Gillham ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gillham, Arkansas.
1. Gillham Lake
FISHING AND RECREATION PARADISE
Gillham Lake is a 1,370-acre reservoir created in 1975 following the completion of a dam on the Cossatot River. The lake is best known among anglers for its largemouth bass, but also offers excellent fishing for crappie, bream, and catfish. Visitors can enjoy multiple recreation areas featuring boat ramps, swimming areas, picnic sites, and approximately 70 campsites managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
2. Cossatot Reefs Recreation Area & Campground
RIVERSIDE CAMPING EXPERIENCE
Cossatot Reefs Recreation Area & Campground offers visitors a scenic outdoor experience along the Cossatot River. The campground provides facilities for overnight stays while allowing easy access to the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities including fishing, swimming, and exploring the unique reef formations that give the area its name.
3. Little Coon Creek Recreation Area & Campground
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Little Coon Creek Recreation Area & Campground provides a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts near Gillham Lake. The campground features amenities for comfortable stays while offering direct access to water-based activities and nature exploration. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife watching in this serene natural environment.
4. Big Coon Creek Recreation Area & Campground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR DESTINATION
Big Coon Creek Recreation Area & Campground offers a family-friendly outdoor destination with facilities for camping and day use. The recreation area provides access to Gillham Lake's waters for fishing, boating, and swimming activities. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings while taking advantage of convenient campground amenities.
5. Pappy's Bait & Mama's Junk
UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Pappy's Bait & Mama's Junk is a distinctive local shop located at 231 Tower Road in Gillham. The store offers fishing supplies for anglers heading to nearby Gillham Lake and the Cossatot River. Visitors can also browse an eclectic collection of items in the 'junk' section, making it a unique shopping destination with local character.
6. Cossatot River State Park
WILD RIVER ADVENTURE
Cossatot River State Park preserves one of Arkansas's premier wild rivers, offering challenging whitewater rapids for experienced paddlers. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and interpretive programs highlighting the unique natural features of the Cossatot River corridor. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular scenery of the river as it cuts through the Ouachita Mountains, creating dramatic rock formations and cascades.
7. Goff and Gamble Merchandise Store
HISTORIC SHOPPING LANDMARK
The Goff and Gamble Merchandise Store is a historic structure built around 1910 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This landmark represents an important piece of Gillham's commercial history from the early 20th century. Visitors interested in local history can appreciate the architecture and significance of this historic mercantile establishment.
8. Gillham Jail
HISTORIC SINGLE-CELL LANDMARK
The Gillham Jail is a historic single-cell cement structure built around 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This small but significant building represents law enforcement history in rural Arkansas during the early 20th century. History enthusiasts can view this preserved piece of local heritage that illustrates small-town justice systems of the past.
9. Skippa-Rock River Floats
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURES
Skippa-Rock River Floats offers guided float trips and equipment rentals for exploring the scenic waterways near Gillham. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, or tubing adventures on the Cossatot River and other local waterways. The outfitter provides the necessary gear and transportation for a memorable outdoor water experience in southwest Arkansas.
10. Ambush Adventures
THRILLING OUTDOOR EXCURSIONS
Ambush Adventures provides guided outdoor excursions and activities in the Gillham area with a perfect 5-star rating from visitors. The company specializes in adventure experiences that showcase the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of southwest Arkansas. Visitors can participate in customized outdoor activities that cater to various skill levels and interests.
11. Wild Goose Canoe and Kayak
RIVER EXPLORATION SERVICES
Wild Goose Canoe and Kayak offers equipment rentals and shuttle services for exploring the rivers near Gillham. The highly-rated outfitter provides canoes, kayaks, and related gear for self-guided adventures on local waterways. Visitors can enjoy professional service and local knowledge to enhance their river exploration experience in the scenic Ouachita region.
12. Tippa Canoe
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RIVER OUTFITTER
Tippa Canoe is a well-regarded outfitter providing river recreation services for visitors to the Gillham area. The company offers canoe, kayak, and tube rentals along with transportation to help visitors enjoy the local rivers. Their family-friendly approach makes river adventures accessible to paddlers of various experience levels.
13. Gillham Lake Walking Trail
SCENIC LAKESIDE PATHWAY
The Gillham Lake Walking Trail offers visitors a scenic pathway along one section of the 1,370-acre reservoir. Hikers can enjoy views of the lake while observing local wildlife and plant species native to southwest Arkansas. The trail provides an opportunity for exercise and nature appreciation in a peaceful lakeside setting.
14. Gillham Lake Swimming Area
REFRESHING WATER RECREATION
The designated swimming area at Gillham Lake provides visitors with a safe place to enjoy the cool waters during warm weather months. The swimming area is part of the recreational facilities developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers following the lake's creation in 1975. Families can enjoy a day of water recreation with convenient access to other amenities including nearby picnic facilities.
15. Herman Dierks Memorial Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE
Herman Dierks Memorial Park serves as a community gathering place and recreational area near Gillham. The park honors the legacy of the Dierks family, who played a significant role in the region's timber industry and development. Visitors can enjoy picnic facilities, open spaces, and community events in this historic park setting.