for a nice take-out. All along the float you will need some boat control to stay out in the center of the river and away from the banks and trees, there are some river-wide rapids. If you have no problems with this, I really recommend going ahead and planning on running The Ledge at the end of the float for pure joy! Just approach it about twenty feet from the LEFT bank and I know it will be fun. If anyone should upset, the take-out is just below on the Left for a fairly easy recovery. Yes, you can take out just above the Ledge and walk the boats some hundred yards down the sidewalk, but with it being hot now and the water falling, I suggest you run it all
If it's a day when I or other floaters paddle it, I know we would be pleased to lead the way!
For planing Purposes; As the summer goes on, they usually let the water go in the late morning, 10 or 11 am, this is a good time to put in. Then at the normal flow of 3300 cfs or so, with leisurely paddling, 'steering', and a lunch stop, it usually takes us about three hours actual time on the river to the end.
If you do some research on this message board you can find out how to sign up for the techinical information emails from the Entergy Co. and know just when they will release, and how much, on most days.


Best Regards
Jim

[mikeark]

Rockport Ledge....is that past the I-30 Bridge at Malvern? What about shuttle?

[Jim Krueger]

Mike,

The float I mentioned, from the Remmel Dam Ramp to The Ledge is really nice for scenery, ease of paddling, and enjoyment, I know you will enjoy it very much! The Ledge is upstream of the I-30 bridge, about 350 yards or so.There isn't a commercial float service operating at present so if you know of someone down there, just to 'park and play' that day, you might come early enough to visit with them about one of them maybe riding up with you, and driving your rig back, plan B. My plan A is to usually try and go with/meet in a small group and carry a second vehicle to shuttle with. It's a very easy shuttle of about 7 miles or so each way and good access on either end.
To get to The Ledge (aka Ouachita Whitewater Park), Get off the interstate at the Malvern Exit and head toward the McDonalds... , turn right between it and Wendy's on River Creek St., down the hill and to the left after you cross the little creek. Turn right at the stop , and continue on, under the Interstate bridge and to the park in 1/4 mile.

Best Regards
Jim

[prometheus]

Thanks, Jim, for all the info. Our group will have two or more vehicles, making shuttle easy. Actually, we will be staying well up river at Ouachita River Haven. If the water is high enough, we will more than likely be floating that area. Of course some of us may just have to check out the Remmel to Malvern float, time permitting. Thanks again.

Steven

[Jim Krueger]

Steven,

Ouachita River Haven is certainly a great place to stay! From what I can tell though, the river is going to be too low for very pleasant floating up there. We went last weekend on the Dragover section, downriver of your camp, and it was really too low at 2.12 feet on the gauge, we drug quite a bit. This evening the gauge was at 1.98 and doing a nose-dive as the week progresses, with really no rain in the forecast. If you do go down and float the Remmel Dam float, I assure you there will be plenty of water. Between the good camp and the good water is about 1/12-2 hrs. of driving...

Jim