Get Away From It All By Camping Out In This Arkansas Historic District
By Carol Ann Carson|Published July 09, 2019
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Carol Ann Carson
Author
Arkansas native, Carol Ann Carson, has written for OnlyInYourState for three years now. She resides in Western Arkansas' Mountain Frontier but calls NWA home as well. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. in English and will soon be pursing her M.A. in Library Science. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite.
Many of the lakes and rivers in Arkansas have been vital to family vacations for generations but typically this recognition doesn’t go beyond shared memories. Lake Wedington is a bit different since it actually has its own historic district.Stay at one of the timeless cabins or pitch a tent at this relaxing recreation area.
Interesting historical tidbits aside, Lake Wedington is well worth the trip for its beauty alone.
Resisting a refreshing day at the lake is impossible to resist especially at this gorgeous recreation area. The lake is about 12 miles west of Fayetteville in the Ozark National Forest.
Address: Arkansas State Highway 16, Fayetteville, AR 72704
The historical preservation is what makes Lake Wedington a unique excursion.
The 424-acre recreation area contains a 170-acre historic district. The cabins, pavilion, boathouse, and other buildings have all been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. These preserved facilities were build by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s. Many of the buildings have undergone restoration by volunteer efforts led by the Friends of Lake Wedington.
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You can stay the night in one of these historical cabins.
The lake has six cabins that can sleep 3-5 people. Rates start at $70/day. A WPA-built lodge is also available for large groups, it's $150/day. You can reserve a cabin and get more details right here.
Most of the historic districts that come to mind are along main streets in older cities but not at Lake Wedington. Pitch a tent alongside the historic buildings and learn more about the WPA's crucial involvement in the Arkansas parks system. There are 18 campsites around the lake and though reservations are encouraged, they are not required.
After you've toured around the buildings, take a nature walk through the forest.
Two trails are located at the rec area, the Lake Wedington Trail and the North Twin Trail. The Lake Wedington Trail is a relaxing 3.3-mile loop around the lake while North Twin is a 7-mile stretch that's better for mountain biking.
There's even a waterfall to visit while you're here.
This recreation are is a great way to reconnect with nature while appreciating some history at the same time. For more information about the lake, visit this site.
Did you know the history of Lake Wedington? Have you taken your family for a day at the lake before? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! We would love to see your photos in our Facebook group, Arkansas Nature Lovers. You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why there’s nothing better than Arkansas’ stunning nature.
Fayetteville is also home to a magical butterfly house. The butterfly gardens are the perfect trip to add to your family’s summer!
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