Ouachita River

WITH ITS LONG POOLS and picturesque rock formations, the Ouachita River is a favorite floating and fishing stream. Beginning in western Arkansas at the base of  Rich Mountain, the state’s second highest peak, the Ouachita River flows freely through the Ouachitas through Polk and Montgomery counties into the western end of Lake Ouachita. An extensive portion of the river’s upper stretch lies within the Ouachita National Forest. Two popular day trips are Rocky Shoals to Fulton Branch and Fulton Branch to River Bluff. A short, two-hour trip is from Dragover Pullout. The six-mile Shirley Creek is another easy float. There are five Forest Service float camps. Resorts with guide services, canoes, cabins and campsites are available along the river.