Shady Lake Recreation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Shady Lake Bathhouse
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Shady Lake Dam
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 Location in Arkansas
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Athens, Arkansas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1940 |
| Built by | Civilian Conservation Corps |
| Architectural style | Rustic |
| MPS | Facilities Constructed by the CCC in Arkansas MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 93001097 |
| Added to NRHP | October 20, 1993 |
Shady Lake Recreation Area is a fun place to visit in the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. It's a campground and a public area where you can enjoy nature. The main attraction is Shady Lake, which was created by a dam built around 1940. This dam was constructed by a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The United States Forest Service (USFS) takes care of the area today.
Contents
Discover Shady Lake
Shady Lake is found in western Arkansas. It's on the edge of the Ouachita National Forest. The lake is shaped a bit like a crescent moon. It was made in 1935 with help from the CCC.
How Shady Lake Was Made
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) helped build Shady Lake. The CCC was a special program in the 1930s. Young men worked on projects to help the environment. They built parks, roads, and dams. Company 742 of the CCC helped create Shady Lake.
The dam that holds back the water is quite big. It is about 130 feet (40 meters) long. It stands about 40 feet (12 meters) high. This dam helps create the beautiful Shady Lake.
Historic Structures at the Lake
The dam at Shady Lake is very old and important. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's a special place that is protected. Seven other structures built by the CCC are also listed. They show the amazing work these young men did.
Fun Things to Do
Shady Lake Recreation Area has many things for you to enjoy. Most of the fun spots are on the north side of the lake.
Camping and Swimming
You can go camping here with your family or friends. There are four different areas for camping. Some spots even have water and electricity. You can also find bathrooms with warm showers and flush toilets.
The lake has a special swimming area. There's also a fishing pier where you can try to catch fish.
Outdoor Entertainment
Shady Lake has an amphitheater. This is a place where shows or talks can happen outdoors. It's a great spot for gatherings.
Buildings from the Past
The beach area has a special bathhouse. It was built by the CCC. This building is made of logs and has changing rooms. In the middle, there's an open area for picnics.
Another picnic shelter built by the CCC is near the dock. It's a nice place to eat your lunch.
Old Stone Bridges
You can also see two old stone bridges built by the CCC. One bridge crosses the South Fork of the river. It's made of stone arches. The second bridge helps the campground road cross the East Fork. These bridges are strong and beautiful.
