Shirley Creek Recreation Site

For outdoor enthusiasts across Arkansas looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains and its pristine waterways, Shirley Creek Recreation Site in Oden offers a convenient and picturesque access point. While some might remember it as a camping destination, it's important for local users to know that this site now primarily serves as a day-use area. This shift in focus means it's perfectly suited for those planning a delightful day on the Ouachita River, whether you're eager to paddle, fish, or simply enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil forest setting.

Located in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest, Shirley Creek Recreation Site provides a vital entry point to the scenic Ouachita River. It's a place where the sounds of the river flow and the rustling leaves replace the everyday noise, offering a refreshing escape. Even though overnight camping is no longer permitted, its continued operation as a day-use facility ensures that Arkansans can still take advantage of its convenient river access and enjoy the unspoiled natural environment that makes the Ouachitas so special. It's an ideal spot for a quick outdoor adventure or a peaceful afternoon by the water.

Shirley Creek Recreation Site is located in Oden, AR 71961, USA. This places it deep within the expansive and beautiful Ouachita National Forest, a renowned natural area in western Arkansas. The site's position directly on the Ouachita River makes it a prime location for water-based activities in this region.

Accessibility to Shirley Creek Recreation Site is generally straightforward, typically involving well-maintained forest service roads that branch off from state highways in the vicinity of Oden. While Oden is a smaller, rural community, it serves as a central point for exploring this part of the Ouachita Mountains. Visitors from various parts of Arkansas can typically reach the site by driving through scenic routes, such as Highway 88 or Highway 27, which connect to the larger highway network. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the rolling hills and dense forests that define the Ouachitas. For those trailering canoes or kayaks, the access points are designed to facilitate easy put-in and pull-out from the river. While remote in feel, the site remains a readily accessible outdoor escape for Arkansans seeking to connect with the state's natural beauty and river systems.

Shirley Creek Recreation Site operates primarily as a day-use area, focusing on providing essential access and basic amenities for visitors enjoying the Ouachita River and surrounding forest. It’s important to note the change in its offerings:

• River Access for Canoes and Kayaks: The primary service of Shirley Creek Recreation Site is its well-maintained put-in and pull-out points for canoes and kayaks. This allows paddlers to easily launch and retrieve their boats for trips along the Ouachita River.
• Day Use Facilities: The site is open for day use, meaning visitors can come for activities like picnicking, fishing, or simply enjoying the natural environment during daylight hours.
• Pit Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of pit toilets are available on-site. While simple, they provide a necessary convenience for day users. As noted in reviews, these are functional but may be subject to typical outdoor conditions (e.g., mosquitoes).
• Fishing Opportunities: The Ouachita River is known for its fishing, and the site provides a convenient base for anglers to access prime fishing spots.
• Parking: Dedicated parking areas are available for day users, accommodating vehicles and trailers for those bringing their boats.

It is crucial to emphasize that, according to recent public information and reviews, the site "no longer allows camping." This means there are no overnight camping facilities, RV hookups, or designated campsites for extended stays. The focus is entirely on facilitating day-time outdoor recreation.

• Direct Ouachita River Access: The most significant highlight of Shirley Creek Recreation Site is its excellent and direct access to the beautiful Ouachita River. This makes it a prime spot for paddlers and anglers.
• Ideal for Canoeing and Kayaking: The put-in and pull-out facilities are specifically designed for ease of use by canoeists and kayakers, making it a popular launch point for river trips.
• Scenic Ouachita National Forest Setting: The site is nestled within the stunning natural environment of the Ouachita National Forest, offering picturesque views and a peaceful, forested atmosphere.
• Day-Use Convenience: For those looking for a simple outing, the site provides basic amenities (like pit toilets and parking) to support a day of outdoor enjoyment without the need for extensive camping gear.
• Fishing Opportunities: The Ouachita River is known for its diverse fish populations, and the site offers a convenient spot to access the river for fishing.
• Tranquil Environment: Despite its accessibility for day users, the site generally offers a quiet and serene environment, allowing visitors to connect with nature away from urban noise.
• Community-Recognized: Despite the change in camping policy, the site remains a recognized and valued location for river access among the local outdoor community.

As a publicly managed recreation site within a national forest, Shirley Creek Recreation Site typically does not offer commercial promotions or special offers in the traditional sense. Fees, if any, are usually nominal and set by the managing authority (e.g., U.S. Forest Service) for day use access. It is not a privately owned campground with a booking system or seasonal discounts.

Any "value" or "promotion" associated with this site comes from:

• Affordable Access: The low or non-existent fees for day use make it an incredibly affordable option for enjoying the river and forest.
• Public Land Access: It provides open access to the vast resources of the Ouachita National Forest, which is a benefit in itself for local Arkansans.
• Natural Beauty: The inherent beauty of the Ouachita River and surrounding forest is the primary draw, a "special offer" from Mother Nature.

Visitors are encouraged to check with the local U.S. Forest Service office or relevant online resources for any current information regarding day-use fees or specific regulations before planning their visit. As of public knowledge, its main "offer" is direct, uncomplicated access to a beautiful stretch of the Ouachita River for a day of outdoor enjoyment.

For general inquiries about Shirley Creek Recreation Site, including operational hours, current conditions, or any specific regulations for day use on the Ouachita River, it is best to contact the relevant U.S. Forest Service district office for the Ouachita National Forest. While a direct phone number for the site itself is not publicly available as it's a non-staffed day-use area, you can typically find information by contacting:

• Local U.S. Forest Service District Office (e.g., Mena Ranger District, Ouachita National Forest): A general contact number for the Mena Ranger District would be beneficial as Oden falls within its operational area. Searching online for "Mena Ranger District phone number" should yield the most appropriate contact.
• Address: Oden, AR 71961, USA (This is the general location, not a specific office address for inquiries).

Since camping is no longer allowed, there isn't a booking phone number for campsites. For river conditions or regulations for floating, consulting local outfitters or the Forest Service is advised.

For Arkansans, Shirley Creek Recreation Site in Oden remains a valuable and accessible asset for enjoying the natural splendor of their home state, particularly the Ouachita River. While the change in policy means overnight camping is no longer permitted, its continued designation as a day-use area ensures that local outdoor enthusiasts can still fully utilize its primary benefit: direct and convenient access to one of Arkansas's most beautiful waterways.

For those who own kayaks or canoes, or who simply love to fish, Shirley Creek offers an easy put-in and pull-out point, facilitating countless hours of enjoyment on the river. It's a perfect spot for a spontaneous afternoon paddle, a quiet fishing trip, or a family picnic by the water. The site's location within the Ouachita National Forest guarantees a truly immersive natural experience, far from the noise and light pollution of urban areas. Even with basic amenities like pit toilets, the focus here is on uncomplicated, direct engagement with nature.

Shirley Creek Recreation Site allows Arkansans to tap into the essence of the Natural State – its stunning rivers, dense forests, and abundant wildlife – without needing extensive planning or high costs. It's a testament to the idea that sometimes the simplest access points lead to the most profound outdoor experiences. For a refreshing day trip focused on river recreation and natural beauty, Shirley Creek Recreation Site continues to be a highly suitable and cherished spot for locals in the Ouachita region and beyond.