Arkansas River - Pool 3
RV Guide
Introduction
The Arkansas River is divided into 17 locks and dams, and one of them is Joe Hardin Lock and Dam, more popularly known as Pool 3. Vacationers and thrill-seekers can enjoy an unforgettable overnight camping experience at Rising Star Park, on the shores of Pool 3. Few sights are more magical than witnessing the sun sinking into the glistening lake.
The water also offers some excellent angling opportunities including fly fishing, and the surrounding forests are known for their notorious hunting grounds. You’ll also find boat ramps at the Trulock Park and Sheppard Island Park so you can finally give in to your cravings for some electrifying water sports.
Pool 3 of Arkansas River is named after the civic leader and politician Joseph Carrol Hardin. Hardin is most popularly known for running for governor against Orval Faubus in 1960.
The Pool 3 area, despite its limited recreational opportunities, makes sure the quality of the stay remains high. It also enjoys a very central position in the city, in regards to the variety of fun activities in the surroundings. You’ll find very happening recreational areas all around Pool 3 including the very unique Burns Park and equally mesmerizing Cane Creek State Park.
RV Rentals in Arkansas River - Pool 3
Transportation
Driving
Joe Hardin Lock and Dam or Pool 3 are located about 23 miles east of Pine Bluff.
From Stuttgart, you can arrive at your destination in less than an hour. Head north on the S Main street towards West 2nd street, turn right at the 1st cross street and onto East 2nd street.
From there, take a right at US-165 S/S Park Avenue, continue for 16.4 miles and then turn right onto AR-11 S, continue on the State Highway 88 and turn left towards pool 3, Joe H Hardin Lock and Dam.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Arkansas River - Pool 3
Campsites in Arkansas River - Pool 3
Reservations camping
Ste Marie Campground
Ste Marie Park is a public use area that is a popular destination for anglers as the area offers close access to Joe Hardin Lock and Dam as well as Emmitt Sander Lock and Dam that offer excellent catfish, bass, crappie, and beam fishing. Ste Marie Park offers two non-electric group sites that can accommodate up to 75 people and comes with water hookups, picnic tables, and a BBQ.
Rise Star Campground
Rising Star Recreation Site, at Pool 3 offers a chance to spend the night glamping by the lake. This Army Corps campground offers 24 sites with water hookups and electricity hookups of 30 and 50 amps. The campground provides many facilities such as flush toilets, trailer dump stations, and showers. The sites are shaded and spacious enough for big rigs. Every campsite has a picnic table, and some are drive-thru while others are pull-through sites. Water supply is also abundant. The campground also provides access to the boat launch, playground, and a clubhouse.
The campground is situated in a forested area at the riverfront, hence providing a great view and natural shade. The rolling cotton fields are nearby too. The campground is open all year considering the winters here are mild. You’ll also likely to come across Red fox and waterfowl on the shores during your stay here.
Maximum RV length at this campground is 90 ft.
Seasonal activities in Arkansas River - Pool 3
Off-Season
Pine Bluff Historical Museum
Just 30 minutes away from Pool 3 is Pine Bluff Historical Museum. It is located in the 1906 Union Station train depot, one of the historic places in Arkansas, and exhibits artifacts of Native Americans. The museum hosts the Honor’s Gallery that pays tribute to all the men and women from Jefferson County who served in the armed forces during World War I. The museum also showcases various lifestyle features of earlier days.
Scott Plantation Settlement
A one hour away from Joe Hardin Lock and Dam lies Scott Plantation Settlement, which depicts a very detailed farming life in the state, dating back to an era of pre-industrialization. Some of the original plantation structures at the settlement include a hand-hewn cypress corn crib, the Big House of a local plantation, one-room schools, a 1840s dogtrot log cabin, commissary, tenant houses, doctor’s office, and a blacksmith shop.
Toltec Mounds
Less than an hour drive from pool 3 will take you to Toltec Mounds Archaeological State Park. These mounds are a must-visit if you are a bit of a history buff as this historic landmark interprets one of the largest and most complex mounds in the Arkansas region. The visitors also get to witness the archaeologists in action. It is believed that prehistoric Native Americans used this site as a ceremonial ground and the secrets within are yet to be discovered.
In-Season
Fishing
The angling opportunities are outstanding here and anglers can expect largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and even sauger and striped bass. Catfish, bream, and crappie are also abundant here. However, catching a catfish on the downstream side of the pool is by far the most popular fishing activity here.
Hunting
Pool 3 is a very popular area amongst those whole love to hunt. Joe Hardin Lock and Dam offer superb duck hunting, and turkey hunting opportunities. Since the area surrounding Pool 3 is heavily forested, hunters also get the opportunity to track and hunt down deer. Make sure to call to find out about the hunting season and the hunting regulations observed in the area.
Picnicking
Pool 3 offers endless options of picnicking with almost all the recreation sites completely facilitating picnickers. Ste Marie Park offers two group picnic shelters that can be reserved, and each one accommodates 75 people. If an extended family picnic is on the books, you know where to come. You’ll find drinking water, grills, a fishing dock, and a courtesy dock here.
The Rising Star also offers an accessible group shelter with a capacity of 60 people. It is a day-use area and requires a reservation.
